(Part 2) Top products from r/letsplay

Here is a list of things that he probably will need:

• Microphone: I suggest a standalone mic. Audio quality is very important. I suggest the ATR2100 for a starting mic. It's a USB mic so it plugs right in and is good. It is a dynamic mic, which will help reduce background noise. It has XLR capability for future expansion.
  
  
• Game capture: if he is playing a console game then he will need a capture card. The Elgato Game Capture HD is a very versatile card. If he is playing on PC then he just needs software. OBS is a free game capture and streaming program with lots of great features and good quality. I highly suggest startign with OBS because it is free and has everyhting he will need. That way he can test the waters and determine if he wants to do YouTube/Twitch. If you want a paid program, I highly suggest DxTory.
  
  
• Video editor: This is optional, but REALLY helps get a better quality video. If you don't already have a video editor (or are using Windows Movie Maker) then I suggest Hitfilm 3 Express which is a good program for beginners and is free. Blender also has a free video editor built in that I've heard good things about. If you want a paid program, I suggest Sony Movie Studios 13 Platinum or Adobe Premiere Elements 14.
  
  
• Image editing program: He will need to make artwork for his channel. I use Gimp which is a free program that works well. Paint.net is another good free program as well.
  
  
• Headphones: Also optional. Headphones really help your audio quality because you can listen to the game audio without using speakers, which would echo the game audio through your microphone. Any headphones or ear buds will do, they don't have to be "gaming" ones.
  
  That's all you should need. The only thing you really should need to buy is a microphone. Everything else you can find a free version that should do everything he needs and more. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to let me know and I'll help you out :D

Oh, interesting. You know, dynamic microphones can be interesting things. I vastly prefer them to condenser mics, but some dynamic mics need additional gain while others are perfectly fine without. Looks like yours need a little extra gain.

If it is the microphone that's the source of your troubles, you might instead look at returning the mixer and either getting another microphone, or get something that'll help provide extra gain to your mic.

For nothing more than gain boosting, the CloudLifter is a good item. However, it's expensive and that's all it does. Alternatively, a vocal processor might be another good way to go. I use a DBX 286s and swear by it. Rock solid, does compression, gain boosting, noise gate, all sorts of stuff in one. Looks like that Amazon link doesn't have good options for purchasing one, but I imagine you could find one in a local/online store (I'm not familiar with what you have in the UK, so I'll leave that to you).

I suppose the alternative to the alternative is to just edit stuff in post. That's always viable and it's the least expensive option. Now that you know it's the mic and not your mixer, it at least points towards what you may want to do in the future. In the interim, I'm not sure how friendly Audacity is to use with screen readers, but that's a good piece of software that's free. I apologize if we've already discussed Audacity, but I'm writing this on the fly.

And of course, grab another mic (swipe a friend's or something) just to be sure it's the mic and then you know you're set and can decide what direction you want to go.

Cheers.

I definitely agree with you on game selection. I see so many people in a YouTube Gamers Facebook group covering the same games as PewDiePie, JackSepticEye, Markiplier and wondering why they don't grow at all.

I do think that it's fine to make videos on a game if you're new if you have a niche. For example, the PC version of NieR: Automata has a lot of issues, and there are plenty of user mods to alleviate those issues (by using the FAR mod, among other tools). Not many people have video tutorials on those (and none at the time I made the video, I think), so I made some tutorials on those.But that requires some research and knowhow on the game you're covering.

Between three of the videos, I have something like 7.5k views, which is not bad for a fledgling channel like mine (and I didn't really promote the videos on social media).

The AT 2020 is something you might want to link to in your article. I'm happy with my Blue Yeti, but I've heard people prefer the AT 2020.

I'd throw a shoutout for Hitfilm 4 Express as a great free video editing tool. It does pretty much everything you need to out of the box, for no cost, and you can buy reasonably priced upgrade kits to get fancier effects (I think the starter pack is worth the 10 bucks, but I didn't need it).

It doesn't seem to support MP4s with multiple audio tracks (only selects the first one), but if you're using audacity to record your mic, this isn't too much of an issue.


As for scheduling, really good information there. I actually didn't know that information about alerts.

I'd say game specific sub-reddits are fantastic for views. I do a lot of Warframe stuff, and if one of my videos gets popular there, I can easily see 10x the views on a video.

But yeah, great article as a whole and a good intro for newbies.

Hey McDaddy,

Great question!

I'm doing something similar and have some advice for you.


The big thing that you're going to be looking to invest in is Audio equipment. A phone can be used as a camera if you would like a facecam.


As far as audio goes, you're probably going to want to go with a Preamp and a condenser Mic. This will allow you to work from the preamp, and fine tune the audio before it even gets recorded in the computer.

• A great and Affordable* preamp that I have used for a while can be found here: Behringer Xenyx Q902USB
  
  
  This Preamp simply plugs into a USB slot on your computer, then you plug in a mic, preferably with an XLR cable in order to be able to use the features of the Condenser Mic.
  
  
  
• A good, and extremely cost effective condenser Mic w/ Vice Arm and Pop filter can be found here: Neewer NW-700
  
  
  This DOES NOT come with a straight XLR Cable, so you would need to buy one was well, but they run about $8-10
  
  
  IF that is not affordable enough (We're looking about the $120-150 range currently), you could go with a cheap USB Mic. Someone below suggested a Blue Yeti mic, which wile good quality, is honestly not necessary.
  
  
  
• I suggest this mic, which is what I used before working with Condenser mics: Samson Go Mic
  
  
  Beyond this, the only other thing that I could think that you may need beyond a computer would be a capture card, but ONLY if you are recording from a console. Even then you most likely only absolutely need one to record from a Switch or something that is from a previous generation of consoles.
  
  
  With decent internet you can stream a PS4/XB1 straight to your PC using PS4 Remote Play App or the Xbox Console Companion App respectively, which you can record in OBS.
  
  
  Feel free to DM me if you have any questions!
  
  *Not exactly the most budget friendly, but it's a great value for what you can do with it.

What kind of computer are you using to record your gameplay with?

For audio, a cheap dynamic mic would be a great way to go. It might not sound great initially, but a lot of those problems can be solved easily with software--Audacity is free and easy to use, and makes our recordings sound much better despite the mic's problems. You'll also need an XLR cable to go with it--preferably XLR male to female, but you can also find an XLR to USB one if you want to connect it directly to your PC. Otherwise, you'll need an audio interface to go with it. As for mic stands, I've honestly never had a problem with this one. It's not as easy to maneuver as the 100 dollar one, but it should serve your needs as a beginer.

If you're recording multiple people, you could get the Blue Yeti--a lot of people swear by it--but it's also a lot more expensive and it picks up everything if you're not careful. A lot of people think that the Yeti is cruise control for great audio, but it really doesn't do much more than a cheap mic can. I would just recommend having an audio interface that connects at least two microphones and then buying another dynamic mic instead.

As for recording your Switch, the standard is the Elgato. I'm currently using the HD60 model, which is nice, but it has some latency issues (meaning you'll need to manually sync your audio with your video). The HD60s has no latency problems, but it's a bit more expensive.

The More expensive option

The less expensive option

The even less expensive option

These are pretty much the main 3 you should consider. The Rode option is more expensive than the rest but it's definitely worth as the build quality is pretty great. The Image broadcasting arm is also a very solid option and it does come with the shockmount. For something on desk than the pro line works well but I'd recommend against it because it does get in the way quite a lot (I'm speaking from personal use here). It's much more useful to anyone who LPs on consoles as they can have a controller in their hands.

Many people here have already recommended the SM58, so I'll spare you that one.

The two I've used besides the SM58 are:

Behringer C3 condenser mic - Worked pretty good, but ultimately I'm not a big fan of the tone on this mic. Has a hard time picking up lows and since it's a condenser, got lots and lots of room noise.

Behringer UltraVoice XM8500 - My current mic. I highly recommend it for a cheap dynamic mic. For the difference in cost between this and the SM58, the difference in quality (at least for the application of lets plays) is pretty small. Yes, the SM58 is a better mic, but the UltraVoice picks up my voice in a much more pleasing and enjoyable tone. And it's 20 bucks, so...

Although pops are less apparent at that distance, they still happen and it actually can make a pretty big difference in my opinion. Since you're recording with your friend, I'm sure you guys will stir up a lot of fun, and a stray B or P here and there can hit the mic pretty hard.

Pop filters are pretty cheap anyways, so investing in one (especially after you invested in a pretty good quality mic) is not a bad idea. In my personal pet peeve for a lot of youtube videos, is the lack of a pop filter. When I hear those piercing pops, I tend to leave pretty quickly.

I have this one, it's about 15 bucks. It's a bit tricky to figure out where to mount it on the Yeti, but it works incredibly well.

http://www.amazon.com/Nady-MPF-6-6-Inch-Microphone-Filter/dp/B0002CZW0Y/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1382044120&sr=1-1

Hope it helps and happy recording!

> The cord comes out by it's self A LOT

> some times my computer does not see it as a microphone

These are potentially related. It's possible to plug the cord into the Snowball upside down. It still transmits power, so the light on the Snowball lights up, but it doesn't communicate properly so Windows fails to load it up as a proper device. If your cord is coming out a lot and you're having to plug it back in often it's possible you're sometimes flipping it over accidentally or picking it up after it's flipped itself over, then plugging it in like that.

Also as a heads up Amazon has AT2020's on sale for $90 today. There's often a big debate over which mic is better for LPing at that price range. What I've heard is that the Yeti is very sensitive and hears almost everything. Whether that's good or bad depends on your perspective. I've heard that people who prefer the AT2020 appreciate its tendency to pick up less extraneous noise and not having to fiddle nearly as much with the super high sensitivity on the gain pickup on the Yeti.

Regardless of what you choose you should absolutely invest in a pop filter. It's too cheap not to, and it really helps out.

Edit:
After checking out some of your videos, you really need to re-examine your mic settings and post-mixing. Your mic is capable of producing much better quality than what I'm hearing in your Minecraft Regicide video. You're getting a lot of distortion when you get even a little loud.

I was just looking at the Behringer Ultravoice XM8500 and it seems pretty damn solid. The guy I was watching the demo for had one of these xlr to usb cables which run pretty cheap, and seemed to work pretty damn well. I would reccomend a foam ball though since Ps and Bs do get a bit poppy, I just picked one up and it was well worth the $2. Last but not least a decent mic stand which is the same one I use, and it works really nicely.

This is pretty much a modified setup from what I originally got, so it will do you just fine. It's also a dynamic mic so you won't pick up literally everything in your house with it. There's a couple of videos on youtube of people using it, and it sounds pretty damn good.

Always use the cardoid settings (you know, the one that looks like a butt, /u/MichaelTheWegian). I have mine about 6 inches from my mouth, on a boom arm. If you can get one, they're amazing for getting the mic close to your face so people can hear you better and so you can turn down the gain on the back. This is the one I have. Next, make sure you've set it up properly in whatever recording program you choose, I tend to just record everything at once using a multi-track setup in OBS. There's also a great tutorial in the wiki for using Dynamics, which will help increase the quality of your audio. Everything should be around or below -6dB so it doesn't clip.

My buddy bought a Neewer brand microphone for pretty cheap. It would well enough and is about $20.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00XBQ8UGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1502818132&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=neewer+microphone&dpPl=1&dpID=513TvuH0TbL&ref=plSrch


Idk how to shorten links, but there's a great deal. Definitely better than a laptop mic, and great for starting out.

Consider looking at the AT2100 dynamic mic. It's currently at $58 (with retail at $80).

This is a very nice starting mic for a few reasons:

• The sound is rather good for the price point, as indicated by reviews. Not as good as the blue snowball, BUT
  
  
• It has WAY better background noise rejection as a dynamic mic versus the snowball, which is a condenser mic.
  
  
• It has a USB connection, for easy and immediate use. You can use this for the time being with the on-board audio interface.
  
  
• Down the road, it has an XLR connection so you can upgrade your quality by buying a dedicated audio interface (like the scarlett solo, for example). XLR with a dedicated XLR-to-USB interface will give you a better sound than USB with an on-board interface.
  
  tl;dr: I don't know why more people don't recommend dynamic mics, and the AT2100 is a great starter.

My pop filter is pretty much this, and yeah I have it in front of the mic.

Also my audio isn't really tiny but more Tinny like lacking a more dynamic range. (coming through a tin can) You did make me realize I could probably raise my gain a bit, and that normalize may be a better effect to use than compression to get it to a good final volume.

My current microphone is a Neewer NW-800 with a pop filter, stand, power supply, & shock mount. In total, around 100 dollars (excluding shipping and the wire/adapter)
Microphone,
Boom Arm,
Pop Filter,
Power Supply,
I got mine for around 65 because the mic was on sale, so I would wait until it goes on sale again to be a bit more affordable.

PS: If you want to connect this mic to the PS4, I recommend these two:
Wire, Adapter

Yes, your specs are good enough for an LP series. I agree with Pyroraptor (Audacity, OBS Studio/Standard OBS, Gimp, I use Lightworks, but you could use HitFilm. The webcam seems pretty nice. Just remember that the Neweer is a condenser mic, meaning it will pick up almost anything, so it would be a good idea to either remove any potential background noise in Audacity or use a noise removal program. I would focus on the mic and software first, webcam later. Hope this helps! -Alduin

Welcome home! I have been using the Snowball for two years now and I think I have gotten the best quality that I could possibly get out of it. It is surprising how much the pop filter actually helps. Here are a few tips that can get you some good audio quality.

• If you can afford it/have the space for it, grab a Boom Stand for that mic so that you can get it just where you want it. I record from a couch and this is essential for my audio quality. It is cheaper than getting a shock mount and if you plan on putting the mic directly on the desk it could pick up some vibrations from your PC.
  
  
• On your PC settings turn your microphone levels on your Snowball down to 20-25 and position the mic about a foot away from your face. This will greatly cut down on background noise and even though you can use a noise remover they lower the quality of the overall recording sometimes.
  
  
• Make sure to record your audio separately from the game audio with a program like audacity (I use Soundbooth but Audacity is the best free option) so that you can play with the audio levels while editing.

I don't think that adapter will improve how you sound. Microphones are made to pick up specific frequencies and no in between hardware will change that. It might 'alter' it by removing certain frequencies but if you may not want that because most cheep mic's only pick up a small range to begin with. I think your money might be spent elsewhere. That's just my two cents, and I'm no expert in audio either.


If you want to spend close to nothing, you could go steal your mom's/sisters/girlfriends pantyhose. You'll want to put this over the tip of the mic and cut excess away. Experiment with layers. This will be a homemade pop-filter. :D


Also, you can try voicemeeter. I have a tutorial on how to use it with dxtory. I need up update my tutorial, but make sure to choose the MME devices over the WDM ones. I would like to note that you don't necessarily need to follow my guide to get voicemeeter to work for you. If you need help, let me know.

Money options

I use a MS LX-3000. Cost me $20 USD. Along with voicemeeter, I think i sound pretty good.

Two of my friends use the Samson Meteor and really like it. It's around $70 USD on amazon.

Then there's the whole range of podcasting style microphones. They can range from the same price as the samson to thousands of dollars.

I personally don't record consoles (I'm a PC guy) so I'm not the most knowledgeable person on this subreddit, but I know a few things so here are my recommendations.

From the reviews I've seen this capture card looks pretty good for the money, AverMedia as a whole produce quality products so you could really choose from any of their selection: http://www.amazon.com/AVerMedia-GL310-AVerCapture-Capture-Streaming/dp/B00K5A8FP2/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421127944&sr=1-6&keywords=capture+card+avermedia

And as far as mics go for your price range you could get a blue nessie, which is pretty good for the price as far as I know: http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Microphones-NESSIE-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00BUIA362/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421128019&sr=1-7&keywords=blue+microphone

For Video Editors, I'm not sure which ones are good for practically $0. You could always go with Windows Movie Maker if need be.

I use OBS most of the time, Shadowplay is good too but will not work with Open GL games. Also if you are ready to invest some money i think full versioin of Bandi cam is worth it. You could also invest in a Capture card like the Live Gamer HD or the Live Gamer HD 2 I think they are both awesome depending on what your buget is and they can compress the video without the need of your processor x.264.

The only thing to keep in mind is you could potentially pick up audio from the television on your microphone. You would have to keep the TV turned down low if you don't want to commit to a headset.

A lapel mic would work but may not be very good quality for commentary. I've never had a lapel mic that recorded all that great. You could just set up a USB microphone with a longer cord and mic stand next to you on the couch.

Here is what I use:

https://www.amazon.com/Samson-C01U-Studio-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00HXE4BYW/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003CLIPHO/

If I'm recording at my PC, I just slide it over next to me. If I'm on the couch playing off a console, I just slide it over to where the mic is at appropriate recording distance from my mouth. I love being able to easily go back and forth between areas since I switch between PC gaming and old consoles.

When I'm jamming on the PC, I use a headset so the game audio doesn't get picked up by the microphone.

When I'm console recording over on the couch, I keep the TV turned down low and it's far enough away to where it doesn't get picked up by the mic although I've thought about getting a headset for the TV with a long cord so I can hear the game audio... I like to hear the music lol.

So you would definitely recommend it? Were there any issues with set up or anything? Also, just to be sure, you mean this right?

http://www.amazon.com/Samson-Meteor-Studio-Microphone-Cardioid/dp/B004MF39YS

Thanks for your help. Btw, you guys are great, lol.

The Elgato is a great capture device, if you went with that then I would recommend getting something like This to help with the component cable issue. Right now i'm using the Avermedia Live Gamer HD C985 and I love it!

I have the Blue Nessie Microphone.

It is amazing getting the background noise away, but I notice that it gives me a ton of bass in my voice. I use EQ to bring up the treble, but it only helps so much.

Is there a certain trick I could use?

Or should I get a new microphone?

I have heard the quality from the Blue Yeti, and I think it sounds like it'd be better (although I haven't personally used it).

I have a condenser XLR connected to an audio interface (Focusrite Scarlett 2i2). I have not used the Shure adapter but seeing that it has phantom power for a condenser mic, mic gain control, and volume control I don't foresee you having any issues since you'll be able to adjust the gain and volume going into your computer.

If the Shure adapter doesn't work or doesn't increase the gain/volume enough, then I'd recommend a Focusrite Scarlett. It'll boost your mic up to 105dB and is the same price as the Shure adapter. I have had no issues with increasing the volume on my condenser with it.

I originally bought a Blue Snowball and it seemed okay enough for solo recording at the time, but I eventually had to upgrade to a Audio Technica 2020USB Plus which not only picks up multiple people remarkably well but is just so much crisper for all purposes. The Audio Technica is actually the same one used by the Rooster Teeth Achievement Hunter guys, to give you a sense of how top-notch and professional it sounds. It's absolutely worth the price, and I'd strongly urge you to save up for it.

The Behringer XM8500 is a really good quality and cheap microphone with really solid build quality. There's also this video review gives a really good insight into it too.


Infact, I'd recommend podcastage for any microphone and interface queries because he does some really good tests and reviews.

If you want to get close to any mic, and use it at the intended distance, you'll want a pop filter. It catches the air coming from your mouth before it hits the mic so that the mic doesn't pick up "wind" sounds when you say your "P's" "S's" or whatever else. It's usually only an issue when closer to the mic, so if you want to eleminate the echo, it wouldn't be a bad Idea. You can get them relatively cheap on amazon (like $15?) and I'm positive that most all of them fit on the snowball, so no, you don't need to blow $50 on a "blue" pop filter. Here's the one I have that I use to use on my old Snowball. I'm positive it will fit right on the base of the snowball no problem!

You'd need at least three mics to cover each seating area. For best results you'd need five, but three would work if you're willing to sit a little closer than normal. It would also be worth getting a mixer that has enough inputs for all of those mics. And also make sure that mixer has a USB slot to go into your PC, otherwise you'd have to get an interface as well (made that mistake myself)


Personally I'd start with three of these and the mixer (Something like this) and work your way up to 5 mics.


I wouldn't bother going for a shitty budget mic because it'll just make it way less cost effective to upgrade down the line.


It's going to get expensive fast to do well.

Lightworks is the place to go for editing, if you don't mind the learning curve, though for simpler things, you can mix the audio using audacity and cut it together in Avidemux

For microphones, I typically use some fairly simple vocal microphones particularly these or a pocket recorder like this one and get pretty good sound out of them. It's also worth noting that this microphone is often recommended for beginners in Let's Plays and podcasts alike and might be more your speed.

A built-in pop filter is probably not recommended. For the vocal microphones you can pick up some pretty cheap pop filters or position them slightly to the side (though still pointing at your mouth). For pocket recorders and the Blue Snowball, it's a non-issue, as you're not speaking right up on it.

Unfortunately I'm no expert in the area.

You'd probably be better asking in something like /r/WeAreTheMusicMakers

Getting a mixer second hand is probably your best bet, but off the top of my head you'd need something like:

• Behringer 802 - 8 Input 2 Bus Mixer
  
• Dynamic XLR Microphones x2
  
• XLR cables x2
  
• Dual 1/4 inch jacks to 3.5mm Microphone Jack cable
  
  But please ask some experts, I've no idea if that setup would actually work. You'll be needing those 6 things though (1x Mixer, 2x Mics, 2x Mic Cables and 1x 3.5mm Mic jack to Mixer connection cable), maybe not those specific models though.

I have a similar stand, a Proline MS112 Desktop Boom Mic Stand, and use an AT2035, never had an issue with tipping, but I've got other mic stands that have had issues with tipping.

Usually the problem is either not enough counter weight on the back of the arm, or not enough weight at the base. Make sure the arm isn't fully extended, and possibly see about buying a heavier back weight for the arm.

The simplest solution might just be adding more weight to the base though, and that parts easy. Just go to any store with decent fitness supplies and by a round 5 pound dumbbell weight, take the top off your stand and put that on the pole in top of the base. Add more if needed. (I had a floor stand with a weighted base that wasn't weighted enough so I just added some spare weights to it).

You might have to experiment with both to get something that works, depending on the weight of the mic.

It's not free, but Sony Vegas HD Movie Studio Platinum 11 is what I use and cannot recommend it enough.

I got it for $50 when I got it a year ago and right now this listing on Amazon is for $30. Let me say it now.. I bloody love this program. It's not a professional editor, but it's a watered down version of Sony Vegas. Once you get the settings correct for rendering it renders videos in great quality. I can't suggest it enough if you're willing to put down the $30 for it.

http://www.amazon.com/AVerMedia-Recorder-C985-Capture-Stream/dp/B007UXJ6LE

Not even close to 500 lol. i use this one btw, it reduces lag whiel recording so you don't lose FPS like with lets say fraps. You however dont want to route your audio through it

another good bonus of the capture card is the playback video is instant and in real time so you can easily plan your consoles on your pc :)

my main complaint really is avermedia shut down their support forums so there isn't anymore tech support for their products anymore :(

Take a look at the AT2020 USB mic. I bought the AT2020 plus deluxe as my first mic, and I'm loving it. Works great with windows 7.

Mic test and review of the AT2020 (not me): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w51K5fAtmhs

You really need to better define a budget here. "Extremely pricey" is super subjective.

For me, my setup is an ElectroVoice RE-20, into a CloudLifter CL-1, that leads into DBX 286s, Native Inustraments Komplete Audio 6. Then I'm using a RSA Intruder headphone amp as an output into either a pair of JH Audio JH-16s or the more casual, open back AKG K7xx Massdrop Edition.

It's a setup I built over time (and for a more uses than just Let's Plays), but to me, it's not something I consider "extremely pricey". Expensive, sure, but so is my Ford Fusion. It's all a matter of perspective.

I use a mic stand pretty much like this, but since you say you don't have the money for one now, you might have to make a homemade one by stacking some books on a night stand and putting it near your chair, so it's off to the side. I record with my mic off to the side and it works pretty well I find.

Not quite a "you broke it we fix it", but I can't figure out what I need to record 1080p from my PS3. It's supposed to be possible with some technical-loophole magic, right? I just can't figure out what I gotta get! I use an HDPVR2.

EDIT: I chose the wrong term/phrasing. Allow me to correct:

What do I need to record from HDMI on PS3?

I already did some research and I think I've gotten my answer. For those interested, it seems like you really just need an HDMI splitter that can circumvent the HDCP engrained in the PS3. There are a few of them, and two of them I've seen recommended are:

This one.

and

This one.

I've been looking into getting that Avermedia Live Gamer Portable for the PC-less recording feature it has, instead of lugging my computer tower around to record, and I was just wondering if anyone else has had experience with it? Any details would be great (ease of setup, recording with commentary, quality, etc etc). Appreciate it.

-nope, just two hdmi cables I believe

-It should record fine, it does all the processing etc in the pvr itself I believe

-it's pretty crap software, but yes.

-I would say avoid happauge at all cost. I have had two HD PVRs and a Colossus from them (they were the only reasonably priced HD capture cards on the market for a while) but their service is lousy and their software sucks.

Even though it's more, I would suggest something like AverMedia Live Gamer Portable or the Elgato Game Capture HD

I have an AverMedia (an internal card, but same software and whatnot) and my experience with it has been so wonderful. The software is decently configurable, and their support was better then I was expecting when I had a couple questions. I have no personal experience with the Elgato but it seems to be rather popular with YouTubers.

I was having bad microphone issues, but I recently got this one on amazon and for the price it is an amazing piece of equipment! https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Professional-Broadcasting-Microphone-Adjustable/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=sr_1_3?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1484846159&sr=1-3&keywords=condenser+microphone

I use this atm http://www.amazon.com/Samson-Meteor-Studio-Microphone-Chrome/dp/B004MF39YS

pretty darn good if you can get it ~30cm away from your mouth, but mounting options are pretty bad (didn't fit into my shockmount) and having it on table seems to cause pretty wack spatial effect (echo from table surface, I guess).

Get this thing its Amazing!

• Amazon Audio-Technica AT2020USB PLUS http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZRTUZwDBKY

This is the one you need. I have one and it works perfectly. Not every splitter will do it but this one will. OREI HD-102 1x2 1 Port HDMI Powered Splitter Ver 1.3 Certified for Full HD 1080P & 3D Support (One Input To Two Outputs) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005HXFARS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_mUYYxb8GZKSM0

I've been using a Blue Snowball I got off of Amazon. Its worked well for me so far, and was about $60 which is pretty cheap for a quality condenser mic.

MSI Afterburner is not really much better, I've heard good things about DxTory though, I recommend one of these if you don't want to deal with huge .avi files and a chugging framerate

No way? Legit? Bought mine on Amazon for $100 US - Here

OR

Apparently these are pretty good as well...if not better according to some! Audio Technica

I'd recommend - this audio interface and these mics.

When you're buying mics in the US$100 to $200 range, they're all much of a muchness as long as you stick with a decent pro-audio brand (such as Audio-Technica). However, there can be a world of difference between a $60 mixer and a $150 audio interface. Trust me on this. I've worked in the pro-audio field for many, many years. Absolutely nothing in that price range compares to the quality of audio you get through that Focusrite audio interface. It's so far ahead of the competition, it's crazy.

Behringer make bad gear. It's pretty much an accepted fact in pro audio circles that they are the absolute rock bottom in terms of quality. What you're paying for is a range of features such as 3 bad EQ, level pots, tape inputs etc (none of which you need), and what you're sacrificing to get those features is quality phantom power and gain stages. Avoid.

EDIT: Oh, and if you get the Focusrite audio interface, make sure you download the updated driver from the website. The driver it comes with is a bit shite.

Yeah I don't think that's gonna happen, man. :/

To get a decent mic on a headset for my wife we had to spend $170 for a Sennheiser Game One, and trust me, that was the absolute cheapest for a decent mic for recording when she guests on my videos or does her own.

Good luck but holy hell mate. For forty bucks best you're gonna get in a headset is a tin can and a waxed string.

If you can somehow get your hands on a decent pair of headphones, a Neewer NW-700 bundle (boom arm, USB condenser mic and pop filter) is $34 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OTcwzbDDAJBNQ

You can do alright with about $300, as long as you have all the other stuff (shock mount, boom arm, etc).

This is the dbx 286s, an all-in-one preamp, compressor, expander/gate, with some other things. I use this for my streams and most of my let's plays these days and it's been pretty wonderful. It's not perfect and I wish I had more control than it offers, but for the price it's been an invaluable tool for me.

From there you still need a mic and an interface. Might be hard to find a pair of those for 100 that won't suffer in quality, but you've gotta start somewhere and the nature of this setup is complete modularity.... each individual piece can be upgraded by itself when you've got time and money.

Never tried it with an adapter, but out of curiosity... what's your upper limit on pricing? I found a pretty cheap $25 one at http://www.amazon.com/HD-102-Powered-Splitter-Certified-Support/dp/B005HXFARS/

I think there's a capture card that goes straight into your Motherboard, so it doesn't take any RAM, meaning no lag. It's the Avermedia Live Gamer HD. I have no experience with it, but it has great reviews and such.

I love my Blue Nessie and it is reasonably priced.

If you're looking for some solid mics that don't break budget I recommend The Behringer Ultravoice Xm8500 . Only cost 20$ for one and I have to say it's a pretty solid mic. They also sell a 3 pack of the Behringer Ultravoice Xm1800s for around 40$.

You could probably just open up two copies of audacity, set each one to a different input device, and then either hotkey the record button or possibly sync the audio to something like a loud clapping noise. You could also do like /u/Cly_Faker suggested and mix them together in Voicemeeter.

For our channel we use a Scarlett 2i2 and two XLR mics. But that's not a cheap solution.

Well I personally use Adobe Premiere on this but i can be quite costly (I got it off my university so it wasn't much) as for microphone, I am using a Blue Yeti with a Blue's Pop shield.

Mic:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Blue-Microphones-Yeti-USB-Microphone/dp/B002VA464S
Pop:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Blue-Microphones-Adjustable-Universal-Windscreen/dp/B0002H0H4A

Have a good start to your channel dood

I would invest in a Pop Filter and/or a Wind Screen; they're relatively inexpensive, easy to set up, and they filter out a lot (if not all) of the hot air coming from us and keeps it from making those popping sounds and the breathing sounds that you seem to be picking up.

Honestly I’m not sure if this is any cheaper for you than the other suggested one in this topic, but this one: https://www.amazon.com/HD-102-Powered-Splitter-Certified-Support/dp/B005HXFARS, I was guided to by a YouTube instructional video and it’s worked for me to record PS3 just fine.

The setup I use (Player 1) is a Blue Yeti Microphone with the Blue branded pop filter and recorded using Audacity on my Windows laptop.
The other person (Player 2) uses a microphone that's he's had for recording music, I'll try and find out the brand, plugged into a mac so he records using Garage Band.
We just chuck the 2 MP3's together on the video editing software and get it synced up to the video. No audio trickery, not even amplifying beforehand. We change the levels here and there inside Final Cut but aside from that, nothing.

Hopefully that helps, like I said, when I find out the name of his microphone I'll edit it in. Oh and thank you for the feedback, whenever we ask for stuff people don't usually respond so it gives us something to work with.

-Player 1 (Ben)

Then:

• Computer (laptop): HP HDX 18, Windows Vista Ultimate, 64-bit, Intel Core 2 Duo T9550 @2.66 GHz, DDR2 4GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT, 320 GB HDD, 1 broken interior fan, and laptop mouse buttons that don't work
  
  
• Microphone: Samson Go Mic USB Condenser Microphone
  
  
• Recording Software: Dazzle DVD Recorder for consoles. PC capture? Silly human, I don't want to set my laptop on fire.
  
  
• Edit Software: Sony Vegas 10 Pro + Audacity
  
  
• Image Software: Adobe Photoshop CS5
  
  Now:
  
  
• Computer (custom desktop): Windows 8.1, 64-bit, [Not near my computer so I'll updated this with all my stuff later], 1 TB HDD, 240 GB SSD, liquid cooling, and the blood of many innocents.
  
  
• Microphone: Samson CO1U USB Condenser Microphone with a pop filter and a microphone arm.
  
  
• Recording Software: Hauppauge HD PVR 2 Gaming Edition for HDMI capture, Hauppauge 1212 HD-PVR for Composite/component capture, and Open Broadcsater Software for PC capture/streaming.
  
  
• Edit Software: Sony Vegas 12 Pro + Audacity
  
  
• Image Software: Adobe Photoshop CS6
  

I actually just started messing with the end slates tonight. I suggest using this tool, paint.net to make the outline for the end slate. ie. something like this. Then I use Movie Studio Platinum 13 and place the image in a video box. From there you add in one (or in my case two) previous videos you've made and you fit them into the boxes. After that, it should look something like this. I know people keep recommending Adobe and Vegas, but they seem to be really expensive. I find Sony Movie Studio Platinum to have all the features I've needed as an LP channel so far. If I'm wrong, someone please let me know what features it is missing. Here is the price of it on Amazon. Doesn't seem too bad for what it comes with. Let me know if you have any other questions!

So the Yeti comes with its own desk stand. If you are looking for something that will stand on the floor, you'll want to get a floor stand with a boom. Like this perhaps: Amazon

The biggest problem with that stand though is that the Yeti is a fairly heavy mic, so the stand would be prone to tipping. If you can get a desk stand I used this one in the past, had a nice heavy base. and then got a little longer boom arm for it. Or just invest in a bag of rocks to hold the floor stand down.

As far as sensitive to bumps, there's not much you can do. Many shockmounts on the market will not fit the Yeti. You can get the Blue Ringer (nee Radius), a shock mount designed for the Yeti, and it's a bit overpriced (since they know very few fit the mic). But it works.

The Avermedia Live Gamer Portable has worked flawlessly with my PS3 for game capture and streaming. I use the PS3's component video output to capture it, but I don't notice the difference compared to HDMI output when playing games. It can't capture at 1080p60 though, maxing out at 1080p30 or 720p60 instead, so keep that in mind.

I got Sony Vegas 11 from Amazon for $25. It's an older version, but it still works just fine.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Studio-Platinum-Production-Version/dp/B0051M6IPI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419079570&sr=8-1&keywords=sony+vegas

Personally, I'd recommend a boom arm that clamps to your desk.

This is similar to the one I use: http://www.amazon.com/Professional-Broadcasting-Recording-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1449207707&sr=8-5&keywords=microphone+boom+arm&refinements=p_72%3A2661618011

One other mic selection to check out is the meteor mic by samson, I got one and it has been bad ass in all ways, and wont break the bank. If you are having audio issues with your voice the best way to fix it would be a quality mic that can properly pick up on your lows.

Do you think this would be a good one? It's not a Blue Yeti, but it's made by the same people.

Sony Movie Studio Platinum is the lowest you want to go on the Sony software. It will do pretty much everything that a Let's Player would ever need and is currently only $29.95 at that link.

Neewer mic for $30: Neewer® NW-800 Professional Studio Broadcasting & Recording Microphone Set Including (1)NW-800 Professional Condenser Microphone + (1)Microphone Shock Mount + (1)Ball-type Anti-wind Foam Cap + (1)Microphone Power Cable (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XBQ8UGG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_MSU4wb8Q68WZX



$40 off of Blue Yeti: Blue Microphones Yeti USB Microphone - Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002VA464S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_QTU4wbFARNVKR


However, editing your audio will almost always fix any problems you have and make it sound 10x better. I use audacity to record and edit my audio and it's free.

This is the usual price for these no-name condenser mics (even though it may be on "sale"), being slightly cheaper than the Neewer NW-700 with boom arm.

Like /u/AlanDavison said, I wouldn't trust plugging any of these mics into a 48v power source unless they specifically mention it.

If you're not doing anything ultra crazy with it, but want something decent and affordable, go with Sony Movie Studio 13 Platinum. Right now it's on amazon for $55 download.

This is the stand I use but it kind of has to be coupled with the shockmount in order to be practically used. Otherwise it will be positioned at a terrible angle. Total will run you like $100 in US which isn't bad. In Canada the total is more around $150-$180...

The Samson Meteor costs only $70 new. I have one, and I think it sounds very professional.

You can get a slightly older version of sony movie studio for ~$25.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Studio-Platinum-Production-Version/dp/B0051M6IPI

maybe try http://www.amazon.ca/HD-102-Powered-Splitter-Certified-Support/dp/B005HXFARS/ :D

Ah, then you're referring to plugging the mics directly into the interface that gets the mics to the computer. We use a Mixing Board that gives us EQ, panning, and additional mics for more than 2 people which then only goes out as one track stereo to our Interface.

The one I was looking at: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B007UXJ6LE?ref=emc_b_5_t


And I would try their software, but as long as it still takes away CPU power I would probably use OBS because it is more familiar

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006H92QK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1450306039&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=at2020

This one doesn't seem to, for about $90

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1450306039&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=at2020&dpPl=1&dpID=41pEeIKTIiL&ref=plSrch

This one does, for $130, the price for a yeti at normal price.

If this is still a little much, the Blue Nessie is 40% off, for $66

I did a lot of my research and I wanted something that was taller and away from my controller / keyboard... I bought the blue Nessi. Check out my videos to hear the quality... youtube.com/joeyjiggles

Here is a link to the Nessi... http://www.amazon.co.uk/Blue-Microphones-Adaptive-Cardioid-Microphone/dp/B00BUIA362/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1425236535&sr=1-1&keywords=blue+nessi

Scartlett Solo from Focusrite.

http://www.amazon.com/Focusrite-Scarlett-Solo-Compact-Interface/dp/B00MTXU2DG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459350011&sr=8-1&keywords=scarlett+solo

My recording volume is maximized and currently using this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XBQ8UGG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 My wife ordered a Blue Yeti for us to use, nad that will be here Thursday. I'm curious to know if that will fix the problem or not though.

This gives relatively decent audio quality for a very low price.

https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Professional-Broadcasting-Recording-Microphone/dp/B00XBQ8UGG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1460712654&sr=8-1&keywords=neewer+mic&linkCode=sl1&tag=techsource02-20&linkId=47157432cffb6ea4387b48afb6b5c1cd

You don't have to go supper expansive. I am using this and had no problems at all.

You have a PS3 and game and a capture card. Just need a computer. Disable the HDCP and viola.

I get the feeling you are trying to capture something other than a game though which is blocked? You weren't clear in your post.

If that's the case, you need to spend $20 on one of these to bypass the signal. Grab an extra HDMI cable or two while you're at it too unless you have a few lying around.

http://www.amazon.com/HD-102-Powered-Splitter-Certified-Support/dp/B005HXFARS

Are you dealing with a file in the program itself, or a rendered file that's complete like an MP4?

If you haven't exported the file from El Gato you might be able to go into the EGC folder that holds a bunch of the files for your game. In the folder for the video you want you should be able to find a video file that will play and can be converted using file conversion software. This file will likely be video only but I suppose that's better than losing it 100%.

If you're dealing with a rendered MP4 clip that doesn't work...well, do the same thing. I've had rendered captures from EGC randomly fail to work and converting them to MP4- even when they're already MP4- fixes the problem. You lose a little video quality but, again, it's better than losing the whole thing.

In the future I've got a few pieces of advice for recording with El Gato:

1. Don't edit in El Gato. It sucks. If you can afford an El Gato you can afford a decent editing program. I'd recommend this:
   
   http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Movie-Studio-Platinum-Download/dp/B00I3MSBC6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409638903&sr=8-1&keywords=sony+movie+studio
   
   For let's plays this editor is really all you're going to need- it's a stripped down version of Sony Vegas but you don't really need all the complicated stuff from vegas to sync audio and video.
   
   
2. Find out what programs kick on in the background of your PC. This is a long and arduous process but I promise its worth it. Your computer likely has a copld of random bullshit programs that work on their own doing stupid stuff you don't want. Sometimes these kick on while El Gato is running and completely bork the software.
   
   I had issues with this for the first few months I was doing videos and now that I found out what would kick on my pc (some kind of windows movie player compiling) I've had it happen maybe 2-3 times.
   
   
3. Set your files to render in El Gato immediately after you finish recording them. It makes the recording process take a little longer since you have to wait a few minutes to start again but it's more than worth it for all of the hassle it'll save you in the long run. You will also know immediately if there was a problem with your recording and it can be addressed before starting again.
   
   Hope that wasn't too long winded, just some advice for using El Gato.
   
   
   

The fuck?

v11 is $42 on amazon. v12 is about $100. There is no reason whatsoever to get the Pro 11 package. I'm still using v10, and I frankly see no reason to upgrade.

Do you mean the presence of a facecam? I would recommend getting a nice webcam and microphone (I use this and this, respecitvely). They're not prohibitively expensive and can get you a level of recording quality that's a touch higher than the average dime-a-dozen LP. You'll have to do some experimenting with your video editing to figure out how you want to frame it, but that comes with trial and error. For example, I elected to make my gameplay off-center so that the facecam doesn't cover it up (unless the game is widescreen in which case I have no choice), and put my logo in the remaining negative space.