Logitech has unveiled the Yeti 2, an updated version of the popular Blue Yeti microphone that incorporates artificial intelligence, or more specifically, machine learning, directly into its hardware. The new microphone aims to enhance audio capture through intelligent voice following and noise reduction capabilities, all while retaining the familiar aesthetic and sound quality of its predecessor.
First introduced over a decade ago, the original Blue Yeti became a staple for streamers and content creators. Logitech, having acquired Blue Microphones in 2018, has now infused the latest iteration with advanced features. The Yeti 2 is priced at $160, positioning it within the high-end USB microphone market.
The Yeti 2 features an OLED screen that aids in customization and provides visual feedback. Users can select from preset modes like music or podcasting, or delve deeper into settings directly on the device. The microphone is omnidirectional by default, but its pickup pattern can be adjusted as needed.
A key feature is the AI-aided voice following. This mode uses voice and head detection, combined with a sensor that Logitech assures is not a camera and does not store personal facial data, to dynamically adjust the microphone's pickup direction to follow the speaker. This function is visually represented on the OLED screen, showing the changing cone of pickup.
Noise reduction is another significant AI-driven feature. Testing in a noisy environment demonstrated its effectiveness, with level one significantly reducing background chatter and level two virtually eliminating it without compromising voice quality. Level three was found to potentially affect voice frequencies, suggesting level one or two are optimal.
The Yeti 2 also includes clipping detection, indicated by a customizable pixel art character on the screen when the user is speaking too loudly or too close to the microphone. The Logitech G Hub software offers further customization options, but the mic is designed for a plug-and-play experience.
Despite initial reservations about AI integration in consumer products, the useful application of machine learning in the Yeti 2 has proven impressive. The combination of intelligent features, customizability, and the established quality of the Yeti line suggests the Yeti 2 could be a worthy successor to the classic mic.