Logitech Yeti 2 brings machine learning to USB microphones after over a decade

Logitech has released the Yeti 2, a successor to its iconic Blue Yeti USB microphone. The new model retains the Yeti's core design and sound quality while adding machine learning capabilities directly into the hardware.

The Yeti 2 features an OLED screen for on-device configuration, eliminating the need to rely solely on software settings. Logitech designed it as a plug-and-play device with preset modes for music, podcasting, and other common uses, while also allowing deeper customization through the G Hub software.

The microphone's machine learning features focus on two areas: voice following and noise reduction. The voice following mode adjusts the mic's pickup direction based on where the user is speaking from, using voice detection and head-detection from a non-camera sensor. An OLED display shows the pickup cone moving in real time to follow the speaker.

The noise reduction system offers three levels. Testing showed level 1 eliminated most background noise while preserving voice quality. Level 2 removed nearly all ambient sound without significant impact on voice clarity. Level 3 began cutting vocal frequencies, suggesting levels 1 or 2 are optimal for most use cases.

The mic is omni-directional by default, but its polar pattern can be adjusted as needed. Additional features include clipping detection with customizable on-screen indicators, allowing users to see when they're speaking too loudly or too close to the microphone.

The Yeti 2 costs $160 USD or £140 GBP, positioning it in the premium USB microphone market. Logitech acquired Blue in 2018, and the Yeti 2 marks the first major update to the line in over a decade.