First forward to 2022, and we have an ever-growing audience of media consumers. Starting from a small-time content creator to someone working at scale, it is very important to get the right equipment. While a compelling video is only half of the equation, the majority of the effort goes into better audio performance.
This is where the Tonor TC30 Microphone hails as one of the most budget-friendly audio capture devices. Tonor as a company has become one of the most prominent names within the industry. Evolving alongside the technology, Tonor strives to offer end-solution for all content creators and professionals.
But in this article, we are going to dedicate our resources toward one of the entry-level offerings from Tonor. Fun fact, don’t get fooled by the competitive price tag. The Tonor TC30 offers 10 times the value of its cost. Here’s our review on the Tonor TC30 and everything you need to know about the microphone.
Technical Specifications
- Condenser Type Microphone
- Cardioid Polar Pickup Pattern
- Frequency Response: 50Hz to 20kHz
- Input Sample Rate: 48kHz
- Bit Rate: 16Bit
- Output Impedance: 2.2kΩ
- Sensitivity: -32dB±3dB
- S/N Ratio > 68dB
- 2m Cable Length
What’s in the Box?
Before we go straight to the review, it’s worth noting that the Tonor TC30 Microphone comes with everything you need to get started. In other words, you don’t have to worry about making any secondary purchases whatsoever. Within the box, the TC30 comes with a condenser microphone, Foldable tripod, shock mount, pop filter, and USB cable.
Since the Microphone is powered by USB, it makes life just as much easier. Not to mention, you can plug the microphone in just about anything including a PC, laptop, and more with direct power. Within the box, you also get a user manual on how to make the most out of your microphone.
Design and Build Quality
The Tonor TC30 Microphone packs a very compact design while taking very minimal desk space. While using with its original stand, the TC30 is only 19cm in height and 15cm in width. Similarly, you can also attach the classical arm to the microphone. Built entirely out of aluminum, it doesn’t give off that plasticky feel you expect out of a lower-cost product.
From a constructive standpoint, you can expect the tripod to be quite stable. With rubber feet, you can rest assured, that the microphone is not going to vibrate whatsoever. The tripod uses a 5/8” thread screw. This is something that is not available on cheaper microphones.
The TC30 also comes with a pop filter which is often an accessory that users need to purchase separately. The microphone is also equipped with USB-C input that adds versatility to connectivity. You can plug your microphone directly into the computer. This is what makes the Tonor TC30 truly unique, a totally Plug & Play microphone.
Audio Quality
One of the biggest anticipations arises, whether the Tonor TC30 can actually hold up to some of the best microphones out there in the market? Be it in sound clarity or noise isolation the answer remains a big YES. Right after plugging the USB cable, you can expect crystal clear audio.
The same is applicable to noise isolation, where the microphone can easily filter out distinct background noises. All thanks to its smart engineering, superior build quality, and various mounting options, you can expect an overall good sound profile with next to no interference.
Bear in mind, that the out-of-the-box sound might feel hollow for some, but with a few tweaks on the EQ, you can bring the sound profile as close to a true studio microphone. The only catch with Tonor TC30 is the lack of onboard buttons or a dedicated companion application for audio adjustments. Yet again, given the competitive price point, these shortcomings are expected.
Salient Features
Apart from a superior build quality and audio profile, the Tonor TC30 Microphone packs some of the most convenient functionalities. Here are some of the most prominent features that make the TC30 truly one of a kind:
- Plug & Play: The TC30 is equipped with a USB 2.0 cable. This allows the user to plug the microphone on the go. The Tonor TC30 is compatible with a wide range of devices including Windows, Linux, macOS, and even smartphones.
- Cardioid Polar Pattern: This particular pattern in the TC30 allows to create off-axis suppression for any outside noise. In other words, the microphone would only pick up sounds directly in front of it, while discarding any unwanted ones.
- Anti-Vibration Support: Yet another nifty add-on, where the TC30 has a dedicated shock mount which significantly reduces the noises coming from keyboard strokes, mouse clicks, and any other vibrations around the microphone.
- Seamless Installation: As a user, you don’t have to worry about any additional installation out of the box. Attach the pop filter, and connect your microphone via USB.
Pros and Cons
Just like every other product, even the Tonor TC30 has its perks and shortcomings. These includes:
Pros:
- Offers a plug-and-play functionality.
- Easy to manage, detachable USB-A to USB-C cable.
- Superior audio output when properly configured.
- Comes at a competitive price point.
Cons:
- Lack of dedicated mute button on the mic.
- Plastic threading for the shock mount.
Pricing
The Tonor TC30 Microphone is a product that is worth receiving constant appraisal. Coming at a price point of $39.99, the Tonor TC30 is on par with any other $100+ microphones. Whether you are handling calls during work, managing groups, or doing long gaming sessions, the Tonor TC30 can handle just about anything.
The Bottom Line
This goes without saying, the Tonor TC30 is a fantastic choice for a solid microphone that is praised by even seasoned audio enthusiasts. Offering a competitive price, the TC30 is on par with its expensive counterparts.
Since Tonor themselves are a dedicated audio brand, the TC30 is a no-brainer for anyone who wants to get started. Let us know in the comment section below, what are your thoughts on Tonor TC30 Microphone?
