UPDATE: For Round 8: Features and Inclusions, I mention that the AM8 has "more" because of the tabletop stand. Howecver, the K688 comes with a dedicated shockmount that is native to Fifine. On the other hand, you can only get an AM8-specific shockmount from third-party manufacturers right now. Not even Fifine makes them, as of this post. That said, the AM8 gives you a "complete" set upfront since you can get it to work out of the box, whereas you still have to get a stand for the K688, though it's much easier to find a stand for it because it uses a universal mount standard--the AM8 shockmount is more difficult to find. The K688 inclusions are long-term, and the AM8 inclusions are short-term. Consider this in choosing your mic. (If I could take back the score, this round would be a draw.)
Even now I have to go with the AM8. While I think the falloff on the 688 is actually a benefit for noisy environments it ultimately comes as a downside for deeper or more soft-spoken voices. Both have impressive quality dynamic mics, and for under 100 dollars no less. Fifine has really outdone themselves, you can't really go wrong either way as the cons are ultimately negligible for all, but the most detail-oriented audio balancing.
I've watched a lot of mic reviews lately, and this one is *exactly* everything I wanted to know! Thanks for all the great info, and I think you might have a hit with your microphone duel song 🤣
Man I _wish_ Fifine would release a mic that sounds like the AM8 and looks like the K688. That would be awesome. But, for now, the AM8 sounds better in my opinion. In terms of looks, definitely the K688. I know the upgraded version of the K688 exists which is pretty similar to what I just described but that's a heck of a lot more expensive then both the AM8 and K688.
@@ambuttablow The upgraded K688 is just an updated K688, so the price should be the same. How is it more expensive? Or are you referring to the Tank 3?
@@DaveSoltura I feel like he was referring to the tank 3. Btw Personally what do you think is better, am8 or tank 3? (Beginner in this field, I just want something like it won't catch bg noise considering I'm near a street)
I definitely prefer the look of the K688 but the AM8 definitely won in sound for me, and then as I finally open amazon after debating over a bunch of different mics I find its currently 31% off so it was a no brain buy. Can't wait for it to arrive because I've just been using a built in headset mic that barely works for the past few years.
So, I've been looking for this direct comparison for a few. I will add one thing though, apparently Fifine quietly rolled out changes to the K688. They thickened the filter and pulled the condenser back a little further from the cage (the one you have, the condenser is literally at the top of the cage)). I wonder if that would change the results.
This is amazing! i watched your budget mic tierlist and it allowed me to narrow it down to these 2, which then allowed me to make an informed choice of buying the am8 over the k688. I am currently using the maono dgm20 and i hope it is a decent upgrade overall! Thank you very much!!😁
I have the Fifine AM8 and was rooting for it. This is my daily driver mic for streaming though when it comes to condenser, the NZXT Capsule Mini is my favorite despite being USB only.
I think the am8 might sound ever so slightly better, but the k688 design for me is so much better.. I still can’t really decide which one to get but mostly going for the k688
same situation here. objectively the am8 souds better but i dont like the bulky design of it. the k688 on the other hand has a perfect design imo but the sound is as if its too quiet idk
Idk what one to get so plz tell me what one u prefer, i like the clarity of the am8 but the looks of the k688, i like them both a lot and i am wondering what u think is better
@@juxtacube1803You cannot go wrong with most generic tripod stands! Even a cheap generic boom arm will do. The k688 is very light and doesn’t need a heavy duty boom arm!
Hey Dave! I bougth this K688 but I have a question. I saw in one of your videos that using a USB 3.0 cable had a better performance than using the K688 original cable (USB 2.0). Would you recommend me to buy a new 3.0 USB cable? Or I can live with the included one. Thank You! :D
@@DaveSoltura Hi! In my case the included cable is USB 2.0 :o, so I was wondering if the audio quality would be the same using this USB 2.0 compared with a USB 3.0. Thank you for your response
As long as it doesn’t glitch out, the audio quality should be the same. :) It’s possible there’s a 1% difference, but that would be negligible. Preamps in the mic would still account for most of the sound quality
Good question. It resonated more through my headset, but that wasn’t as audible in the final mix. That said if you boosted both more, you would hear the ringing from the K688. It was beginning to bother me. But at fairly average listening levels it should really be no issue. K688 is a fantastic choice!
Good comparison! I currently have a Razer Seiren Mini and I'm looking to migrate to a new microphone. Looking for a dynamic alternative I found the Fifine AM8, I love how it sounds but my doubt is if it will be worth this change or maybe I should save and look for a more expensive alternative to give the quality jump I'm looking for. I would really appreciate the help and thank you so much for the review! ✨
I personally think it’s a noticeable and meaningful upgrade for not a whole lot. You could easily consider the AM8 a semi-pri/beginner pro mic. Eventually, you wouldn’t upgrade the mic: you would go from using the AM8 in USB to XLR, which is going to be the bigger jump later on. :) Get the AM8 with no regrets.
As a woman, I prefer the K688. My husband and I have a dual setup, and no matter what settings I tried, my old microphones, including the AM8, captured the deep tones of the "male" voice too strongly. No setting managed to suppress them, causing my soft voice to be overshadowed. The K688 accomplishes that! So far, only the Shure has been able to do that! Oh, even without a dual setup, I can recommend the K688 for the frequencies of a female voice. This microphone may not sound as clear for men, but for women, it's perfect and clear! Ps. Hello vom AUSTRIA 🇦🇹 🎉 (Germany) ❤
@@DaveSoltura and guys lmao, I have the k688 and my voice is pretty deep and my friends can like barely understand me. So imma try the am8 and see if its any better
amazing review! I think the K688 will make for a great mic gift for my friend. Only thing I can suggest for mic reviews that I don't see anyone do is background voices. Would be perfect test for streamers/people who wfh, who have s/o gaming in the same room or just kids speaking in the back etc. How much does the mic pick up with someone raging in the back lol this is one kind of test that I figured would be more common but no one seems to do. In any case, great review again, got yourself a sub!
This is so useful. I would buy the AM8 right now, but I’m worried about the lack of a shock mount option. If I’m worried about some noise from mouse and keyboard movement traveling along the desk mounted boom, would the shock mount make enough difference to justify the K688 instead?
Bro you just made the best comparison 🔥 Also i want to ask which camera are you using and which lens ? ( iam talking about the camera on the table and not the one in the corner )
I already bought a K688 this last December 2, but plan to refund it for a AM8, cause I use it for voice singing cover songs, cause I've find the AM8 has a punch in the mids that good for the voice, what do you think? I'm right? 😅
Close you're eyes and tell me he doesn't sound like Steve Buscemi. SUCH A HARD CHOICE! I really think the AM8 sounds better overall. The K688 had my eye because I usually have background noise issues, but I can mix that out with software with the AM8. Ordering that bad boy right now, thanks for the video! Super helpful.
@@erwinabarcajr.2876 I use Discord's sound suppression as well as running all my audio through SteelSeries Sonar. It's free and the EQ mixer is very good. It also has sound suppression built in. The K688 mixed with those, I don't get much background in at all.
Hi thanks for the awesome review, wanted to ask which mic would you recommend on a budget and in a place with a lot of background noise (keyboard, television, roomates etc.)? I'm currently between Am8 and K688 but maybe there are other options? Thanks again for the review!
If noise cancellation is the biggest factor, check out the Maono DGM20! ua-cam.com/video/_7MJPt5Gi6o/v-deo.htmlsi=RJiUmt_juiSaBKnp It’s not as full sounding as these two mics, but does the job. But if you’d like a fuller sound, you can’t go wrong with either of these mics!
Does the dual output (USB & XLR) of AM8 operate alternately or can they be used simultaneously? If they can be used simultaneously, is it possible as a backup in case one of them encounters an issue? How about K688? Can the USB & XLR be used simultaneously? I appreciate your help.
I am planning to purchase the Focusrite Voicemaster Pro. I am looking for the right cables to connect it to any kind of speaker. Please tell me what kind of cables or what type of speakers it supports. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day.
@@kingpaco87 Hi! I have no experience with the channel strip. Heads up- I don’t believe that’s an audio interface, if that’s what you’re looking for. The Vocaster 2 is plenty enough for that. Usually, to connect to monitor speakers, 2 balanced trs cables are used. That’s what I use on the Vocaster 2.
@@DaveSoltura The difference between Vocaster 1 and Vocaster 2 is that number one is for hosting, like a guitar, and number two is for being a guest, so you can play guitar and sing. I was thinking of buying number one because I only talk to people when I play my game. Is number one good enough for me? And why did you choose number two? I need to know.
@@DaveSoltura "I wish I could talk to you in person because it would be easier than texting. I'm not good at explaining things through text. Can we find a better way to communicate instead of going back and forth through messages? I'm finding it difficult to explain things clearly by writing."
@@kingpaco87 The Vocaster 1 is enough if it’s just you. Vocaster 2 if you want to do a podcast with a guest as an extra feature. Text exchanges at my convenience are what I’m able to provide for free, and I’m not currently providing consultations. Consider this service instead: georgethe.tech/ All the best!
No BUDGET interface will improve the audio quality you get! Because the K688 has a BUILT-IN budget interface, in a sense! A serious upgrade would require an investment of $199 and up, for something like the Motu M2. It’s pointless getting interfaces cheaper than that because the K688 performs about as good as most of those, sound-wise.
@@DaveSoltura would something like a scarlet solo be good for a first interface? Or just save up for something like the Moto 2 instead of having to upgrade in the future
@@maddymuhat8079 The K688 removes more high frequency noise, but the AM8 is a bit clearer, as many people will mention. I’d say the AM8’s clarity is worth it.
Am8 is better just because it sound so much more clear at a lesser price. Also there’s the benefit of a stand for those who don’t have an arm yet or are saving up to get a good one vs a cheap one
I never play with headphones, I always use my speakers. I no longer use krisp/rtx voice because it distorts the voice too much. I don't do streaming, what microphone could you recommend, please. Your help could help me a lot to improve my communications.
@@DaveSoltura Well, I’ll be using mostly for gaming and discord. I’m currently looking for dynamic microphones as I am scared condenser microphones might pickup sounds from my PC or air conditioner.
@@DaveSoltura Then overall out of all the microphones you reviewed on your channel, which did you think was the best? I have watched all your microphone review, vs videos and still don't know which to buy.
How did you manege to get this sound fron those microphones? Is that EQ? The roon's acoustic? The audio inteface? You certaily know something than i don't, because i have a fifine Am8 and it sounds like creepy in my hands.( Not a native english speaker, so i'm sorry if i write something weird.
@@DaveSoltura You should really think about making a a video showing your setup, because, i never saw anyone taking so much quality from those chip microfones :)
If you were to speak lets say 5ft away from the mics, would they perform more or less the same? Trying to decide between these two and background sounds is a concern of mine.
Not in USB mode. You can in XLR mode, but likely won't need to. Boosters don't really "add" clean gain. They substitute their preamps with your audio interface's preamps. If you're using a budget interface like the Teyun Q12 which has a notorious amount of noise, a booster will in fact "add" clean gain, because its preamps have better noise.performance. If you use something like the Behringer UMC202 HD which already has very low-noise, a booster may improve the performance by a negligible amount-- definitely not worth the extra cost for most people. Both the K688 and especially the AM8 are sensitive enough and don't need that extra gain.
Subtastic! Fabulous work and I'm going to try to get other people to sub as well. Quality information, honest work, and enjoyable presentation. That's what a good channel has, what yours has. :)
AM8 have a good presence, maybe because the k688 cut the low and high frequency more on mid frequency. AM8 is the best choice with a good plugin you can control the overall likings of AM8
In guitar test you were close to the AM8 and didn't changed position for K688 And lot of your tests are your hearing based and how you feel. So this video shouldn't be deciding factor cuz K688 is clearly a better mic
@@DaveSoltura K866 is 20$ more and it doesn't have that RGB light or the stand. That means they have put better quality mic inside there by cost cutting on the rgb and the stand. AM8 has different mic capsule in the inside. No matter the frequency range, if the actual internal of mic is not great... it doesn't truly produce high quality sound. And that's the reason why K688 is better. Clear sound does not mean high quality sound. The sound which can be heard with ease is what makes them high quality. A sound that doesn't bleed our ears is what makes it high quality and K688 has that. And also in the test where you test the "ssss" . The AM8 clearly had more unpleasant "sss" but u gave it a draw. Since u're basing ur thoughts on how you hear, you need to also have a headset that produces neutral/flat sound. Flat frequency response of headset means more accurate representation of the actual audio. To sum up your review, you only had one thing in mind and that is the high frequency. AM8 had more pronounced high, and you just gave the win to it just cuz of that. In reality, K688 has more natural sound. AM8 has artifical. Looking at ur other videos i can tell ur real voice sounds more like K688 Fifine made a fantastic mic. I dont mind if the company cuts cost on build and gives plastic build and no stand or no RGB but in return gives actual high quality internal component that is the microphone receiver ifself (don't know what the actual technical term for that is)
Tbh, neither of them is perfect for music, they're more for spoken words. But if you do need to pick one up between them for music for the price, then K688 could be a better choice for its less bassy sound.
Valid thought! I see it from a more holistic/real-world use. In my testing, the supposed 5db difference was inaudible, but the Am8 captured more high frequency information, which includes fan noises. Ultimately, it’s a toss up between them imo. :)
@@DaveSoltura I hope I will! Just started trying out content creation and currently using a headset mic. It's a sennheiser headset but.. all built on mics are crap. Every plosive is pain. This seems a great place to start, didn't see the point spending £400 for my first ever standalone mic
Am I the only one who thinks that the k688 sound very muffled? I'm using custom iems that I've personally tuned to be neutral and it sounds significantly more muffled compared to the am8.
@zlajko763 Because you are asking a question that makes no sense. For one, there is no reason why you would want a different pop filter. Pop filters that are included with mics are designed specifically for that mics sensitivity and calibration. Why would you want to use a different filter that's designed for a different mic? That would only create more work for you. Secondly, you could've answered this question yourself. Why would 2 completely different manufacturers, who have never worked together, have interchangeable parts? Especially if they have 2 completely different shapes? If anything, they would go out of their way to not be compatible with other brands, not the opposite. To answer your question: Sure, if you push hard enough, the sm7b's pop filter will fit over the am8. The question you should be asking though is why would you ever want this.
@@maxboskeljon6440 It does make snese because if I want to see how it looks I'll ask someone and secondly all of us have different likes and me personally I like the shure's pop filter.I would wanna do this to see if its comfortable to use because it would look cool in my opinion.
Waouh !! I juste received my 34€ white AM8 with sc3 30€ . Less than 70€ for both it's incredible. I'm waiting now my xlr cable and let's go!! Replace my old bird Um1.
Yes, but not recommend getting them for mobile phones only since they're not built for that purpose, especially when it comes to the powering and XLR connection. If you do need to use mics with XLR port on mobiles, consider getting the audio interface for phones.
@FIFINE okay thanks the intent isn't to use them on mobile phones actually, just making sure If I run into any trouble with the mic's type C I could just use my charger cord (type c) to run the mic on my computer
Which mic won for you? 😀
To me the AM8 has a full rich sound.
To me the k688
UPDATE:
For Round 8: Features and Inclusions, I mention that the AM8 has "more" because of the tabletop stand.
Howecver, the K688 comes with a dedicated shockmount that is native to Fifine.
On the other hand, you can only get an AM8-specific shockmount from third-party manufacturers right now. Not even Fifine makes them, as of this post.
That said, the AM8 gives you a "complete" set upfront since you can get it to work out of the box, whereas you still have to get a stand for the K688, though it's much easier to find a stand for it because it uses a universal mount standard--the AM8 shockmount is more difficult to find.
The K688 inclusions are long-term, and the AM8 inclusions are short-term. Consider this in choosing your mic. (If I could take back the score, this round would be a draw.)
@@DaveSoltura what do you mean by "AM8 inclusions are short term"? what are inclusions?
Am8 is cool
Even now I have to go with the AM8. While I think the falloff on the 688 is actually a benefit for noisy environments it ultimately comes as a downside for deeper or more soft-spoken voices. Both have impressive quality dynamic mics, and for under 100 dollars no less. Fifine has really outdone themselves, you can't really go wrong either way as the cons are ultimately negligible for all, but the most detail-oriented audio balancing.
THIS CHANNEL DESERVE MORE SUBS AND VIEWS!!!
I thought he has more than 500k
Am8 is definitely the way to go!
I've watched a lot of mic reviews lately, and this one is *exactly* everything I wanted to know! Thanks for all the great info, and I think you might have a hit with your microphone duel song 🤣
Thank you for the kind words! Can’t wait to quit voice acting to pursue music!🎸🤣
Great video! We also asked for a compariaon Maono DM30 and Fifine A8!! Review plz plz plz...i love your comparison videos.
If this gets 30 likes, I'll consider that specific video! :)
@@DaveSolturado it now its 30 :=
@@DaveSolturait has 30 likes, I would like to see that aswell
@@C4r1ssy Yes, just waiting for my new A8 to arrive. 😀
I like all the tests than other UA-camrs did not try such as the headphone amp. One looks like the Blue Sona and the other one looks like the SM7B.
Ah, yes! The Blue Sona, that’s what the Am8 looks like!
Bro deserve more subscriber.
Super Great test man! Thank you so much! =)
This kind of content creation is top notch! Looking forward to your future contents
Thank you!🙏🏼
Cant you stop saying " content"?
Man I _wish_ Fifine would release a mic that sounds like the AM8 and looks like the K688. That would be awesome. But, for now, the AM8 sounds better in my opinion. In terms of looks, definitely the K688. I know the upgraded version of the K688 exists which is pretty similar to what I just described but that's a heck of a lot more expensive then both the AM8 and K688.
@@ambuttablow The upgraded K688 is just an updated K688, so the price should be the same. How is it more expensive? Or are you referring to the Tank 3?
@@DaveSoltura I feel like he was referring to the tank 3. Btw Personally what do you think is better, am8 or tank 3? (Beginner in this field, I just want something like it won't catch bg noise considering I'm near a street)
@ AM8 is more than sufficient for most people, but the Tank 3 has build quality improvements, if that matters more
This is a absolute masterpiece 😮
I got the AM8 a while back and it’s a great budget mic overall!
Agree! You won't be disappointed!
thank you! very useful
I like the looks of K688 but the voice sound of the AM8. It doesn't sound like I'm talking into a pillow xd. Thanks for the review!
You're welcome! :) Thanks for the kind words. Also just happened to upload a members first video on how to remove the pillow-like quality of the K688!
Great video, Dave. Cheers from Brazil
Many thanks!
I definitely prefer the look of the K688 but the AM8 definitely won in sound for me, and then as I finally open amazon after debating over a bunch of different mics I find its currently 31% off so it was a no brain buy. Can't wait for it to arrive because I've just been using a built in headset mic that barely works for the past few years.
So, I've been looking for this direct comparison for a few. I will add one thing though, apparently Fifine quietly rolled out changes to the K688. They thickened the filter and pulled the condenser back a little further from the cage (the one you have, the condenser is literally at the top of the cage)). I wonder if that would change the results.
I have a new video on the updated K688 coming out soon!
This is amazing! i watched your budget mic tierlist and it allowed me to narrow it down to these 2, which then allowed me to make an informed choice of buying the am8 over the k688. I am currently using the maono dgm20 and i hope it is a decent upgrade overall! Thank you very much!!😁
Glad the videos helped! Enjoy your new mic!
Thank you!
I have the Fifine AM8 and was rooting for it. This is my daily driver mic for streaming though when it comes to condenser, the NZXT Capsule Mini is my favorite despite being USB only.
9:03 - this is a whole different level of comparison 😂 loved the content!
Thank you very much for the video, it was very nice
I think the am8 might sound ever so slightly better, but the k688 design for me is so much better.. I still can’t really decide which one to get but mostly going for the k688
You can’t go wrong with either, really. If design matters to you, when audio is this subjective, go for the one you like!
same situation here. objectively the am8 souds better but i dont like the bulky design of it. the k688 on the other hand has a perfect design imo but the sound is as if its too quiet idk
i ended up getting the k688, near perfect@@cherrysprite2932
Love the content bro, really clear and a little funny at the end haha
Thank you for the kind words! I try! 😀
Idk what one to get so plz tell me what one u prefer, i like the clarity of the am8 but the looks of the k688, i like them both a lot and i am wondering what u think is better
If looks matter, get the K688! The difference in sound is ultimately negligible. The K688 is also objectively better in handling shouting
ypu deserve more subs love this video!
Brother thanks for this wonderful video.
Which software do you use to record and edit your voice, it's crystal clear audio.
I use Reaper :)
is it possible to remove the ring around the k688? loved the comparison, so much quality and tests. there should be more like this in youtube
Hi! Yes it is posibble, it has 4 screws attached to the body.
Good video🎉
Hi Dave! Which microphone would you recommend that would cancel more baby noises and other people speaking? :) Awesome video btw!
I talk about that here! ua-cam.com/video/MuqeHgctbBA/v-deo.html
@@DaveSoltura Okay one last question :) Since the K688 does not have a tripod stand, can you recommend one while I'm saving for a boom stand?
@@juxtacube1803You cannot go wrong with most generic tripod stands! Even a cheap generic boom arm will do. The k688 is very light and doesn’t need a heavy duty boom arm!
Very professional video, you ar doing great bro 🔥🔥😊 keep going
Thank you so much 😀
Which one should I buy if I don’t have any customization, just the mic?
Great effort bro 💪❤
Is your am8 xlr connected to the computer sir Dave? or are you using 3rd party device?
In this video, it was connected to the Motu M2 audio interface.
Thank you sir! @@DaveSoltura
Hey Dave! I bougth this K688 but I have a question. I saw in one of your videos that using a USB 3.0 cable had a better performance than using the K688 original cable (USB 2.0). Would you recommend me to buy a new 3.0 USB cable? Or I can live with the included one.
Thank You! :D
One of our commenters here said the new K688 has a 3.0 cable now. Give it a shot first and see if it works!
@@DaveSoltura Hi! In my case the included cable is USB 2.0 :o, so I was wondering if the audio quality would be the same using this USB 2.0 compared with a USB 3.0. Thank you for your response
As long as it doesn’t glitch out, the audio quality should be the same. :) It’s possible there’s a 1% difference, but that would be negligible. Preamps in the mic would still account for most of the sound quality
I was just about to purchase the k688 but after watching this, I realized that it sounds much more muffled than the AM8
@DaveSoltura Why did the AM8 win round 17. The 688 is barely hearable.
Good question. It resonated more through my headset, but that wasn’t as audible in the final mix. That said if you boosted both more, you would hear the ringing from the K688. It was beginning to bother me. But at fairly average listening levels it should really be no issue. K688 is a fantastic choice!
Thanks! @@DaveSoltura
Good comparison! I currently have a Razer Seiren Mini and I'm looking to migrate to a new microphone. Looking for a dynamic alternative I found the Fifine AM8, I love how it sounds but my doubt is if it will be worth this change or maybe I should save and look for a more expensive alternative to give the quality jump I'm looking for. I would really appreciate the help and thank you so much for the review! ✨
I personally think it’s a noticeable and meaningful upgrade for not a whole lot. You could easily consider the AM8 a semi-pri/beginner pro mic. Eventually, you wouldn’t upgrade the mic: you would go from using the AM8 in USB to XLR, which is going to be the bigger jump later on. :) Get the AM8 with no regrets.
wait what audio interface is that? 5:53 and also do you have any filters on the am8 in this video
Hi! It's the Motu M2. No filters. :)
As a woman, I prefer the K688. My husband and I have a dual setup, and no matter what settings I tried, my old microphones, including the AM8, captured the deep tones of the "male" voice too strongly. No setting managed to suppress them, causing my soft voice to be overshadowed.
The K688 accomplishes that! So far, only the Shure has been able to do that!
Oh, even without a dual setup, I can recommend the K688 for the frequencies of a female voice. This microphone may not sound as clear for men, but for women, it's perfect and clear!
Ps. Hello vom AUSTRIA 🇦🇹 🎉 (Germany) ❤
Fantastic! Thanks for sharing your valuable thoughts on this. Many women will benefit from your comment.
@@DaveSoltura and guys lmao, I have the k688 and my voice is pretty deep and my friends can like barely understand me. So imma try the am8 and see if its any better
@@loxsik7330 You could try moving a few inches back from the K688 and see if that helps!
Thank you for this brcsuse I havent found a mic clear enough for my voice
This is very helpful, thank you! I’m trying to find reviews from women for this exact reason
HEY DAVE WHICH IS BETTER FOR UNTREATED ROOM, AMATURE PODCAST. PREFERABLY USB MODE.
amazing review! I think the K688 will make for a great mic gift for my friend. Only thing I can suggest for mic reviews that I don't see anyone do is background voices. Would be perfect test for streamers/people who wfh, who have s/o gaming in the same room or just kids speaking in the back etc. How much does the mic pick up with someone raging in the back lol this is one kind of test that I figured would be more common but no one seems to do. In any case, great review again, got yourself a sub!
Thank you for the sub! Great idea. Worth considering!
Best comparison video I've seen. Subscribed because of the singing and guitar playing examples. All of it was good though.
Wow, thank you for the kind words! I should practice more, then. :)
This is so useful. I would buy the AM8 right now, but I’m worried about the lack of a shock mount option. If I’m worried about some noise from mouse and keyboard movement traveling along the desk mounted boom, would the shock mount make enough difference to justify the K688 instead?
From what I have seen and heard, yes, the shock mount makes a big difference.
can you do Fifine AM8 vs. Maono PD100X, I cant find any video comparisons and I love this comparison
Bro you just made the best comparison 🔥
Also i want to ask which camera are you using and which lens ?
( iam talking about the camera on the table and not the one in the corner )
@@9AMROUN I use the Sony ZV-E10 with the Sony 11/1.8!
I already bought a K688 this last December 2, but plan to refund it for a AM8, cause I use it for voice singing cover songs, cause I've find the AM8 has a punch in the mids that good for the voice, what do you think? I'm right? 😅
I think the K688 wins overall. But its definitely personal preference
Close you're eyes and tell me he doesn't sound like Steve Buscemi.
SUCH A HARD CHOICE! I really think the AM8 sounds better overall. The K688 had my eye because I usually have background noise issues, but I can mix that out with software with the AM8. Ordering that bad boy right now, thanks for the video! Super helpful.
Hey same situation, was really concerned about bg noises considering I'm near a street. Any idea what software u use to lower bg noise?
@@erwinabarcajr.2876 I use Discord's sound suppression as well as running all my audio through SteelSeries Sonar. It's free and the EQ mixer is very good. It also has sound suppression built in. The K688 mixed with those, I don't get much background in at all.
Hi thanks for the awesome review, wanted to ask which mic would you recommend on a budget and in a place with a lot of background noise (keyboard, television, roomates etc.)? I'm currently between Am8 and K688 but maybe there are other options? Thanks again for the review!
If noise cancellation is the biggest factor, check out the Maono DGM20!
ua-cam.com/video/_7MJPt5Gi6o/v-deo.htmlsi=RJiUmt_juiSaBKnp
It’s not as full sounding as these two mics, but does the job.
But if you’d like a fuller sound, you can’t go wrong with either of these mics!
@@DaveSolturam
The louder high-notes and higher sensitivity are very important for me, I'm going with the AM8
Does the dual output (USB & XLR) of AM8 operate alternately or can they be used simultaneously? If they can be used simultaneously, is it possible as a backup in case one of them encounters an issue? How about K688? Can the USB & XLR be used simultaneously? I appreciate your help.
Not sure about the AM8 but I do this with the K688 to have real time monitoring and it works well.
Incredibly useful video
It was a great and very helpful video 🤓🙏
I am planning to purchase the Focusrite Voicemaster Pro. I am looking for the right cables to connect it to any kind of speaker. Please tell me what kind of cables or what type of speakers it supports. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day.
@@kingpaco87 Hi! I have no experience with the channel strip. Heads up- I don’t believe that’s an audio interface, if that’s what you’re looking for. The Vocaster 2 is plenty enough for that.
Usually, to connect to monitor speakers, 2 balanced trs cables are used. That’s what I use on the Vocaster 2.
@@DaveSoltura The difference between Vocaster 1 and Vocaster 2 is that number one is for hosting, like a guitar, and number two is for being a guest, so you can play guitar and sing. I was thinking of buying number one because I only talk to people when I play my game. Is number one good enough for me? And why did you choose number two? I need to know.
@@DaveSoltura "I wish I could talk to you in person because it would be easier than texting. I'm not good at explaining things through text. Can we find a better way to communicate instead of going back and forth through messages? I'm finding it difficult to explain things clearly by writing."
@@kingpaco87 The Vocaster 1 is enough if it’s just you. Vocaster 2 if you want to do a podcast with a guest as an extra feature.
Text exchanges at my convenience are what I’m able to provide for free, and I’m not currently providing consultations.
Consider this service instead: georgethe.tech/
All the best!
I have a bit noisy fan will the am8 pick it up and also does it pick up the sound of vehicles outside my window
Which mic did you end up to choose and how's that mic handle the noisy fan?
What do you recommend for a good budget interface for the K688?
No BUDGET interface will improve the audio quality you get!
Because the K688 has a BUILT-IN budget interface, in a sense!
A serious upgrade would require an investment of $199 and up, for something like the Motu M2.
It’s pointless getting interfaces cheaper than that because the K688 performs about as good as most of those, sound-wise.
@@DaveSoltura would something like a scarlet solo be good for a first interface? Or just save up for something like the Moto 2 instead of having to upgrade in the future
@@redacted6776 Definitely save up for something like a Motu, instead!
Please. I cant decide which to get between this two? Im picking which has better background noise reduction?
@@maddymuhat8079 The K688 removes more high frequency noise, but the AM8 is a bit clearer, as many people will mention. I’d say the AM8’s clarity is worth it.
Am8 is better just because it sound so much more clear at a lesser price. Also there’s the benefit of a stand for those who don’t have an arm yet or are saving up to get a good one vs a cheap one
I never play with headphones, I always use my speakers. I no longer use krisp/rtx voice because it distorts the voice too much. I don't do streaming, what microphone could you recommend, please. Your help could help me a lot to improve my communications.
Either of these mics is great for that!
Hi Dave, which budget microphone would you recommend overall? I have been scouring the nets but just can’t make my decision 😅
What's the use case? A lot of it really boils down to preference between these two. Like I said, you could even choose based on appearance. :)
@@DaveSoltura Well, I’ll be using mostly for gaming and discord. I’m currently looking for dynamic microphones as I am scared condenser microphones might pickup sounds from my PC or air conditioner.
@@kotekii4126 Yes, in this case, either will be fine! Might want to check the noise rejection section :)
@@DaveSoltura Then overall out of all the microphones you reviewed on your channel, which did you think was the best? I have watched all your microphone review, vs videos and still don't know which to buy.
@@kotekii4126 So what did you get?
He's Back or is it me that the real question is
How did you manege to get this sound fron those microphones? Is that EQ? The roon's acoustic? The audio inteface? You certaily know something than i don't, because i have a fifine Am8 and it sounds like creepy in my hands.( Not a native english speaker, so i'm sorry if i write something weird.
Yes, room acoustics, and a quality audio interface. No EQ added!
@@DaveSoltura You should really think about making a a video showing your setup, because, i never saw anyone taking so much quality from those chip microfones :)
hey im located in manila, what can I search in lazada or shopee for the fifine k688 tabletop stand
If you were to speak lets say 5ft away from the mics, would they perform more or less the same? Trying to decide between these two and background sounds is a concern of mine.
At 5 ft away, your voice would be significantly weaker, and the background noise will be louder.
@@DaveSoltura Thanks! I meant if there is occasionally someone speaking behind me. Which of these two mics do a better job at rejecting that noise?
@@Ren20391 I’d say they’re about equal. Am8 picks up higher pitched notes a bit more
Can record decent vocals for music?
which mic has better quality and has better range but also blocks out background. please help me because i need to choose one for christamas
I answer both in the video!
@@DaveSoltura i watched it fully but can you tell me which parts of the video you talk about those one? please
ua-cam.com/video/MuqeHgctbBA/v-deo.html
AM8 gives nice soft voice i wish the same comperacion with blue yeti
Can you put a gain booster/cloud lifter on both mics?
Not in USB mode. You can in XLR mode, but likely won't need to.
Boosters don't really "add" clean gain. They substitute their preamps with your audio interface's preamps.
If you're using a budget interface like the Teyun Q12 which has a notorious amount of noise, a booster will in fact "add" clean gain, because its preamps have better noise.performance.
If you use something like the Behringer UMC202 HD which already has very low-noise, a booster may improve the performance by a negligible amount-- definitely not worth the extra cost for most people.
Both the K688 and especially the AM8 are sensitive enough and don't need that extra gain.
@@DaveSoltura thank you!
Which is the one with the best out of box sound? Unfortunately i cant use a software enhancer on ps5. Thank you:)
AM8 for deeper voices, K688 for higher pitched voices. :)
Subtastic! Fabulous work and I'm going to try to get other people to sub as well. Quality information, honest work, and enjoyable presentation. That's what a good channel has, what yours has. :)
Thank you so much!!
Sir please suggest me a mic for voice over fifine am8 vs rode nt mini usb
sorry for my ignorance, my English is not good, which one would be more recommended for singing?
AM8 won the vocal sound test 9:00
When recording vocals, should I get an additional pop filter when using the AM8 ?
Not necessary! Would muffle the sound up.
AM8 have a good presence, maybe because the k688 cut the low and high frequency more on mid frequency. AM8 is the best choice with a good plugin you can control the overall likings of AM8
Wished for a mechanical keyboard test for us gamers with open mic on discord :D
Best demo ❤
In guitar test you were close to the AM8 and didn't changed position for K688
And lot of your tests are your hearing based and how you feel.
So this video shouldn't be deciding factor cuz K688 is clearly a better mic
Just clarifying that the K688 and AM8 were equidistant to the 12th fret. Camera lens distortion does things. :) But yes, you pick what works for you!
@@DaveSoltura K866 is 20$ more and it doesn't have that RGB light or the stand. That means they have put better quality mic inside there by cost cutting on the rgb and the stand. AM8 has different mic capsule in the inside. No matter the frequency range, if the actual internal of mic is not great... it doesn't truly produce high quality sound.
And that's the reason why K688 is better.
Clear sound does not mean high quality sound. The sound which can be heard with ease is what makes them high quality. A sound that doesn't bleed our ears is what makes it high quality and K688 has that.
And also in the test where you test the "ssss" . The AM8 clearly had more unpleasant "sss" but u gave it a draw.
Since u're basing ur thoughts on how you hear, you need to also have a headset that produces neutral/flat sound.
Flat frequency response of headset means more accurate representation of the actual audio.
To sum up your review, you only had one thing in mind and that is the high frequency. AM8 had more pronounced high, and you just gave the win to it just cuz of that.
In reality, K688 has more natural sound.
AM8 has artifical.
Looking at ur other videos i can tell ur real voice sounds more like K688
Fifine made a fantastic mic. I dont mind if the company cuts cost on build and gives plastic build and no stand or no RGB but in return gives actual high quality internal component that is the microphone receiver ifself (don't know what the actual technical term for that is)
Personally I don't like the shock mount on the k688 but I prefer it more than the Am8
Please compare Audio Array AM C11 vs pd200x.
How about the connection problem guys? Which one is better?
Both of them are dynamic mics with both XLR and USB connections, so they're just the same in terms of connectivity.
Hello. In my country, the k688 is 107 dollars and the am8 is 95 dollars. Which one do you think I should buy?
K688 for sure!
@@DaveSoltura Thx for answering my question
Which do u recommend for music recording
Tbh, neither of them is perfect for music, they're more for spoken words. But if you do need to pick one up between them for music for the price, then K688 could be a better choice for its less bassy sound.
@FIFINE okay do u know any fifine mic asides them that is great for music?
Was waiting for it, great review Dave ! Personally prefer the AM8, and I own it ! (I do have a lot of mics tho aha)
Good choice!
Whichever you go with, they're going to be very nice for the price imo.
hi great video , but i have a question how does the k688 wins in background noise test but it loses in the signal to noise ratio by >5dp
Valid thought! I see it from a more holistic/real-world use. In my testing, the supposed 5db difference was inaudible, but the Am8 captured more high frequency information, which includes fan noises. Ultimately, it’s a toss up between them imo. :)
how to make your k6788 sound better po?
not sure if its my headset but the am8 seems to sound so much better? just like it has more depth? Think I will buy the AM8, glad I FoFound this video
Glad you liked it! Enjoy your AM8!
@@DaveSoltura I hope I will! Just started trying out content creation and currently using a headset mic. It's a sennheiser headset but.. all built on mics are crap. Every plosive is pain. This seems a great place to start, didn't see the point spending £400 for my first ever standalone mic
@@BiteSizeWoW Agree on all points. Very smart decision. Wishing you all the best!
Am I the only one who thinks that the k688 sound very muffled? I'm using custom iems that I've personally tuned to be neutral and it sounds significantly more muffled compared to the am8.
Thank you i got a clear answer and got the AM8, personally i like the looks of k688 but overall and $20 less ill take it
Wise choice!
I'm looking forward to the comparison between AM8 and PD200X
6:50 bro said he prefers k688 and his mic lost, it even got a free point
Sound card ?
Gonna need some music videos from you now
I am satisfied with K688 and no need to upgrade Am8
I would love to know why everybody calls it fine-fine instead of fi-fine, like a repetition of the first letter
It’s the official pronunciation they provided. :)
hi can you pls do a video where you test if the sm7b pop filter can fit on am8 plssssssssssssssssssssss?it can be shorts
Why would you want sm7b pop filter??
@@maxboskeljon6440 Why do you care?
@zlajko763 Because you are asking a question that makes no sense. For one, there is no reason why you would want a different pop filter. Pop filters that are included with mics are designed specifically for that mics sensitivity and calibration. Why would you want to use a different filter that's designed for a different mic? That would only create more work for you. Secondly, you could've answered this question yourself. Why would 2 completely different manufacturers, who have never worked together, have interchangeable parts? Especially if they have 2 completely different shapes? If anything, they would go out of their way to not be compatible with other brands, not the opposite.
To answer your question:
Sure, if you push hard enough, the sm7b's pop filter will fit over the am8. The question you should be asking though is why would you ever want this.
@@maxboskeljon6440 It does make snese because if I want to see how it looks I'll ask someone and secondly all of us have different likes and me personally I like the shure's pop filter.I would wanna do this to see if its comfortable to use because it would look cool in my opinion.
@@zlajko763 Sm7b is a long circle.
Am8 is a short square.
There ya go
Nice video, i also need help ,
fifine AM8 for 55 Bucks vs fifine k688 for 37 Bucks, who wins ?
Oh wow!! $37 K688!
@@DaveSoltura yes on aliexpress
@@manumorgado87 If you have reason to believe it’s authentic, that would be worth it compared to the AM8. It’s normally a $79 mic.
@@DaveSoltura in France the m8 costs 56€ on amazon , so i tried an 40€ on aliexpress
Waouh !! I juste received my 34€ white AM8 with sc3 30€ . Less than 70€ for both it's incredible. I'm waiting now my xlr cable and let's go!! Replace my old bird Um1.
Can u use mobile phone type c to run these mics
Yes, but not recommend getting them for mobile phones only since they're not built for that purpose, especially when it comes to the powering and XLR connection. If you do need to use mics with XLR port on mobiles, consider getting the audio interface for phones.
@FIFINE okay thanks the intent isn't to use them on mobile phones actually, just making sure If I run into any trouble with the mic's type C I could just use my charger cord (type c) to run the mic on my computer
the k688 on aliexpress for 35€/40€ is a best buy