AKG Perception 200 Large Diaphragm True Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)After trying progressively better microphones, I decided to get serious about buying a good microphone. The intended use of the microphone is for narrative vocal recording, as opposed to musical vocal recording, with the possibility of recording acoustic guitar and conga drum as well. I could not be more pleased with my choice.
Several other microphones were considered, including the Perception 100. The primary difference between the two models is the 200 features two switches allowing the microphone to be used in very high volume level situations and to reduce bass input. In retrospect, while these are not gimmicks, I question how much my particular need for these features will be. The difference in price was reasonable, so my dissatisfaction is minimal. The real rating should be four point eight (4.8) points out of five.
The sound quality offered by the Perception 200 more than makes up for any dissatisfaction over spending a little more than I needed to. Where I work, we have a broadcast quality microphone in a sound isolated environment. That microphone cost 3 to 5 times what I spent on the Perception 200. Digital recordings produced by both microphones on the same equipment show very little difference in sound capture. In informal blind listening, through the same playback equipment, most people agreed the Perception recordings sounded slightly warmer, but the vocal range was identical and the Perception captured subtle vocal nuances as well as the more expensive studio microphone.
According to AKG, except for the aforementioned attenuation switches, the Perception 100 is supposed to deliver the same response as the Perception 200. Only because of the differ4ence in cost, I'd slightly downgrade the overall value of the 200. The performance is outstanding at any price. I highly recommend this microphone to serious home recorders or studio operators wanting quality on a tight budget.

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Ground-breaking, high-quality AKG large-diaphragm recording microphones have defined the international studio standard for decades. The new Perception 100 and Perception 200 microphones are based on AKG's nearly 6 decades of experience and from input provided by sound engineers around the world that use AKG products every day.

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Rode NT2000 Vocal Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)Everyone should have a multi-pattern mic around for utility purposes and this is the one I chose after demoing a half-dozen of interest (I had particularly high hopes for the Blue Mics). Aside from one super-expensive, and unnamed mic, the Rode NT2000 was actually my favorite by quite a margin. As I regard this type of mic as a utility piece, I was looking for a mic that was fairly neutral on voice/cardioid and without too heavy a proximity effect, airy and crisp on omni, and had to have an attentuation switch.
The NT2000 has all that, plus a rugged build. I've been very pleased since purchase, having used it for voice, acoustic guitar (could probably use a warmer mic here), cab miking on electric, bagpipes, recording ambience, and percussion. I'm especially pleased with the mic's ability to capture detail in high sound pressure conditions.
The NT2000 has continuously variable patterns, not a fixed selection of patterns. It has a variable pad, not a simple cut type attentuation switch, which really helps in nailing the sound without having to compromise the mic's position. Finally, the high-pass filter is also continuously variable. All go a long way in making this a HIGHLY adaptable mic.
After my demos, I went in to buy one mic, got an offer I couldn't refuse on two, and walked away poorer but happier! You won't be able to equal that price, as it was something of a favor, but the price here is good.
Although I love NT2000's sound and capabilities, I'm not wild about the controls (pattern, etc.). These aren't knobs you grab and turn - they're thin and flat. They have an edge pattern, but I can't turn them reliably by trying to grab the edges. I have to put my thumb on the knob surface and rotate it that way. It works and the knobs won't get accidently moved, but it's not exactly the height of convenience.
Great multipurpose mics.

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The World's First Fully Variable Control Microphone! The RØDE NT2000 is the latest brainchild from Australian master microphone designer Peter Freedman. Never before has this much control and versatility been available in a superlative class large capsule recording microphone. You have totally variable polar pattern, filter and pad all located on the body of the microphone! The NT2000's state of the art surface-mount electronics combined with the new Australian designed and manufactured HF1 Capsule, provide extremely low self-noise (7 dBA) and a maximum SPL of 147 dB (157 dB with pad fully engaged) ensuring exceptional results and the ultimate in recording creativity. The NT2000 includes a hard case and a shockmount. Rode NT2000 Features Large 1 inch HF1 gold sputtered capsule Continuously variable polar pattern, from omnidirectional to cardioid to figure 8 controlled on the microphone Continuously variable pad and high-pass filter Ultra low noise, transformerless surface mount circuitry Wide dynamic range High strength welded and heat treated steel mesh head Internal capsule shock mounting 'I could go on to share the thousands of hours that went in to the research and development of this microphone, instead I am prepared to put my reputation on the line. I am saying without fear of contradiction, the NT2000 is the best sounding and most versatile 1' FET studio microphoneon the world market today, regardless of cost.' Peter Freedman, President RØDE Microphones AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Rode products.

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ART Tube MP Microphone Preamp Review

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(More customer reviews)While I couldn't recommend this product for someone wanting to do professional recoding, I am, overall, very pleased with it. I have a cheap mic, and this preamp dramatically improved the sound, and reduced backgroud hum. I really like the seperate imput and output controls, and the ability to run either 1/4 or XLR inputs is nice. It does lack some of the features that I have seen on more expensive models, and most of the tech is solid state. But again, for the price it is a nice little addition to your home studio.
If you are a beginner that just wants to play around with music recording/production, this is a simple to use product that will work great.

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For microphones, acoustic guitar, warming up a direct input to a mixer from a bass guitar, keyboard, etc., there is no sweeter sound than a tube preamp. In response to increasing demand for affordable tube mic preamplification, ART offers the Tube MP with the features that make it as powerful as units that cost 5 to 10 times more. Features include a 12AX7 tube, +48v phantom power, a phase reversal switch, 1/4' & XLR input/output, input control with two ranges of gain (+26dB to +60dB and +6dB to +40dB), and a +20dB gain boost for mics (or use it as a pad for line level signals). A peak LED allows you to precisely monitor clipping and an output control is included for trimming back to unity gain. The ART Tube MP is the world's most popular external tube microphone preamp. Whether you're working with a four-track, hard-disk, or digital multitrack recorder, the Tube MP's TEC award nominated design will allow you to obtain professional recording studio results at a fraction of the cost of comparable equipment. The hybrid design of the Tube MP allows it to add warmth and fatness to a signal while maintaining exceptionally low-noise and high quality. While its primary application is to be used with a microphone, the Tube MP is an exceptional direct box - impedance matching, amplifying and improving the sound of any instrument plugged into it. The usage of external mic/ line preamps has become increasingly popular over the past several years. The Tube MP offers superior performance and sound quality to the on-board preamps found in today's low-cost mixers and multi-trackers. It's sound has been consistently favored over other products costing upwards to ten-times its price. Professional quality sound combined with professional features like: a 12AX7a Tube, phantom power and Phase Reverse, are what have made the Tube MP a staple in thousands of studios worldwide. For a minimal investment, a Tube MP can provide the single largest improvement to the sound of your stu

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ART Tube MP USB Project Series Tube Microphone Preamp With USB Review

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(More customer reviews)I got this preamp from B&H at a decent price. It came with USB connectivity for easy link-up to PC. I have not tried this yet, but it only adds a few dollars in price to the base ART Tube MP Project Series Preamp and should be worthwhile.
The tube circuit is quite good, adding noticeable warmth to the sound. The built-in phantom power supply works well with condenser mics. The gain and volume controls are flexible and the output is reasonably strong for such a small unit. Both the input and output ports accept either the XLR and 1/4" plugs, with the latter taking precedence when both are connected. Other than the phantom power and 20db gain buttons, there are four more controlling impedance, filter, limiter and phase, giving this little unit complete functionality of a preamp. Overall, a great value.

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The ART Tube MP USB is a professional quality audio interface that lets you connect microphone, instrument, and line level signals to audio inputs, digital audio workstations as well as standard analog devices. ART took the legendary Tube MP series and updated every aspect of the design, inside and out, while still maintaining a compact, reliable, cost effective product, and added a USB output. From the new all-aluminum stackable chassis to the precision LED level metering circuitry, ART has improved virtually every aspect of the already successful Tube MP series and added USB connectivity. ART Tube MP Project Series USB Features USB Interface Output Extremely Low Noise Discrete Front End Up to 70dB of Clean, Musical Gain High Output Signal Drive Capability Fast FET Limiter to Prevent Overload Switch Selectable Input Impedance Precision LED Metering Built-in Low Noise Phantom Power Supply Compact, Stackable all Aluminum Chassis XLR and 1/4 inch Inputs and Outputs Phase Invert Switch High Cut Filter Switch Variable Input and Output Controls USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a common hardware interface used for quick and easy connection of peripherals like the ART USB TUBE MP. The TUBE MP features a single Type B USB peripheral connector on the rear panel for outputting audio over USB to your computer. One of the nice features of USB is its Hot Swapping capability, allowing the Tube MP to be connected and disconnected without turning your computer off. The ART USB TUBE MP is fully USB 1.1 compliant, operating under Windows 98SE or newer, and Mac OS 9.1 or newer. The new ultra low noise discrete microphone preamp front end has an extremely flat and wide frequency response and handles a wide range of input signal levels with a minimum of coloration. This gives

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M-Audio Nova Affordable Large Capsule Cardioid Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)I have been recording and engineering for more than 30 years. I own quite a number of excellent microphones ranging from AKG, Rode, Audio Technica and more. I was helping a friend mix a song he recorded on his digital work station and told him how impressed I was by the sound of his vocal tracks. He pulled out the M-Audio Nova and said that was the microphone he had used on all of the vocals. When he told me it was around $100.00 new I had to have one. I have microphones that cost 5 to 6 times more than this mic but honestly this mic ranks right up there with them. Don't think the cheap mic comes with a cheap sound, it is an excellent vocal or acoustic instrument microphone. (Remember it is a condenser and needs to be powered by your mixer, recorder or pre amp)

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Using manufacturing breakthroughs pioneered by M-Audios popular Luna and Solaris, the new Nova cardioid redefines the entry-level price point for quality studio condenser microphones. The 1.1 evaporated gold diaphragm mounted in a solid brass capsule ensures recordings that are faithful to the source, and the Class A solid state electronics are engineered for low noise, distortion and coloration. You will be amazed at how much microphone Nova gives you for the money.

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CAD GXL1200 Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)I like to review good products and let everyone know what is worth buying.
These mics ARE NOT!
The only reason I am reviewing this mic is because I read a lot of reviews
that talk about these mics are as good as the upper end mics. THAT IS NOT
TRUE!
I tried recording with these in my studio in several applications and in all
instances they fail, BIG TIME!
I used them for drum overheads, for cymbals, vocals, and guitar. Not one app
did I get even a decent sound.
Yeah they are cheap, but unless you are looking for a cheap sound SAVE YOUR MONEY!

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Point-source transduction, field-effect detection, and pure high voltage. Capture your instrumentation with exacting detail. Proximity effect is inversely proportional to distance. Play it right this time. Mic clip and protective pouch are included. P48 (48V) phantom power is required.

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MXL 2006 Large Gold Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with MXL-57 Shock Mount and Carrying Case Review

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(More customer reviews)I got it for a locution actually, and it's a very good mic. Could be better with a right preamp though, at least better than mine, but from money/quality aspects is a very nice mic with clear response and even nice looking :)

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Following in the footsteps of the highly successful MXL 2001 the 2006 is a Large Diaphragm, Gold Sputtered true "Class A" FET condenser microphone. A sweet and silky sounding microphone that is perfect for vocal and instrument recording alike. Comes with Hi-Isolation shock mount and rugged, deluxe carrying case.


Type:

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Blue Microphones Blueberry Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)You will not see a lot of advertising for the Latvian geniuses behind this wonderful little gem of a microphone, but one listen will convince you that you have discovered a pot of gold. It is at least as good as Neumann products costing half again the price: smooth, accurate, and from a company that is a delight to deal with. Try this blueberry. It sounds delicious.

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The Blue Microphones Blueberry consists of a Class A discrete microphone amplifier perfectly matched to BLUE's single pattern, cardioid, hand built large diaphragm capsule. First and foremost, the Blueberry has been designed to provide the commanding, intimate presence associated with the world's best (and most expensive) vintage vocal microphones. With its shimmering, detailed highs, smooth midrange, and minimized proximity effect (a bass boost inherent in all unidirectional mics), the Blueberry excels at delivering a vocal right to the front of the mix where it belongs. When processed with limiting and/or compression, as is standard practice for most pop vocals, tracks recorded with the Blueberry will be free of pumping, low frequency thumps. Acoustic guitar, hand percussion, drums, and other critical high end sources also shine in front of the Blueberry, gaining an extra measure of presence that enables the most delicate sounds to cut through a mix, even at very low levels. Designed to fill the needs of the home musician and the professional alike, the Blueberry includes the Series Two Shockmount and comes handsomely packaged in its own cherrywood box. Whatever your music, add a Blueberry to the mix and let your ears feast on the sound. Review Guitar World (September 2003)Shocking Blues: Blue Microphones Dragonfly, Blueberry and Baby Bottle Capture the Heart of What's in Your Head With BLUE Microphones BLUE microphones are more than just a recording tool, they are an investment in value, quality, and expression. You will display them for their artistic beauty, covet and protect them for their investment value, and treasure them for conveying the heart and soul of any musical recording. BLUE stands for Baltic Latvian Univ

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Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone with Cakewalk Sonar LE Review

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(More customer reviews)I am just starting to provide voice overs for tutorials and needed a convenient way to record audio on my PC. At first, I tried the classic headset/mic combo using my on board PC audio. This was unbearable to listen to.
I then purchased a Sony F-V220 Uni-Directional Vocal Microphone with Extended Frequency Response microphone. This was a distinct step up with vast improvements in sound quality. The remaining issue was hum introduced by the PC motherboard audio. I considered competing products for about 2 weeks until I settled upon the C01UCW.
The C01UCW promised great results with the ease of a single USB plug. I purchased one and would highly recommend it to others in my situation. The voice quality is great and the hiss/hum is virtually eliminated. The program I am using has an automatic filter to zero the levels between the actual speaking parts so when in actual use, the very little hiss that can be heard with windows sound recorder is completely lost when speaking normally.
The real test has been the positive responses from the people listening to the final results.
In summary, super simple USB installation (no drivers needed in WXP), very low noise, and great sound quality for a reasonable price.
The only niggles that I have with the C01UCW are:
The power light on the mic I received does not come on even though the mic works flawlessly. I am using a USB1.0 port while the device is USB2.0. The manual does not indicate that this should be normal.
The cardioid pattern was supposed to reject sounds from off-direction sources. It might be better than a unidirectional mic but with the sensitivity of this mic, any noise that has direct line of sight to the front of the mic is likely to be picked up. I can tell that those sounds from behind the mic are distinctly reduced.
I did not use the Cakewalk software. The stand works but only accepts the heavy mic in very limited stances. The heavy mic puts the center of gravity very high and the short stand legs have a difficult time compensating. I also purchased the isolation shockmount further raising the CG exacerbating the problem. To be sure, the stand works and I use the stand. I just use the stand in one position with the weight supported over one leg of the stand as the only viable option. It is definitely better to have the stand than not. It saved quite a bit of hassle and money to get the stand as a bundle.

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The C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic is an affordable studio condenser mic with a USB interface, granting musicians who record music on computers a simple, affordable way to capture high-quality vocal and acoustic instrument performances. The mic also opens up possibilities for anyone who records audio, from Podcasters, journalists and students to business people adding audio files to websites and multimedia presentations.

Based on the C01 The C01U condenser microphone is based on our Samson's C01, and features a 19mm internal shockmounted diaphragm with a cardioid pickup pattern, ensuring pristine, studio-quality recordings.
A high-quality A/D converter and USB output provide the direct PC connection, and the microphone itself is built to last, with solid die-cast construction.
Plug-and-Play Seamless integration was the idea, and it was obtained by creating a studio condenser microphone that can be plugged into any computer with no in/out boxes, no expensive computer pre-amps, and no drivers to install--just a USB cable.
The C01U works perfectly on any computer, Mac or PC, and with any DAW software program. It immediately solves a huge problem for users of many laptops, many of which have no other input method for audio devices.
Samson SoftPre The Samson C03U is designed to be fully functional without installing additional drivers. But for those who would like a little something extra, Samson offers its downloadable SoftPre software applet, which gives you an Input Level Meter, Volume control, High-pass filter and Phase Switch, for Mac or Windows.
Cakewalk Sonar LE The C01UCW package comes bundled with Cakewalk Sonar LE, the vastly popular digital audio workstation software, giving users additional power and versatility to digitally record audio in any situation.
SONAR LE has been designed to provide a simple yet complete solution for creating music. With support for up to 64 tracks and 24 track effects, 8 physical in/outs at 24bit/192kHz, SONAR LE is an ideal match for the CO1U. The package also includes 2 instruments, 6 MIDI effects, and 14 audio effects.
Accessories In addition to the C01U microphone and Cakewalk software, the package comes with a desktop mic stand, mic clip, and USB cable.
CO1U Specifications
Frequency Response: 20 - 18000 HZ
Polar pattern: Hypercardioid
Element type: Electret condenser type
Diaphragm thickness: 3 microns
SPL: 136 dB Max.
Dimensions (H x W x D): 7 x 2.125 x 2.125 inches (180 x 54 x 54 mm)
Weight: 1.06 lbs. (.48 kg)

What's in the Box C01U Microphone, Cakewalk Sonar LE Software, Desktop Mic Stand, Mic Clip, USB Cable, Owner's Manual

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Blue Microphones Bluebird Cardioid Condenser Mic Review

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(More customer reviews)This microphone sounds very good on everything I've tried it on. Running the mic through a DBX 376 mic pre, I was able to get some great vocals. Though to get a good amount of clarity on the consonants I did have to ask the singer to back up about six inches from the mic. Being close in, the mic just didn't pick up the T and S sounds. With that adjustment, the mic did a good job on vocals ending up with takes the singer and I were both happy with. It didn't blow me away, but it sounded good. I've used it on a combo amp with good results as well as acoustic guitar and mandolin with better results. Not blown away, but overall happy with the way it sounds being a two to three hundred dollar mic.
What I really don't like about this mic is how the look of the design and aesthetics of the mic are clearly more important to blue than the functionality. Getting this thing in and out of the shock mount is a bit of a pain as it threads into it. I just know I'm going to mis-thread the thing once and have to spend another 80 bucks to get a replacement. Also, every time you adjust the angle of the shock mount you really have to crank the small thumb screw to get it to stay into place. I find the thing very difficult to lock into place all for the sake of looking attractive. I find nothing less attractive than poor functionality. Which brings me to the pop screen. I've read plenty of reviews claiming the pop screen was useless. I wouldn't know because the screen that came with my mic doesn't fit the mic. I sent an email off to Blue and didn't hear anything for two weeks, in the mean time Amazon shipped a free replacement, but it had the exact same issue. Blue responded to a second email and they said the last batch of screens was bad. Blue is supposed to be shipping me a pop screen "when they become available", so I hope I'll be getting one.
All in all, it's a good sounding mic for the money. I find it to be on par with my ADK A51. It's not the "crown jewel" of my modest mic collection but a different flavor to use. But I find the functionality of the accessories to be cumbersome at best, and unusable at worst.

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Designed to offer superb sound and maximum versatility, Blue Microphones' Bluebird is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser that can handle everything--including vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, drums, strings, and woodwinds. It utilizes Blue's renowned microphone technology and a Class-A discrete circuit to achieve superior detail and clarity, while its unique, retro appearance is sure to be a hit in the studio. The complete Bluebird package includes a shockmount, pop filter, cable, and wooden case.
All-Purpose Design Gives You Professional Quality
The Bluebird is Blue Microphones' response to popular opinion--most people ask for a mic with a warm tone and silky smooth highs, and the Bluebird delivers. Engineered to be as versatile as possible, the Bluebird maintains the high-quality, no-compromise audio that you expect from Blue Microphones. This makes it ideal for male and female vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, close-miking of drums, drum overheads, percussion, piano, horns, and strings--in short, whatever you need it for most.
Proprietary Capsule and Discrete Electronic Components
Each professional-grade Blue Microphone utilizes a unique, proprietary capsule design to capture a specific sonic signature, and the Bluebird is no exception. As a large-diaphragm condenser with a cardioid polar pattern, the Bluebird is built to capture rich, full-bodied sound from sources that are directly in front of the mic.

The capsule and cardioid pattern combine with high-quality electronic components, including a Class-A discrete amplifier circuit, to ensure that each Bluebird mic offers consistent, reliable performance with extended top- and bottom-end sound detail. The electronic components in all of Blue's microphones have been carefully selected, based on 20 years of engineering and experimentation, in order to increase microphone speed, decrease distortion, reduce product variance, and ensure long-term dependability.
Unique Vintage Look and Complete Setup
Satin nickel plating and a baby-blue grip give the Bluebird Mic an original look that matches its well-rounded audio performance. A specially designed shockmount and metal mesh pop filter for laying down clean vocals are included with the mic. It also comes with a wooden storage case that matches the mics retro good looks.

The Bluebird is backed by a three-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box
Bluebird cardioid condenser microphone, shockmount, pop filter, cable, and wooden case.

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ART Tube MP Studio V3 Microphone Preamp and Limiter with Presets Review

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(More customer reviews)Pros:Great product for those who requires amplify a dynamic mic.
We use for vocals in a karaoke system with excellent results. It doesn't requires expensive microphones. With cheaper mics produces good sound.
Cons: The preamp doesn't has a power on/off switch so you must to plug/unplug the DC adapter. It is a little expensive but works fine.

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The ART Tube MP Studio V3 has expert presets that get you started right! The Tube MP Studio V3 features ART's Variable Valve Voicing Technology - with optimized reference points to begin the recording process. The V3's presets were created & fine-tuned by top studio and live-sound engineers, along with ART's veteran engineering department. V3 allows you to select between a multitude of preamp settings designed for electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards, bass guitars, drums, vocals and more. V3 gives you incredible presets for every instrument you record, so all your recordings will sound professional. Need to tweak the presets? Go right ahead -- hone your perfect tone! That's the power of ART V3. It also incorporates ART's OPLTM (Output Protection Limiter), which precisely and accurately controls and maintains the output peak signal. The OPL circuitry is crucial in protecting the next link in a signal chain - such as a hard-disk recording system or a sound card. The Tube MP Studio V3 can also function as a direct box - impedance matching, amplifying and improving the sound of any instrument. The design of the Tube MP Studio V3 allows it to add warmth and fatness to a signal while maintaining low-noise. Features include Phase Reverse, +48v phantom power, clip LED, a +20dB switch, as well as an analog VU meter for visual tracking of the signal. 1-year warranty. ART Tube MP Studio V3 Features Provides superior preamplification for: Microphones Instruments Line Level Sources V3TM - Variable Valve Voicing OPLTM - Output Protection Limiter Hand selected 12AX7A provides over 70dB of gain Smooth, warm and fat sound quality Variable input and output gain controls Excellent as a tube DI XLR and 1/4' inputs and outputs +48 volts phantom power Phase reversal switch TEC-Award nominated design 1 year warranty Designed for years of continuou

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MXL USB006 USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got this microphone to record voiceover narration for a video. There are points where there will only be narration, and no music or background audio.
Although it sounds pretty good for a USB mic, in that it gives a rich, faithful reproduction, there is a noticeable pitch generated by the microphone itself. This self-noise is audible during quiet moments or even when speech is recorded, if you listen carefully. On the plus side, it does come with a nifty case, desktop tripod and has hardware gain control with three settings. It worked right out of the box with my Mac, so no problems in the compatibility department.
I was poking around to make myself feel better about buying this microphone over the popular Samson C01U and Snowball, and came across a review of all of these microphones, including the new Rode Podcaster, pitted against each other. The reviewer noted a distinct B-natural pitch from the MXLUSB.006, though it did have less self-noise than the Samson. Check out the review at Emusician, search google for Samson, MXL, Podcaster and you should find it.
Wish I saw that review before I bought the MXL, since I experienced the same thing. Though the MXL has a rich sound, the noise is unacceptable for my application and I'll be returning it.
Although USB mics are notorious for noticeable self-noise, I went ahead and got the Rode Podcaster, and have not noticed any significant self-noise.
If a faint high-pitched noise is not a big deal to you, this is a pretty good condenser microphone. I would be all over it if it weren't for the fact that I need a really quiet mic.

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Designed withease-of-use in mind, the new MXL.006 features a large gold diaphragm that delivers a big, rich sound characteristic of studio and broadcast microphones. Unlike most studio condenser microphones, however, the MXL.006 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) instrument that connects directly to a computer without the need for external mic preamps. Now, anyone requiring high quality, professional sound on their computer can record music or dialog by simply connecting to a standard USB port. Featuring support for USB 1.1 and 2.0, this exceptionally easy-to-use microphone even includes gain adjustment settings via the built-in three position attenuation switch.
Working with the new MXL.006 is a pleasure. As a plug and play device for both Windows and Macintosh, it requires no special drivers whatsoever. Simply connect the microphone\'s USB cable to a computer\'s USB port, and installation is quick and effortless. In addition to recording instruments or voice for home recording applications, the new MXL.006 is the perfect microphone for podcasting or adding dialog to presentations and other multimedia projects. It is also the perfect solution capable of opening new possibilities for radio and news broadcasters and for location recording.

Unlike electrets or dynamic microphones typically used for computer work, the MXL.006 has an extremely smooth, natural sound typical of what one would hear on a professionally produced CD or radio show. The analog section of the new MXL.006 microphone features a 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response, a large gold diaphragm, pressure-gradient condenser capsule, and a 3-position, switchable attenuation pad with settings for Hi (0 dB), Medium (-5 dB), and Lo (-10 dB), making it easy to configure the microphone to virtually any sound source. The digital section features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. Protecting the instrument\'s capsule is a heavy-duty wire mesh grill with an integrated pop filter.

To make recording a trouble-free process, the new MXL.006 features a red LED behind the protective grill. This LED informs the user that the microphone is active and correctly oriented toward the user. To complete this terrific package, the new MXL.006 ships with a travel case, a desktop microphone stand, a 10-foot USB cable, windscreen, an owner\'s manual, and an applications guide.

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MXL 990/MXL 991 Recording Microphone Package Review

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(More customer reviews)I produce music for a living and normally write only at my studio. Recently I became interested in having a basic laptop rig for home and I picked up this mic package based on some reviews. When I got them home I had found that they were an excellent value. They're really quite good sounding with lots of detail in the high end. Again, this is considering price- if they were $1,000 for the pair it would be an incredible ripoff. Of course I should state the obvious: These will not sound like a high-end Neumann, Lawson, or Telefunken mic costing many, many, times the price of these mics. That said, they're only $99! I bought two packs and have found they work very nicely in stereo pairs. There seems to be a large influx of inexpensive condensor mics coming in from overseas (particularly Asia) which IMHO are miles better than similarly-priced competition from Europe. However, if you want a Neumann U87, you have to buy one. While the high end on these are nice for the price it does have a bit of a synthetic sound to it at times, and lacks the smoothness of some of the much higher end mics. That said, the pair of these cover much sonic ground; you can use them for most instruments. Drums would be inadvisable unless you were using two matched larger ones as overheads.
This is the type of package I would strongly recommend to the hobbyist because of the price to performance ratio. I -wish- that something like this had existed when I was in high school, just getting into recording. It would make a great gift for the budding enthusiast.

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The MXL 990/MXL 991 Recording Mic Package is a 2-microphone kit with the latest in MXL's range of studio condenser microphones. The 990 has silky, sweet high end and a tight solid bass, perfect for recording vocals. The 991 is a superior instrument microphone designed for recording acoustic guitar and drum overheads. Both have gold-sputtered diaphragms (20mm) creating a professional sound perfectly suited for digital and analog recording. The MXL 990/MXL 991 Recording Mic Package includes a high-impact carrying case and mic stand adapters.

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MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)This mic is fantastic! I've been singing, writing, and recording for almost 30 years and this mic is pretty much just as good as all of the silly expensive German mics I've used in larger studios over the years. There's a very slight presence peak, but nothing like most of the other Chinese mics. It isn't shrilling or peaky at all. Male tenor vocals and acoustic guitar sound great without any need for EQ whatsoever beyond a hi pass filter for the sub 100hz stuff. This mic is also an excellent candidate for a Michael Joly mod, he calls it one of the 7 audio wonders of the world because it makes no sense that this mic is this good at under $200. Michael mods these mics and you'd be hard pressed to be able to tell the difference between this one and the famous U87 with the German name that starts with an "N". I'm using it totally stock and it's been great. Buy it.

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The MXL-V67G sports a gold plated round grill and distinctive vintage brass body design. It was designed for vocals, so this mic will surely stand out in any crowd. The V67G sounds as golden as its looks. Its 1" gold sputtered, 6-micron diaphragm, FET preamp and transformer balanced output combine to create an open, vintage sound. The double screen, round grill, also helps to produce a smooth, even frequency response. It comes complete with stand adapter and an optional high isolation shock mount is available.

25mm (1") large capsule condenser
Gold-sputtered, 6 micron densitydiaphragm
Solid state preamp balanced transformeroutput
Durable brass enclosure
Screw-on mic stand adapter
MXL-57 isolation shock mount available
Type:

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CAD GXL2200 Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)I like this microphone so much for my home studio podcasting and voice work that this is the second one I've purchased. And for an odd reason - this one is about 4 years later than the first - this seems to sound a wee bit better. Plus it's a sharp-looking silver. Nice.
For the price, if you want a condenser mike - you can't go wrong with this.

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The condenser microphone consists of a thin conductive membrane stretched very close to a stationary plate. High voltage is applied between the membrane and the plate. As the membrane vibrates, electrons move. These moving electrons are sensed as voltage. This voltage can be strengthened (but not necessarily increased) by silicon. The GXL2200 is inspired cosmetically, mechanically, and electrically by early generations of European masters. Features include (but are not limited to) an internal hi-pass filter. Elastic shock mount and protective pouch are included. P48 (48V) phantom power is required.

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Audio Technica AT2020 Side Address Cardiod Condensor Studio Mic Review

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(More customer reviews)Let's face it...I'm just a hobby musician. A guy in his mid-30's who has tinkered with music most of his adult life. I've played both as a solo artist and with bands. I've also been fortunate enough to spend time in actual recording studios with true professionals. None of this qualifies me as an expert...but I do have a certain level of familiarity on the subject.
I purchased this mic to supplement my home studio. I was hoping to get a little better sound than my usual stable of dynamic mics provide. I think I got pretty lucky with this purchase - it's my understanding that in this particular price range, you shouldn't expect a whole lot. I mean, it's just a microphone, right?
What I will say is that I was certainly satisfied with my purchase. I've used this microphone in conjunction with a tube preamp on a handful of recordings with great success. I bought this with the intention of using it for vocals, but I've found that I actually prefer it to record my acoustic guitar - this microphone picks up all the sound that I'm looking for from my acoustic - it's the nice, mellow, and full bodied sound that I hear when I'm playing, but that I was never able to capture before. In terms of its originally intended use, I felt is was only a slight improvement over the SM58 that I typically used for vocals - however, I wouldn't put too much stock into my assessment, as vocals are not one of my strengths when it comes to music (let's face it, autotune was created for a reason, right?)
Granted - everyone is going to have different opinions of this product, and I happen to think it works great for those of us on a budget. In terms of value - it is a great product for a fantastic price. I liked this microphone so much, I plan on buying at least one more.



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The price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technology, Audio Technica's AT2020 studio mic has a low-mass diaphragm that is custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response. With rugged construction for durable performance, the microphone offers a wide dynamic range and handles high sound pressure levels (SPLs) with ease.
Ideal for project/home-studio applications, the cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source. The pivoting, threaded stand mount attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone
The AT2020 is intended for use in applications where remote power is available. It requires 48V DC phantom power, which may be provided by a mixer or console, or by a separate, in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-channel and CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies.
Specifications
Element: Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
Open Circuit Sensitivity: –37 dB (14.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
Impedance: 100 ohms
Maximum Input Sound Level: 144 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.
Noise: 20 dB SPL
Dynamic Range (typical): 124 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
Signal-To-Noise Ratio: 74 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
Phantom Power Requirements: 48V DC, 2 mA typical
Weight: 12.1 ounces
Dimensions: 6.38 inches long, 2.05-inch maximum body diameter
Output Connector: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
Accessories Includes: Stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch
Audio-Technica Case Style: R7

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MXL MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)It's hard to beat this mic on price. I have one and often use it for home recording projects, demos and such. It's a good inexpensive way to record vocals, but I find the sound a bit muddy, and often come back with eq to turn down some of the low-mid frequencies. Now there are a number of condensers coming out in this low price range, and I've tried a few of them and haven't yet found a cheap one I like any better than this. For finished products, I'd use a better mic if available, but this one will work with a bit of EQ and a careful ear.
The mic requires phantom power, so I got the Art Tube MP preamp to go with it. That preamp warms up the sound and really helps this mic out compared to the built-in mic pre-amps on my board.

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The MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shock Mount has a silky, sweet high end while retaining tight, solid low and midrange reproduction. The 3/4" gold-sputtered diaphragm creates a professional sound suited for digital and analog recording. Attractive vintage body style with champagne finish. 30Hz-20kHz frequency response. 130dB maximum SPL. Includes custom shock mount, mic stand adapter, and case. Requires phantom power.

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