Usb Condenser Microphone
February 28th, 2010The Microphone explained. Recording sharp sounds
Microphones are an example of transducers. Transducers are in fact devices which transform information from one form to the other. The most common microphones which are used for musical purposes are ribbon, condenser and dynamic microphones. All microphones have the competence to convert sound energy into electrical energy. They employ different ways and means to do so by utilizing electromagnetism, electrostatics, piezo-electric effects etc. The main purpose of microphones is generating a current or voltage which is comparative to the sound signal. In microphones sound information subsist as patterns of pressure; the microphone transform this information into patterns of electric current. Most of the microphones used in music recording and live performances could be either capacitor or dynamic models. A moving diaphragm is used to by these two devices to capture the sound.
There are various arrays of microphones available, which serves different purposes, dynamic microphones are likely the most common model. In live sound mode almost all the microphones are dynamic. For recording different instruments in a studio like drums, basses, electrical guitars etc. dynamic microphones are used. These microphones are relatively inexpensive and can even operate without the assistance of regular power supply and batteries. Dynamic microphones operate with the help of a lightweight diaphragm which is affixed to a small coil of wire and is perched in the field of a permanent magnet. As soon as a sound comes the whole diaphragm vibrates, thus the whole process works as a tiny electricity generator. Thus, when working with sound sources that do not need any high frequencies, dynamic microphones are used.
Capacitor microphones on the other hand have been in use for several decades and are more expensive and sensitive than their counterparts’ the dynamic microphone. These microphones confine high-frequency details much more precisely. These microphones are really efficient, but they generate such a petite electrical signal that necessitates an unusual type of built-in preamplifier to create the signal up to serviceable levels. There are also basic pickup patterns such as directional, omni-directional, shotgun, cardioids, subcardioids etc …Through these microphones sound is picked up from all directions. That is the reason why these microphones are technically correct. One disadvantage of “catch all” microphones is that apart from the main emanating sound, all other sounds within a room will be”picked-up” and recorded. That’s why cardioids or shotgun microphones are best for isolation recording sounds within a busy environment.
Buying Tips: Microphones
• There is no denying the fact that different microphones act differently, in different environmental settings, where there are diverse instruments being recorded. Opt with the microphone which best suits your need.
• For exceptional results procure a capacitor microphone or back-electrets models for severe vocal work.
• Decide, whether you want a condenser microphone, or crave a dynamic microphone? Make your mind whether a USB microphone will suit your needs? This would be a perfect solution if you need to plug your microphone directly into a PC or other added digital recording solution.
• Lock down on your budget; are you looking for a cheaper microphone or an expensive one? There is a wide variety of microphones available from multiple brands and models.
About the Author
Sophie Milch currently manages purchasing and inventory control for Comnauts.com. Sophie keeps herself busy by making sure our inventory is filled with quality products, the latest and the greatest. Sophie holds a B.Sc. in Mathematics from the University of Waterloo and is frequent contributor to several technology blogs and magazines. When she’s not working; in typical nerd fashion you can catch Sophie twittering friends, beating down Murlocs in World of Warcraft and watching re-runs of the X-files.
Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone – Review
Olympus ME-52W Noise Canceling Microphone $14.41
The ME-52W plugs directly into your digital recorder”s 3.5mm microphone jack for uni-directional recording in high-noise environments. It will cut down on much of the background noise and result in a more accurate transcription….
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Blue Microphones The Pop Universal Pop Filter $26.62
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NEW Icicle XLR to USB Converter (HEADPHONES) $61.77
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Alesis ProTrack Handheld Stereo Recorder for iPod $159.00
Capture live sound directly on your Apple iPod anywhere and anytime without a single cable with the Alesis ProTrack. Just dock your iPod and cover it with the protective clear shield, and you’re ready to roll. You can record detailed, 16-bit, 44.1kHz or 22kHz stereo digital audio without connecting any additional equipment using ProTrack’s onboard pair of cardioid condenser microphones. The on-boa…
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Blue Microphones ETI USB Condenser Plug-and-play Microphone with Kit $171.99
Create unparalleled recordings and send them directly to your computer with Blue Microphone’s Yeti USB Microphone. As the world’s first THX-Certified microphone, the Yeti uses Blue Microphone’s proprietary tri-capsule technology.
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Blue Microphones Yeti USB Condenser Microphone and The Pop Universal Filter Kit $147
The Yeti USB Condenser Microphone with The POP Universal Filter Kit offers amazing sound quality for an amazing digital recording resolution. This kit includes a USB condenser microphone and The Pop Universal Pop Filter.
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Blue Microphones Yeti USB Condenser Plug and Play Microphone with Accessory Kit $145.49
As the world’s first THX-Certified microphone, the Yeti uses Blue Microphone’s proprietary tri-capsule technology to produce pristine, studio-quality recordings. This microphone allows you to send recordings directly to your computer.
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Blue Microphones Snowball iCE Microphone $99.99
Blue Microphones Snowball iCE Microphone
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Marshall Microphone $77.97
Mobile vocal recording just got easier. The Tempo USB condenser microphone is a lightweight microphone that is compatible with the iPad.
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Blue Microphones Yeti Pro Multipattern Condenser Microphone with Accessory Kit $273.99
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Blue Microphones Yeti Pro Condenser Microphone Kit $269.99
The Yeti is one of the most advanced and versatile multi-pattern USB microphones available anywhere. Combining three capsules and four different pattern settings, the Yeti is an ultimate tool for creating amazing recordings, directly to your computer.
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Studio Projects LSM XLR and USB Condenser Microphone $179.95
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Samson C01U Condenser USB Microphone $74.95
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CAD U37 Studio Condenser USB Microphone $46.95
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CAD U37 USB Condenser Microphone $47.45
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CAD U7 USB Tabletop Condenser Microphone $49.95
The CAD U7 USB Tabletop Recording Microphone features an omnidirectional condenser element that is perfect for recording speech at home or in the office. With a frequency response tailored for speech and a low profile design that sits perfectly on a table, the CAD U7 works great for dictation or recording vocals from presentations. The plug and play U7 makes it easier than ever to start recording your meetings or speeches.
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Click here to learn more about Behringer C-1U Studio Condenser Microphone with USB Interface
Cad U37 Usb Condenser Microphone $47.45
The CAD U37 USB condenser microphone is excellent for vocals and instruments. Use it to podcast on the the internet, to create your own audio for videos, or record your own songs. It’s easy. Simply plug it into your computer’s USB port with the supplied cable and start recording. Windows and Macintosh compatible.Large condenser microphone element for warm, rich recordingsCardioid pickup pattern minimizes background noise and isolates the main sound sourceSmooth, extended frequency response is excellent for singing, speech and instruments-10dB Overload-protection switch minimizes distortion from loud sound sourcesBass-reduction switch reduces room noiseSide-address design used by broadcast, TV and recording studios10′ USB cable for flexible mic placement
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Nady USB-1C USB Condenser Microphone $89.99
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Audio Technica ATR2500 USB Condenser Microphone $69.95
Ideal for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover use, the Audio Technica ATR2500-USB plugs right into your computer’s USB port, and functions seamlessly with your favorite recording software. This large-diaphragm side-address condenser offers a USB output for recording to your computer, a quality analog-to-digital converter for excellent fidelity, and a headphone output with level control for monitoring with no audible delay. Its cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear.
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Nady Usb-1C Usb Condenser Microphone $89.99
The Nady USB-1C Condenser Microphone is perfect for recording studio vocals, acoustic instruments, podcasts, ambient instrument audio, or any audio source to your preferred DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Just connect the mic to your computer’s USB port with the supplied USB cable and launch your DAW. You are now ready to record! Powerful and versatile, the USB-1C microphone meets the stringent requirements of even the most demanding digital recording and live broadcasting applications. Perfect for high-quality recordings of vocals, acoustic instruments, and ambient instrumentation, as well as pod-casting and online communication Connects directly to any computer with a USB 2.0 (or higher) input port for easy plug-and-play operation Features large pressure-gradient condenser gold-sputtered diaphragm and FET preamplifiers for warm, natural reproduction of the most subtle to the most powerful audio sources Full-frequency response with rich warmth and crisp, transparent audio Minimal self-noise, increased dynamic range, and maximum SPL capacity Rugged compact construction with protective mesh grill and internal shock absorption Basemount mic holder fits any standard mic stand 10′ USB cable included Package includes: USB-1C microphone 10′ USB cable Microphone basemount User guide Warranty card
Click here to learn more about Nady Usb-1C Usb Condenser Microphone
MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone $163.79
The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone has an extremely smooth, natural sound quality. Featuring twin 20 mm gold sputtered capsules this pressure-gradient stereo condenser microphone has a 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response. The 990 USB also has 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 of the microphone features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with sampling rates of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. A heavy-duty wire mesh grill with an integrated pop filter protects the instrument’s capsule, and an LED activity light aids users in properly orienting the microphone toward the sound source.Based upon the MXL 990–a top-selling studio condenser microphone–the MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Mic supports USB 1.1 and 2.0, and is a plug and play device for both Windows and Macintosh. It requires no special drivers and eliminates the need external mic preamps and mixers. Simply connect the microphone’s USB cable to a computer’s USB port.The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone is ideal for location recording and is optimized for capturing a wide range of musical performances–both vocal and instrumental–with stunning realism and broad spatial imaging, thanks to its 90-degree X/Y stereo pick-up pattern. The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone also has a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) rating of 137 dB–making it an excellent choice for capturing loud instruments such as trumpet, saxophone, or electric guitar.The MXL 990 USB ships with a travel case, a mic stand adapter, a 10-foot USB cable, an owner’s manual, and an applications guide.
Click here to learn more about MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone
Mxl 990 Usb Stereo Condenser Microphone $179.99
The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone has an extremely smooth, natural sound quality. Featuring twin 20 mm gold sputtered capsules this pressure-gradient stereo condenser microphone has a 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response. The 990 USB also has 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 of the microphone features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with sampling rates of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. A heavy-duty wire mesh grill with an integrated pop filter protects the instrument’s capsule, and an LED activity light aids users in properly orienting the microphone toward the sound source.Based upon the MXL 990–a top-selling studio condenser microphone–the MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Mic supports USB 1.1 and 2.0, and is a plug and play device for both Windows and Macintosh. It requires no special drivers and eliminates the need external mic preamps and mixers. Simply connect the microphone’s USB cable to a computer’s USB port.The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone is ideal for location recording and is optimized for capturing a wide range of musical performances–both vocal and instrumental–with stunning realism and broad spatial imaging, thanks to its 90-degree X/Y stereo pick-up pattern. The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone also has a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) rating of 137 dB–making it an excellent choice for capturing loud instruments such as trumpet, saxophone, or electric guitar.The MXL 990 USB ships with a travel case, a mic stand adapter, a 10-foot USB cable, an owner’s manual, and an applications guide.Connects directly into a computer’s USB portPlug and play device for both Windows and MacintoshEliminates the need external mic preamps and mixersIdeal for location recording90-degree X/Y stereo pick-up pattern for broad spatial imaging3-position attenuation padLED activity light aids in proper mic orientation toward the sound sourceAttractive vintage body style with champagne finishIncludes travel case, a mic stand adapter, a 10-foot USB cable, an owner’s manual, and an applications guideMade with Mogami cable
Click here to learn more about Mxl 990 Usb Stereo Condenser Microphone
Used Mxl 990 Usb Stereo Condenser Microphone $163.79
The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone has an extremely smooth, natural sound quality. Featuring twin 20 mm gold sputtered capsules this pressure-gradient stereo condenser microphone has a 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response. The 990 USB also has 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 of the microphone features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with sampling rates of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. A heavy-duty wire mesh grill with an integrated pop filter protects the instrument’s capsule, and an LED activity light aids users in properly orienting the microphone toward the sound source.Based upon the MXL 990–a top-selling studio condenser microphone–the MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Mic supports USB 1.1 and 2.0, and is a plug and play device for both Windows and Macintosh. It requires no special drivers and eliminates the need external mic preamps and mixers. Simply connect the microphone’s USB cable to a computer’s USB port.The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone is ideal for location recording and is optimized for capturing a wide range of musical performances–both vocal and instrumental–with stunning realism and broad spatial imaging, thanks to its 90-degree X/Y stereo pick-up pattern. The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone also has a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) rating of 137 dB–making it an excellent choice for capturing loud instruments such as trumpet, saxophone, or electric guitar.The MXL 990 USB ships with a travel case, a mic stand adapter, a 10-foot USB cable, an owner’s manual, and an applications guide.Connects directly into a computer’s USB portPlug and play device for both Windows and MacintoshEliminates the need external mic preamps and mixersIdeal for location recording90-degree X/Y stereo pick-up pattern for broad spatial imaging3-position attenuation padLED activity light aids in proper mic orientation toward the sound sourceAttractive vintage body style with champagne finishIncludes travel case, a mic stand adapter, a 10-foot USB cable, an owner’s manual, and an applications guideMade with Mogami cable
Click here to learn more about Used Mxl 990 Usb Stereo Condenser Microphone
Audio Technica AT2020 USB Studio Condenser USB Microphone $149
The new AT2020 USB offers studio-quality articulation and intelligibility. It plugs right into your computer’s USB port, and functions seamlessly with your favorite recording software. Equipped with a USB digital output, the AT2020USB is perfect for home studio recording, field recording, podcasting, and voiceover use.
Click here to learn more about Audio Technica AT2020 USB Studio Condenser USB Microphone
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