The SteelSeries Alias Pro XLR Microphone and Stream Mixer Kit aims to bring high-quality and highly customizable sound to the masses, in an easy-to-use package. However, while it does boast some great features, some shortcomings hold it back from realizing its full potential.
The combo
Together, the Alias Pro XLR mic and Stream Mixer make for a good-looking duo. They are compact, given their set of features, and don’t take up too much space on the desk. I’d be happy to pop these into a backpack for a high-quality on-the-go solution. There’s a touch of RGB, too, which I’m sure some will appreciate.
Sounds… fine
The Alias Pro boasts studio-quality sound, a claim that only holds up to a certain extent. While the microphone does offer clear audio capture, it falls short of the richness and depth offered by truly professional-grade microphones. The cardioid polar pattern, though effective, limits its versatility in different recording scenarios, especially in comparison to microphones with multiple pick-up pattern options.
While EQ, compression, and other effects can help improve the sound, I was expecting more from the untreated recording quality. After all, if you can start with great sound, then you’re already in a great place ahead of adding effects.
Mix it up
The stream mixer, an integral part of this setup, comes with a range of features like mic monitoring, line out, and quick controls. These features not only enhance the ease of use but also contribute to the microphone’s versatile performance. However, some users might find the single-port mixer limiting, especially those looking to accommodate additional microphones. I also found the gain level indicator to be inaccurate, which can cause some confusion during recording.
Sonar is a win
SteelSeries’ Sonar for Streamers software is undoubtedly a highlight, offering a range of useful features like AI noise cancellation and easy app routing. However, it’s not enough to overlook the hardware’s deficiencies. The software, while powerful, can’t compensate for the fundamental limitations of the microphone and mixer’s performance. It’s also worth noting that Sonar is available without buying the Alias Pro, so it isn’t an exclusive perk.
A little too pricey
At its hefty price point of $329.99, the SteelSeries Alias Pro Kit is a considerable investment, particularly when compared to other high-quality options in the market. For the serious audio professional, the price might be justifiable, but for the average gamer or streamer, it’s a steep ask, especially given the product’s various shortcomings.
Final Verdict
The SteelSeries Alias Pro XLR Microphone and Stream Mixer is an ambitious product that unfortunately doesn’t fully deliver on its promises. While it offers certain advantages like easy setup and a comprehensive software package, these are overshadowed by its performance issues and high cost. Potential buyers, especially those on a budget or with professional audio needs, might find better value elsewhere.
With all of that said, for those in love with the design and/or SteelSeries’ other products and therefore already embedded within the ecosystem, there’s still plenty to like with the SteelSeries Alias Pro. I’d just love to see that price drop a little.
Disclosure: Alias Pro Kit review sample provided by SteelSeries.
Positives and Negatives
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Looks somewhat stylish.
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Compact.
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Easy to set up.
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Sonar is great.
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Microphone sound quality could be better.
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High price point.
