Episodes
-
Voicing 1 Comparison: https://youtu.be/00Fl2m_J-q0
Today i review the Aston Apex, a handheld dynamic. This mic has two different voicings giving you different EQ curves, active electronics giving the mic a very healthy output level, and it offers a unique and robust feeling build quality. The sound is either V-shaped or upper mid focussed depending on the voicing you use. I found that it suffered in two primary areas: plosive rejection and handling noise rejection.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: 40dB (+48v Phantom Power On)
Boosted in Post: +10dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 16khz
Sensitivity: -62dB to -50dB (depending on active/passive & switch position)
Max SPL: 115dB to 147dB (depending on active/passive & switch position)
Equivalent Noise Level: 5dB
Buy the Aston Apex(Affiliate Link)
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/apex
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/594390Buy the Focusrite 18i20 4th Gen - (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: https://geni.us/18i204th
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/18i204th
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3DLyvHf
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/596531NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
00:00 - Intro
00:26 - What’s in the Box
00:44 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:16 - Specifications
01:28 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:43 - Plosive Test
02:03 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:21 - Background Noise Test
02:34 - Untreated Room Test
02:54 - Shock Rejection Test
03:15 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:31 - Handling Noise Rejection Test
03:51 - Cup the Mic Test
04:10 - Voicing Switch Demo (Voice 1 vs. Voice 2)
05:33 - Shure SM58 Comparison
05:56 - Sennheiser E835 Comparison
06:21 - sE Electronics V7 Comparison
06:46 - Shure Beta 58a Comparison
07:13 - Audix OM3 Comparison
07:42 - Mojave MA-D Comparison
08:10 - Sennheiser E935 Comparison
08:38 - Beyerdynamic TG V70d Comparison
09:14 - Audio Technica AT2010 Comparison
09:43 - Lewitt MTP350Cm Comparison
10:09 - Earthworks SR117 Comparison
10:33 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
11:03 - Music Test (voicing 2)
13:03 - Pros & Cons
14:41 - Overall Thoughts
16:48 - Recommendation -
Today I review the new dynamic mic from Audix PDX520 which is a broadcast dynamic, podcast dynamic, streamer dynamic, or studio dynamic, whatever you want it to be. It has a standard dynamic sensitivity, a darker and smoother sound profile with a slight focus on the mids, and two eq switches to adjust the sound (presence boost & high pass filter).
Buy the Audix PDX520 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/pdx520NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focusrite 18i20 4th Gen
Gain: 50dB
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Boosted in Post: +9dBSPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response :40Hz - 16kHz
Sensitivity: ~ -56dBV
Max SPL: 144dB
Impedance 280 ohms00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:30 - What’s in the Box
00:45 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:21 - Specifications
01:32 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:53 - Plosive Test
02:07 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:31 - Background Noise Test
02:44 - Untreated Room Test
03:03 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:17 - Shock Rejection Test
03:32 - EQ Switch Demo
04:45 - Intro to Comparison
05:06 - Shure SM58 Comparison
05:23 - sE Electronics V7 Comparison
05:42 - Rode Podmic Comparison
06:00 - Audio Technica AT2040 Comparison
06:21 - Rode Procaster Comparison
06:41 - sE Electronics Dynacaster Comparison
07:05 - Universal Audio SD-1 Comparison
07:33 - Aston Stealth Comparison
07:57 - Audio Technica BP40 Comparison
08:21 - Logitech Blue Sona C omparison
08:47 - Heil PR40 Comparison
09:07 - Shure SM7b Comparison
09:32 - Earthworks Ethos Comparison
09:57 - Electro Voice RE20 Comparsion
10:21 - Shure SM57 Comparison
10:47 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
11:25 - Music Test
12:45 - Pros & Cons
14:05 - Overall Thoughts|
15:44 - Recommendation -
Missing episodes?
-
vs. 12 Mics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5L5ggn-qkE
Today i review the Audix OM3, a handheld dynamic. This mic offers a bright upper mid and treble region with a tight hypercardioid polar pattern which does a good job at background noise rejection, but a less than stellar job at handling noise rejection. The microphone also has a powerful lowend which can be a little bit over powering in my opinion.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: ~45dB
Boosted in Post: +10dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Hypercardioid
Freq Response : 50Hz - 17khz
Sensitivity: -56dB
Impedance: 290-ohms
Max SPL: ≥144 dB
Buy the Audix OM3 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/aom3
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/aom3
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/42b0YyA
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/160138Buy the Focusrite 18i20 4th Gen - (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: https://geni.us/18i204th
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/18i204th
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3DLyvHf
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/596531NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
00:00 - Nonsense
00:27 - Intro
00:42 - What’s in the Box
01:10 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:35 - Specifications
01:47 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:06 - Plosive Test
02:30 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:56 - Background Noise Test
03:10- Untreated Room Test
03:30 - Shock Rejection Test
03:48 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:59 - Handling Noise Rejection Test
04:19 - Cup the Mic Test
04:42 - Behringer XM8500 Comparison
05:03 - Shure SM58 Comparison
05:27 - Sennheiser E835 Comparison
05:50 - sE Electronics V7 Comparison
06:09 - Audix OM2 Comparison
06:33 - AKG D5 Comparison
06:56 - Shure Beta 58a Comparison
07:19 - Mojave MA-D Comparison
07:43 - Sennheiser E935 Comparison
08:11 - Earthworks SR117 Comparison
08:40 - Shure Beta 87A Comparison
09:04 - Neumann KMS105 Comparison
09:34 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
10:01 - Music Test
11:43 - Pros & Cons
12:48 - Overall Thoughts
14:19 - Recommendation -
00:00 - Intro
00:19 - Spoken Word Comparison
04:19 - Plosive Test (On Grill)
05:23 - Plosive Test (3" Distance)
06:26 - Handling Noise Test 1
07:23 - Handling Noise Test 2
08:12 - Outro
-
Today I walkthrough, explain, test and review the new Lewitt Connect 2 streaming audio interface. I compare it to the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th gen, test the preamps with the SM7b, demo the D.I. Instrument inputs, test the line level input capability, walk through the clipguard feature, eq settings, denoise capability, and compressor as well. This is an all around fantastic interface for someone who needs a single preamp and instrument input.
Buy the Lewitt Connect 2 (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: https://geni.us/connect2
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/connect2
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/4kBgVGQ
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/590334Buy the Shure SM7b (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/shuresm7b
Sweetwater: https://imp.i114863.net/sm7b
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3sRWmQb
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/129929RECORDING SETTINGS:
Mic: Neumann U87 Ai
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: 29dB
Boosted in Post: +8dBSPECS:
USB: Bit Depth: 24-bit, Sampling Rate: 44.1, 48, or 96khz
EIN: -129dBV (A-weighted)
Gain Range: 0-72dB
Dynamic Range: 118dB (A)00:00 - Intro / Pricing / Disclosure
00:26 - What’s in the Box
00:48 - Build Quality
01:20 - Walkthrough of Interface
02:24 - Specifications
02:51 - Headphone Amp Discussion
04:02 - Shure SM7b Mic Test (No Cloudlifter or Fethead)
04:53 - Preamp Noise Test
05:30 - Connect 2 vs Scarlett 4th Gen
06:25 - Line In Test
07:30 - Auto Gain Demo
08:07 - Denoise Demo
09:01 - Compressor Demo
09:41 - Clipguard Demo
10:20 - Clean / Warm / Vivid Demo
11:42 - Mute Button Demo
12:11 - D.I. Instrument Input Test
14:04 - Pros & Cons
17:01 - Recommendation -
Today i review the Shure PGA181 an affordable side address condenser. It is very straight forward with only a cardioid polar pattern and no pads or filters. This mic is more of an upper mid focused sound which gives it a punchy character. The self noise on this mic comes in at 22dBA which is kind of high, but seems relatively inline with the competition LCT240 (19dBA), AT2020 (20dBA), 770 ($20dBA), X1a (16dBA), but it is still on the higher side.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: +32dB
Boosted in Post: +9dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 50Hz - 20khz
Sensitivity: -38dB
Max SPL: 138dB
Self Noise: 22dBA
Impedance: 120-ohms
Buy the Shure PGA181(Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/pga181
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/pga181
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/43g9RZQBuy the Focusrite 18i20 4th Gen - (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: https://geni.us/18i204th
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/18i204th
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3DLyvHf
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/596531NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:24 - What’s in the Box
00:41 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:05 - Specifications
01:16 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:35 - Plosive Test
01:52 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:14 - Background Noise Test
02:27 - Untreated Room Test
02:46 - Shock Rejection Test
03:09 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:39 - Neewer NW700 Comparison
03:51 - MXL 770 Comparison
04:15 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
04:40 - sE Electronics X1a Comparison
05:07 - Lewitt LCT240 Comparison
05:37 - AKG P220 Comparison
06:04 - Neat King Bee Comparison
06:30 - Rode NT1 (5th Gen) Comparison
06:58 - Sterling ST181 Comparison
07:33 - Shure SM57 Comparison
07:58 - Earthworks SR117 Comparison
08:24 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
08:50 - Music Test
11:15 - Pros & Cons
12:20 - Overall Thoughts
14:08 - Recommendation -
Video & HQ Audio: https://podcastage.com/rev/bumblebee2
Today I'm reviewing and demoing the Neat Bumblebee 2, a budget USB condenser mic that I got for under $30. This offers really great sound quality for the price and leans slightly V-shaped with a supportive bass and low mid section and a bit of a boost in the treble and air. You get a single cardioid pattern, a mute button, a headphone output, and a mix dial for computer playback and zero latency monitoring. At $25 or less this is a great deal. At $60 it has some fair competition but stacks up admirably against the alternatives. At $100 I don't think the value proposition is as strong.
Buy the Neat Bumblebee II (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/bumblebee2NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Mic Level: ~12%
Boosted in Post: +10dBSPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -36dB
Self Noise: 14dBA
Max SPL: 128dB
A/D & D/A: 16 or 24-bit / 44.1-96khz00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:25 - What’s in the Box
00:48 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:46 - Specifications
01:56 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:13 - Plosive Test
02:27 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:47 - Background Noise Test
03:01 - Untreated Room Test
03:21 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:35 - Desktop Stand Demo
04:21 - Mute Button Test
04:51 - Samson Go Mic Comparison
05:16 - Razer Seiren V3 Mini Comparison
05:42 - HyperX Solocast Comparison
06:08 - Logitech Blue Yeti Orb Comparison
06:40 - Rode NT USB Mini Comparison
07:11 - Sennheiser Profile USB Comparison
07:46 - Audio Technica AT2020 USB-X Comparison
08:14 - Shure SM57 Comparison
08:43 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
09:14 - Music Test
10:34 - Pros & Cons
12:20 - Overall Thoughts
14:10 - Recommendation -
Support the Channel: http://podcastage.com/support
Today i review the Neumann TLM107, a multipattern condenser with two high pass filters and two pad options. It has a balanced bass and mid section and then a treble bump which gives the mic a bit of life. It does sound a touch sharp on spoken word but sounds great for the music applications I tried it in.
Buy Neumann TLM107 (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: https://geni.us/tlm107
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/tlm107
B&H: https://bhpho.to/4jJ9QDF
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/415384NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 4th gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: 37dB
Boosted in Post: +8dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardiod, Figure-8
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20khz
Sensitivity: ~ -39dB
Self Noise: 10dBA
Max SPL: 153dB (with pad engaged)
Impedance: 50-ohms
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:19- What’s in the Box
00:40 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:25 - Specifications
01:39 - Polar Pattern Tone Demo
02:37 - Polar Pattern Rotation Demo
03:52 - Plosive Test
04:04 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
04:25 - Background Noise Test
04:37 - Untreated Room Test
03:58 - Shock Rejection Test
05:15 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
05:29 - High Pass Filter Demo
06:05 - Pad Demo
06:30 - Outboard Preamp Demo
07:37 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
07:55 - AKG P420 Comparison
08:16 - Rode NT2a Comparison
08:39 - sE Electronics sE4400a Comparison
09:05 - Neumann TLM102 Comparison
09:31 - Neumann TLM103 Comparison
09:58 - AKG C414 XLII Comparison
10:27 - Austrian Audio OC818 Copmarison
10:57 - Neumann TLM49 Comparison
11:28 - Microtech Gefell UMT70s
12:00 - Shure SM57 Comparison
12:26 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
12:52 - Music Test
14:12 - Pros & Cons
16:02 - Overall Thoughts
18:09 - Recommendation
-
Video & HQ Audio: https://podcastage.com/rev/quad2
Today I'm reivewing and demoing the Hyperx Quadcast 2, a multipattern USB condenser microphone. This thing offers a nice sound quality, a fairly intuitive operation, a capacitive mute button, and everything you need to start recording. It's a nice improvement over the gen 1 with improved sound quality, A/D and D/A converters and functionality.
Today I review the Fifine AM8, a budget USB/XLR dynamic microphone that only costs around $50. As mentioned this has an XLR & USB output which can be used simultaneously, a 3.5mm headphone jack which offers computer playback and zero latency monitoring, a capacitive mute button, and RGB LIGHTS!!! Sound wise I perceive it as slightly V-shaped where the lower & higher frequencies overpower the mid frequencies, but overall it sounds pretty darn good especially considering the price. There is one flaw with this microphone which makes me only kind of recommend it, the mount which makes the microphone very floppy.
Buy the Hyperx Quadcast 2 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/quadcast2
NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Mic-Gain: 11:00dB
Computer Input Level: 33%
Boosted in Post: +7dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Stereo, Bi-directional
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -7.5dB
A/D & D/A: 16/24-bit / 44.1-96khz
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:25 - What’s in the Box
00:42 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:34 - Specifications
01:42 - Operation Walkthrough
02:32 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:51 - Cardioid / Omni / Stereo / Figure-8 Demo
04:03 - Plosive Test
04:16 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
04:36 - Background Noise Test
04:49 - Untreated Room Test
05:09 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
05:23 - Desktop Stand Demo
06:02 - Mute Button Test
06:18 - Does it ASMR Test?
07:02 - Samson Go Mic Comparison
07:26 - HyperX Solocast Comparison
07:53 - HyperX Quadcast Original Comparison
08:23 - Blue Yeti Comparison
08:55 - Sennheiser Profile USB Comparison
09:28 - Audio Technica AT2020 USB-X Comparison
09:58 - Elgato Wave 3 Comparison
10:30 - Rode NT-USB+ Comparison
11:04 - Logitech Blue Yeti X Comparison
11:39 - Shure SM57 Comparison
12:12 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
12:40 - Music Test
15:04 - Pros & Cons
16:29 - Overall Thoughts
17:49 - Recommendation
-
Today I provide spoken word samples of the Focusrite 18i20 4th gen and compare it to the 2nd gen 18i20 as well as the Universal Audio X8 and the UA LA610 MK II preamp, and Warm Audio WA73 EQ preamp. I also explain why I chose this inteface as the device for my reviews.
Buy the Focusrite 18i20 4th Gen - (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: https://geni.us/18i204th
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/18i204th
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3DLyvHf
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/596531As an Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Mic: Neumann U87 Ai
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: 36dB
Boosted in Post: +2dB00:00 - Intro / Pricing / Disclosure
01:00 - What's in the Box
01:23 - Physical Differences
03:10 - Spec Differences (Screenshot)
03:35 - AT2020 (2nd vs. 4th)
04:25 - NT1 (2nd vs. 4th)
05:20 - SM7b (2nd vs. 4th)
06:16 - U87 Ai (2nd vs. 4th)
07:00 - Noise Performance (2nd vs. 4th)
07:44 - Universal Audio X8 vs. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20
08:58 - Universal Audio LA610 vs. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20
09:50 - Warm Audio WA73 vs. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20
10:35 - Why I Chose the Focusrite Scarlett Interface?
12:20 - Conclusion -
Thanks for an amazing 2024. Simply put there weren't enough reviews to compile a good box throw video, so I figured this would be a fun way to wrap up the year. If this is dumb, let me know and we won't do it again.
00:00 - Intro
00:34 - #5. Shure 565 SD - 19 NOV 2024
01:44 - #4. Warm Audio WA47 - 22 OCT 2024
03:29 - #3. Art Tube MP - 23 JAN 2024
04:22 - #2. Shure Nexadyne- 1 OCT 2024
06:04 - #1. Peluso P414 - 7 NOV 2024
08:09 - Wrap Up -
Video & HQ Audio: https://podcastage.com/rev/2024fav
Today we discuss my favorite audio gear of 2024. I share my favorite microphone that I reviewed this year, my favorite audio interface / preamp I reviewed, and my favorite new production gear that I use in my studio. I would love to hear what your favorite gear of the year is.
As an affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Gear Discussed (Affiliate Links):
Neumann BCM104: https://geni.us/bcm104
Lewitt Ray: https://geni.us/lray
sE Electronics X1a: https://geni.us/sex1a
Heritage Audio i73 Pro: https://geni.us/i73pro2
RND Portico 5017: https://geni.us/rnd5017
Videos:
Neumann BCM104: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC3N_hNk7hE
Lewitt Ray: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajqcxyV5wgY
sE Electronics X1a: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmWZJ2IebZ8
Heritage Audio i73 Pro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFco7aT22jg
RND Portico 5017: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7H8B3e_s3j4
00:00 - Intro
00:23 - Favorite Mics I Reviewed
03:53 - Favorite Preamp & Interface I Reviewed
05:37 - Favorite Production Gear
08:57 - Your Favorite Gear?
09:25 - Conclusion
-
Today we're looking at the Sennheiser ME 2 a relatively affordable lavalier microphone. This offers a brighter character which can be beneficial on the collar or in the center or the chest to maintain some clarity and not sound overly muddy. This mic does have a self noise of 32dBA which is high and the noise can be quite noticeable. Also, you don't get any accessories with this other than the mic clip, so if you want any kind of dead cat or windscreen, you're going to need to buy those separately.
Buy the Sennheiser ME 2 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/sennME2
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/me2ii
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3DfPot4
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/141903NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Input: Zoom F2
Boosted in Post: +22dBSPECS:
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
Freq Response : 50Hz - 18kHz
Sensitivity ~ -35dB
Noise: 32dBA
Max SPL: 130dB
Input Voltage: 10vTIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:20 - What’s in the Box
00:35 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:08 - Specifications
01:16 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:33 - Plosive Test
01:51 - Background Noise Test
02:05 - Untreated Room Test
02:24 - Lav Mic Position Tests
03:58 - Camera Internal Mic Comparison
05:04 - Different Room Tests
06:08 - Portable Recorder Demo
06:24 - 3.5mm Interface Demo
06:58 - USB Soundcard Demo
07:25 - XLR Adapter Demo|
07:50 - iPhone Demo
08:18 - 3.5mm Computer Input Demo
08:40 - Camera Mic Input Demo
09:14 - Zoom LMF-2 Comparison
09:39 - Shure MVL Comparison
10:05 - Rode Lavalier Go Comparison
10:31 - Rode Lavalier 2 Comparison
10:59 - Countryman B6 Comparison
11:33 - Sanken Cos 11D Comparison
12:07 - Shure TL48 Comparison
12:50 - Neumann U87 Comparison
13:26 - Pros & Cons
14:57 - Overall Thoughts
15:46 - Recommendation -
Video & HQ Audio: https://podcastage.com/rev/am8
Today I review the Fifine AM8, a budget USB/XLR dynamic microphone that only costs around $50. As mentioned this has an XLR & USB output which can be used simultaneously, a 3.5mm headphone jack which offers computer playback and zero latency monitoring, a capacitive mute button, and RGB LIGHTS!!! Sound wise I perceive it as slightly V-shaped where the lower & higher frequencies overpower the mid frequencies, but overall it sounds pretty darn good especially considering the price. There is one flaw with this microphone which makes me only kind of recommend it, the mount which makes the microphone very floppy.
Buy the Fifine AM8 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/fifineam8NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 16-bit / 48kHz
Gain: 1:30dB
Boosted in Post: +6dBSPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response: 50Hz - 16kHz
Sensitivity: -50dB
A/D & D/A: 16-bit / 44.1-48khz00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:21 - What’s in the Box
00:43 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:30 - Specifications
01:45 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:01 - Plosive Test
02:14 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:23 - Background Noise Test
02:46 - Untreated Room Test
03:04 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:16 - Shock Rejection Test
03:36 - Mute Button Test
04:36 - Desktop Stand Demo
05:29 - Samson Go Mic Comparison
05:50 - Samson Q2u Comparison
06:16 - Fifine K688 Comparison
06:43 - sE Electronics V7 Comparison
07:12 - Shure SM58 Comparison
07:38 - Audio Technica AT2040USB Comparison
08:06 - Shure MV6 Comparison
08:36 - Logitech Yeti GX Comparison
09:05 - Shure SM7b Comparison
09:33 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
10:11 - Music Test
11:45 - Pros & Cons
13:54 - Overall Thoughts
15:49 - Recommendation -
Today I review the Shure MV6 which is a USB Gaming microphone that costs around $150. The big feature of this mic is the DSP (digital signal processing) which gives you the ability to adjust the microphones tone, add a noise remover, use a digital popper stopper, or add a highpass filter. It also includes auto-level in case you don't want to worry about your level. The sound of it is very upper mid, presence, and treble focused so if you dislike that sound, you're probably not going to be in love with this mic.
Buy the Shure MV6 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/smv6
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/mv6
B&H: https://bhpho.to/4fIQLPw
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/599144NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: +18.5dB
Boosted in Post: +2dB
Firmware: 1.1.0.10SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response :50Hz - 15kHz
Sensitivity: -34.7 dBFS
Max SPL: 128dB (USB)
A/D & D/A: 24-bit / 48khz00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:19 - What’s in the Box
00:40 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:23 - Specifications
01:37 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:52 - Plosive Test
02:12 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:29 - Background Noise Test
02:53 - Untreated Room Test
03:14 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:36 - Shock Rejection Test
03:53 - Mute Button Test
04:05 - Desktop Stand Demo
04:59 - Software Walkthrough
06:17 - Dark / Bright Tone EQ Demo
07:15 - Real Time Denoiser Test
08:02 - Digital Popper Stopper Demo
08:46 - High Pass Filter Demo
09:53 - Samson Go Mic Comparison
10:22 - Fifine K688 Comparison
10:46 - Samson Q2u Comparison
11:16 - Shure SM58 Comparison
11:46 - sE Electronics V7 Comparison
12:14 - Audio Technica AT2040USB Comparison
12:41 - Elgato Wave 3 Comparison
13:06 - Rode Podmic USB Comparison
13:41 - Shure MV7 Comparison
14:17 - Shure MV7+ Comparison
14:50 - Shure SM7b Comparison
15:26 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
16:09 - Music Test
17:36 - Pros & Cons
19:09 - Overall Thoughts
20:43 - Recommendation -
Today i review the Shure 565SD, a classic handheld dynamic. This offers acardioid pattern and a very bright treble range which gives you a clearer sound than many other handheld dynamics when you're right on top of it. At a distance I think the boost can be a bit much and sound sibilant and sharp, but for it's designed use case it makes a lot of sense.
Additional Mic Tests: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4Yw-Kx3W0E
Additional Guitar Sample: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhE7hhZ_u78RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: ~5:00
Boosted in Post: +8dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 50Hz - 15khz
Sensitivity: -56dB
Impedance: 250-ohms
Buy the Shure 565 SD (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/565sd
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/565sd
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/3ZdeT6Y
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/105758NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:21 - What’s in the Box
00:36 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:00 - Specifications
01:12 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:28 - Plosive Test
01:49 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:10 - Background Noise Test
02:22- Untreated Room Test
02:41 - Shock Rejection Test
03:00 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:12 - Handling Noise Rejection Test
03:30 - Cup the Mic Test
04:05 - Behringer XM8500 Comparison
04:25 - Shure SM58 Comparison
04:47 - Sennheiser E835 Comparison
05:09 - sE Electronics V7 Comparison
05:35 - AKG D5 Comparison
05:59 - Shure Beta 58a Comparison
06:20 - Mojave MA-D Comparison
06:47 - Earthworks SR117 Comparison
07:18 - Shure Beta 87A Comparison
07:45 - Neumann KMS105 Comparison
08:15 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
08:47 - Music Test
10:12 - Pros & Cons
11:06 - Overall Thoughts
12:48 - Recommendation -
Support the Channel: http://podcastage.com/support
Today i review the Peluso P414, a mic that is trying to emulate the sound of the original AKG C414 EB which had the same brass capsule as the AKG C12. As you'd expect, it is a very bright and airy mic that gives you a hyper detailed and shimmery top end. This thing has 4 polar patterns, two high pass filters, and 2 pads, a max SPL of 162dB and a self noise of 12dBA.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: ~1:00
Boosted in Post: +6dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Omni, Figure-8, Cardioid, Hyper-cardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20khz
Sensitivity: ~ -38dB
Self Noise: 12dBA
Max SPL: 162dB (with pad engaged)
Impedance: 200-ohms
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:28 - What’s in the Box
00:53 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:35 - Specifications
01:48 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:47 - Plosive Test
03:09 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
03:29 - Background Noise Test
03:43 - Untreated Room Test
04:06 - Shock Rejection Test
04:25 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
04:38 - Wind Screen Demo
05:27 - High Pass Filter Demo
05:59 - Pad Demo
06:56 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
07:20 - AKG P420 Comparison
07:43 - Lewitt LCT440 Comparison
08:07 - Rode NT2a Comparison
08:32 - AKG C214 Comparison
09:01 - sE Electronics sE4400a Comparison
09:28 - Neumann TLM103 Comparison
09:56 - Austrian Audio OC818
10:28 - AKG C414 XLS Comparison
11:00 - AKG C414 XLII Comparison
11:30 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
11:58 - Music Test
14:27 - Pros & Cons
15:39 - Overall Thoughts
17:30 - Recommendation -
Today i review the Violet Mics Amethyst Vintage (which was purchased after JZ Mics acquired them). This has a cardioid polar pattern, no pad, no filters, and no external mounting included. It is a very straight forward mic that offers a low self noise of 7dBA and has a slightly brighter sound quality to it.
Support the channel at https://www.podcastage.com/support
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: ~12:00
Boosted in Post: +6dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20khz
Sensitivity: -33.5dB
Self Noise: 7dBA
Max SPL: 134dB (with pad engaged)
Impedance: 50-ohms
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:30 - What’s in the Box
00:44 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:34 - Specifications
01:50 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:13 - Plosive Test
02:28 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:47 - Background Noise Test
02:46 - Untreated Room Test
03:24 - Shock Rejection Test
03:44 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
04:13 - Rode NT1 Comparison
04:38 - Shure KSM32 Comparison
05:05 - Soyuz 1973 Comparison
05:29 - Telefunken TF11 Comparison
05:56 - JZ Mics V11 Comparison
06:23 - Neumann TLM103 Comparison
06:55 - JZ Mics V67. Comparison
07:28 - Austrian Audio OC818 Comparison
08:01 - AKG C414 XLS Comparison
08:40 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
09:11 - Music Test
10:43 - Pros & Cons
12:01 - Overall Thoughts
13:38 - Recommendation -
Today I review the Warm Audio WA47, a clone of the Telefunken U47. This mic offers a relatively balanced sound with good bass extension and a nicely detailed treble and air frequency range. I found that it sounds a bit different than the Telefunken TF47 (the closest U47 style mic I have), so I'm not sure how clsoe it is to the actual U47, but ignoring the model number, I think this is a solid sound mic for music.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: ~12:00
Boosted in Post: +8dBSPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 + 6 More Patterns
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20khz
Self Noise: 11dBA
S/N Ratio: 82dBA
Max SPL: 140dB
Impedance: 200 Ohms
Buy the Warm Audio WA47 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/WA47
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/wa47
BH Photo: https://bhpho.to/3YB3fmg
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/426325?partner_id=23899NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:22 - What’s in the Box
00:49 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:50 - Specifications
02:11 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone)
02:47 - Polar Pattern Test (Rotation)
03:30 - Plosive Test
03:49 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
04:10 - Background Noise Test
04:35 - Untreated Room Test
04:49 - Shock Rejection Test
05:09 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
05:23 - Intro to Comparison
05:37 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
06:03 - Warm Audio WA47 Jr Comparison
06:33 - Soyuz 1973 Comparison
07:09 - Warm Audio WA67 Comparison
07:38 - Neumann TLM49 Comparison
08:16 - Telefunken TF47 Comparison
08:45 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
09:13 - Neumann U67 Reissue Comparison
09:47 - Music Test
11:34 - Pros & Cons
13:21 - Overall Thoughts
15:47 - Recommendation
16:56 - WARNING -
Today i review what I would classify as a BUDGET mic, the CAD E40. This thing has an MSRP of $100, but at the time of review it's on sale for $50 and I bought mine for $30. It offers a super cardioid polar pattern, a 100hz highpass filter and a -10dB pad. The max SPL is a little on the low side at 125dB, but for spoken word applications this should not cause any problems. As far as the sound it offers a very bright sound that I think comes across unsmooth and a bit brittle, and it also can have an exaggerated bass and low mid section when you close mic.
Buy the CAD E40 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/cade40
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/40693VQNOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Gain: ~1:00
Boosted in Post: +5dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 18khz
Sensitivity: -35dB
Self Noise: 15.8dBA
High Pass Filter: 100Hz, 6dB/oct
Max SPL: 125dB (with pad engaged)
Impedance: 155-ohms
00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:27 - What’s in the Box
00:42 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:20 - Specifications
01:32 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:50 - Plosive Test
02:09 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:31 - Background Noise Test
02:46 - Untreated Room Test
03:05 - Shock Rejection Test
03:24 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:38 - High Pass Filter Demo
04:04 - Pad Demo
04:34 - Neewer NW700 Comparison
05:00 - Blue Ember Comparison
05:25 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
05:49 - sE Electronics X1a Comparison
06:13 - Lewitt LCT240 Comparison
06:40 - AKG P120 Comparison
07:07 - Neat King Bee v2 Comparison
07:33 - Earthworks SR117 Comparison
08:34 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
09:04 - Music Test
11:05 - Pros & Cons
12:12 - Overall Thoughts
14:01 - Recommendation - Show more
