MCA SP-1 Arrives!

Well the UPS dude brought the package from ProSound and Stage Lighting around 5:30pm and we proceeded straight to the studio to get some samples.
First we wanted to get some sort of standard to compare the tests. So we fired up the ADK A51 Type V, set the levels (which would remain the same) and did a few lines.
The Critiera Constant. We intend on testing different levels of pro mics to give eveyone an idea of "return on investment." This group is to show how much mic you can get for less than $200. In all test, there is no eq, compression or limiting, just straight into a very basic Rane MS1-b preamp and into the the A/D converter and into the computer.
So then we plugged in the MSA SB-1 and Wow! This little mic sounds better than I expected. Nice levels and surprisingly low noise. However, I was a little disappointed at the muffled low frequency response. (I did try tweaking the eq in our "broadcast" filter and it was pretty doggone good.)
My opinion--for $39.95, this is a great bargain for someone who needs a mic and can do a little eq tweaking in post production--a great bargain.
Now what happens? The MSA SB-1 is back in a double box and will be on its way to back to Carlsbad, California to Jim Williams of Audio Upgrades. Jim says he will replace all the important eletronic components (details on that later) and we will be shocked and amazed at what we get back.
So stay tuned for the next thrill packed episode when we put these econo condensers head to head in a battle of....wait a minute...I digress.

What other under $200 mics do you consider for Voiceover? Let me know and let's see if we can get them to do battle. Our next series will get very dramatic--the Under $300 Class division. That's when it starts to get interesting. (I'd like to hear the new ADK A-6 "SuperMic.")

Listen to the Microphone Tests here: www.vocalimpactmedia.com/SoundStorage.html

VO Mic Test

This is the very first update for our regular communications of activities. Wow! That sounds formal.
Here's what we are working on. We have ordered a MXL SP-1 from PSSL for a total price including shipping of around $47. That's what I said, $39.95 plus shipping. It is a condenser mic based on a Shoeps circuit and manufactured in China. We have been advised to check out the sound of the stock mic...and then send it to Jim Williams of Audio Upgrades for a complete overhaul of the existing parts.
We plan to have examlpes posted of before and after the upgrade, as well as comparisons to other similar mics.
If this sounds good to you, it means you may be able to get a perfectly fine mic for less than $175.
Stay tuned. This is going to be fun. And let me hear from you.
willie.tv63@gmail.com