Recording Voice with a Boya BY-M1 Microphone on a Desktop Computer

Yes, you can record voice with a Boya BY-M1 microphone on a desktop computer. The Boya BY-M1 is a lavalier microphone designed for smartphones and tablets, but it can be adapted for desktop use. Follow these steps to ensure the best possible recording:

Check Your Computer's Audio Input

First, ensure that your desktop computer has a 3.5mm microphone input. This is usually indicated by a microphone icon on the front panel. If your computer has a separate audio input for microphones (TRS), you may need a TRRS to TRS adapter to connect the microphone to the correct port.

Connect the Microphone

Plug the BY-M1 microphone into the appropriate input on your desktop computer. Make sure the connections are secure.

Set Up Your Recording Software

Open your preferred recording software such as Audacity, GarageBand, or another program. In the audio settings, select the BY-M1 as the input device. Adjust the gain and volume settings to get the best sound quality.

Test the Microphone

Speak into the microphone and check the audio levels in your software. Make sure the microphone is picking up sound clearly without distortion or feedback.

Begin Recording

Once everything is set up and tested, you can start recording. Professional use may require further adjustments, but for most cases, the setup should work well for general use, like gaming, Skype calls, or other non-professional recordings.

I own a couple of these mics, and I never tried plugging one directly into the computer's mic input due to potential quality issues. However, I recently tested it with the battery powered off, and it didn't work. This suggests that the plug might not be wired correctly for this type of use. Built-in mic preamps on computers are generally not suitable for professional use and may only be sufficient for gaming, Skype calls, or similar lightweight applications.

Recording Tips and Considerations

The BY-M1 is omni-directional, meaning it picks up sound equally from all directions. While it has decent specifications, there are some concerns about background noise. You may pick up sounds from your desktop computer, traffic outside, ventilation sounds, or even noisy neighbors. Professional voiceover talent often record in a soundproofed closet to minimize these noises. It's recommended to record tests in different areas and listen to the playback with high-quality headphones to check the sound quality.

You can call a retail store like BH Photo and ask their opinion on whether the BY-M1 will work with your specific computer and recorder app. I have no connection with BH Photo, but they are a reputable source with a history of customer support. In case the microphone doesn't work as expected, you might be able to return it for a refund or exchange. Check with the retailer about their return policy.

In conclusion, while the Boya BY-M1 microphone can be used for recording on a desktop computer with some minor adaptations, it's important to test and optimize the setup for the best possible results, especially if you plan to use it for professional purposes.