Solid Performance with a Monitoring Catch

Words: Chhavi Sachdev

The UltraProlink On-Air (UM1220BLK) is pitched as a versatile, professional-grade condenser microphone tailored for podcasting, vlogging, gaming, live streaming, and studio recording. Let’s see how it stacks up against these claims.

Key Specs and Features:

Cardioid Condenser Design: The mic’s cardioid pattern focuses on the sound source in front, effectively reducing background noise.
Shock Mount and Build: It includes a shock mount to dampen vibrations and a durable metal grille for added protection.
Adjustable Desk Stand: The sturdy, aesthetically pleasing stand offers flexible tilt and height adjustments, ensuring optimal positioning without cluttering your workspace.
Plug-and-Play Convenience: With a 2-meter XLR-to-3.5mm cable, it connects seamlessly to audio interfaces, sound cards, or mixers—no apps, adapters, or external power required.
Affordable Price: Priced under ₹2,500 on e-retail platforms, it’s a budget-friendly option for creators.

The mic delivers on its core promises. The shock mount, cardioid pickup, plug-and-play setup, and solid build cater well to creators and amateur audio professionals. It’s a reliable choice for those starting out or upgrading on a budget.

However, the mic’s sensitivity is a double-edged sword. In urban Indian settings, it picks up ambient noise—like a slight breeze through an open window—amplifying it noticeably. There’s also a faint hiss, though it’s manageable for most users.

The biggest letdown is the lack of a dedicated headphone jack for real-time monitoring directly from the mic. Monitoring depends on your setup and the included splitter, which, in my case, failed to deliver. My desktop and laptop each have a single headphone jack, and despite trying two splitters, I couldn’t hear myself while recording. Only when I bypassed the splitter, connected the 3.5mm cable to my Maono digital audio workstation (DAW), and plugged my Shure headphones into the DAW’s monitor jack could I monitor my audio in real time.

This is a significant drawback. Real-time monitoring is crucial for ensuring quality before publishing content, and the mic’s reliance on external workarounds feels like a misstep at this price point.

Bottom Line: The UltraProlink On-Air is a solid, budget-friendly mic with strong features for creators, but its monitoring limitations hold it back. For the price, other mics may offer a smoother experience.

Pricing and Availability