The ModMic series by Antlion Audio offers audiophiles an attachable microphone solution that can transform any headphone into a high-quality headset. They have various options, including USB, UNI aka 3.5mm, and wireless models. Antlion also makes the Kimura, an advanced in-ear headset, and they even offer bundle deals pairing their mics with headphones at a discount.
In this review, I’ll cover the ModMic USB and UNI version 2, priced at around $100 and $60-65, respectively, or 5,400 and 3,600 pesos.
Antlion generously provided these mics for review and I was allowed to keep it, but they had no editorial control or input in this review. They’re only seeing this video after publishing it on Youtube. I wanted to give them a quick shoutout though for being responsive to my questions throughout the review process!
Overview
So, the ModMics are unidirectional, condenser boom microphones with noise-canceling tech built in. This second-generation ModMic improves on the original by offering:
- Better sound quality from larger mics
- Enhanced noise rejection
- Improved build quality with a more flexible cable
As I haven’t tested the first generation, I’ll be solely focusing on the 2nd gen.
Build and Packaging
The ModMic comes in a compact box with a hard case, including adhesive discs, cable clips, and an alcohol prep pad to secure the mic to your headphones. Antlion also sells these accessories separately.
Once installed, the boom mic attaches magnetically, staying securely in place without being overly tight. The build quality is lightweight yet durable, with a flexible arm and a cable of convenient length that includes a handy mute button.
As shown in my hands-on Shorts, installation is straightforward. You just need to find the ideal spot on your headphones for the adhesive, attach the mic magnetically, and use the included cable clips to keep them tidy.
Theoretically, this microphone can attach to any headphones, though shape and size definitely play a role. For example, the ModMic 2’s fit with the HD8XX is perfect, as you can see here. Honestly, I could’ve chosen to attach it in the center, but I avoided that since it’s an open-back headphone for a reason—you don’t want to block the area where it’s emitting backwaves. It’s a minor detail, and one may even argue it doesn’t have any or much effect sonically, but as an audiophile, I kinda live for those nuances.
The fit with the Utopia is also solid, and even with the ZMF Bokeh, which I initially hesitated to install it on because of the gorgeous wooden earcups. But practically speaking, a closed-back headphone like the Bokeh is more optimal since it’s portable and allows me to take calls outside without worrying about extra amplification to sound fantastic.
The more open-back design makes the fit with Hifiman’s egg-shaped cans less ideal. Like I said, you can make it work, but details like headphone color matching or ideal placement on the cup are sometimes down to personal preference—only you can decide what works best for you.
Page 2: Audio Quality & Conclusion