CONCLUSION

   Since we're not into streaming not only did we use all three USB microphones for both Skype and Viber calls but we also used them for in-game communication and on top of that we also recorded several audio clips which we checked several times over later on. Now this may not come as a surprise to most of you but both the Sfera and Sfera Pro performed identically in cardioid mode whereas the Omni-directional mode of the Sfera Pro was more ideal for sounds coming from all sides (still that means reduced clarity for sounds coming from the front so for single people standing in front of a PC the "regular" Sfera is just as good as the Pro version - unless you're using a very loud instrument in which case the -10dB cardioid mode of the Pro version could come in handy). The Colonna offers even clearer audio for sounds coming from the front when in cardioid mode but at the same time doesn't sacrifice audio clarity when in Omni-directional and bi-directional modes. We tried to showcase the differences between each microphone by recording short (5s) audio clip (hint, it’s one of the most iconic lines in movie history) from one of our 5.1 surround sound systems (all 3 microphones where placed at the center of the room – slightly towards the center speaker for optimal cardioid recording) so download and check them out (Sfera Cardioid - Sfera Pro Cardioid / Omni-Directional / Cardioid -10dB - Colonna Cardioid / Omni-Directional / Bi-Directional).

   So how much does one have to spend to get one of these USB microphones by Arozzi? Well currently you can find the Sfera for USD44.99/35Euros (Amazon / Amazon UK), the Sfera Pro for USD64.99/55Euros (Amazon / Amazon UK) and the Colonna for USD80.49/85Euros (Amazon / Amazon UK). Since these are the very first USB microphones to find their way to our lab we really can’t say they are the best in their price ranges but they are much better compared to several 3.5mm microphones we’ve used in the past (even compared to some by SONY and Yamaha - alas lower-cost ones) and on top of that they look great too. Our only hope is that Arozzi will expand the color range of the Sfera Pro and Colonna models since it seems like a waste for the red and black color combination to only be available with the “regular” Sfera. With that out of the way all three Microphones lived up to our expectations and although the Colonna is slightly ahead in terms of features and audio clarity both the Sfera and the Sfera Pro offer a far better price/performance ratio.

PROS

- Build Quality (Colonna)
- Design
- Audio Clarity
- Available Polar/Pickup Patterns (Sfera Pro / Colonna)
- Headphone Amplifier (Sfera Pro / Colonna)
- Plug & Play
- Available Colors (Sfera / Colonna)
- Price (Sfera / Sfera Pro)

CONS

- Price (Colonna)
- Color Selection (Sfera Pro)