14 Essential Tools to Get Started with ASMR Video Recording

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How to choose the right ASMR equipment for your channel
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Hoping to stake your claim in the world of ASMR YouTubing? You’ve got the right idea. Over the past few years, this niche industry has turned into something of a cash cow, with top content creators earning over $650,000 each month. [1] While there’s no way to guarantee success in the ASMR corner of YouTube, you can most definitely boost your chances at popularity by investing in the right equipment. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Keep scrolling for a full equipment checklist that can help bring your ASMR career to life!

ASMR Equipment

  • Audio: Microphone, mic stand, pop filter, audio interface, acoustic treatments, headphones, XLR cables
  • Video: Camera, tripod, lighting, props
  • Editing: Computer, video editing software, DAW
1

Microphone

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  1. High-sensitivity microphones are a super important part of any ASMR setup. Professional microphones fall into the category of dynamic or condenser. Dynamic microphones are good for capturing loud sounds and don't require an additional power source, and condenser mics are good for delicate sounds and need an external power source. [2] Both types of mics can produce high-quality audio—the final decision really comes down to your budget and workspace. [3] Here are a few different set-ups for you to consider:
    • Mobile Microphone: Invest in a mobile microphone, like a Samson Satellite . Mobile mics plug directly into your smartphone, and are a great option if you’re on a budget and don’t have a lot of recording space. [4] You can get a mobile microphone for anywhere between $50 and $90.
    • USB Microphone: USB mics plug directly into your laptop or computer, and are pretty budget-friendly. They aren’t quite as portable as mobile mics, but they offer decent quality without breaking the bank. [5] High-quality USB mics can go for anywhere from $50 to $350. A popular choice is the Blue Yeti . You can also purchase adapters that allow you to plug a USB mic into your smartphone.
    • XLR Microphone: XLR microphones are more professional-sounding and durable than USB mics. Unlike their USB counterpart, XLR mics are routed through an audio interface, which is plugged into your computer. [6] XLR mics sell at a variety of price points. Cheaper mics go for around $100-$250, while pricier mics can cost at least $400. A popular choice is the RØDE NT1 .
    • Two XLR Microphones: With this setup, you’ll have 2 XLR microphones, which each represent the listener’s left and right ears. While this is one of the most expensive setups of them all, using 2 microphones will create high-quality, satisfying ASMR audio that’s sure to have your audience coming back for more. [7]
    • Binaural Microphone: Similar to the 2 XLR mics, binaural microphones also imitate a person’s left and right ears, which creates a realistic and satisfying listening experience. Some binaural mics look and work like earbuds and record directly from your ears. Other mics look like metal boxes with prosthetic ears attached to each side—these "ears" actually record audio, all while mimicking a person’s listening experience. Earbud-style mics can go for as low as $150, while high-end box-style mics cost at least $400. Some popular choices are the 3DIO and the Tascam .
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2

Mic stand

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  1. A mic stand is the unsung hero that holds your microphone in place throughout your video. Depending on your setup, you may need a larger stand to support your microphone. [8] If you have a USB mic, you’ll only need a small, tripod-like stand to hold up your mic. [9]
    • When it comes to larger stands, tripod-style equipment is pretty all-purpose, while boom arms offer a bit more extension. [10]
    • A large microphone stand can cost at least $25.
    • Some USB microphones come with a stand.
3

Pop filter

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  1. A pop filter helps block out unpleasant noises from your recording. When you speak into your microphone, you create "plosives," which are harsh sounds created by consonants like P or B. A pop filter is a special screen that hooks to your microphone, creating a handy barrier between your voice and the surface of the mic. Pop filters are pretty cheap; plus, they’re a necessity if you want clear, crisp, and high-quality audio for your ASMR videos. [11]
    • You can buy a pop filter for less than $25 online. Popular styles include foam covers to put over your microphone or attachments with a circular piece of mesh.
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4

Camera

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  1. A good camera helps your audience tune into the satisfying visuals of an ASMR video. You don’t necessarily need to buy a new camera for your YouTube endeavors; if you have a high-quality iPhone or Samsung phone, you should be in good shape. [12] Here are a few high-quality options to choose from if you’re willing to splurge on your set-up: [13]
    • Sony ZV-1 : This small camera offers features like high resolution recording and autofocusing. Most big-name retail stores sell it for between $700 and $750.
    • Fujifilm X-S10 : This camera is definitely on the pricey side, but it offers high-quality recordings and a fantastic sensor. The retail price typically falls somewhere between $1,000 and $1,400.
    • Fujifilm X-T200 : This camera is well-loved for its movable touchscreen and high resolution. Plus, some stores sell it for as little as $600.
    • Canon EOS Rebel T7 : The EOS Rebel line is well-loved by camera enthusiasts, offering lots of features for a good price point. You can usually get this camera for less than $600.
    • Nikon Z30 : This compact and lightweight camera is mirrorless, which means it performs faster than a standard DSLR. This camera can be purchased for under $700.
5

Tripod

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  1. A tripod helps keep your camera steady during recordings. For a smooth, high-quality video, place your tripod where you’d like your camera to go. Then, mount the camera on top of the tripod, with the camera focused on your ASMR activity. Try to buy a tripod that’s large and tall enough to put your camera at a good, close angle over your ASMR workspace. [14]
    • You can buy a tripod online for less than $30. Look for a standard tripod if you have a regular camera, or a special phone tripod if you use your mobile device for recording.
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6

Basic lighting setup

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  1. Attach a ring light on top of your camera so your video is well-lit. A ring light is a large, circular device that uses LEDs to light up your workspace. Mount your ring on top of your camera, so the light is facing your ASMR activity. [15] Some ASMR like using additional lighting as well, like candles and lamps. [16]
    • A good ring light can cost anywhere between $60 and $120.
7

Laptop or computer

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  1. A high-quality computer or laptop helps you edit and publish your ASMR videos. If you don’t have one already, invest in a computer or laptop with at least 8 GB of RAM. Ideally, look for a device with at least 16 GB—this will make it even easier for your computer to process high-quality ASMR videos. [17]
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8

Headphones

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  1. Headphones help you perfect your ASMR audio. As you record, you’ll need to make sure your microphone is picking up all the audio, and that there aren’t any issues with the audio quality. Ultimately, headphones help make sure that your videos are as pristine and satisfying as possible. [19]
    • You can pick up a good pair of studio headphones for under $100.
    • Noise-cancelling and wireless headphones aren’t great options for audio work. Instead, choose a high-quality pair with changeable pads and a medium amount of noise isolation.
9

Digital Audio Workspace (DAW)

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  1. A DAW is a program that helps you make your audio as great as it can be. If you’re on a budget, look into free programs like Audacity, GarageBand, Ableton Live Lite, Tracktion Waveform Free, Pro Tools First, Ohm Studio, Cubase LE, or SoundBridge. [20] If you’re okay with making a long-term investment, purchase a DAW like Ableton Live 10, Logic Pro X, Avid’s Pro Tools, or Reaper. [21]
    • You can download and/or purchase these programs online. Just open up a search engine and type "download" along with the DAW you’re looking for.
    • Free DAWs are a great starting point, but they don’t typically offer as many features as paid programs.
    • A paid DAW program can set you back anywhere between $100 to $450. [22]
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10

Video editing software

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  1. Video editing software helps your finished ASMR video look super polished and professional. If you have a Mac, Apple offers the iMovie software, which is totally free to use. [23] If you don’t have a Mac, look into free programs like Hitfilm Express, Lightworks, Shotcut, Movie Maker Online, and VSDC Video Editor. [24]
    • If you don’t mind spending a little extra money, consider a program like Adobe Premiere Pro, which is used by video editing pros all over the industry. CyberLink PowerDirector and Apple Final Cut Pro X are other excellent options.
    • Adobe and CyberLink are both monthly subscription services, while Final Cut Pro has an upfront cost of $300.
    • Lightworks is actually on par with paid editing software, but it can be tricky to learn the ropes at first.
11

Acoustic treatment

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  1. Acoustically treating your recording space prevents unpleasant echoes. Hang up sheets of egg-crate foam around your room—this is a bumpy type of foam that helps cut back on the echoes in your recordings. [25] You can also put up bass traps along your walls and ceiling, which can help prevent audio imperfections that are beneath 300 Hz. [26]
    • Egg crate foam often comes in multipacks. You can get a pack for less than $50.
    • Some bass traps are triangular and designed to go in corners, while others are rectangular in shape. Bass traps also usually come in multipacks for less than $50.
    • If your recording space is full of windows, cover the glass with moving blankets . [27]
    • Some people find that recording in a clothing-filled closet helps boost their quality since the garments provide some extra sound insulation. [28]
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12

Audio interface

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  1. An audio interface is a necessity if you have an XLR mic. Unlike USB mics, XLR mics are wired with a 3-pronged cord, which can’t be connected directly to a computer or laptop. [29] Instead, you plug this mic into an audio interface—this is a small, rectangular box that’s connected directly into your computer. Audio interfaces offer a little more flexibility as well, and let you adjust the volume of your mic. [30]
    • Some interfaces are more pricey than others. If you’re on a budget, you can find interfaces for less than $100. A popular choice is the Focusrite Scarlett , which costs around $130 but sometimes goes on sale.
    • Your audio interface connects to your computer via a USB cord.
    • If you have a USB microphone, you don’t need to get an audio interface.
13

Microphone/XLR cables

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  1. XLR cables connect your XLR microphone to an audio interface. XLR cables are far different from USB cables; unlike USB cords, which are rectangular-shaped, XLR cables have a 3-prong pattern. Plug 1 end of the cord into your XLR mic, and the other end into your audio interface. [31] These cords are pretty cheap, and sell for under $20.
    • If you have a USB microphone, you don’t need to get any XLR cables.
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14

Props

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  1. While not 100% necessary when just starting out, you might want to get some props for your ASMR channel. This is especially true if you want to do roleplays, as props can help the scenario come to life.
    • Look at ASMR videos you like to see what kind of props you like the sound of. Some popular props are metal tins, glass jars, crinkly plastic bags, small wooden balls or cubes, Japanese ear picks, ice globes, and stone gua sha tools.
    • Take things from around your house or room if they make good sounds when you tap, scratch, or touch them.
    • Go to the thrift store to find ASMR props. This will save you some money in the long run, and will give new life to recycled items.

Common Questions: Creating Successful ASMR

Do ASMR videos make money?

Similar to other videos posted on social media, this depends on your views and following. If you maintain a decent following, you can earn money from YouTube, TikTok, and other platforms depending on their creator guidelines.

What software to use for ASMR?

There are plenty of audio-editing software you can use. This includes free programs such as iMovie and DaVinci Resolve, or paid services such as Adobe Premiere and Final Cut.

Can I do ASMR without a mic?

ASMR videos rely on good audio to stand out. If you don't have a microphone, try filming your content in a secluded room with some soundproofing until you can upgrade.

What type of ASMR is most popular?

ASMR trends can change quickly. Currently, whispering-type ASMR is popular. This can stimulate a listener's auditory senses very gently and promote relaxation. Consider listening to other ASMR creators and take inspiration from your own favorite types.

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References

  1. ↑ https://thetab.com/uk/2020/02/21/these-are-the-asmr-youtubers-earning-millions-from-eating-on-screen-145055
  2. ↑ https://www.sweetwater.com/sweetcare/articles/what-difference-between-dynamic-condenser-microphones/
  3. ↑ https://www.mi.edu/in-the-know/how-to-choose-your-first-microphone-dynamic-condenser-usb/
  4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWHAJ3bOvC47&t=0m46s
  5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWHAJ3bOvC4&t=3m14s
  6. ↑ https://schoolofmusic.ucla.edu/xlr-mics-and-audio-interfaces/
  7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWHAJ3bOvC4&t=7m41s
  8. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/youtube-asmr-equipment-setup-prices-binaural-microphone-cameras-2020-12
  9. ↑ https://libguides.williams.edu/c.php?g=916778&p=6607444
  1. ↑ https://ehomerecordingstudio.com/microphone-stands/
  2. ↑ https://www.voices.com/blog/pop_filters/
  3. ↑ https://asmruniversity.com/art-of-asmr-tips-for-artists/
  4. ↑ https://www.techradar.com/best/best-youtube-camera
  5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvamynSqbgQ&t=0m54s
  6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvamynSqbgQ&t=1m6s
  7. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/youtube-asmr-equipment-setup-prices-binaural-microphone-cameras-2020-12
  8. ↑ https://www.videomaker.com/how-much-ram-do-you-need/
  9. ↑ https://www.rtings.com/laptop/reviews/best/by-usage/video-editing
  10. ↑ https://training.npr.org/2017/05/19/audio-production-faq-headphones-levels-mics/#headphones
  11. ↑ https://blog.landr.com/best-free-daw/
  12. ↑ https://www.aimm.edu/blog/top-daw-software-for-beginner-audio-engineers
  13. ↑ https://blog.landr.com/best-free-daw/
  14. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/youtube-asmr-equipment-setup-prices-binaural-microphone-cameras-2020-12
  15. ↑ https://www.techradar.com/best/free-video-editing-software
  16. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EFl6OsOSaM&t=0m50s
  17. ↑ https://ethanwiner.com/basstrap_myths.htm
  18. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EFl6OsOSaM&t=5m10s
  19. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/sarahrheawerner/2016/11/28/you-can-podcast-from-anywhere-even-inside-a-closet/?sh=2a3759d05d08
  20. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjXblQ3GutE&t=0m24s
  21. ↑ https://schoolofmusic.ucla.edu/xlr-mics-and-audio-interfaces/
  22. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjXblQ3GutE&t=0m24s

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