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Woodbrass Bird UM1 Review | 76 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£45
Avg. price in US: ~$60
Connection type: USB
Transducer type: electret condenser
Max SPL: 125 dB SPL
Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48 kHz
Output connector type: USB-b

Woodbrass Bird UM1 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.9

Good

6.0

Good

9.4

Exceptional

4.9
Gaming
Score components:
25.0%
10
Zero-latency monitoring
25.0%
4.0
Onboard gain control
20.0%
4.0
Mute function
20.0%
1.0
Volume control levels
10.0%
4.0
RGB lighting
5.7
Podcasting
Score components:
25.0%
10
Cardioid pattern
20.0%
10
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
8.6
Vocal recording
Score components:
40.0%
6.4
Max SPL
20.0%
10
Highest frequency
20.0%
10
Lowest frequency
20.0%
10
Cardioid pattern
5.1
Streaming
Score components:
25.0%
4.0
Loopback support
25.0%
10
Zero-latency monitoring
20.0%
4.0
Onboard gain control
15.0%
4.0
Mute function
15.0%
1.0
Volume control levels
7.8
Camera use
Score components:
30.0%
?
Weight
25.0%
4.0
Windscreen included
25.0%
10
Shock mount included
10.0%
8.7
Height
10.0%
10
Width

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Woodbrass Bird UM1 is a plug-and-play electret condenser USB microphone featuring a 34mm wide-membrane capsule and a unidirectional cardioid polar pattern, designed for high-fidelity vocal and instrument recording without the need for an external audio interface. Technically robust, it delivers a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, a sensitivity of -37 dB (+/- 2 dB), an impedance of 200 Ohms, and handles a maximum sound pressure level of 125 dB. Its main pros include exceptional ease of use across PC and Mac systems, a durable all-metal construction, and a comprehensive accessory bundle that typically includes a shock mount, pop filter, and carrying case. However, some users have noted potential reliability issues over long-term use, significant background noise in some units typical of budget electret designs, and a lack of integrated physical controls like a mute button or headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring.

Technical Specifications of Woodbrass Bird UM1

Overall score

6.9

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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.

Audio Performance

7.1

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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

studio

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

34 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

-37 dBV/Pa

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Connectivity

4.0

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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-b

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

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

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

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Recording

5.5

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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

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

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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Pickup Patterns

3.2

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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

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

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

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

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

Controls & Features

3.9

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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

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

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

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

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

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Power

10

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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

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

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

Design

7.3

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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

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

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

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

plastic

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Accessories

7.9

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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

shock mount; cable; mount adapter; carrying case

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

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

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

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

Compatibility

10

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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

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

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

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

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

?

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Woodbrass Bird UM1 vs the average microphone

Why is Woodbrass Bird UM1 better than the average microphone?

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Includes shock mount
Woodbrass Bird UM1 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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
18% higher user score
Woodbrass Bird UM1 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.44 vs 8.000).
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.
Woodbrass Bird UM1 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.44 vs 8.000).9.44 vs 8
8 mm thinner body
Woodbrass Bird UM1 is thinner than the average microphone (48 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 is thinner than the average microphone (48 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.48 mm vs 56 mm
8 mm thinner body
Woodbrass Bird UM1 is thinner than the average microphone (48 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
Includes shock mount
Woodbrass Bird UM1 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.

Why is Woodbrass Bird UM1 worse than the average microphone?

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20 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Woodbrass Bird UM1 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (58 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
No headphone output
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
8 bit lower interface bit depth
Woodbrass Bird UM1 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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No on-device controls
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
No mute function
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
7 older release date
Woodbrass Bird UM1 is older than the average microphone (2,013 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
August 2013.
No gain control
Woodbrass Bird UM1 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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
20 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Woodbrass Bird UM1 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (58 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (58 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.58 dB vs 78 dB
8 bit lower interface bit depth
Woodbrass Bird UM1 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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 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
No on-device controls
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has its control panel or main buttons placed on the device body.
When it matters: When you prefer the main controls to be reachable directly on the microphone body during use.
Importance: MEDIUM
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
No mute function
Woodbrass Bird UM1 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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
No headphone output
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
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
Woodbrass Bird UM1 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
7 older release date
Woodbrass Bird UM1 is older than the average microphone (2,013 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
August 2013.
What it is: The period when the microphone model was officially introduced to the market.
When it matters: When you want a newer microphone platform with current connectivity or software support.
Importance: LOW
Woodbrass Bird UM1 is older than the average microphone (2,013 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2013 vs 2020

Audio Performance

Controls & Features

Graphic comparison of Woodbrass Bird UM1 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Woodbrass Bird UM1?

Excellent value for money for beginners and students
Simple plug-and-play setup on PC, Mac, and PS5 without extra drivers
Durable all-metal build quality
Warm, clear sound quality that competes with more expensive models
Comes with useful accessories like a shock mount (spider) and carrying case
Records wide frequency range (20Hz-20kHz) without significant distortion

What customers dislike about Woodbrass Bird UM1?

Lacks physical controls on the mic (no dedicated mute button or gain knob)
High sensitivity picks up ambient background noise and desk vibrations easily
Requires a separate stand or boom arm as one is typically not included
Integrated USB cable can be prone to failure after heavy use
Noticeable hiss or noise floor when gain is set to maximum
Audio quality degrades significantly if you are not positioned directly in front of the mic

Expert reviews

a-shen.livejournal.com

13/10/2021

Bird UM-1 review - a_shen - LiveJournal

The Bird UM-1 is a budget-friendly USB microphone priced around €50 that features a well-constructed external enclosure. However, the reviewer highlights a significant discrepancy in its technical specifications: while advertised as having a 34 mm capsule, it actually utilizes a smaller 16 mm electret capsule paired with an audio interface based on the CM6327a chip and an EEPROM,...Read more

fireteam.fr

27/02/2016

Tests: Review of the Bird UM1 Microphone - FireTeaM.Fr", "Tests: Bird UM1 Microphone Review - FireTeaM.Fr

The FireTeaM review identifies the Bird UM1 as a budget-friendly USB condenser microphone, featuring a robust metal build, a 34mm cardioid capsule, and plug-and-play functionality for podcasters and creators. It is noted for good ambient noise isolation and including practical accessories like a shock mount and 2-meter USB cable. However, the microphone lacks onboard controls for...Read more

studio-microphone.com

Non daté

Woodbrass Bird UM1 - Test & Review - Studio Microphone

Woodbrass Bird UM1 Review Summary The Woodbrass Bird UM1 is an affordable, entry-level electret condenser USB microphone engineered for ease of use and solid performance in home studios, gaming, and podcasting. Operating as a plug-and-play peripheral, it connects directly via a USB cable and is instantly recognized across Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms without needing an...Read more

letempleasmr.fr

12/11/2024

Bird UM1 USB: price, settings, reviews and microphone test

The Bird UM1 USB microphone is a popular, entry-level cardioid condenser microphone praised for offering an all-in-one recording solution at an affordable price point of under €50. Its standout features include a seamless plug-and-play setup via a 2-meter USB cable, ensuring native compatibility across Windows, Mac, and iOS devices without requiring external drivers or preamps....Read more

edmustech.fr

15/01/2017

Micro Bird UM1 - Recommended, but for what use?

The Bird UM1 is a budget-friendly USB microphone priced at €49 to €59 that has become a popular choice for YouTubers, podcasters, and educators. According to the reviewer, who is a music teacher, the microphone features a solid, well-made design and functions through a simple "Plug & Play" setup that is compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS via a lightning adapter. It is equipped with an...Read more

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