USB Mics: Who Uses Them?
Hey gang,
Before I pose my question, let me give you some background info. I spent over a month working with various USB mics in preparation for the April ‘07 roundup, “The Direct Connection.” Before I started my research, I naively thought there would be little sonic difference between the mics, imagining that the majority of them would be suitable only for informal recording situations (songwriting demos, jams, Lo-Fi Podcasts). Was I ever wrong!
Each of the mics had its own personality, and a couple of them surprised me by how good they sounded, especially when you consider the price. However, I still had some reservations.
On a recent trip, I wanted to bring only a laptop and a USB mic to throw down some ideas, because I didn’t want the extra weight of an external preamp, A/D converter, or even an XLR cable. Surprisingly, the recordings were good enough to fit into an upcoming project, and now I feel that my studio toolbox is that much richer. Have you had a similar experience?
Tell us how you’ve been using USB microphones. Do you have any interesting tips or anecdotes to share with other EM readers who are using (or considering) USB mics? If so, hit reply: we’d love to hear from you!
May 25th, 2007 at 12:32 pm
My Digital Media Insider podcast improved dramatically when I switched to a Rode Podcaster mic. One unexpected reason, which you touched on in your excellent roundup, is the Rode’s zero-latency headphone jack. Because small changes in mic position make a big difference, being able to hear myself as I record allows me to adjust continuously for the best sound or do instant retakes if I pop a “P.” (The Rode has a pretty good pop filter, by the way.) I wouldn’t even consider a USB mic without this direct-monitoring feature now.
The main drawback on the Rode is its low output level on the Mac. (On Windows, there’s a control panel that boosts the level.) And as you mentioned in the article, it does pick up handling noise, so I usually shockmount it in my ersatz vocal booth, but for one episode, I handheld it carefully for a 45-minute interview. I woudn’t want to do that again; it’s mighty heavy.
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