The Snowball iCE from Blue incorporates Blue's revolutionary Ball-microphone design with the added convenience of a USB output. The USB output allows an audio signal to be fed directly to software-based recording applications without unnecessary preamplifiers or hardware. The Snowball iCE features a cardioid pickup pattern for a more focused sound and generally 'hears' whatever the mic is pointed at. The sensitivity and signal character of the Snowball iCE result in clarity and detail while capturing vocals, guitars, drums, and more at CD-quality rates of 16-bit/44.1 kHz. The mic comes complete with a desktop stand and a USB cable so you can begin recording right away. Custom condenser capsule offers crystal-clear audio Easy plug 'n play directly to Mac or Windows computers - no drivers to install Adjustable desktop mic stand and USB cable From desktop to laptop to iPad (with Apple's iPad camera connection kit) Adds HD audio to recordings for uploads to social media networks Improves audio quality on Skype, Windows Live, Google Talk, Yahoo.