Overview

The ANSTEN OSM09 Conference USB Microphone is a compact and portable solution designed to improve audio clarity during virtual communications. This omnidirectional condenser mic captures sound from all directions, making it perfect for group calls and online classes. With a simple plug-and-play setup, no drivers are needed, allowing for quick use with any compatible device. Its small size and sleek design make it easy to carry around, making this USB mic ideal for remote workers or educators who need a reliable yet affordable audio tool.

Features & Benefits

The ANSTEN OSM09 microphone offers several features that set it apart in the crowded market of conference microphones. The built-in noise reduction and echo elimination ensure clear, natural audio for your calls. A handy mute button gives you control during meetings, while the 6-foot USB cable provides flexibility in placement, letting you position it where you need. Whether you're using it on a desktop or laptop, this mic is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X systems, offering a seamless experience with no setup hassle.

Best For

This USB mic is an excellent choice for those seeking a simple yet reliable microphone solution. It's especially well-suited for small group video calls, team meetings, and online education setups. The plug-and-play nature of this device makes it ideal for anyone looking for quick deployment without fuss. Users engaged in remote work or online learning will appreciate its ease of use, while those needing a budget-friendly microphone for casual conferencing will find it a great value.

User Feedback

Many users appreciate the clear audio quality of the ANSTEN OSM09, noting that it significantly improves communication during online meetings. The ease of use is another standout feature, with most users praising the microphone's plug-and-play functionality. However, some reviewers mention that while the microphone performs well in small settings, it might not be the best choice for larger rooms or environments with high background noise. Despite these concerns, its compact design and portability remain a major selling point for many customers.

Pros

  • This microphone offers plug-and-play functionality, making setup simple and quick for anyone, even beginners.
  • The omnidirectional pickup pattern ensures clear audio from all directions, making it great for group calls.
  • Users appreciate its compact size, which makes it easy to carry around and store, especially for remote workers.
  • Its noise reduction and echo elimination features enhance audio clarity, even in moderately noisy environments.
  • Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X, this device is versatile across various operating systems.
  • The 6-foot USB cable provides ample length for flexible microphone placement during meetings or calls.

Cons

  • Some users report that the microphone struggles with picking up voices clearly in larger, open rooms.
  • The sound quality, while decent, may not meet the expectations of those seeking professional-grade audio.
  • Certain users mentioned that the microphone could be more durable for heavy daily use or frequent travel.
  • A few buyers noted that it might not perform well in very noisy or echoey environments, especially in bigger spaces.
  • There is limited control over sound customization, which may be an issue for advanced users who need more tuning options.
  • While it's budget-friendly, the microphone might not offer enough advanced features for professionals with high-end audio needs.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, the scores for the ANSTEN OSM09 Conference USB Microphone reflect a balanced view of both its strengths and pain points. Spam, bot-driven, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure the feedback is authentic and reliable. Overall, this device receives high praise for its simplicity and clear sound quality, though a few users mention areas for improvement, such as sound performance in larger rooms or noisy environments.

Audio Quality
86%
Many users are pleased with the microphone's ability to deliver clear and distinct audio. It's particularly appreciated during video calls, where voice clarity is crucial for effective communication. Users report that the sound quality is excellent for both small group meetings and one-on-one calls, ensuring smooth conversation flow.
Some users have noted that the audio quality could be less optimal in larger or noisy rooms. While the microphone works well in quieter environments, background noise can occasionally impact performance, leading to some distortion or difficulty hearing participants clearly.
Ease of Use
94%
The plug-and-play functionality is one of the most praised features. Users love the simplicity of just plugging the USB mic into their computer and getting started without any complicated setup. This feature is especially appreciated by those with limited technical experience or people who need a hassle-free solution.
While easy to set up, a few users wish that the microphone had additional customization options for advanced settings. Some buyers noted that, although it's straightforward to use, they would have liked more control over audio levels or advanced features for specialized use cases.
Noise Cancellation
80%
20%
The microphone does a solid job of reducing background noise in relatively quiet spaces. This feature makes it ideal for home office setups or small meeting rooms where distractions are minimal. Users also appreciate the built-in echo elimination that helps maintain a more professional sound during calls.
In louder environments, the noise reduction isn't as effective, with some users reporting that background sounds like typing or fan noise are still picked up. While the mic works well in quiet settings, it's not always suitable for noisier offices or bustling areas.
Portability
88%
Its compact design makes it highly portable, allowing users to easily move it from home office to traveling setups. The small size ensures that it doesn't take up much space in bags or backpacks, making it convenient for remote workers or digital nomads.
Some users feel that the small size comes at the cost of stability. In certain cases, the microphone may not stay as secure on a desk or uneven surface, making it prone to being knocked over, especially during intense discussions or video calls.
Setup & Installation
97%
Setup is almost universally praised for being quick and intuitive. With no need to install drivers, users are up and running in minutes. This makes it a great option for individuals who need to set up and start working without wasting time on complex configurations.
Despite the simplicity, some users report that it took a bit longer to get it working on older operating systems or less common setups. Although most people had a smooth experience, there were occasional reports of minor compatibility hiccups with non-mainstream devices.
Compatibility
91%
The microphone is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X systems, making it versatile for users across different platforms. This broad compatibility ensures that individuals using either OS can seamlessly integrate it into their workflow, whether for work, school, or personal projects.
A small group of users experienced challenges when trying to use the microphone with other operating systems or specialized software. While most mainstream systems worked well, some felt the need for clearer support or a software update for optimal performance across all platforms.
Build Quality
83%
The microphone feels solid and well-made for its price range. Its simple design is durable enough for daily use, whether at home or on the go. Users appreciate the sturdy build, especially for a product at this price point.
However, some users have mentioned that the materials could be of a higher quality. A few noted that the plastic feel of the mic gave it a less premium touch, leading to concerns about long-term durability under frequent use or transport.
Mic Placement Flexibility
82%
18%
The included 6-foot USB cable offers flexibility in mic placement, allowing users to position it comfortably on their desks or workspaces. This feature is especially useful for individuals who need a bit of freedom in setting up their equipment without being constrained by short cables.
Some buyers wish the cable were slightly longer for even more flexibility, particularly for people who use larger desks or need to place the mic farther away from their computer. While 6 feet is adequate for most, it can be limiting in some setups.
Value for Money
92%
Many users agree that the microphone offers excellent value for the price, delivering solid performance with a budget-friendly cost. It's a great option for those seeking a functional and reliable mic without breaking the bank. The combination of quality and price is often cited as a major selling point.
A few users mentioned that while the mic is great for its price, it lacks some premium features found in higher-end models. For users looking for more advanced functionality, this may feel like a step down, though it's still considered a strong value overall.
Sound Clarity in Small Spaces
89%
In smaller rooms or controlled environments, this microphone performs exceptionally well, with clear and precise audio. It's perfect for one-on-one meetings or small team calls where voice clarity is a priority. Many users report a significant improvement in sound quality compared to built-in laptop microphones.
However, in larger rooms or open spaces, the mic's performance can slightly diminish. Some users have noted that while it works well for small setups, it doesn't always capture sound as clearly when more people are involved or when there’s a lot of ambient noise.
Performance in Larger Rooms
70%
30%
For small-scale meetings, this mic performs admirably. It’s good enough for individual calls and small conference calls in a quiet room. Users enjoy the high-quality sound when used in spaces without a lot of interference or echoes.
In larger, open rooms or noisy environments, the microphone struggles to pick up voices from a distance. Its performance can be lacking when used in situations that require broader sound coverage, with users reporting reduced clarity or difficulty picking up all participants.
Mute Button Functionality
90%
The mute button is a simple but effective feature, allowing for quick control during calls. It's easy to press and provides clear audio muting, which is convenient for those attending video calls or group meetings. Many users appreciate this straightforward control during important calls.
Some users mentioned that the mute button could be more responsive in certain situations. Occasionally, the button may take a moment to register, especially if the microphone is slightly tilted or not placed flat on a surface.

Suitable for:

The ANSTEN OSM09 Conference USB Microphone is an ideal choice for users seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-use microphone for small meetings, video conferencing, or online learning. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it perfect for remote workers, educators, and students who need a hassle-free setup. The compact design is especially beneficial for individuals who travel frequently or have limited desk space. Additionally, users looking for a basic, effective solution to improve audio quality for virtual meetings will appreciate its clear sound and noise reduction features. Those using both Windows and Mac systems will find it compatible and versatile for their needs.

Not suitable for:

While the ANSTEN OSM09 Conference USB Microphone works well for small spaces, it's not the best option for users who need superior performance in larger or noisy environments. The microphone struggles with picking up voices clearly in open areas or rooms with high background noise, making it less ideal for large conference rooms or busy offices. Users seeking more advanced customization options or higher-end features may find the microphone lacking in terms of advanced sound control. Furthermore, those who require long-distance microphone pickup or higher sound fidelity may want to consider other models with more robust capabilities.

Specifications

  • Type: USB microphone for clear digital audio input.
  • Pickup Pattern: Omnidirectional condenser mic with 360° voice pickup.
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz, suitable for capturing full-range voice frequencies.
  • Sensitivity: Microphone sensitivity of -38dB ±3dB for clear sound capture.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 88dB SNR, providing clean audio with minimal interference.
  • Mute Button: Integrated mute button for quick audio control during calls or meetings.
  • USB Cable Length: 6-foot USB cable for flexible microphone placement.
  • Compatibility: Works with both Windows and Mac OS X systems, offering plug-and-play functionality.
  • Power Requirements: Powered through USB connection, requiring no external power source.
  • Dimensions: Compact size: 9 x 9 x 1.3 cm, designed for portability.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 50 grams, making it easy to carry.
  • Operating Temperature: Functional in temperatures ranging from 0°C to 55°C.
  • Noise Reduction: Built-in noise reduction and echo elimination for clearer sound.
  • Plug-and-Play: No drivers required; simply plug into your computer's USB port and start using.
  • Best Use Case: Ideal for small group video calls, remote work, and online teaching.
  • Portability: Compact and portable design, suitable for travel or mobile use.
  • Mounting Options: Designed to sit on a flat surface, with no additional mounts required.
  • Echo Elimination: Effective echo reduction to ensure clear, undistorted audio during calls.

FAQ

Setting up this USB mic is simple. Just plug the microphone into any available USB port on your computer. There’s no need to install any drivers; it works right out of the box with both Windows and Mac OS X systems.

The microphone is ideal for small group settings like video calls or online classes. While it has a 360° pickup pattern, it may not provide optimal performance in large, noisy rooms. For bigger spaces, you may want to consider a more powerful mic or an external audio setup.

The microphone offers a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, which is suitable for clear voice transmission during meetings and online classes. This range covers most human speech frequencies and is adequate for general communication needs.

Yes, the ANSTEN OSM09 Conference USB Microphone is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X systems. It provides seamless plug-and-play functionality on both platforms, with no special software or drivers required.

This microphone includes built-in noise reduction and echo elimination, designed to minimize background noise and improve audio clarity. It works well in moderate noise environments, making it suitable for home offices or small meeting rooms.

Yes, the microphone comes with a built-in mute button. This allows you to quickly mute or unmute the mic during calls or meetings, providing you with easy control over your audio input.

The included USB cable is 6 feet long, giving you flexibility to position the microphone comfortably during use. This should be enough for most desktop setups or small meeting spaces.

Yes, this microphone is compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry for business trips or remote work. Its small size and simple setup make it a convenient choice for on-the-go professionals.

Some users have mentioned that the microphone may not pick up sound clearly in very large or highly echoey rooms. Additionally, while it’s excellent for everyday use, audiophiles or those needing high-end sound quality may find it lacking.

While this microphone provides clear sound for calls and video conferences, it may not offer the depth and quality required for professional podcasting or content creation. If you’re aiming for high-end audio recording, a more specialized microphone might be a better choice.