(Part 3) Top products from r/microphones

Ok, while I don't have personal experience with the phantom power unit you are using, here's what I think is going on.

Every microphone needs a Preamp because the signal captured by the microphone is too weak to hear. Some microphones (like yours) need power as well. You're supplying the needed POWER for the microphone to work, but you still need a preamp to bring that weak signal up to the appropriate level, just like every microphone needs.

Now, here's my suggestion. since you would still need a preamp for your microphone (most preamps include 48v phantom power as a feature) and considering your needs, I'd say you have two decent options.

• Option 1: Return your phantom power unit and get an XLR --> USB adapter/converter such as the Blue Icicle which will not only convert your weak signal to a digital signal for easy use with Skype / gaming / etc... but will ALSO provide the necessary 48v of phantom power for your microphone.
  
  
• Option 2: Return both the microphone and phantom power unit for a simple USB microphone. There are many good options with budget friendly price tags. If your goal is computer audio and not pristine voice-over or music recording, then you'd be fine going with something even as simple as the Samson Go Mic or CAD U1
  
  If you want even better quality (honestly, these options will do you good) let me know and I can help you out with other options.
  
  --DISCLAIMER--
  
  I haven't personally used the BM800, but I have read reviews and listened to some demonstrations. It is a pretty 'bottom of the barrel' microphone which will be adding some unwanted hiss and noise to the audio it picks up because of the cheap components used. If you decide to keep it, it will most certainly be the bottleneck in your audio quality. Even those cheap usb microphones will likely be better.

I'm not familiar with the PS4 and what inputs it has, but I would recommend a USB interface to run your mic through. It will allow for the best quality audio on your PC, but unfortunately I don't know much about the PS4 so you would need to look up to see if it would work for that. If your budget allows, you could always get a Zoom portable interface/recorder as it can run through USB to your computer and through a "line out" (standard 3.5mm audio jack) to the PS4. You may also be able to use a mixer for the same purpose, but look into what you need/have the budget for before you buy.

​

The products I linked are just starting points to help you out, but should fill your needs if you decide to go with one of them. Good luck, and I hope you can get everything running smoothly!

[netherlands][60$]

Guys ive been doing some research for the past week for a good usb mic for gaming and streaming I dont want to spent hundreds of dollars but just a nice little something that has a decent output the budget is 60euro

I found 2 contestants:

1: samson meteor

2: Blue Snowball Ice

When I listened to audio tests i felled that the samson meteor sounded better just wanted to know what you guys thought about it

If you got some similar suggestions please do so and state why it would be better. (ps USB is highly preffered

I want to thank everyone who took their time to respond to my question in advance!

Im currently using the Podcaster, so this is a pretty bias'd opinion.

If your desk have space for it, a boom arm like the RØDE PSA1 (UK Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/RØDE-Swivel-Mount-Studio-Microphone/dp/B001D7UYBO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1474200451&sr=8-1&keywords=psa1) compliments the Podcaster really well.

If not, then a simple tripod mount (American Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Stage-Stands-MS7701B-Tripod-Microphone/dp/B000978D58) would prob. also do the trick.

TL;DR A boom arm is really great for the PODCASTER, because, since it is a dynamic mic, you need it to be about a fists length away from your mouth, (at least from my experience.) and a boom arm gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of positioning the mic.

Oh yeah, use this part of the offical RØDE website to check where you can buy their microphones, and microphone stands(If you didn't know already): http://www.rode.com/wheretobuy

Yeti is sensitive and you can do a lot better at the price point.

Dynamic Microphones

For most gamers I'd recommend dynamic microphones since they pick up a lot less noise. Look into: XM8500, SM58, Beta 58.

Condenser Microphones

If you are set on a condenser microphone, be aware everyone is going to hear your keyboard, mouse, roommates etc. Avoid the Yeti. Look into: AT2020, MXL 770, Samson C02, LyxPro SDPC-2.

Mixers for Single Microphones

With any of the single microphones you'll be able to use the Xenyx 502, 1 RCA to 3.5 cable and 1 XLR cable.

Mixers for Microphone Pairs

With either of the stereo microphone pairs you'll need to use a mixer with more inputs OR go halves with a friend. You'd be able to use the Xenyx 802, 1 RCA to 3.5 cable and 2 XLR Cables, you are also going to want a stereo microphone bar

Accessories

Scissor Arm - $20 : You'll want a stand with any of the microphones listed, however if you'd prefer a stage style boom arm it would be the same price.


Pop Filter - $7 : You'll want one with any of the condenser microphones. However it would be a nice addition to any of the microphones.


Windscreen - $3 : You'll want one with any of the dynamic microphones.


--EDIT-- Let me know any questions you have. If you want to talk we could meet up on the discord server or something.

I was originally looking at Blue Yeti but after reading this subreddit, I've learned that I need a dynamic mic for streaming. I'm looking at this ATR2100 with an arm stand.


The question: so do dynamic mics have to be much closer to the source of sound? Or can it configured what area to pick up? What I'm asking is do I have to keep that mic, like 4-10cm from me, or can I leave it away from me on a comfortable distance of say, 30cm+?


Thank you in advance.

RE320 is a dynamic microphone and does not need phantom power.

You don't need a cloud lifter at all but a dedicated preamp hurt nobody. See here

For a mixer, the MG10XU is a great choice. But saving money is always fun, so you should check out this which is essentially the same mixer with less channels. If you aren't using more than 2 inputs on the 10XU no point in buying it.

quick edit: if you do end up purchasing a DBX 286s, there's nearly no point in buying the mixer. You'd have better luck investing in an audio interface such as a Mackie Onyx Blackjack or Scarlett 2i2

I was thinking of getting a cheaper headphone with mic or standalone mic (<$30) to use. I might start joining online DnD sessions, but I'm concerned my laptop's internal fan may be too noisy for the built-in mic. My friend commented on that a lot in the past. If I'm looking for a mic, it's for casual use.

Would something like these work?

USB Microphone,Fifine Plug &Play Home Studio USB Condenser Microphone

Logitech ClearChat Comfort/USB Headset H390, Noise Cancelling Microphone, Headphones for Computer (Black)



Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000 Headset (JUG-00013)

Does anyone know about the durability, quality and ease of use of these? If not one of these, does anyone have recommendations?

Alternatively, does anyone know how to stop the internal mic from picking up fan noises?

Condenser Microphones need power to function. The audio port on your motherboard does not give nearly enough. The microphone will work much better and be less noisy with more power. You can either use a USB sound card to give the mic 5V of power or get a 48V phantom power supply to maximize your performance.
I got this USB Soundcard and this Power Supply. I use both together and It sounds great. The microphone also works alright with just the USB card. hope it helps. p.s. I have the same mic.

Here is a popular one, I am getting the DBX 286A which is basically the same hardware but with some visual tweaks.

It gives you an easy way to control, improve quality, and modify the vocals in sort of an all in one solution. So you don't need several pieces of hardware to achieve a single goal.

I'm looking to buy a microphone for my friend, but I have no experience in this department. My friend isn't going professional idol singer mode, but I do still want to have some sound quality and after doing some research, I got some came up some picks and was looking for any insight.

My picks were:

Blue Yeti USB

AT2020+ USB

AT2020 with Behringer audio interface and XLR cable? Do I need this? Its didn't seem to be included in any of these.

Are these alright just for some casual recording/singing?

Yes you need to get a sound adapter, luckily they're pretty cheap and this is the one I got since it was highly recommended. It fixed my static problem and the sound is crisp! I also own a Mod Mic V4 myself so I have experience with this problem. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OJ5AV8I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hello! I am looking to purchase some equipment to improve the sound quality from my iPhone while recording my piano pieces, nothing major just as a hobby. I am quite confused with the different type of setups available and would love to receive some advice. Here is the setup I have planned:

iPhone -> Headset-Microphone 3.5mm splitter -> Neewer NW-700 Condenser Microphone

However, I understand that I have to provide power to the Neewer microphone for it to function well (and not drain the iPhone's battery). What would be the cheapest way to go around doing that?

I ended up doing this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FJABIEM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Because my friend recommended it and it's massively on sale.

I also ordered this as most people recommended it: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014XH3AKM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Wow, I have never even thought of that. Wouldn't work for my setup, but it's interesting. I think you would have to go with a separate stand and just lower it. Something like this.

Hey, all!

I'm looking into getting a microphone with a shock mount, microphone arm, and pop filter. It will mostly be used to record singing, instruments, and voice over work.

At the moment, the Blue Yeti has my attention; it seems to be pretty universally praised, and it doesn't seem like it's all that expensive.

As far as the shock mount goes, I think Blue Yeti has its own proprietary one? I'm also looking at this pop filter and this microphone arm.

Any recommendations?

Thanks, guys!

ok so. mic comes with xlr to xlr. plug that to



neewer 48v https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014H8AWGC/ref=ox_sc_sfl_image_9?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3A00RPL943XFO


to

preamp https://www.amazon.com/ART-TubeMP-Tube-Microphone-Preamp/dp/B0002GZZNY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485455414&sr=8-1&keywords=ART+Tube+Preamps


preamp to xlr / 3.5mm :https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-3-5mm-Inch-Feet/dp/B00QMITC7G/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1485456129&sr=8-4&keywords=3.5mm+xlr



to 3.5 mm female to two female : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFPYYCG/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2JSBUBRVPP4SX

both 3.5mm: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EA77952/ref=ox_sc_sfl_image_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1Y2JY7NYB2QUH


to devices? Like that?

Currently I am looking for a mic with an INCREDIBLE background filter. I live in an apartment downtown where it's so loud from all the cars and trucks passing that my windows basically constantly shake. I don't care about the price (I can save up for it is it's that expensive) and my current one (which is https://www.amazon.com/FIFINE-TECHNOLOGY-Microphone-Condenser-Recordings/dp/B01D4HTIOY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536361679&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=fifine+microphone&psc=1) I get constant complaints from my buddies that it sounds like I'm outside even if my discord filter is so high that they can barely hear me. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

This is the correct answer.


Since you already have phantom power supply you'd be able to use a Xenyx 502. You could also use this interface with or without the phantom power supply. With either of these I'd recommend using the RCA out to Line in on the PC, with a cable like this.

Hmm. It just boggles my mind that I see my friend with a similar room and people on YT just stand it up and speak into it and it sounds so much better (also on USB, and unfortunately standard Yeti doesn't have XLR input)

Arm

[Shock Mount]
(https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01FQB3DD8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

And Mudder

Or apparently just rebuy these and don't be depressed about a mic for a year and a half

I was thinking possibly 50/50. I bought a Blue icicle and the PX22 amp. I have a question though, is this interface a good interface? It seems to have 48v phantom power and I would assume that it is much more reliable than the icicle

I'd say $99 is the bare minimum. You can get a Shure SM57 or Audix I5 for that.

http://www.amazon.com/Shure-Cardioid-Dynamic-Instrument-Microphone/dp/B000CZ0R3S

http://www.amazon.com/Audix-I5-Dynamic-Instrument-Microphone/dp/B0002IHNA0

Edit: I know you might look around and find a really cheap SM57 and it will look like a good deal, but there are a lot of counterfeit ones floating around for cheap. Avoid the suspiciously cheap ones, a real one for $99 is still a great investment.

Hey all, I'm looking for a microphone to get that won't pick up speakers from behind while gaming. Music, game sound, voices from voice chat, twitch streams will all be played over the speakers.

I'd give a budget of $500 USD for this as I know it can be a fairly expensive thing. I'd prefer not to wear the microphone.

Is this good? http://www.amazon.com/Shure-SM58-X2U-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B001PPPWIE?ie=UTF8&keywords=shure%20x2u&qid=1465316710&ref_=sr_1_3&sr=8-3

Right, Reddit is full of people from all over the world, so when talking about currency, please don't just type "100". We have no idea if you mean Yen, Dollars, Pounds or chickens. Let's go ahead and assume you're American. This is the audio interface I would recommend within your budget. http://www.amazon.com/Focusrite-Scarlett-Solo-Compact-Interface/dp/B00MTXU2DG/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1414184459&sr=8-8&keywords=audio+interface

How about the Blue Snowflake? It is a bit small but should sit on a desk fine. Or a CAD U1.

About 50 Euros, this should work for what you're needing.

ART TubeMP Tube Microphone Preamp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002GZZNY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_Qu75wbV1GSNRW

Focusrite Scarlett Solo Compact USB Audio Interface https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MTXU2DG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_bw75wbSST22MK

Shure SM57, [$99 on Amazon] (http://www.amazon.com/Shure-SM57-LCE-SM57-Microphone/dp/B000CZ0R3S).

[As used by American Presidents] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shure_SM57).

i got you pal

I just purchased this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EHILV4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Will let you know how it works once it arrives.

There are a few possibilities.

1. Your microphone is faulty and should be replaced
   
2. The microphone volume in your operating system is low
   
3. Your computer's hardware or software is faulty.
   
4. The low volume is an inherent problem in your microphone. Given that it costs 13USD on amazon, I surmise this could be a real possibility. Look for bad reviews on SF-920.
   
   If you will speak into your microphone and plan to use it for a long time, I recommend that you buy a pop filter, too.
   
   If you are willing to spend more money, there are USB desktop microphones for which customized pop filters are available.
   
   
5. Blue microphone sells blue yeti(116~130USD) and a pop filter whose design is customized for blue yeti(50USD).
   
6. Cyber Acoustics sells CVL-2008(100USD) which contains a removable pop filter.
   
   blue yeti and its metal pop filter are pretty durable, but they are more expensive than CVL-2008 which comes with a less durable customized nylon pop filter that is not sold separately from CVL-2008. However, if you didn't abuse a pop filter and washed it from time to time, even a nylon pop filter could last a decade or two.

Fairly generic question. My current desktop microphone broke so I am looking to replace it. My biggest concern is how it will pick up my mechanical keyboard "clicks".

I was looking into the Blue Snowflake or the Blue Snowball but those are just ones I've seen suggested elsewhere. I am open to about any setup.

Any suggestions?