A Modern Take on a Classic Icon

Many PC users remember the original Blue Yeti, which became a staple for creators years ago. Following Logitech's 2018 acquisition of Blue, the company has finally unveiled the Yeti 2. While the industry is currently obsessed with adding "AI" to every product, the implementation in the Yeti 2 is refreshingly practical, focusing on hardware-level machine learning to improve the recording experience.


Hands-on Performance and Features

During testing at Logitech’s G Play event in Warsaw, the microphone maintained the familiar "Yeti" aesthetic and audio fidelity that made the original popular. However, the standout additions are the new OLED display, extensive customization options, and machine learning-driven features like voice tracking and noise suppression. Priced at $160/£140, the device sits comfortably within the high-end USB microphone segment.


Smart Voice Tracking

The Yeti 2 leverages machine learning to facilitate a "voice following" mode. By utilizing a sensor that detects voice and head positioning, the microphone dynamically adjusts its pickup pattern to follow the user. Logitech explicitly stated that this sensor is not a camera and does not store facial data, which should alleviate privacy concerns. Users can monitor this adjustment in real-time directly on the OLED screen.


Effective Noise Reduction

The onboard noise reduction capabilities are particularly impressive. In a loud environment filled with background chatter, the microphone performed admirably:

  • Level 1: Successfully eliminated the majority of background noise.
  • Level 2: Provided complete noise cancellation while keeping the voice sounding full and natural.
  • Level 3: While effective, this setting tended to cut out some frequency ranges of the human voice, making levels 1 or 2 more ideal for most scenarios.

Customization and User Experience

While the microphone offers deep customization through the G Hub software, it is also designed for plug-and-play simplicity. The built-in screen allows users to switch between presets—such as podcasting or music modes—without needing to open desktop software. Additionally, the mic features a creative clipping detection system. By default, it uses a small on-screen Yeti character to warn you if you are peaking, but users can customize this with their own pixel art.


"I'm not usually a fan of AI-laden products, but given this all seems genuinely useful, with its machine learning baked into the device, I'm impressed," the initial assessment notes.

The Yeti 2 appears to be a long-awaited and worthy evolution of the legendary original, proving that machine learning can genuinely enhance hardware rather than just serving as a marketing buzzword.