M-Audio Audio Buddy Budget Microphone Preamp - Preamplifier Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great preamp for the price. Small, rugged, looks good too. It comes with two channels, each one taking either XLR or 1/4" instrument inputs. The XLR is low impedance, the 1/4" is high impedance. Sound output is uncolored and quiet. Signal is strong and clear.
If you have a microphone with a 1/4" plug, switch to an XLR cord instead -- the low impedance on the XLR input means you'll get a much stronger and clearer signal. Plugging in a guitar works well except for noise from the cord and guitar itself which only shows up when using distortion effects via computer software. You can use a noise gate or notch filter between your guitar and the preamp if necessary, then follow up with a software noise gate to remove hiss. This is not necessary for just chorus, flanger, or reverb software effects...then the AudioBuddy is perfect. If you want distortion, just mic your guitar amp...place your mic three or four inches away and set the preamp gain.
Unfortunately, the supplied phantom power is only 41V instead of 48V so it might not work with some condenser microphones. That's why I'm giving it four stars instead of five. I haven't tried any condensers yet to know which ones work with the AudioBuddy and which do not. If you already have an external phantom power supply, then no need to worry.
My setup is a dynamic mic into preamp into 12" powerbook's line-in jack. You can do stereo recording this way with the proper cord, just a 3.5mm stero male to two 1/4" mono male. Recommended microphone would be anything between $60 and $100 such as the Shure SM57/SM58 or the cheaper condensers like Behringer B1 or MXL990 (although I have heard people using these condensers with the Audio Buddy, I haven't tried them yet myself...but will soon).
Overall I am happy with this preamp. It is more reliable than a tube preamp and has less noise as well.

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M Audio Audio Buddy Microphone Preamp; You won't find a better preamp for a price like this! The M Audio Audio Buddy is an extremely quiet, phantom powered dual mic preamp and direct box, designed to accurately interface mics and guitar to line level PC sound cards. If you're looking for a whole lot of preamp on a tight budget, you'll see where the popular Audio Buddy gets its name. Affordability and performance make the Audio Buddy one of the most popular mic preamps in home recording today. You get professional microphone support along with line inputs impedance-matched for ideal performance with electric guitar and bass. Simply put, the Audio Buddy is a workhorse mic preamp that sounds great and won't hurt your budget. M Audio Audio Buddy Features 2 independent XLR, fully balanced inputs 2 alternate, independent 1/4 inch unbalanced inputs Separate gain controls for each of the two preamplifiers Individual signal and clipping LEDs for each of the preamplifiers XLR phantom power can be switched on and off for both of the Mic preamps Phantom power LED indicator Dual purpose independent 1/4 inch balanced TRS outputs Super-small size Extremely quiet preamp With the tremendous proliferation of PC based recording systems there has arisen a new need to interface mics and guitar to line level PC sound cards. Introducing Audio Buddy, the ultra quiet, phantom powered dual mic preamp and direct box. Audio Buddy is the perfect companion piece for any digital audio system. It's the ideal audio gateway for recording the two most significant, non-line level instruments: microphones and electric guitars. AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of M Audio products.

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ART Tube MP Microphone Preamp Review

Average Reviews:

(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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Studio Projects VTB1 Variable Tube Studio Mic Preamp Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a budget preamp, but probably the best in the price range.
It is made to go especially well with the Studio Projects C1 mic.
But it has all-round applications, including guitar and bass as well as mics.
It's HOW you use it (with caution & restraint on vocals, somewhat
less restraint on Git & bass), that counts most of all.
Watch distortion/noise levels carefully, as with ANY preamp,
avoid extreme settings on most vocals (except special FX), & you should do well.
The tube blend "smooths-out" detail somewhat. I don't use it
on vocals much, just git & bass, where it often works well.
The fact about preamps is this:
The biggest, and cheapest, improvement in sound, with preamps in general,
is going from NO preamp to just USING a preamp.
In other words,
moving from NO preamp to say, A VTB1, used skillfully with your
modest studio cardioid condenser mic, will get you at least 50 to maybe
80% of the way to "great fidelity". (Those are my "fuzzy numbers" for illustration).
It's Getting up to 95-99% fidelity that takes the real $$$$$$$$$$$, and names
like Avalon, Neumann, Telefunken, Manley and Grace start popping up.
But the SP VTB1 gets the job done for the home recordist without big buck$,
but maybe a reasonably decent condenser mic or 2,
and the patience and focus to use 'em effectively.

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The Studio Projects VTB1 is an outstanding, full-featured tube mic preamp at a knockout price! The Studio Projects VTB-1 is the ultimate in low cost mic preamplifier technology. Incorporating true class A/B switching, the VTB-1 is a totally discrete circuit. Unique to the VTB-1 is the 'Tube Drive' - a variable drive to a 12AX7, that lets you blend as little, or as much of the Tube Drive as you want. This gives the VTB-1 the most flexibility of any mic preamplifier in it's price class - from a pristine solid state sound, to any combination of Tube Drive you choose... even hard distortion for guitars and bass! The Studio Projects VTB-1 is a real 'must-have', and the perfect mic preamplifier for any microphone! Studio Projects VTB1 Features 48 Volt Phantom Power Phase Reverse Variable Input Gain Control On Detented Pot 1/4' D.I. Jack On Front Panel High Pass Filter Descrete Solid State Class A/B Design TRS Insert Mic/Line Switch VariableTube Blend On Detented Pot Meter Read Select Between Input and Output level Switchable Impedance between 50/200 Ohm 5 position LED metering XLR mic input Balanced outputs on XLR and 1/4' External AC Power Supply For extreme Low Noise Operation (Included) Output Gain Control On Detented Pot Studio Projects VTB1 Applications A superb vocal mic pre with warm transparent character Great for use as a Tube DI Box Great for production, broadcast, and voice over work Perfect for the professional and home project studio A quality vocal mic preamplifier suitable for all vocal styles AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Studio Projects products.

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Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you are looking for a microphone for voice-overs or broadcast use, THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO BUY.
The Shure SM-5 and SM-7 microphones are the best voice mics ever made. The large SM-5 is no longer made, so you can only find it used, but the SM-7 is just as good.Either one, you have the best.
Don't let the price fool you. I have brought this in to studios that have $3000 Neuman condenser mics and they laughed when I said I wanted to use my $300 Shure mic instead.I told them to put up both mics and do an A/B test while I spoke into each of them. The three other audio engineers in the studio had to agree, the Shure was better and it was a night and day difference, not hard at all to decide it was best.
This mic has a warmth and rich sound no other mic can give you.
Even industry publications like MIX MAGAZINE and RadioWorld have done reviews where they did the same tests and said the same things about this mic in comparison to the expensive condenser mics...
--------------------------------------------
from MIX MAGAZINE, March 1998, page 53:
Eric Paul has made a career out of recording country giants like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and many others: "My favorite overall microphone for voices is the Shure SM-5. If they can't get a Shure SM-5, they can still get Shure SM-7s, which are still available. If you've tried out three very expensive tube mics and you aren't happy with any of them, then the next step should immediately be a Shure SM-7. I will almost always guarentee you that if the expensive mic doesn't work, an SM-7 will. For some reason, people sound better on them."----------------------------------------------
from RADIO WORLD, February 18 1998, page 62:
Joe Stack, director of engineering for ABC radio said: "When I worked at WATH in Athens, Ohio, I had someone call and offer me ten RE-20s for the three SM-5s we had. I turned him down." ------------------------------------------
from EQ MAGAZINE, July 2006 issue:
The SM7 is perhaps most famous for being used as the vocal microphone on Michael Jackson's Thriller engineered by Bruce Swedien. -----------------------------------------------
Some interesting facts about the SM-7..."When we were doing "Off The Wall", "Thriller" and "Bad" I ended up with 6 Shure SM7's. That is a fantastic mike." - Bruce Swedien
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have used the SM 7 on vocals on every album they have done.
You can see James Hetfield from Metallica singing into a Shure SM 7 on the "Some Kind Of Monster" DVD.
----------------------------------------
Another thing I have noticed in the studio, is that some of my other mics require gating and downward expanders on the mics to get rid of room noise, but the SM-7 doesn't need it. It is quiet all by itself.
And to save many hours trying to edit out mouth noises, clicks and smacks from voice-over talent that use expensive CONDENSER microphones, just have them use the SM-7 next time, and no more wasted time editing out mouth noises anymore.Throughout the years on the Howard Stern Show, they have replaced and tried all sorts of microphones, from the Electrovoice RE-20 to Neuman mics. But if you notice, the Co-host, Robin Quivers, STILL uses the Shure SM-7 and refuses to change to any of the other mics. You can see throughout the years on the TV show that although the mics are always changing for everyone else, Robin ALWAYS has the SM-7 to this day.
Since the Howard Stern Show has moved to Sirrius Sattelite, the show had to buy new microphones, (couldn't take them with from CBS) and everyone seems to be using the same mics they did before. Robin has another SM-7 so she really likes this mic! It looks different now, because she has the larger windscreen that now comes with the SM-7.


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The Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a cardioid studio mic with a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response appropriate for music and speech in all professional audio applications. The SM7B features excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum generated by computer monitors, neon lights, and other electrical devices. The SM7B has been updated from earlier models with an improved bracket design that offers greater stability. In addition to its standard windscreen, it also includes the A7WS windscreen for close-talk applications. The SM7B Includes a foam winscreen, close-talk windscreen, and a locking yoke mount. Shure SM7B Features: Flat, wide-range frequency response for exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech Bass rolloff and mid-range emphasis (presence boost) controls with graphic display of response setting Improved rejection of electromagnetic hum optimized for shielding against broadband interference emitted by computer monitors Internal air suspension shock isolation virtually eliminates mechanical noise transmission Highly effective pop filter eliminates need for any add-on protection against explosive breath sounds, even for close-up vocals or narration Now shipping with the A7WS detachable windscreen, designed to reduce plosive sounds and gives a warmer tone for close-talk vocals Yoke mounting with captive stand nut for easy mounting and dismounting provides precise control of microphone position Classic cardioid polar pattern, uniform with frequency and symmetrical about axis, to provide maximum rejection and minimum coloration of off-axis sound Rugged construction and excellent cartridge protection for outstanding reliability Replacement cartridge: RPM106 AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of

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Samson SP04 Shockmount for G Track USB Mic Review

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(More customer reviews)This shockmount is used for the Samson G-Track microphone. Functions as it should, controlling movement noise when adjusting the mic stand, as well as saving the mic from hard impacts, plus it looks very cool! Kind of makes the microphone look like an older professional Neumann microphone.

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Shockmount for the Samson G-Track USB microphone.

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ART Tube MP Project Series Tube Preamp Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The ART Tube MP Project Series Tube Preamp is a wonderfully hot-rodded version of Tube MP's original standalone mic preamp. It adds an 80 Hz filter to remove environmental rumble from HVAC fans, etc. The four LED input meter is very helpful in setup. My primary use of this unit is for soft-sell TV and Radio voiceovers, in which case I do not use the limit function as I keep the input fairly low to achieve a transparent sound. However, when doing imaging work for sports and oldies stations I crank up the input and engage the limit function for a nice, clean, more present output. In all instances, the mix of tube and solid state amplification processes give me a clean sound that is the rival of preamps costing many times more. I reccomend the TUBE MP Project Series preamp to anyone who wants to have a beautiful, warm sound within a budget.

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The Tube MP Project Series is a professional quality audio interface that lets you connect microphone, instrument, and line level signals to a mixer or other audio input. This hybrid design is the latest in a long line of ART tube preamps. ART took their Tube MP series and updated every aspect of the design, inside and out, while still maintaining a compact, reliable, and cost effective product. From the new all-aluminum stackable chassis to the precision LED level metering circuitry, they have improved virtually every aspect of our already successful Tube MP series.

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ART Tube MP Project Series Microphone Preamp Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This preamp is really a great value. Is it of a professional studio quality? No. But it produces very clean, noise free amplification and a level line out to plug into either a computers soundcard or an audio interface. The tube aspect of the pre is subtle but it's there. There are better solid state pres on the market but I can assure you that this pre is better than your onboard pre on either your interface or mixer. You'll notice an improvement over the warmth and smoothness of the tone you produce. I use this pre for both dynamic mics (SM57) and condensers (Golden Age Project FC1 Mk.ii)

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The ART Tube MP Project Series is a professional quality audio interface that lets you connect microphone, instrument, and line level signals to a mixer or other audio input. The Tube MP Project Series' hybrid design is the latest in a long line of ART tube preamps. They took their legendary Tube MP series and updated every aspect of the design, inside and out, while still maintaining a compact, reliable, and cost effective product. From the new all-aluminum stackable chassis to the precision LED level metering circuitry, ART have improved virtually every aspect of their already successful Tube MP series. 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 you a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources. The high impedance 1/4-inch instrument input bypasses the microphone preamp circuitry to maintain a clean signal path. ART uses a high quality 12AX7A tube inside to add warmth to musical dynamics and the power supply is external to keep AC line noise and hum back at the wall. ART Tube MP Project Series Features 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, +48V phantom power supply XLR and 1/4-inch inputs and outputs Phase invert switch High cut filter switch Variable input and output controls Compact, stackable all aluminum chassis The input Gain control and switch help you to maximize your input dynamic range as well as control how hard you are driving the tube. Input impedance is switch selectable to optimize your microphone's response right on the front end. These two features are a must when trying to g

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Audio Technica Microphone Shock Mount Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I actually bought this for my AT2020 microphone because I thought this was a universal shock mount; however, I was mistaken. Anyways, this product was really well made from what I saw when I got the shock mount.

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Attenuates noise, shock and vibration transmitted through mic stands, booms and mounts. Accepts cylindrical and tapered microphones. Permits easy microphone insertion and removal without detaching mic cable. Compatible with 5/8'-27 threaded stands. A Word About Audio-TechnicaAudio-Technica has been dedicated to advancing the art and technology of electro-acoustic design and manufacturing since 1962. From a beginning in state-of-the-art phono cartridges, A-T has expanded over the years into high-performance headphones, microphones, mixers and electronic products for home and professional use. In each new area the goal has been to create innovative, problem-solving products. The results of these engineering and production efforts can be seen in the effective use of A-T products in a broad spectrum of applications. Audio-Technica microphones, for example, are found in daily use in major broadcast and recording studios, and relied upon by top touring musicians. A-T mics are chosen for important installations and major events, such as the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Super Bowl, World Cup Soccer and the Olympics. Whether in the home, or in schools and universities, boardrooms, council chambers or places of worship, Audio-Technica products are providing superior performance and exceptional value worldwide.

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Audix CabGrabber Guitar Cabinet Mic Mounting System (for 8-14 inch Cabs) Review

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(More customer reviews)The Audix Cab Grabber does not work with a Shure SM57 and a "standard" microphone holder. I bought this from Amazon through a 3rd party seller (Woodwind & Brasswind) and, when I realized it does not "work" as I expected it would, I had to pay shipping & handling to return it. "Fair enough", I thought. "I'll post a video review to show others this problem so that they don't get burned as well."

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The Audix CabGrabber is a compact microphone clamp for your guitar amps and cabinets. An advantage when using the CabGrabber is you can place your microphone on either side of the cabinet and position it at any height. Another advantage is the CabGrabber can not only hold dynamic microphones but large condenser microphones up to one pound. Audix CabGrabber Features Innovative miking solution for guitar amps and cabs Allows for precise positioning Simple, elegant, compact and easy to use No tools required Adjustable, tension held Mic arm hand tightens firmly into position Holds mics weighing up to 1 pound Works on cabinets with flat surface or recessed edge Will clamp to side of cabinet or over top Fits 8-14 inch cabinets and amps Durable steel construction AmericanMusical com is an authorized dealer of Audix products.

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Samson SP01 Shockmount Spider Mount for Condenser Mics Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)A lot of people are attracted to Samson mics because they're affordable. The same people may also end up getting an AT2020 instead, which is another popular lower priced condenser mic. But, if those people want a shock mount for the AT2020, they'll find the Audio Technica shockmount is a bit expensive. FYI, in case you're in that situation, the AT2020 fits into this Samson shockmount quite well. The only thing to consider, and it's an aesthetic thing, is that the AT2020 is black, and this shockmount is silver, and it does look a bit dorky in between a black mic stand and a black mic (this shockmount was designed for silver Samson mics). But it's a good price.

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The SP01 is the Spider shockmount for Samson's C01 condenser mic. Also available for Samson's C03, CL7, CL8 and C01U condenser mics. Samson: A Passion for Innovation Now a world-leader in music products, professional audio and sound contracting equipment, Samson Technologies was founded in 1980, when a couple guys started designing and manufacturing low-cost 49 MHz wireless microphone and instrument systems in the back room of a music store. The original wireless products offered reliability at prices unheard of at the time. These systems were quickly accepted by performers and musicians at every level of the music industry. It would prove to be the beginning of what was to become one of the most significant professional audio technologies of our times. Over the years, Samson has pioneered a number of technical breakthroughs in wireless such as the incorporation of dbx Noise Reduction, synthesized wireless with selectable frequencies, the first 19-inch rack-mount receiver, Microprocessor-controlled True Diversity (dual receiver) designs and cost-effective UHF wireless for live sound applications, system contracting and video. Today they are an industry leader with three distinct brands: Samson, Hartke and Zoom. Over 350 products designed and distributed by Samson are sold in 106 countries throughout the world. Samson's mission is to create precision audio tools for professionals, all with exceptional sound, a wealth of practical features and rugged construction to ensure consistent performance and long life in all kinds of applications. Their superb headphones, power amplifiers, equalizers, powered mixers, mixers, specialized products, racklight/power distribution systems, microphones and other unique products to come, are all dedicated to one idea: The art of high technology is best served by making excellence more accessible to everyone. At Samson they remain committ

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