FIFINE Dynamic Microphone, XLR/USB Podcast Recording PC Microphone for Vocal Voice-Over Streaming, Studio Metal Mic with Mute, Headphone Jack, Monitoring Volume Control, Windscreen-Amplitank K688
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AI Verdict
A solid metal mic offering both USB and XLR connections, making it a flexible starting point for streamers and podcasters before they commit to an expensive audio interface.
This mic is a strong fit for anyone starting in content creation. The dual connectivity is its killer feature, providing an easy on-ramp with USB and a future-proof path to higher quality with XLR. Its ability to reject background noise makes it ideal for typical, non-studio environments like a bedroom or office.
If you move to an XLR setup, look for an audio interface with a preamp that offers at least 60dB of clean gain to get the best performance out of this dynamic mic.
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Pros
- Dual USB and XLR outputs offer a plug-and-play start with a clear upgrade path.
- Full metal body and shock mount feel sturdy and more premium than its price suggests.
- Cardioid pattern provides excellent rejection of background noise like PC fans or keyboards.
- On-mic controls for gain, headphone volume, and a tap-to-mute button are convenient for USB use.
- Sound quality via USB is surprisingly clear and rich for spoken word right out of the box.
Cons
- Mute, gain, and headphone jack controls ONLY work with the USB connection, not XLR.
- The body is somewhat hollow and can resonate or pick up significant handling noise.
- Requires you to be very close (2-6 inches) to the mic for the best sound, which can feel awkward.
- The included windscreen is thin and not very effective against plosives; an upgrade is recommended.
- Some users report low volume or needing to max out the gain, which can introduce noise.
Dimension Scores
Offers clear, broadcast-style vocals for its price, but can sound thin if you're not close enough and the USB mode has some self-noise.
It has a noticeable proximity effect for bass when you're close, but many users report low output volume, requiring high gain settings.
Having both plug-and-play USB-C and professional XLR outputs is a standout feature and rare in this price bracket.
The all-metal construction feels very solid, but it's also noted as being somewhat hollow and prone to handling noise.
Best For
- Beginner streamers or podcasters who want to start with USB and upgrade to an XLR interface later.
- Recording vocals in a noisy room, thanks to its strong background noise rejection.
- Gamers who need a quick plug-and-play mic with a handy tap-to-mute function.
- Anyone wanting a significant audio upgrade from a headset mic without a complex setup.
Not Recommended For
- Musicians trying to record instruments or vocals from a distance.
- Users who need on-mic mute or headphone monitoring while using an XLR setup.
- Audio professionals who are sensitive to the slight self-noise present in USB mode at high gain.
Watch Out For
- The on-board controls are completely non-functional when using XLR. You must use the USB-C connection to power the mute button and headphone jack.
- It's very sensitive to vibrations and handling noise; bumping your desk or boom arm is easily picked up.
- The mic is very gain-hungry, especially on USB, forcing you to be extremely close to it for good volume, which can be an issue for plosives.
- Some users experience issues with humming or static, which can sometimes be traced to a bad USB cable or a ground loop issue with their computer.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 850035565599 |
| ASIN | B0B8SNVK5K |
| Size | Medium |
| Brand | FIFINE |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Metal |
| Impedance | 16 Ohms |
| Color Name | Black |
| Model Name | Amplitank K688 |
| Item Weight | 1.12 pounds |
| Manufacturer | FIFINE |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Connector Type | XLR |
| Audio Sensitivity | 80 Decibels |
| Hardware Platform | Mixer, Audio Interface, Sound Card, PC, Laptop, Desktop |
| Item model number | K688 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop, Mixer, Audio Interface, Sound Card, Personal Computer |
| Frequency Response | 20 KHz |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Product Dimensions | 4.65 x 6.18 x 8.86 inches |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 80 dB |
| Microphone Form Factor | Table Array |
| Connectivity Technology | USB, XLR |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 4.65 x 6.18 x 8.86 inches |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Streaming, Studio Recording/Podcast/Vocal/Video Creation/Broadcast |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising thing about the K688 is how it bridges the gap between beginner and intermediate setups. You get a solid metal body and great background noise rejection right out of the box with a simple USB cable. The on-mic controls like the silent tap-to-mute are genuinely useful for streaming. However, the biggest user complaint is that all those handy controls—mute, gain, headphone jack—go completely dead the moment you switch to the higher-quality XLR connection. It's also very sensitive to desk bumps and handling noise, and you have to keep it super close to your mouth for it to sound its best.
“i plugged this in and my discord friends immediately said i sound like a podcaster, it completely ignores my loud pc fans but i wish the mute button worked when i use my xlr interface.”
Common Praise
- The dual USB/XLR connection is perfect for starting out and upgrading later.
- Its cardioid pattern is very effective at ignoring keyboard clicks and room echo.
- The all-metal build feels much more durable and expensive than it is.
- For spoken word, the USB audio is clear and broadcast-like with minimal setup.
- The tap-to-mute function is silent and very convenient during live streams or calls.
Common Complaints
- All on-board controls (mute, gain, headphone jack) are disabled when using XLR.
- The microphone is very sensitive to vibrations from the desk or boom arm.
- You have to 'eat the mic' (stay 2-3 inches away) to get strong volume.
- The gain knob is sensitive and easy to bump, changing your levels accidentally.
- Some units have noticeable static or humming noise over USB, which might be a ground loop or cable issue.
Ownership Tips
- After a few weeks, you'll notice that the included pop filter isn't quite enough; plosives ('p' and 'b' sounds) are still harsh unless you speak slightly off-axis.
- The USB connection has a faint but audible hiss at high gain levels that is absent when using a good audio interface via XLR.
- The plastic part of the shock mount where it connects to the boom arm feels like a potential weak point over time compared to the rest of the metal build.
- You'll quickly learn to position it so the gain knob isn't easily bumped, as even a slight touch can drastically alter your volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need phantom power for the XLR connection?
No, the K688 is a dynamic microphone and does not require 48V phantom power to operate via XLR.
Can I use the headphone jack and mute button when connected with an XLR cable?
No. The headphone jack, gain knob, and mute button only function when the microphone is connected and powered via USB.
Does it come with a stand or boom arm?
The base K688 model does not include a stand or arm, only the microphone with its integrated shock mount. You must provide your own.
How close do I need to be to the microphone?
For optimal sound, you should be about 2 to 6 inches from the front of the microphone. As a dynamic mic, the volume drops off significantly as you move away.
Is the XLR sound quality better than the USB?
Yes, using an XLR cable with a decent audio interface generally provides a cleaner, fuller sound with a lower noise floor compared to the direct USB connection.
Will this work with a PS5 or my phone?
Yes, it can connect directly to a PS4/PS5 or a smartphone via the USB connection, though you may need an adapter for your phone.
What is the thread size for mounting?
The shock mount has a standard 5/8" thread, and it comes with a 3/8" adapter to fit most boom arms and stands.
Buying Guide
When you're buying a mic like this, you're buying flexibility. Think about where you are now and where you want to be in a year. The USB connection is your easy start—plug it in and you're recording. The XLR connection is your upgrade path—it lets you plug into a mixer or audio interface for better sound quality and more control, but it costs more and is more complex. This mic gives you both doors, but remember the on-mic controls only work through the USB door.
Dynamic Microphone
Think of it like a microphone for a rock concert. It's built to handle loud sounds up close and ignore the screaming crowd (or your noisy roommate). It's less sensitive than a studio condenser mic, which is great for untreated rooms.
Cardioid Pattern
This means the mic mostly picks up sound from directly in front of it, like a heart shape. It actively rejects sounds from the sides and rear. This is why it's great for isolating your voice from keyboard clicks or computer fan noise.
XLR / USB Connectivity
USB is like a direct-to-TV DVD player—simple, convenient, and gets the job done. XLR is like a Blu-ray player connected to a high-end sound system—it gives you a higher quality signal that you can process with other gear (an audio interface) for the best possible result.
Alternatives
If you only ever plan to use USB, look for a high-quality USB-only microphone to avoid paying for an XLR feature you won't use. If you are a musician or need to capture delicate sounds in a quiet space, search for a large-diaphragm condenser microphone instead.
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