The Samson G Track is one of the coolest devices I’ve seen in a while. There are a bunch of USB mics on the market, all of which provide a convenient way to record straight into the computer. But the Samson G Track does one better – you can connect additional instruments right into the mic itself. I think that’s pretty cool, and here’s why…

What makes the Samson G Track awesome?

When it comes to making music, it’s a little like sex. Once you get “in the mood” you don’t want to be fumbling around with “extra equipment” You just want to get down to business without anything getting in the way. Well the Samson G Track lets you do just that. You plug the mic in via USB, then connect any other instrument into the G Track. No other gear to deal with.

The Samson G Track as a master volume which controls the mic itself and the instrument. There are also independent volume controls for the mic and instrument as well so you can properly blend the two signals together.

Now let’s be honest here. The Samson G Track is no $3,000 microphone. You are getting a condenser mic with a built-in audio interface for under $150. There’s no doubt it’s a great value, but if you own other very expensive microphone and you have “golden ears” then don’t expect the G Track to sound like your U87

The Samson G Track is best used for recording demos, home recordings, and voiceovers.

If you need a solid, super convenient USB condenser mic to use with your computer – and you don’t want to deal with extra equipment – then click here to get your Samson G Track!

Here’s Amazon’s take:

Samson G Track USB Microphone and Audio Interface

The G-Track is a total solution capable of taking you from your musical inspiration to your finished tracks. It is the world’s first USB condenser microphone with a built-in audio interface and mixer, allowing simultaneous input of vocals and guitar, bass, or keyboard while also providing monitoring through an on board headphone output. Record vocals like a standard USB microphone or two mono instruments through the line/instrument input or a mix of one mono instrument and vocal. Now you can directly record vocals and instruments easily with one device, making the G-Track a must have for any songwriter’s home studio. Its ease of use and portability allows you to take it anywhere inspiration may strike you. The G-Track includes a desktop microphone stand, swivel stand mount, USB cable and all the cables needed to connect any musical instrument with a standard 1/4-inch or RCA output. Cakewalk’s Sonar LE is also included while the G-Track works brilliantly with Apple’s GarageBand.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars GREAT for laptop recording solution
This will be a nice semi-quick review with a little more technical perspective than a lot of the previous ones. I’m a big home recording nut, who’s been on the road a lot the last year, mostly recording with my laptop, this mic, and a full version of Sonar.

First off, the audio quality:

Pretty decent. No noticeable glitches while using. Does sound a little tinny at times, but it’s definitely on par with most of my other $100+ mikes (my most expensive one is a $200 Rode). Very usable for recording vocals (singing), but I haven’t tried it with an acoustic guitar or other acoustic instruments. VERY-usable-plus for recording spoken words. Frequency range seems decent, but again, I haven’t really ran the thing through a full range of applications.

Build quality:

Nice and solid. Almost too heavy though for easy lugging on small trips…but I keep it in the manufacturer’s box and slide it in my suitcase, and so far it has made every trip just fine.

Ease of use:

Big plus here, despite a stable Windows OS possibly being as much responsible for the super simple use of the thing as the mic itself. Plug it in via USB, and you’re ready to go. No special driver install or software required to get it working.

Extras:

- Line in and headphone out are constructed directly on the mic…this lets you use the mic as a line-in for recording an electronic keyboard or electric guitar directly into your recording software. And then you can use the microphone part of it to record vocals or any acoustic instruments. Nice double-feature to have in the same piece of hardware

- Comes with a very usable desk mic stand

- Comes with all the necessary cables to use right away

- Comes with some scaled-down Cakewalk recording software for your computer

I expected the sound quality would be usable and it is, but I admit the all-in-one extras and the acceptable price were what ultimately snagged me and prompted the one-click order.

Final thoughts:

If you’re only doing podcasting (no music or instrument input required), you might consider a lower priced USB mic without the extras. BUT, if you’re doing music with the thing, the line-in and line-out features and easy direct monitoring are way nice and worth the price.

5 Stars Awesome for me and my band
I got this for our band practice so we can review our parts. We play mostly rock & hard core so it can get pretty loud. The mic handled everything pretty well after setting the levels. Granted it wasn’t crystal clear as in a recording studio, but for practices and hashing out sections, it’s served us perfectly. I use Audacity to record. I think my next purchase would be the shockmount.

4 Stars Samson G Track USB Mic
The Samson G Track USB Mic is a well built mic that offers many options. The mic offers the ability to record vocally or through line inputs. It also offers a nice headphone input. Each input offers individual volume controls. It sounds great and works flawlessly with Mac products and Garageband. The software that comes with the mic is not usable by the Mac society. Overall, I think this is an excellent purchase for someone interested in podcasting and demo recording. It is certainly not the highest quality mic, however you end up getting a pretty decent mic for the money.

4 Stars Great microphone
I bought this to improve the quality of the audio voice-overs I do for eLearning classes. It does the job very well and produces professional sounding audio.

4 Stars Good Quality… Bad Software
The microphone has great record sound quality. The line in feature is great for recording my Taylor and my friends Fender, picking up every sound and showing how awful we really are at playing. The mics profile is good, picking up all sounds in front of the mic and none to the side, something like a super cancoid profile. We were able to record both of us playing in space, even picking up the birds chirping.

The problem I have with the package is the included software. It comes with Sonar 6 LE. I could not get this software to work properly, even after installing the ASIO drivers that the forums suggested on my HP laptop. I did not go to the manufacturer to solve my problem but I did go to the forums. What resulted from that was several unhelpful posts and one user bragging about his tutorial over other Samson mics. So using those forums, nothing was solved. I did however find a program that worked out of box for the mic named Acuostica Mixcraft. The program is very similar to Garage Band. Its easy to use and did not require any fumbling around to get started. The interface is simple and not cluttered feeling, which is how Sonar 6 LE feels, even as a LE version. Mixcraft will set you back 65 dollars to purchase but I think it is well worth it.

All in all the Samson G-Track is a great buy for someone who does not want to mess with the complexities of buying a separate sound card and several microphones. I recommend it.

Buy/More Info

A post from: Microphone Reviews

==>>Click here to check out the Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Mic Package on Amazon<<==

The Rode NT1A Sounds Awesome!

…especially compared to other condenser mics around the same price. Most sound harsh, cold, brittle, etc. But the Rode NT1A has a nice smooth top end, and a good amount of low end as well. It works especially well on vocals and midrange instruments like acoustic guitar and piano. You won’t be disappointed by this mic.

Need more proof? Check out the most helpful Amazon review:

27 of 27 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars

The Mic I’ve Been Looking For

…I’d heard a lot of positive hype about the Rode NT1A and claims of it being the “quietest mic in the market”. I was very much surprised by the low-cost and comparisons to microphones in a much higher price range, so I picked one up figuring that if it didn’t live up to the claims, I’d return it and buy a more expensive mic.

I didn’t return it. And I don’t ever see myself selling it either.

Quite simply, this mic is amazing. Read the rest…

==>>CLICK HERE to Buy the Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Mic Package<<==

My favorite application for this mic is in a 2-microphone setup while recording drums. Unless you’re recording metal or another genre where you’ll be slicing up the drums and you need total separation, this method will give you great results. It’s called the recorderman drum mic technique.

Here’s a good video teaching you exactly how to do it:

The best part about this technique is that it ensures that the two overhead drum mics are in phase with each other – a common problem when using overhead mics.

Click here to get your NT1A and try it out! Let me know how it works in the comments.

A post from: Microphone Reviews

The Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone features an all-new proprietary design, with the proven reliability of Audio-Technicas modern engineering and manufacturing expertise.Ideal for project/home studio applications, the AT2020 features a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response plus the ability to handle extremely high SPLs. The AT2020 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern to allow isolation of the desired sound source. The mic features excellent performance specifications, including a flat, extended frequency response (20 20,000 Hz), high SPL handling capability (144 dB), and a wide dynamic range (124 dB). Every aspect of the AT2020 has been tailored for a very smooth, natural sound while ensuring maximum accuracy, making it a perfect complement for todays digital recording equipment. The AT2020 comes standard with a pivoting, threaded stand mount, which attaches securely for easy and precise placement. The microphone requires 48V phantom power that may be provided by a mixer/console. In addition, the AT2020 measures 6.38 inches long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.05 inches, weighs 12.1 oz., and comes with a soft protective carrying pouch.Audio Technica AT2020 FeaturesThe price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technologyIdeal for project/home-studio applicationsHigh SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatilityCustom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient responseCardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound sourcePivoting, threaded stand mount attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Great Mic! My 1st Studio mic!
So happy to get my new mic it sound great but i have not rec with it so i give 4 star for the design, the sound, the price etc… so if u are look for a Studio mic that are around $80 THIS IS THE ONE!

5 Stars For the price this is it!
I have a couple other condensor mikes with shock mounts in the same price range, but this one is the best. Not sure you can do much better for anywhere near the price. I loaned one to a friend and he immediately returned his mike to the shop for one of these. Nice neutral sound, solid construction, I use it with a tube amp to get some non-linear compression for voice.

5 Stars Astonishing sound and value for well under 100 bucks!
I was especially fortunate and got a new one for around [...]

making this beautiful-sounding vocal mic

a spectacular bargain for the home-recording musician or audio-blogger.

I don’t know of any truly-decent large-diaphragm condensers with

the full 1″ diaphragm size for under [...] (don’t be a sucker for the

super-cheapies that look so big & cool). The AT2020 has a 2/3-inch diaphragm size, but

sounds better & bigger than anything else I have ever heard in the price range.

If you can spend [...]on a wonderful AT2035 or maybe a Studio Projects mic,

then by-all means, do it.

But the AT2020 [...]on all competition under [...], IMO.

I use it with the Studio Projects VTB1 Mic Preamp and the sound is B-I-G.

The AT2020 and the VTB1 are definitely a sweet pair together.

Although, I suspect any decent preamp used properly with the AT2020

would sound pretty darn good.

And DO use a preamp, even if only a $30 Art Tube MP.

Count on buying the 2 items together.

The pre will “send your AT2020 to the gym”, by giving it

a thicker, fuller, BETTER sound.

The thing to remember with preamps is to

try to get close to the *loudest possible clean sound*

coming out of the preamp and generate

a BIG signal going IN to the recording device, which should

have its input gain quite LOW (maybe like “2″ or even “1″).

Watch your clipping/overload levels,

listen for any audible noise or distortion in the recording,

and make adjustments to cut those sound flaws, if they are present.

For vocals,

Experiment with going as loud as you can from the preamp while still sounding CLEAN,

until you find you particular setup’s “sweet spot”.

“Straight-up” dial-settings is often around where you end up.

The AT2020, used with a decent pre like the one I have (there are many others),

should get you a serious studio vocal sound

with pro-quality clarity and little coloration.

IMO, it’s got to be the world champ of under-[...]studio Condenser Mics,

at least right now (in 2009),

until something more miraculous comes along.

And if you are presently recording vocals with

something like an SM58, moving up to the AT2020

with a modest preamp will absolutely blow your mind–Much “bigger” sounding,

with much finer detail, presence and clarity.

I hear this mic is good for miking electric guitar cabs

and various percussion too.

But voice is its forte, I believe.

It’s a gem.

5 Stars Great Value
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.

4 Stars AT2020
This is a wonderful microphone. I use it to record interviews in the field instead of a shotgun set up. It is more hassle to use because it requires phantom power. But it provides a clean, clear, warm voice print.

I also plan to use it to record my children’s musical performances here at home. So for home concerts and for my field work, this mic works for me.

DD

Buy/More Info

A post from: Microphone Reviews

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Microphone offers studio-quality articulation and intelligibility.The AT2020 USB plugs right into your computers USB port, and functions seamlessly with your favorite recording software. Equipped with a USB digital output, the AT2020 USB is perfect for home studio recording, field recording, podcasting, and voiceover use.Based on the renowned AT2020The AT2020 USB is based on the design of Audio-Technicas critically acclaimed AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone. Like the AT2020, it features a low-mass diaphragm, custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response.With low self-noise, the AT2020 USB is perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipment. Audio-Technicas state-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques ensure that the microphone complies with the companys renowned consistency and reliability standards.Experience AT2020 USB. Plug it in and transform your sound.Audio-Technica AT2020 USB FeaturesSide-address studio condenser with USB digital output (Windows and Mac compatible)Crystal-clear, natural sound for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover useCustom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient responseCardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound sourceLow self-noise perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipmentIncludes tripod desk stand, pivoting stand mount, USB cable & storage pouch

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars 2nd one works great
First Mic arrived d.o.a. in a well packaged, undamaged box. Amazon customer service was simply awsome. UPS came to my house and picked up defective one the very next day, and the replacement arrived 2 days later. The at2020 looks and works great and amazon is great too Looking for a high quality mic that looks great on your desk? This is a good choice.

5 Stars Worth every dollar plus more!!!
I got my mic the other day and decided to lay some bars down. This was my first mic that i have bought and i must say that i beleive i picked the best one!! easy plug and play picks every up perfect. it is way more than i expected. all im wating for now is my pop filter and my stand. this microphone is worth the money people. do not think about it just get it. you will not regret it. i would reccomend this to anyone.

5 Stars Unbeatable Mic At An Unbeatable Price
This here is truly one of those hidden gem type products that you just don’t really get to appreciate unless you have one for yourself. This is a great investment for anyone looking to do ANY type of recording on the casual level, vocals in particular. But why buy, you might ask?

1) This mic is USB powered. This is pretty much the prime reason that this is the perfect mic for the casual/beginning level user. If you were to buy a regular condenseor mic, or even the regular version of the AT Condenser Mic, you would have to have additional equiptment to power it. For those who, like me, know very little about audio equipment, you would end up paying for far more then you originally expected to spend and most likely been all kinds of confused about how to use it. Being USB powered is truely a God-sent, because all you need to do to make it work is plug it in. Theres no program to load, no instructions to follow, and best of all no sweat to break. As soon as you plug it in, the computer acknowledges it just like any other UBS device and you go on with your buesiness. You dont even need to sit and “safely” eject the thing, just yank it out and your done. No damage done to you computer or your mic. Best of all, the UBS cord is pretty standard, so you can easily replace it if the one that comes with it gets damaged.

2) The price. A lot of professional level condenser mics are pretty expensive, like around three hundred dollars at the cheapest level. Granted, that’s a somewhat random number, but again, for the casual user, that’s not exactly wallet friendly. I got mine in a music store for one fifty. I wish I had looked online for one a little cheaper, but it was still a wise investment. Thus far I haven’t seen another mic this good for this cheap.

3) Durability. If you have any experience with audio equipment, mics in particular, you know that you need to be gentle with it when handling. I got my mic a good year and a half ago, and it’s traveled with me a lot, sometimes in less gentle conditions then I would like. Its been bumped, dropped, and even sat on, yet it still runs strong. The only fragile thing this thing has on it is the legs that prop it up.

4) Sound Quality. Ok I lied, THIS is the best reason to get this mic. I started out doing vocals with a regular stage mic and one thing I can honestly say is that the quality was absolutely terrible. It was grainy, smothered, and I had to almost whisper to make sure my levels didn’t peak while recording. The purpose of a condenser mic is to pretty much rectify all that. This one does it over and over again. My recordings come out crisp and professional sounding, and thus far, no one has been able to tell that I did all the recording my my basement with nothing but the mic, my laptop, and some quite time.

So if you looking for great quality for a affordable price, look no further then

Audio Technica AT2020USB. I have yet to find something I don’t like about this thing. I am a very satisfied customer, and I can almost guarantee you will be too if you decide to get one too.

Peace

4 Stars Great value for the money
I wanted a USB microphone to use for amateur home voice recording via my computer. After some research, I decided on this Audio Technica product. I’m glad I did!

The mic and stand comes well-packaged, is easy to assemble and is truly plug-and-play. In less than 10 minutes, I set it up, plugged it in, fired up audacity software and performed a test recording. It sounded great with no tweaking required.

In later use, I noticed a problem with popping P’s, so I picked up a cheap pop filter from a local shop. Now my Audio Technica AT2020USB mic works even better.

4 Stars Great mic, poor mic mount
I bought this microphone to make PowerPoint narrations and software demos with Camtasia. The performance of the mic is excellent I don’t have a lot of other mics to compare it to, but I did compare it to the Sure SM58 and the AT2020 had a much warmer, fuller sound. It also picked up a lot more room noise, so make sure you have a nice quiet place to record.

USB compatibility: PowerPoint 2007 does not recognize this microphone, but Camtasia does (and of course, Audacity). PowerPoint will record with it, but you can’t set your levels, so it’s a pain (I know none of you are going to record in PowerPoint, but I am frustrated with the spotty USB mic support in it and I just want to let people know). Did not have to install any drivers on my XP box.

The only flaw is the microphone mount that it comes with. You can’t tighten it enough, so the mic can rattle around in the mount. This is also true for the Samson SP01 Shockmount that I bought to use it with. So, you might need to get a spacer (another reviewer suggested a garden hose gasket).

Buy/More Info

A post from: Microphone Reviews

Now you can record in stereo directly with Azden’s SMX-10. The 177mm long, dual uni-directional, electret-condensor mic is powered by a single “AAA” battery and features a built-in cable with a 3.5mm stereo mini plug.

User Ratings and Reviews

3 Stars Ok for the price
This mic was purchased to be used in a classroom environment with teenage kids, so I didn’t want to spend a lot of money. The mic seems well constructed and sturdy. The sound recorded with it is ok. It is better than the sound off the camera mic, and doesn’t pick up near as much motor noise and handling noise as the camera mic did. The one negative to the mic is the lack of a power indicator. I think a simple LED would remind people to turn the mic off after use. Other than that, this is a decent mic, and good bang for the buck.

2 Stars meh
The product failed to state which cameras it was compatible with. Sure I can plug it in. But when I need to use it I always have to rest it in an odd position. The difference between this mic and the camera one is barely noticeable. For the price I may be a little hard on it.

5 Stars Great sound quality
Bought this for my Canon Vixia HV30. It sounds so much better than the built in mic. Gets rid of the camera hum and noise from handling the camera so well. It also has a greater range than the built in mic so you won’t miss out on conversations. For the price this was a must have item for my HV30 and a smart buy.

4 Stars Great little gizmo
I purchased this mic mostly for video recording my two sons rock band during performances. The differences between the built in mic condenser mic and the Azden boom mic are like night and day.

The only thing I can say bad about this mic is that the little on off switch is so small and there is no indicator light to remind you to turn it on or off before each use. Causing me to drain a battery or two without realizing my mistake. Or not having sound on a few test videos.

Even close up, I did not hear any popping or distortion on playback.

Other than those couple of small annoyances mentioned, this is a great little mic.

4 Stars It does the job
To make it short, I’ve have attached it to my Canon 5D Mark II and still picks up the inner noise sounds from the moving parts, the mic still works even if I turned it off!!.

The build quality is good and it is very light and short in length around 20cm. Sound quality is away better than the built-in mono mic. Its a little bit expensive.

Buy/More Info

A post from: Microphone Reviews

The CAD U37 USB Condenser Microphone combines a high-quality large diaphragm condenser with USB connectivity. The U37 USB provides a smooth, extended frequency response that is excellent for singing, speech and instruments. A bass roll off switch and a 10 dB pad make this one of the most versatile USB microphones we carry. The U37 also features a cardioid pick-up pattern that helps to minimize background noise and isolate the main sound source. Includes a desktop microphone stand for easy placement.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Best value for money USB Microphone for Computer
I had been researching USB Microphones for a long time and was nervous to make a selection, incase I ended up with a lemon. Well I just heard about this microphone a couple of weeks ago and read up on CAD Microphones. I took the plunge and bought this little beauty. It is made of a plastic casing, but don’t let that put you off – this is obviously the trade off in getting a good quality USB for under $100. It’s the inside heart of the microphone which makes it a great mic. Yes it is sensitive in picking up background noise, but I don’t mind. I love that this mic has the ability to pick up a full texture of sound in the room. I also like that it records with very low background hiss, which is a big problem with integrated mics in laptops.

One important thing to remember with any USB mic is to know how to open up it’s settings on your computer. When I first connected the U37 to my computer, it defaulted its input sound level to practically zero. It is in this setting that I have learnt to control the sensitivity of the microphone.

9/10 for this microphone. You won’t be disappointed. Peace Out

2 Stars works okay, but not the best solution
The CAD u37 isn’t as great as I thought it would be. The mic is very noisy and picks up way to much ambient noise. The other problem is with Logic Pro 9, it had way too much latency to be useful. I actually had to activate low latency mode and set my buffer size much lower than with any other usb audio device I’ve used, and sometimes it would still have latency. I am fairly disappointed as I had hoped it would be plug and play. I did like the quality of the microphone, maybe not the warmest microphone but has a lot of clarity to it which is nice. I would recommend this for podcasts or something where the timing of the recording is not critical. Another problem with USB mics is that they cannot be upgraded. If you are serious about getting nice semi-professional quality from microphones, I would suggest getting an actual xlr condenser with an audio input device with a phantom power supply like the line 6 ux2. Would probably be a better investment for you seeing as all you would have to do to upgrade is just purchase a better condenser. Will be returning this product.

4 Stars Great mic, but picks up environmental noise
The CAD U37 is a great mic for the money, but you have to be willing to tolerate its desire to capture ambient noise. If you’re around a noisy computer, for example, it will capture that sound. If you are in an echo-prone room, it will pick up any echos. You might like this for multiple people to be gathered around a single mic and speak or play an acoustic number, but if you want something akin to an isolated sound where your voice and only your voice is registered amid a din of activity, you’ll be disappointed.

I have not fiddled very much with the two settings on the microphone. I have kept the buttons facing to the left (if you are looking at the CAD logo (facing up) on the microphone).

Buy/More Info

A post from: Microphone Reviews

The Sony ECM-DS30P Electret Condenser Digital Microphone is a compact microphone perfect for recording interviews, meetings, or music. It has a flat frequency response and a high sensitivity that reproduces low volumes accurately. The ECM-DS30P features a direct plug-in for easy use and a special structure to prevent unwanted noises from vibrations. The ECM-DS30P is also equipped with an adjustable angle mechanism that allows you to position the microphone up to a sixty degree angle. The Sony ECM-DS30P Electret Condenser Digital Microphone comes with a carry pouch for dust and wind protection and to keep out undesirable air flow noise.

What’s in the Box
Sony ECM-DS30P Electret Condenser Digital Microphone, carrying pouch, and wind screen.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Good product
This product is same as described in purchase. Delivery was very quickly and good conditions. I recommend this product and provider. Sincerely. Jose Pena

1 Star Not usable with macbook
Not Sony’s fault but contrary to the word i got from the computer store, the apple Mac-book does NOT support plug in mics like this one that don’t supply their own power. So disregard the 1 star rating as far as quality goes:just didn’t want this possibly useful info to get lost among the ratings. I ended up finding that info in Mac help after i couldn’t get it to work. So, i have no opinion of the quality of the mic, I just know it doesn’t work with the Mac-Book.

4 Stars ok product
i recently bought this product, shippments is pretty fast. the quality of the product is fair. with my sony 1g recorder it boost the quality by maybe 1.5 time better that usual. i use it in my class, to record my professor. but i was expecting a little more.

1 Star dont buy
i bought this knowing that sony usually sells great products but it sucks it makes no sound quality or level difference what so ever with the voice recorded and does not work with the computers built in input either (i would give this no stars if i could)

5 Stars mic
This microphone is something that my staff of photographers has liked because with a small digital recorder is help them keep things portable and together. They also have like the quality in the sound that it produces.

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A post from: Microphone Reviews

The original Tube MP made pro-caliber tube preamping available to ordinary musicians and home studios. The MP Studio goes a step further by adding a VU meter for better level control and ART’s OPL (Output Protection Limiter), which controls and maintains the output peak signal to protect hard-disk recording systems and soundcards. The VU meter reflects the impact of the OPL circuitry when it is activated, which allows more effective fine tuning of the audio signal. It is a valuable tool for recording in project and home studios and can also function as a DI box with impedance matching and preamplification for line-level sources. Includes a 3-year warranty.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Indispensable basic pre-amp/DI box
For smoothing the rawness and thickening the sound of

an inexpensive condenser mic, this box is just the thing.

Microphone settings usually are best somewhere generally

around “straight-up”, with some variations. Use restraint

when using with Mics!

***With Microphones, I would strongly urge you use ONLY the XLR inputs,

for lowest noise level.***

However, the VU meter doesn’t

seem to register much when using the XLRs (unless you overdrive/distort it excessively).

I would go so far as to say,

don’t even worry about the Art VUs when using the XLR ins & outs.

The VU meter seems to be more for line-level

applications like electric guitar/bass,

which sound just fine thru the 1/4″ line inputs and outputs.

Compare vocal track recordings both WITH and WITHOUT

the preamp in use, to get a feel for the subtle, enrichening magic it does.

It is even better with guitar or bass, where it

just kicks it up a whole notch

in terms of thickness/smoothness of sound.

And if you overdrive it (guitar, esp), you can

get some enhanced distortion, for sure.

The best use of preamps (esp inexpensive ones), is to keep

its application fairly subtle (i.e.CLEAN) on any 1 track (except for the more

extreme special distortion/compression FX).

But if you were doing multitrack-recording of a song

and you used it on several tracks–Say, vocal mics,

guitar and bass, it would make

a solid difference in your final recording

as a WHOLE, I would think.

When recording a clean mic sound (i.e.lead vocal), You should go for

quite loud output from the pre–Just use your ears a lot

to make sure you have not reached distortion levels.

Aim for a strong output into the recorder, and

keep the input volume on your recording device low (like 1-2).

Used properly, it does that wonderful preamp thing–It makes the sound “bigger”,

fatter, “warmer”, whatever–In any case, It’s a very good thing.

The newer version of this box (with numerous presets),

might be even better and easier to get good results from–But that

is just my guess.

This model is simpler, but I got some

good results from it, and it also “taught” me

what a difference a preamp makes.

This much is true—NO 2nd preamp you get will ever be

as much an improvement in your sound

as the 1st preamp was an improvement over

NOT using a preamp at all.

The VU just makes it a little better than

the non-VU model for line-level stuff.

Great starter pre.

And has pro-level applications as well, IMO.

4 Stars Works well and price is good!
I needed a mic preamp and after visiting local music stores, I had reached the conclusion that I just couldn’t afford one. I saw this and decided to take a chance. And it paid off.

This preamp works well for me. I have been impressed with the performance. It is well constructed and well worth the price. This one is a keeper.

4 Stars Great product!
This works better than expected. clear audio and good amp. 4 because it runs pretty hot, so that worries me a bit. Hot enough that it melted the glue holding the foot pads, and started to slide a little bit.

4 Stars Show plus go.
[I'm beginning to think I did this item an injustice. I've looked at the prices of XLR to USB adapters made by Shure, Blue, MX, and all--esp. the Shure--cost considerably more while offering less flexibility and features than the ART Preamp. The only "downside" might be the greater size and weight of the ART. If you plan to travel with the item a lot, throwing it in a gig bag with tons of other equipment, the Blue or MX may make more sense.]

In attempting to record announcements at home suitable for studio use (NPR radio), I encountered 3 problems: 1. My iMac didn’t have enough power to provide adequate gain for non-USB microphones; 2. My results were often unusable due to recurring plosives (pops from “p” sounds); 3. My voice had none of the flattering “baritone richness” of the expensive studio mics.

A USB mic such as the Blue Snowball or Snowflake solved the first problem. The ART Preamp did the same with my condenser and dynamic mics plugged into the computer’s audio input jack. The second problem was solved by a pop filter, though the added gain provided by the preamp reduced plosives by enabling me to speak more softly and “mute” my consonants; thirdly, as for the rich and resonant radio studio sound, I experimented with various mics, running each through the ART box. While there were differences in the “presence” and “natural” sound of my voice, all of the samples seemed overly treblish and slightly shrill compared to the studio mics (perhaps equalizers and filters would help, but I’m increasingly inclined to give the credit to mics at the studio costing several thousand each).

There are several of these mic preamps on Amazon, all supplying approximately the same amount of phantom power–up to 48 volts and 60 dbs. The ART is heavier and far more “stylish” than some others that cost ten dollars less. Whether the tube “warms” the sound as claimed may be more placebo than real, but the device strikes me as well-built, full-featured, and fairly valued.

In sum, if you run a small recording studio on a limited budget, it will be easy to fall in love with this seductive box. But bear in mind that it may not be needed with a USB mic (for recording purposes, I’ve noticed no need for phantom power) and that using it with a computer’s 1/8″ audio input will set you back extra for the right adapter (male XLR or quarter-inch plug to male 3.5mm). In addition, the power supply is a throwback to the wall warts of old, so it’ll eat up 2-3 spaces on your power strip besides the box itself taking up extra room in your work space (suddenly a sensitive, compact USB mic is looking better than ever).

All the same, if you’re willing to carry the extra weight, this baby, besides proving useful for recording purposes, can make an underperforming mic plus instrument amp come to life with more than ample power and loudness to serve as an emergency P.A. system.

4 Stars Does exactly what it says it will do for low price venues
I own a very nice Tascam DP-02 that has one glaring problem, weak preamps. You can dial some scenarios up OK, but for low input items, like say, a mic’ed harmonica, voice, or even an acoustic guitar, you struggle. This little $29.99 item puts you back in the game, and does it well. If you understand that you are NOT getting a studio quality preamp db boost for $29.99, but you are getting the necessary db. You use your noise filters properly, and this unit is just about a must buy for home recording, garage bands, churches who need a little boost on one or two singers, you get the picture.

Remember, you’re not going to cut studio quality demos with this little preamp. Yes, you can find multiple uses for this in small club settings, churches and other venues. And of course it makes a great add-on for people like me, musical hobbyists. Also this unit would be great as part of a recording system for teachers providing students with recordings of their work.

Same complaint as others – no Off-On switch. I put mine on the same power strip as my Tascam, but I can’t help but think that I am slamming some electronic part somewhere with a signal that it is not ready to recive yet. I would have gladly paid another $5.00 for an Off-On switch. Other than that, it’s well built, the controls are solid, the VU meter is a great add, and I am seriously thinking about another one since I am starting to lay down multiple tracks.

Buy/More Info

A post from: Microphone Reviews

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.

User Ratings and Reviews

1 Star MXL yikes!
I was really in the market for a less expensive condenser mic. A friend had one of these at his studio and I tried it out. Iwas really terrible. Sounded awlful. Very harsh. Acoustic guitar sound hollow and harsh – not good. Vocals were really unflattering. Tried a couple of different mic pres. Still bad news. You really hardly get what you pay for with this stuff.

1 Star Garbage!
These Mics are Garbage! I know we all don’t have alot of $$$ floating around right now but if you seriously want to get good budget priced mics for vocals ect….recording,… these are not it! The best these are for is to throw them and the head of the salesperson who tries to tell you these are a good buy!

-j-

5 Stars awsome
got this for my boyriend for xmas we have an extra room that was he uses as a studio hobby room for fun. was a sound enginer for 7 years for a band. and its great he plays with it everyday.thank you:)

5 Stars Best mic!
Very good mic for live recording…don’t let the price fool this is a really good mic.To hear a sound clip recorded by this mic go to [...] you will be impressed with the quality sound from this mic. Just buy it already!

3 Stars Too muddy. For $50 more you can get so much better.
I had this mic for one day, which was enough time for me to put it through its paces for my use: voice-over work. Unfortunately, this mic didn’t have the presence I was looking for in a condenser microphone, and the mids were far too muddy. I couldn’t EQ them out with my basic 4-channel audio board + phantom power. Garbage in = garbage out. I returned the mic to the store about 24 hours later.

Someone said in another review that you’ll quickly grow out of the MXL 990 mic once you realize that it sounds like a cheap Chinese condenser mic. I totally agree with that.

Also, a condenser is really not a good choice for a podcast mic. They pick up far too much noise — they are really meant to be used in studio applications with heavily treated rooms that have no background noise. If you use it in a normal room, you’ll hear every tiny little sound along with your speech. I suggest you look at a decent Dynamic microphone. As far as super inexpensive, I’ve had good luck with the Audio Technica AT818II mic in Asia. In the US, it’s actually more expensive, and is called the Audio Technica “Professional Unidirectional Microphone.” You can find them here on Amazon for a song. I’ve been happy with the sound for my podcasts, and as a dynamic, they handle background noises much better.

A great (but a little expensive) mic for podcasts, probably the best, is the Shure SM7. You can read about that all over the web.

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A post from: Microphone Reviews

Here’s Amazon’s take:

CD Pro 7 Piece Drum Mic Touring Pack

CAD DMTP7 7 Piece Drum Mic Touring Pack is specifically designed for rim mounting and overheads.However this pack can be used for a variety of applications. Drums, Strings, Horns, Vocals will all sound fantastic using these Microphones!CAD KM212 Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneDialed in at the factory for the thump and crack of your kick drum. Try it on the bass rig too. The included mic clip provides additional isolation. Sold only in DMTP packs.Applications Include Bass Cabinets, Kick Drum, Rack/Floor Toms.CAD SN210 Supercardioid Dynamic MicrophoneDesigned for snare drums. The built in rim clip eases setup and adjustment. Sold only in DMTP packs.Applications Include Brass, Guitar Cabinets, Bass Cabinets, Snare Drum.CAD CM217 Cardioid Condenser MicrophoneDesigned for drum overheads. Features include hi-pass filter and attenuator. Mic clip included. Sold only in DMTP packs.Applications Include Acoustic Instrument, Strings, Cymbals/Overheads, Hi-hat.CAD TM211 Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneDesigned for toms. The built in rim clip eases setup and adjustment. Sold only in DMTP packs.Applications Include Brass, Guitar Cabinets, Bass Cabinets, Snare Drum, Rack/Floor Toms.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Best drum mics for the $
These mics for the money are awsome….The overheads pick up your cymbals excellent….if they are to hot flip the two switches on them to cut down on the sensativity.

The tom,snare and bass drum mics sound sweet in a live setting.

I have not recorded with this mic pac,,,but read reviews saying they sound great.

the mounts for these mics work great with flanged drum hoops…my snare has a cast hoop and the clamp still works with it,but you can tell these clamps are intended for flanged type hoops.

the only negative I have about this mic pac is that you cant buy any of these mics in this kit one at a time,,,,I have 2 more toms to mic and to do that I have to get the 4 peice mic pac to get 2 more tom mics. the mics are so good for the price that I’ll end up doing that though.

5 Stars CD Pro-7 7 Piece Drum Mic Touring Pack
CD Pro-7 7 Piece Drum Mic Touring Pack is a good buy. I have a set of Roland electronic drums – they are good but not the same as acoustic drums. This microphones do an excellent job capturing the sound and the price is unbelievable but true. The hardest part is setting the sound level and mix. You really need a trained ear to help you or an a VERY good set of head phones.

5 Stars Cheap but great
You might hear that they are cheap! So what! I bought them because they were cheap and I needed drum mics. I can’t live without them. They are so great! I even use the condensers for miking guitar. Great mics no matter what anyone says.

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A post from: Microphone Reviews