Icicle adds USB compatibility to any XLR microphone

By Ben Rogerson
last updated

Converter works with dynamic and condenser models

Icicle: it looks like a mini gas canister, but it isn't.
Icicle: it looks like a mini gas canister, but it isn't.

USB microphones are now a dime a dozen, but what if you want to plug your standard XLR model directly into your computer? Blue Microphones has the solution in the form of Icicle, an in-line USB converter and preamp.

Designed to work with dynamic and condenser microphones, Icicle is a plug-n-play device that offers a 48V phantom power option. There's an analogue gain control, and 16-bit/44.1kHz conversion.

Using the Icicle is simple - just plug your mic into one end and the USB cable into your Mac or PC.

Commenting on the product's launch, Blue Microphones President Skipper Wise said: "Today's musicians live in both the analogue and digital worlds, and Icicle bridges those worlds with sophistication, an understanding of how musicians work, and a clean, simple style".

Icicle should be available around the world in December and has a suggested US retail price of $60.

Ben Rogerson
Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.