Studio-Grade Microphone Performance for The Masses Are you looking for that next level of simplicity when it comes to stellar sound capture? Seeking your entry point into pro-sounding podcasts /broadcasts? Look no further than Marantz Professional s Umpire - a high-quality studio-grade condenser USB microphone - perfect for pod-casters musicians Skype Hangouts live streaming Twitch and anyone using a USB microphone in conjunction with a computer. Part of the expanding line of Marantz Professional microphones Umpire features the same acclaimed USB microphone used on the popular Turret all-in-one freestanding broadcasting system. Plug and Play Simplicity No drivers no fuss! Simply hook up Umpire to a free USB port on your Mac or PC load your digital audio workstation (DAW) of choice for recording or set your microphone preferences in your broadcasting /streaming application and you re set! Entering the world of pro-grade audio recording has never been this easy! No-Compromise Performance At the heart of Umpire is a high-high-quality 14 mm electric condenser microphone - a microphone chosen by studio professionals globally for its high sensitivity and crystal-clear sound. With on-board A/D conversion at 48kHz and 16-bit resolution a wide-ranging frequency response and a focused cardio-id polar pattern you can be certain every subtle nuance of your performance is captured exactly as you intended. Everything you Need No accessories required - everything you need for your next recording adventure is thoughtfully included. With a pop filter and integrated shock mount you re primed for whatever your next session demands. There s even a 10-dB pad switch to instantly reduce the incoming sound volume - perfect for capturing loud sources without overload distortion including amplified instruments. Compact Robust Form Factor Engineered to withstand any recording scenario! Umpire features a hard-wired USB A cable to minimize dropouts from unwanted disconnection and a rugged all-metal desk stand base that s your mic stays exactly where you need it!