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Marantz Umpire Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£25
  • Connection type: USB
  • Transducer type: electret condenser
  • Max SPL: 132 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48 kHz
  • Output connector type: USB-a

Marantz Umpire review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

6.2

Technical Score

25.0%

6.5

User score

Good
6.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.4

Audio Performance

20.0%

5.1

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

6.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

4.0

Connectivity

3.0%

6.4

Design

3.0%

9.9

Accessories

Good
6.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

3.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(68)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(49)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Good
  • 4.3
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    20.0%

    5.5

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 4.5
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    1.0

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    1.0

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 6.0
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    8.9

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    1.0

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    1.0

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 4.2
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    5.5

    Volume control levels

  • 8.2
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    ?

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    10

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    7.2

    Height

    10.0%

    1.0

    Width

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Marantz Professional Umpire is a compact, plug-and-play USB electret condenser microphone featuring a 14mm capsule, a focused cardioid polar pattern, and a frequency response of 80 Hz to 15 kHz. Designed for streaming and podcasting, it offers studio-grade 16-bit resolution with selectable sample rates up to 48 kHz, and comes equipped with an integrated pop filter, a built-in shock mount, and a switchable -10dB pad for capturing louder sound sources. Its primary advantages include its rugged all-metal desk stand for stability and a hard-wired USB-A cable to prevent accidental disconnections; however, it lacks a dedicated headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring and its hard-wired cable design means the entire unit must be replaced or repaired if the cord is damaged.

Technical Specifications of Marantz Umpire

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.4

Audio Performance

20.0%

5.1

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

6.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

4.0

Connectivity

3.0%

6.4

Design

3.0%

9.9

Accessories

6.2
Marantz Umpire has a technical score of 6.17 points, which is lower than 76.4% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

3.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(68)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(49)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

6.5
Marantz Umpire has a user score of 6.53 points, which is lower than 95% of microphones.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
3.1
Marantz Umpire has a popularity of 3.1 points, which is lower than 56.8% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.3

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

7.4
Marantz Umpire has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.4 points, which is lower than 79.4% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

desktop
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

electret condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

14 (mm) inch / mm
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-34 dBV/Pa
Show more
Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

USB-a
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire does not include a headphone output. 63.5% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire does not include a 3.5 mm jack. 63.3% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
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Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

44.1, 48 kHz
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

16 bit
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

48 kHz
Marantz Umpire supports an interface sample rate of 48 kHz which is higher than that of 2.4% of microphones and equal to that of 55.3% of microphones.
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

16 bit
Marantz Umpire supports an interface bit depth of 16 bit which is lower than that of 58.8% of microphones and equal to that of 41.2% of microphones.
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
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N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Marantz Umpire is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Marantz Umpire supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Marantz Umpire does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Marantz Umpire does not include a mute function. 68.3% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Marantz Umpire does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

1
Marantz Umpire offers volume output of 1 which is higher than that of 35.4% of microphones and equal to that of 48.7% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
Marantz Umpire offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
Show more
Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Marantz Umpire requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Marantz Umpire supports USB bus power. 85.9% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

188 mm
Marantz Umpire is 188 mm tall, which is taller than 52.3% of microphones and equal in height to 1.5% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

126 mm
Marantz Umpire is 126 mm wide, which is wider than 98% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

139 mm
Marantz Umpire is 139 mm thick, which is thicker than 96.3% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

?
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal
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Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; shock mount; pop filter; cable
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

yes
Marantz Umpire includes a shock mount. 49.5% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

yes
Marantz Umpire includes a pop filter. 60.9% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

yes
Marantz Umpire includes a windscreen. 31.3% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

?
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire is not compatible with Android. 66.3% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire is not compatible with iOS. 61.8% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
Marantz Umpire is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Marantz Umpire is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

no
Marantz Umpire is not compatible with Xbox. 2.3% of microphones are compatible with Xbox.
Reported as not compatible with Xbox.
Show more

Marantz Umpire vs the average microphone

  • Includes mix control
    Marantz Umpire includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone lets you balance microphone audio and playback audio directly on the device.
    When it matters: When game audio or playback needs to be balanced against your live microphone level.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    Marantz Umpire includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a pad switch for lowering input sensitivity.
    When it matters: When loud singers, drums, or guitar amps would otherwise overload the input stage.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • 10 dB SPL higher limit
    Marantz Umpire has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (132 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (132 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.132 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • 23.5 dB wider dynamic range
    Marantz Umpire has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (120 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (120 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.120 dB vs 96.5 dB
  • 4 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    Marantz Umpire has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (82 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
    Derived from <12 dBA equivalent noise.
    What it is: The ratio between the useful audio signal and background noise produced by the microphone path.
    When it matters: When you record in untreated rooms and want the voice to stay cleaner than the background noise.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (82 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.82 dB vs 78 dB
  • Includes shock mount
    Marantz Umpire includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
    When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes windscreen
    Marantz Umpire includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
    When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
  • 2.8x cheaper
    Marantz Umpire is cheaper than the average microphone (£25 vs £70).
    Marantz Umpire is cheaper than the average microphone (£25 vs £70).£25 vs £70
  • 10 dB SPL higher limit
    Marantz Umpire has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (132 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • 23.5 dB wider dynamic range
    Marantz Umpire has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (120 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • 4 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    Marantz Umpire has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (82 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
  • Includes mix control
    Marantz Umpire includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    Marantz Umpire includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes shock mount
    Marantz Umpire includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes windscreen
    Marantz Umpire includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.

Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Recording
Controls & Features
Accessories
  • 60 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Marantz Umpire has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (80 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
  • 5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    Marantz Umpire has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
  • No headphone output
    Marantz Umpire does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Marantz Umpire does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Marantz Umpire does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • 8 bit lower interface bit depth
    Marantz Umpire supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
  • No gain control
    Marantz Umpire does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    Marantz Umpire does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • 83 mm thicker body
    Marantz Umpire is thicker than the average microphone (139 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
  • 70 mm wider body
    Marantz Umpire is wider than the average microphone (126 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a width of 56 mm.
  • 1 older release date
    Marantz Umpire is older than the average microphone (2,019 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • Not compatible with Android
    Marantz Umpire is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Marantz Umpire is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Marantz Umpire does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
    When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    Marantz Umpire does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
    When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • 8 bit lower interface bit depth
    Marantz Umpire supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
    What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.16 bit vs 24 bit
  • 60 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Marantz Umpire has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (80 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
    What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (80 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.80 Hz vs 20 Hz
  • No mute function
    Marantz Umpire does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
    When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Marantz Umpire does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • 5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    Marantz Umpire has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: The highest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you need extra top end detail from breath, cymbals, or bright room ambience.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.15000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Marantz Umpire is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with Android
    Marantz Umpire is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
    When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

    Importance: LOW

    Marantz Umpire is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Connectivity
Recording
Controls & Features
Design
Compatibility

Graphic comparison of Marantz Umpire and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
68 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
49 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Marantz Umpire?

  • Affordable price point for a studio-grade condenser microphone
  • Includes essential integrated accessories: desktop stand, pop filter, and shock mount
  • True plug-and-play simplicity with no drivers required for Mac or PC
  • Delivers crisp and clean audio quality when used for close-mic scenarios
  • Features a useful -10dB pad switch for recording louder sound sources without distortion
  • Sturdy metal base provides good stability on desktops

What customers dislike about Marantz Umpire?

  • Lacks a dedicated headphone jack for direct, low-latency monitoring
  • Hardwired USB cable cannot be replaced if damaged
  • No physical gain knob or mute button on the device
  • Limited audio fidelity at distances greater than 8-10 inches
  • Elastic suspension bands in the shock mount can be flimsy and may come loose
  • Records only up to 16-bit resolution

Expert reviews

P
pcmag.com
22/07/2019
Marantz Professional Umpire Review - PCMag

The Marantz Professional Umpire is a budget-friendly ($49–$59) USB condenser microphone praised for delivering crisp, clean audio and featuring a unique integrated stand, shock mount, and pop filter. Its strong performance in close-mic scenarios makes it a viable option for beginners in podcasting and streaming, provided they speak directly into the capsule. However, the microphone...Read more

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