The Fifine K688 is a broadcast-style XLR USB microphone designed to record and stream high-quality audio. With a price range of $72 to $83, it is an affordable option for those needing a new microphone. In this Fifine K688 review, we’ll look at the build quality, features, sound quality, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right one.
Table of Contents
What’s in the Box?
If you decide to buy the Fifine K688, the box will come with a number of useful accessories. The first thing you’ll notice is the 8.2-foot USBC to USB cable. This cable makes it easy to connect the microphone to your computer. The package includes a 5/8-inch male to 3/8-inch female adapter. You can use this adapter when you require a different-size cable or connector. It’s included for added versatility in your setup.
In addition to the cables, the box will also have some instructions. This includes instructions on how to set up and use the microphone and information about its features and specifications. The permanently attached shock mount is one of the best things about the K688. This helps reduce vibrations and noise, keeping your sound clear and steady. The shock mount is made of high-quality materials and feels solid. This gives the microphone a safe and stable place to sit.
The box contains everything you need to use the K688 immediately. Whether you are a professional recording artist or just stream once in a while, the accessories that come with it will help you.
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Design and Build Quality:
The Fifine K688 looks like other broadcast-style microphones on the market. It is sleek and modern. It is black with a matte finish and has a silver grill. On the top is a button you can touch to turn it off. The K688 is mostly well-made.
The K688 microphone is constructed from metal. The strong shock mount is permanently attached to the microphone. One aspect I dislike about its construction is the velvety texture of the windscreen, which feels a bit strange to the touch. But this is a small problem that doesn’t change how well the microphone works.
Fifine K688 Features
One of the K688’s best features is its touch-sensitive mute button. It allows you to quickly and easily turn off the microphone without having to look for a switch. The mute button is located on the top of the microphone. When the button is not muted, it glows green; when it is muted, it glows red. This feature allows you to take a quick break or talk to someone without being overheard.
The Nobs
The volume and gain knobs on the headphones are also useful features of the K688. They’re on the back of the microphone. You can adjust the volume of your headphones using the headphone volume knob. You can adjust the microphone’s sensitivity using the gain control knob. This is a useful feature for those who need to adjust the audio levels to their preferences. It can help people who are streaming or recording in noisy environments.
The Ports
The K688 also has an XLR jack, a USB C jack, and a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack in addition to the knobs. Using the headphone jack, you can listen to recorded or streamed audio through your headphones. On the other hand, the XLR jack allows you to connect the microphone to a professional audio interface or mixer.
The USB-C jack allows you to connect the microphone directly to your computer or another device for streaming or recording. The K688 accepts XLR and USB connections, but the “mute” button only accepts USB.
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XLR Option
The microphone can be used with professional audio interfaces and mixers because it has an XLR connection. In contrast, the USB connection allows you to connect the microphone directly to your computer or another device.
This is one of the best features of the K688, and it distinguishes it from other microphones in the same price range.
How does It Convert Sound?
The K688 is a dynamic microphone that turns sound waves into electrical signals with the help of a moving coil. A dynamic microphone often blocks noise and feedback more effectively than a condenser microphone in many situations.
People frequently use dynamic microphones to record podcasts, instruments, and vocals, and then they stream the recordings.
The K688 has a cardioid pickup pattern, which means that it picks up sound best when it comes from right in front of it. This makes it great for recording and streaming vocals because it makes the microphone pick up less background noise.
How does it handle Plosive Sounds?
The K688 doesn’t handle plosives like the broadcast-style Shure SM7B or Blue Yeti. SM7B has a capsule-setback grill. This reduces plosive sensitivity.
Since the K688 doesn’t have a recess for the capsule, it must be used correctly to reduce plosives. You may need to stand further from the microphone or turn it, so it faces your mouth. This may take some time, but it’s easily fixed with the right technique and position.
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The K688 needs less gain than the $1000 SM7B to make a strong signal. This is good for people using the microphone with a device with limited gain control or in a noisy environment. The K688 only supports 16-bit at 48kHz, which may not be enough for some. Consider this if you plan to use the microphone for professional recording or streaming.
The K688 did very well in a blind test against microphones with similar prices and styles. Even the Fifine K658, which is also a good microphone, was chosen over it. Compared to the K658, the K688 is better made and has more features. Because of this, it’s a great choice for people who want a reliable microphone for recording and streaming. The only bad thing about it is that it can only handle 16-bit at 48kHz, but most people won’t mind that much.
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Verdict
The Fifine K688 is a good choice for those who want a high-quality microphone for recording and streaming at a reasonable price. It’s well-made, has useful features, and works with XLR and USB connections. It also works well compared to other microphones in the same price range.
Despite a few minor flaws, the microphone remains a dependable and versatile choice suitable for various recording and streaming needs. The Fifine K688 is a good choice if you need a reliable microphone that won’t break the bank for your recording or streaming setup.
