Showing posts with label microphone. Show all posts
Showing posts with label microphone. Show all posts

11/27/2012

Audio-Technica AT4021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

Audio-Technica AT4021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is a sweet little small-diaphragm condenser. It is near-ruler-flat from 20-20KHz. Getting those extremes -- 15K-20Hz and especially 20-50Hz -- is unusual in an affordable cardioid SDC.
I like this mic for general acoustic ensemble or instrument recording because of the extended low and high-end (really sweet lows). It is very popular on acoustic guitars, and wherever you want to capture the shimmer up top (choirs, drum overheads). I've gotten agreeable full-range jazz drum kit tracks by setting one up level with the top of the kick, a foot out in front of the kit.
Another mic to consider at this price/performance point is the Shure SM81 Instrument Microphone (it has just the slightest bit of color compared to the 4021, and a narrower frequency range, but it is a classic clean bright sound for this kind of thing). You can find sound samples of this and other comparable mics by searching for SDC microphone shootout on the web.
You may also be weighing this against Rode NT5 Matched Pair Recording Condenser Package (or you were back when this was $250). I think the 4021 sounds a tad better than the NT5 as a single mic, a little less hyped upper mid. But if you are planning on using two as a stereo pair, you might prefer the NT5 matched pair, because its off-axis response is more suitable for stereo recording. The off-axis response of the 4021 is pretty interesting -- it stays flatter for the mid- and higher-frequencies, and drops off for the lows. That's backwards from many mics. It means it's more forgiving about placement for something like an acoustic guitar or cymbal. But it also means your stereo image will smear towards the center with coincident stereo miking techniques, except for the low frequencies (exactly where coincident imaging is less effective anyway).
So if you use a pair of these for stereo, set up non-coincident, ORTF or even as you might place omnis. I get really pleasing results with a 4021 pair inside a grand piano, in an ORTF configuration nearly centered inside with one pointing to the high hammers and one pointing to the low strings at the back of the piano.

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Samson AirLine Synth Earset - True Diversity UHF Wireless System Review

Samson AirLine Synth Earset - True Diversity UHF Wireless System
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The belt pack is very small compared to most others we've used. The diversity tx/rx setup is simple - but - you cannot change the frequency with the mic attached to the belt pack. Odd, that.
Our pastor says the earpiece is very comfortable, and does not slip during service. He wears glasses, so many other earpieces were either uncomfortable, didn't fit at all, or would slip. The slip resulted in the mic boom dropping significantly enough that the pastor couldn't be heard. With the tension band on this earpiece, that hasn't been an issue.
The mic is well suited for male speakers. There is a noticeable boost in the low end compared to other headset mics we've used. So far, the unit has performed well and fit, rather than busted our budget.

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SE Electronics TITAN Large Diaphragm Condeser Mic w/Case,Shockmount Review

SE Electronics TITAN Large Diaphragm Condeser Mic w/Case,Shockmount
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Overall an excellent mic. Like advertised it's an excellent mic for kick drum, and bass, also amazing for miking guitar cabs and amps. tried it on acoustic guitar loved it as well. For some reason people never mention how good this mic is for vocals, it is excellent in that department too. i've tried it on rock vocals, on pop vocals, loud, mellow, you name it, it performs excellent. It's very clear sounding and has really good presence. Also excellent for broadcast use almost no proximity effect and very little sibilance. i've ran it through my Focusrite isa428 solid state pres all the time. So i would imagine, with a good tube pre like an avalon 737sp, the results for singing would be even more amazing. So in my humble opinion, i would say, if you have money for only one professional quality mic in your studio, this will give you the versatility to use on almost everything you can possibly record, with the professional results you would expect from mics over the $1,000 dollar range.

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11/24/2012

Galaxy Audio PA6S 170W Personal PA System/Monitor Review

Galaxy Audio PA6S 170W Personal PA System/Monitor
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As a singing drummer, I absolutely LOVE this monitor!
You have personal volume control, plus a 3-way EQ, and since you can run two channels into it, you can blend the house monitor mix in with your own mic feed (via a microphone "thru" patch) to get the exact blend of the two that you desire.
After using this Galaxy PA6S at a recent gig, I will never go back to floor monitors again!
Galaxy Audio PA6S 170W Personal PA System/Monitor

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11/22/2012

Shure ULXS4 Standard Wireless Receiver, M1 Review

Shure ULXS4 Standard Wireless Receiver, M1
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We got this to replace our old unit in our church which became obsolete when the FCC changed their regs. The old unit was a Shure, but this is really an upgrade in quality. With the rebate it was worthwhile to get the better unit. It has better range and better sound quality than the old unit.

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11/21/2012

NADY 401X-QUAD-LT/E4/F 4-CHANNEL Professional Vhf Wireless Hand-held Microphone System Review

NADY 401X-QUAD-LT/E4/F 4-CHANNEL Professional Vhf Wireless Hand-held Microphone System
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This is a decent low budget option, but the sound quality is lacking and we have had some problems with interference. If quality sound and no issues is what you're looking for, you may want to keep looking. On the plus side, it was great having multiple mics once we got around the interference issues.

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Neumann TLM-103 Microphone Review

Neumann TLM-103 Microphone
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This microphone picks up the nuances of vocal takes in all possible "colors" if that makes any sense as opposed to most other mics that only capture most prominent sounds possible for a microphone in this price range.
Having said that, you must realize that high end microphones means that their audio sensitivities are way up there in that they pick up sounds you never thought existed in your surroundings like the small freezer fan in the fridge downstairs behind multiple closed doors.
NOTE: If your acoustic environment "issues" are not resolved ( or untested) this microphone will open up multiple problems such as humming noises from various sources that you previously did not realize existed.
This is a very sensitive and probably one of the most acoustically sensitive microphones on the prosumer market.
I use it mostly for voice overs and it is the best mic in my studio since it really captures all the inflections that are otherwise lost (uncaptured) from other microphones within its price range. I live in a relatively quiet environment out and away from outside noises and I still struggle with acoustics so heads up to those of you who live in or nearby urban areas.
If your "voice print" is within a higher pitch range (than normal for most people) and are accustomed to a lower tone in order to inflect common narrative scales, it will get a bit of practice to get used to because with this mic EVERYTHING will be accentuated (slash) enhanced, maximized and recorded.
Some voices (particularly female)are overly accentuated due to compensation habits from using lower quality microphones.
This takes practice to adjust to but once achieved,(on the part of the vocalist) this mic is the best gadget ear you can find for the price.
I own a Rode Broadcaster and a Sennheiser 416 that I frequently use for voice overs but for a full tonal range (such as audio-book long-form narrations) this is my "GO TO" microphone.
I highly recommend that potential buyers test this microphone under various applications (whether singing or voice over narrations or what have you--extensively BEFORE buying because it has been my experience that some people simply CANNOT adjust their vocalizations to this microphone.
In other words, kick all the tires on this piece of audio gear and vocally "test drive extensively" before deciding on purchasing lest you end up disappointed for reasons unrelated to the gear itself.
I for one am supremely pleased and consider myself a very PROUD owner of this incredibly versatile microphone for any and all applications so long as all other elements of a recording atmosphere are commensurate (i.e. equal to) its capacities.
If you have an acoustically sound environment suitable for your recording needs then this is a MUST piece of gear and DO NOT be fooled by lower priced alternatives from people who have not experienced "true" quality in said category.
This is not a Volkswagon but rather a Mercedes in a whole different class.

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Ideal for all professional and semi-professional applications requiring high sound quality on a limited budget. The TLM-103 uses the transformerless circuitry found in numerous Neumann mics and a capsule derived from that used in the U87. Cardioid pattern, acoustically well-balanced, and provides extraordinary attenuation of signals from the rear. Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz. Impedance: 50 ohms.ApplicationsDue to the universal cardioid pattern, straightforward handling, extremely low self-noise level, and finally, the price, the TLM 103 is predestined for all demanding applications from home recording to professional broadcasting and commercial recording studios.Acoustic featuresThe TLM 103 is addressed from the front, marked with the red Neumann logo on the microphone body. The K 103 large diaphragm capsule is based on the K 87, well known from the U 67/U 87 microphones. The capsule has a flat frequency response up to about 5 kHz, and above that, a wide flat 4 dB presence boost. The large wire mesh headgrille protects the capsule from explosive sounds and effectively prevents pop noises. These characteristics are achieved without resorting to corrective resonance effects. Therefore, the microphone maintains an excellent impulse response and reproduces the finest details of music and speech without coloration.Electrical featuresWith just 7 dB-A / 17.5 dB CCIR the self-noise level of the TLM 103 is so reduced that even the smallest signals are reproduced basically noise-free. As it is capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 138 dB without distortion, the TLM 103 provides a dynamic range of 131 dB, according to DIN/IEC 651. The letters TLM stand for "transformerless microphone." With TLM technology the usual output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. As with traditional transformers, it ensures good common mode rejection, and prevents RF interference that may influence the balanced audio signal.Operational safetyThe entire internal construction i

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11/19/2012

RODE NT1000 Vocal Condenser Microphone Review

RODE NT1000 Vocal Condenser Microphone
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(More customer reviews)
I went shopping for a Rode NT1. Rode mics use superb capsules mounted in machined housings you could drive a truck over, and the NT1 is a great mic for male vocals. The guy at the store suggested the NT1000. I recorded myself on both, and there wasn't much difference, but the 1000 just sounded a little smoother. But, the NT1 had a painted finish (may have changed since), made out of aluminum. When you screw the mount on it feels rough, like screwing in a light bulb with an aluminum base. The NT1000, though, feels rich and expensive, a nickel-steel finish (I guess) more like the expensive Neumanns. And when you screw the parts together they feel precise and elegant. It was a hundred bucks more than the NT1, but with the slightly nicer sound, and the much nicer look and handling feel, it seemed worth it.
The only problem I've had with it is weight. It's fairly heavy, and can't be extended very far on my boom stand without falling over.
Great dynamic range, low noise, very detailed.

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11/18/2012

Shure PGX14/93 Lavalier Wireless System, L5 Review

Shure PGX14/93 Lavalier Wireless System, L5
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I got this at a local Guitar Center in Pasadena, CA. the label sign said $648 and they realized it was mispriced. In stores it's actually $399.99 and he gave me 10% off because I really wanted the lower model PG14 which they don't carry in stores.
At our church, we rent out a school auditorium where there's no sound padding. We currently have a Shure wireless handheld (looks like a Pg14 + handheld but I think it's some older model) and a Sennheiser wireless lapel system that's been giving us a lot of interference/feedback.
First I tried the new AKG wireless presenter set and it had a lot of pops and feedback even though we adjusted the squelch and other areas.
So we tried this PGX14/WL93 system and this past Sunday there was no feedback, pops, in interference. We only experienced the clean and clear interference-free sound that comes from Shure.
On the base unit, I mounted it on top of our other Shure (which was set to channel) 1 and pressed channel and it seems like channel 9 was the only available option (7, 8, 9 at first, but now just 9). I think this is fine as we won't be adding more wireless systems, as of yet.
Once we popped in the 2 AA batteries into the transmitter unit I brought the unit over to the wireless base and hit "auto-sync". I wasn't sure if it was 1 tap or hold so I held it and it synced. After that, everything worked beautifully.
I appreciated that the body transmitter was easy to use. Hold the top button for power (green), push once for mute (orange), and again for unmute (green). On the side there's a gain switch for mic (high), 0 (medium), -10db (low). the "0" level was the best because mic was too loud and pitchy.
The lavaliere mic was great. I originally thought it would pick up too many other ambient sounds since it's a condenser mic but even with the band playing in the back the speaker was the only voice captured in the mic. there were no pops from "p" sounds and it did not have ruffling sounds on the shirt/jacket (I did not put on the wind screen which is quite big and odd looking). All we received was clear sound.
The other good thing about this model (transmitter) is that you can use 3 different lavaliere mics: WL93 (which it came with), the higher end WL185, or the lower end PG185 which comes with the PG14/PG185.
WL93: $80, WL185: $100. PG185:$40.
Having loved the countryman, I am now completely fine with the above options. Countrymans break and cost $400+ just to replace the mic (yes just the mic!). I don't know how the lower end PG185 is, but I assume it's Shure clear. So for $40-$100 to replace a lavaliere mic, I would gladly choose this over and over again! And Shure will be the brand of choice over and over again.

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11/17/2012

Avalon VT737SP Class A Tube Channel Strip Review

Avalon VT737SP Class A Tube Channel Strip
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I use this channel strip during nearly every recording session I run. The sound is amazing for vocals (in combination with a good mic), producing a warm and yet extremely clean sound.
I have used the unit on acoustic guitar, kick drum, electric guitar and even bass. I was able to get stunning sound from all sources, with a little tweaking of the settings and mic placement.
This unit is capable of immaculate results. Well worth the money.

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11/16/2012

VocoPro DVD-Duet 80W CD / Dual Cassette / AM / FM Karaoke System Review

VocoPro DVD-Duet 80W CD / Dual Cassette / AM / FM Karaoke System
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The system has very good sound. I recently did a concert for in an 80 seat room, and the sound easily reached the back row. I would recommend the system. However, re ease of use -- if you are planning to perform a one person show you'd be better off getting a system with number buttons on the machine. I.e., if you need to play #8, you push #8.
The remote has number keys, but the remote doesn't always work. The other issue I have is that you can't simply restart the current track, pushing the

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Play almost any disc format with the VocoPro DVD-Duet karaoke system, enabling you to sing along with your collection of CDG, MP3 compilations, or output DVDs to a video monitor--you can even display a slideshow of JPEG photos. A great choice for use in bars, churches, schools, and clubs as well as in-home systems, this semi-pro system provides 80 watts of total output (40W + 40W), and the shock-resistant DVD drive will keep playing even when the dancefloor is at its wildest. In fact, the DVD-Duet is so shock resistant that it can be played in moving cars, RVs, planes and boats without skipping (110 or 240V AC adaptor required).
A 12-step Digital Key Controller changes the key of background music from any disc to match the natural range of your voice so you can sound like the pros. The 5-band graphic equalizer enables you to fine tune the tone to fit anyone's taste. The DVD-Duet includes 2 professional mics and the two microphone inputs have separate volume controls so you can sing duets with a perfect mix. Other features include four 2-way speakers, pre-out jacks to connect to an external system, and an AM/FM tuner

Key Features
Four 2-way speakers with 40W + 40W maximum power output
Top loading, shock-resistant DVD/CD/CDG player (compatible with DVD/CD+G/MP3/PHOTO-CD/HDCD and most CD-R/CD-RW formats)
Dual cassette decks for playback and recording live performances
Pitch control for customizing CD+G and tape playback speeds, allowing you to perform at your own pace
2 microphone inputs with individual volume controls
12-step Digital Key Controller
5-band Graphic Equalizer for precise tone control
AM/FM stereo tuner
Pre-out jacks enable connection to external sound system


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11/13/2012

M-Audio Solaris Multipattern Condenser Microphone Review

M-Audio Solaris Multipattern Condenser Microphone
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Happy with product, only took about a week. It actually came with a shock mount which that wasn't list to come with it. Thanks

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The Solaris is a large-capsule condenser microphone that sounds as good as it looks. Beneath the stylish exterior lies the best-sounding solid-state electronics available at any price. Vintage design principles merge with incredibly tight manufacturing standards to yield no more than +/-1dB of deviation across the entire 20Hz-20kHz frequency range. The industry-thinnest evaporated gold diaphragm also delivers incredible sensitivity. Multi-pattern architecture provides flexibility that makes it ideal for just about any miking situation--included capturing vocals, guitar, piano, drums and live events. It's like having three mics in one.

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11/12/2012

M-Audio Pulsar II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphones Review

M-Audio Pulsar II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphones
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After exhaustive research, I purchased these for drum overhead recording. Amazing. Smooth high end, incredibly eq-able, low distortion. Better than AKG 451's in my opinion.[...]

Click Here to see more reviews about: M-Audio Pulsar II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphones

The M Audio Pulsar II small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone takes M-Audio's pencil condenser technology to an even higher level. Designed in the U.S.A. by veteran engineers and hand-assembled to exacting standards, this precision microphone exhibits quality comparable to that of vintage classics. New features like -10dB pad and 80Hz high-pass filter switches, higher SPL than the original and a redesigned solid-brass backplate deliver smooth, accurate sound in the studio and on stage. The Pulsar II has many applications, including drum overheads, acoustic guitar, piano, close-miking strings and woodwinds, room miking and more. Flexible New Features The Pulsar II can adapt to many recording and live situations. The 12dB/octave high-pass filter reduces low-frequency rumble and the potential for overloading mic preamps with low-frequency signals. The Pulsar II also handles higher SPLs - an overall 2dB boost thanks to a new thermal diaphragm treatment, plus a new 10dB switchable attenuation pad. M Audio Pulsar II Features Professional small-capsule condenser microphone 3/4 inch, 6-micron Mylar evaporated gold diaphragm Solid brass backplate Solid brass body Class-A FET electronics Switchable 10dB pad and 80Hz high-pass filter Wooden storage box houses microphone, windscreen and clip Available as a Matched Pair This Pulsar IIpair is a matched set with only ±1dB tolerance from the excellent published frequency response curves - which extend from 20Hz to 20kHz. This makes the Pulsar II mics ideal for stereo rroom miking, stereo overheads and similar applications where balance

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11/08/2012

Shure SM27-LC Cardioid Side-Address Condenser Microphone, includes Zipper Pouch and Stand Adapter Review

Shure SM27-LC Cardioid Side-Address Condenser Microphone, includes Zipper Pouch and Stand Adapter
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I bought this mic to record/amp my sax and other wood winds when I am on stage and in the studio. I liked this mic because it is built tougher than others which were meant for only studio work. I like a mic that can come with me on stage and still give me great sound. This mic has excellent noise rejection and allows me to move around as I play and still get good coverage. As a horn player it is hard get positioned around a mic this one lets you just stand naturally and it will pick you up. It is not super sensitive so when I recorded my flute, it sounds good, but it is pretty quite. Probably not great for a vocal condenser, but makes a great amp or instrument mic.

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11/06/2012

Rode NTK Tube Condenser Microphone Review

Rode NTK Tube Condenser Microphone
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Great mic - excellent sound. I have been a pro voiceover artist for over 30 years and have dealt with a variety of studio mics. In building my own studio I really wanted a front end that had a clear and smooth full-range sound. The R0de NTK was recommended to me by another "big voice" artist, and completely lives up to the recommendation. Everyone I have talked to says it's about the best value out there. If you have cash to blow, you can get a "noyyyyyymannnnn" (raise eyebrows here), or you can enjoy the sound of this mic and take the extra $3200 and spend it on more gear. The hard plastic padded case for the mic and power supply are a nice touch. Don't forget to buy a shock mount for it!
Enjoy -

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10/28/2012

Shure DMK57-52 Drum Pack + 4 Whirlwind Cables Review

Shure DMK57-52 Drum Pack + 4 Whirlwind Cables
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I have been using Shure mics for about five years, all I can say is "they don't break" these mic are tough. I was happy to see this bundle of quality pro mics and cables for such a low price. I am very happy with them. They work as expected. I am currently using these mic on an Album project, you can hear what they sound like at my website [...] buy this bundle best value I have seen so far.

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10/25/2012

JBL JRX112M 12-Inch Classic Two Way Portable Loudspeaker in a Black Carpet Covered Cabinet Review

JBL  JRX112M 12-Inch Classic Two Way Portable Loudspeaker in a Black Carpet Covered Cabinet
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This is a great stage monitor. It has decent output and really makes the vocals crystal clear. No more fighting to be heard over the guitars.
The shipping from this company was fantastic. I think I received the package within 5 days of ordering it. It was inside a large box, secured with plastic rip tags and bundled up inside plastic protective wraps inside the box. It's heavy. Be aware.
The only issue I have with this stage monitor is it needs to be hooked up with a wire. I wish it was wireless so that I wouldn't have to worry about overloading our circuits.
It does not come with a cover.
Overall, great buy. If I wanted a wireless, I should have done more extensive research on the product. It's my fault, so I can't really complain too much.

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