USB Mics?

Ramona Roman · **Voice Talent** Joined: 17 Jul 2006 Posts: 10

I was looking at the snowball by BLUE or the Samson CO3U Condenser Mic.....

Anyone have any opinions on USB mics, or should i just go for the regular large diaphragm condensor mics?

Chip Hinshaw · **Voice Talent** Joined: 23 Feb 2006 Posts: 65

If you're expecting to do real work you probably shouldn't rely on a usb based microphone. On the other hand, they can be fine for practice and auditions. However, I personally would not rely on one for production work. They sound fine when the playback is through PC speakers, but if you listen on high end headphones or monitors you will definitely hear the low-quality that was previously hidden.

ALSO - I would not recommend large diaphragm condensers for women, especially from what I've heard of your voice (they tend to really overwhelm with the natural sibilance in most women's voices - sibilance = that sharp sound on 'S' words or words that end in 's').

You don't have to spend a thousand dollars or more on a microphone, but also don't go half-assed. Expect to pay a few hundred dollars for the quality that will put you in the market. And definitely test drive a variety before you settle on one. And that test drive should ideally include feedback from someone with experience in this biz.

Chuck Douglas · **Voice Talent** Joined: 07 Jul 2006 Posts: 22

I agree with Chip on this one. A condenser mic, or the right Dynamic or ribbon mic, for that matter, is a better choice than the USB for doing the "real" work. You do need to be careful about your pre-amps to make sure your noise levels do not get out of control, but overall you will end up with a better final product.

I disagree about the large disphragm condensers. I think that you need to check the response patterns before you buy anything. I have had very good performance out of some of the higher end large diaphragm mics for females. The less expensive ones should be able to do the job too, just check the specs online before you buy.

Ramona Roman · **Voice Talent** Joined: 17 Jul 2006 Posts: 10

Thanks so much!

I'm going to go out today and get a good book so i don't kill you guys with all my questions, then come back when I've got more for ya!

Thanks Again!

Louis Tristan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 07 Jul 2005 Posts: 266

If you don't ask how will you know...watch this vid, he will explain the difference for you.

http://img670.libsyn.com/img670/c1dd0a1d84a11c3ebbfa04c38d6a4d60/4542a7be/6169/1336/izzyvideo43small.mp4

Ramona Roman · **Voice Talent** Joined: 17 Jul 2006 Posts: 10

Thanks Louis! Appreciate it!

Louis Tristan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 07 Jul 2005 Posts: 266

You're well come..Hope it works out the you plan it.... buch lesen

Lani Minella · Posted: Tue Oct 31, 2006, 02:11 (GMT) Post subject: Sennheiser MD 421 II mic

This mic works well and has a 5 position roll off switch on the mic itself to avoid the bassiness called proximity effect when you work close to the mic.
You can hold it in your hand, don't need a studio, it doesn't pick up room noise or even computer noise most of the time.
This is my best kept secret and these mics are normally used to mic drums. However Stevie Nicks (Fleetwood Mac) uses the model above this called the MD 441 as her vocal mic. I also have this mic and can assure you that with its newer technology. the MD 421 II sounds better for less.
Try Ebay. You will need a preamp of some sort like the Mackie 1202 or 1202 VLZ Pro Mackie to boost the signal and go into your line in. Once you have this duo, you can produce finished quality stuff without building a studio, going into your closet to record, or worrying about sibilance, room noise etc.
Best to all,
Lani Minella
Audiogodz Inc