Blue Baby Bottle SL Review
Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
- Warm Tone for Vocals and Instruments
- Cardioid Pattern Lessens Room Ambience
- -20 dB Pad Eliminates Distortion
- Low-Cut Filter Reduces Bass Buildup
- Shockmount Inhibits Vibration Noise
- Hand-Tuned Large-Diaphragm Capsule
- Class-A Discrete Circuitry
- Includes Wooden Storage Box
- XLR Output for Hookup to XLR Mic Input
- Operates on 48V Phantom Power
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 2,950 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Blue Baby Bottle SL. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Blue Baby Bottle SL. For example, 70% of 167 users who have commented on the Value for money of the Blue Baby Bottle SL have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 34 Reviews
Nice sound. Shock mount isn't great.
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Doug on Guitar Center
I've used the Baby Bottle SL for over 6 months now. It has great gain before feedback and off axis cancellation. It sounds great live with vocals, acoustic guitar, and harmonica and it feels fairly robust. The mic itself is 5 stars, but the shock mount is absolutely atrocious. It won't keept the mic in position. Like the other user, I had to rig it up with extra washers to try to get a snug fit. Even then it'll only hold the mic in one position, at a 90* angle to a vertical mic stand. I can't use it with a boom because the shock mount won't hold the weight of the mic at the needed angle. The mount fails and the mic sags. I contacted the GC store where I got it from and they replaced the mount. That mount had the same issue as it too failed to support the mic at an angle. I then contacted Blue Customer Service and they sent me a new shock mount bracket that also failed to support the weight of the mic at an angle. Part of the shock mount, the large rubber ring that supports the bottom of the mic itself when the mic is screwed into the mount, also pops out when the mic is screwed in. Poor execution. I wouldn't pay $5 for the shock mount. It's that bad. So the mic itself is good. The shock mount is awful. ... More
Honest
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Max M. on Reverb
The mic is good for certain voices. I’ve noticed when you use your head voice and doesn’t deal with muddy low mids or pariticulary breathy or Singy top end, the mic works well. Clearly most singers are dynamic and change tonalities when they are performing. I’ve found the mix to be very harsh in the 2.5K and 10K area with awful boxy sounds in the 300hz range, surprise surprise. Most mics and performance need some reduction of the low mids around 300hz, but this mic doesn’t naturally give it to you. How a Neumann U87 gives you a rounded out almost body sound out the gate, it’s for body and it’s more expensive circuitry. If you want it there, it can stay and sound good. If you take it away, it’s possible to still have a full sound. With this mic, it’s so difficult, PERSONALLY, to find a happy medium between boxy and full and as the balance of low end and top end change, the top becomes harsh and it becomes a game of chasing your own tail. This isn’t to say I’m the greatest engineer ever, but I have pulled off some very enjoyable recordings and mixes with this mic, but sadly it has not been without a lot of doctoring and taming. As I said, the mic shines when it comes to your head voice. It does capture a pretty accurate semblance but it does not handle frequency buildup of any kind well and I’ve noticed the low mids from 200-800 are a huge problem area with many different vocalists. I have primarily used it with male and female vocalists and rarely other applications, but I am looking to upgrade after having an extensive experience with the mic and being able to work with more expensive units. I have a better idea of what I want when the sound is captured and this mic cannot do that for me. ... More
Excellent sound + build quality, nice looks
Blue Baby Bottle SL Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Nagel on B&H Photo Video
The Blue Baby Bottle SL is one of the best microphones under $500, it produces a wonderful, warm sound that sounds great on vocals. I can't speak personally for instruments because I use it for voiceovers, but I've heard that it works well for both acoustic and electric guitar. The sound this mic produces has lots of presence in the high and mids, but still has solid bass. This mic isn't 'crunchy' in the high ends like its little brother, the Bluebird SL, so I would without a doubt recommend this over the Bluebird. The build quality on this mic is also outstanding, it has a nice heft to it, and it's all made out of metal so it's very sturdy. The shockmount included also is made of metal and is very effective at nullifying rumbles and shakes. As per usual with condenser mics, make sure you have a full 48v of phantom power when you use it so that it can get a signal, and make sure you use it with a pop filter or windscreen of some sort. Blue's "The Pop" windscreen looks really nice with it and works well. And on the subject of looks, this mic has a vintage sort of look to it, and it's really pleasing to look at. The shockmount ties in very well with the whole look of the mic, that is if looks are important to you in a microphone. Overall, if you purchase this mic, you will receive a nice package that produces an amazing vocal sound, looks very aesthetically pleasing, and is constructed very well. In my opinion, it is more than worth the $400 price tag. ... More
My New Go-To Vocal Mic
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Soul Man on Guitar Center
In my experience, the sound of a mic can bring out the best performances, or kinda shut me down. I LOVE when I get in front of a new vocal mic that has an instant vibe, and makes me want to perform my best. That is the Baby Bottle SL to a T. This mic has a gorgeous silky smooth tone. It's smokey and vibey and inviting, and translates my performance in a really powerful way. I love it. If you sing soul, R&B, indie-rock, or folk, you've got a friend in this mic. It's got a ton of character-and is so fun to sing into-it feels like you're singing into a vintage mic. ... More
Good Mic for Natural Vocals
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by FolkKeith on Guitar Center
I have recorded quite a few things with my Baby Bottle, but I'll just talk about using it on a Martin Rosewood Acoustic Guitar, Male Vocals and Brass Snare Top (single drum). Acoustic guitar had warmth and woodsy overall vibe. Male Vox was pretty cool- this isn't the most expensive mic in my locker, but it makes sophisticated, natural sounding voice recordings. For Snare Drum, it's probably not the best for a full kit, but I was only recording a single snare on it's own and it captured some great depth of the drum. I'll probably EQ the drum tone and call it a day. It's a well done mic, esp for vox. ... More
Ads
Must have if you want a condesor.
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by RR on Guitar Center
I use this strictly for voiceover work. I have a really booming voice. That said, if you do as well, get a Stedman pop filter otherwise you will destroy yhis thing. It's very sensitive. It will perform very nicely for you. It saved me $600-$700 because I was going to buy a TLM 103. The bolts need to be upgraded in my opinion. Mine broke after tightening it too much, It's a heavy piece of equipment. I would buy again. I don't use it everyday anymore because I bought a Senheiser 416...enough said. Your room must be dead silent or you will pick up everything in your neighborhood. 4 stars because of the bolts. ... More
I'm getting another one.
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Mike A on Guitar Center
Overall I'm pleased with the microphone. The only qualm I have with it is the same one I have with most mics. The shock mount. It is one of the most important parts of the mic. Yet so many manufacturers over look it. It needs to stay where I point it. This can easily be remedied by using a joint that has spleen or a compression joint. Other than that it is a great quality mic and I would recommend it to others. To solve the problem I was having. I inserted a thin plastic washer between the rubber washer and the eyelet of the basket of the shock mount. I still have to torque it but it stays put. ... More
Baby Blue Bottle is a winner for me
Blue Baby Bottle Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Andrew O. on Reverb
I read all over the place that this is a dark sounding mic. With one in hand I tested this with vocals. What I found is a mic that is quite open sounding with no harsh top end. I think the trick might be in the choice of pre-amp. I used an ISA with selectable input impedance. The lowest impedance makse this a dark sounding mic (because it is loaded more). The highest imedance really opened it up. The ISA setting was the best sound for this mic. I really like this mic and tested it side by side with my U87. The Blue was closer than I would have imagined. A great surprise. Now, I only tested voice over and have not used it anywhere else. The U87 blows away most other mics IN THE MIX. I have not put the Baby Blue Bottle in a mix yet. I am impressed so far. The build quality: My mic is an "Assembled in the USA with Latvia Parts" year. The build quality is top notch as well as the shockmount. The pop filter does it's job despite alot I have read. ... More
Clean, warm sound for vocals and guitar, and not too expensive!
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Kyle W. on Reverb
I've used several mics (sennheiser and shure) to record voice, but this one is hands-down the best. And not very expensive given the high quality of the output. I've tried some sub-$100 mics which are ok for speech but not good enough for a musical performance (they tend to clip or distort even for tame vocals). The Baby Bottle SL is amazing - it can handle acoustic guitar and vocals and deliver a very low-noise, warm sound at various volumes. It's responsive to rapid changes in dynamics and pitch and handles loud and soft surprisingly well. I'm passing it through a little ART Tube MP Studio and then directly into my usb interface (where I then apply some software-based compression). The low-pass filter is excellent for taking out rumble (which also takes out a lot of external vehicle noise). ... More
Warm vocal mic
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by One Man Band on Guitar Center
I bought this mic after trying the bluebird. This mic was a better fit for my vocals, and produces a nice warm tone and isn't overly bright. I was using a Rode NT1-A prior, and found this better to record vocal layers.
Blue Baby Bottle "Latvian-style"
Blue Baby Bottle Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Ken J. on Reverb
I have a pair of "Made in Latvia" Blue Baby Bottles. Ive never done a side-by-side comparison of the newer Blue model, but I can tell you this is an amazing sleeper of a mic. A unique voicing that isn't hyped, but not flat either. I don't think it's a 1" capsule, but it's not a small diaphragm either. Maybe a medium diaphragm? Which is great because it's quick on transients. The BB sounds nothing like the Blue Bird. I have compared the two. Couldn't get rid of the Blue Bird fast enough. If you can try a Baby Bottle do it. Even better if it's a Latvian one. It's a character mic. An awesome character. ... More
Very pleased with this mic
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Phelix on Guitar Center
This mic has the brightness of the Bluebird and the warmth of the Bottle. It's especially great for acoustic guitar and vocals. For the money, you can't get a better mic. It's a must have for your mic locker.
Maybe the best Blue mic yet!
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Alan C. on Reverb
The Blue Baby Bottle SL lives up to its five-star reviews. It runs circles around the Spark and Bluebird, and delivers the warm, rich, non-harsh sound found in much more expensive condensers. It especially shines on vocals and does a good job at taming sibilance. Does it sound as good as the Neumann TLM 103? Maybe not -- but it comes close...and for a MUCH less drain on the bank account. This is a great mic!
Fantastic mic!!!
Blue Baby Bottle Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Robb B. on Reverb
I just picked up the Older version one as it is still around for a better price, It's simple straight up warm and ready for action. It has a really high output with less noise then some of my others that are around the same price. I would highly recommend this over the new one since you can find it for $150 cheaper still brand new in it's packaging ready to roll from a few sellers! I am guessing the new ones are good too, but the older one is awesome for $250.
Blue makes me smile!
Blue Baby Bottle Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Jerry M. on Reverb
This is my third purchase of the Blue Baby Bottle. Another winner. I do have a problem with my second Blue B.B. She's got an unforgivable hum at 150 - 200 Hz. No one, including Blue Co., can locate the origin of this problem even after three returns to the repair department of the company, so it's become a lower drawer microphone. In general, these mics sound GREAT, so natural and colorless.
Best mic I've owned
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Bigfoot on Guitar Center
Have it in my studio. Use it for vocals, it sounds great m, warm, clear, and has a nice tone.
Nice mic!
Blue Baby Bottle Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Jef B. on Reverb
I was looking for an Oktava 219 but decided to try something else. Quite pleased with this purchase. Mine is a China made one. Been using it on upright bass with pleasing results, very detailed. Also been using it on classical guitar for demos. I find it to be on the darker side but not lacking any top end. It's warm just like I need it to be. J
Great Mic for Acoustic Guitar & Vocals
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Studio Joe on Guitar Center
I've been using the Baby Bottle for both acoustic guitar and vocals, and so far I'm a big fan. Been positioning on the sound hole for acoustics - captures a full sound (but not too boomy) with clarity on highs. Good for vocals as well - nice, warm sound. Versatile mic, great for any home studio!
Amazing microphone for the price
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Emma A. on Reverb
I did a lot of research and this mic seemed perfect for what I wanted. A more low and full vintage tone mic for my voice It has a very natural tone to it, great low end.
Wow, the audio is fantastic
Blue Baby Bottle SL Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Sanjit T. on Reverb
The audio on the Blue Baby Bottle SL is great. It is super crisp and clear. I have used some cheap alternatives from Amazon, and those are garbage. This microphone gets rid of all unwanted noise and gives a natural sound.
