Have you ever noticed those radical looking "Lollipop" mics? There are some true classics based on that design and I have heard a few of the modern rendentions that sounded pretty good.
Our buddy, Josh Mahler--the monster-mic man, has a new Red Microphone's Type B with both the R6 and R8 plug-in capsules. Very interesting.
Josh explains the difference between the two interchangable capsules as he test. Listen and tell me the difference you hear. Doesn't interchangable capsules make a mic like this the most versitle around?
Check Josh's test here.
NOTICE: The Vo Mic Test page is now too large to make you scroll all over the place to listen to a chosen mic. We are realigning the page to make it easier. Bear with us and give us your suggestions.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Build Your Own Sound Absorbing Panels
You already know I am not the handiest dude in the shop....but my wife--now that's another deal. She got excited when I bought her a custom set of portable power-tools one Christmas. (I don't recommend that fellows.)
I am a theorist. I come up with ideas, figure things out. What's the shortest distance from here to there. I have been studying sound absorbing materials and design with an idea to finally get the downstairs VO booth to sound a little cleaner. I have been gathering materials for quite a while.
Well, it happened. My wife got tired of waiting for me to build the panels I had been describing for so long--she decided to start building them herself. (Something about, "I'm sick of looking at this crap lying around. Go ahead and do something with it or I'm throwing it out.")
Two hours and six panels later--They are fantastic!
I will post a before and after sound check later. You have to check this out for your self.
Build Your Own Sound Panels...Click Here.
Send me you questions.
I am a theorist. I come up with ideas, figure things out. What's the shortest distance from here to there. I have been studying sound absorbing materials and design with an idea to finally get the downstairs VO booth to sound a little cleaner. I have been gathering materials for quite a while.
Well, it happened. My wife got tired of waiting for me to build the panels I had been describing for so long--she decided to start building them herself. (Something about, "I'm sick of looking at this crap lying around. Go ahead and do something with it or I'm throwing it out.")
Two hours and six panels later--They are fantastic!
I will post a before and after sound check later. You have to check this out for your self.
Build Your Own Sound Panels...Click Here.
Send me you questions.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
VO Mic Test goes International
Hello to all our friends across this wide world of VO Mic Testing. It's exciting to realize that seeking good results for a proper investment in equipment is an international goal.
It was brought to my attention by some of our friends overseas that quite a few folks were checking out our results. "What are you talking about?" I asked, "Sure, VO Mic Test has links on quite a few related sites," they said. I looked at a few they directed me to and sure enough--I couldn't read the language--but there we are.
Again, thanks to all our friends who encourage us, send us their observations and their own tests, and make comments in general. Thanks even to the head of a large electronics gear maker that told me how unscientific our tests were, but he enjoyed reading the blog and comments and wouldn't miss a new test. He said it is too much fun. Everyone keep sending them.
And to you folks in Poland who speak better english than I--keep making those suggestions.
It was brought to my attention by some of our friends overseas that quite a few folks were checking out our results. "What are you talking about?" I asked, "Sure, VO Mic Test has links on quite a few related sites," they said. I looked at a few they directed me to and sure enough--I couldn't read the language--but there we are.
Again, thanks to all our friends who encourage us, send us their observations and their own tests, and make comments in general. Thanks even to the head of a large electronics gear maker that told me how unscientific our tests were, but he enjoyed reading the blog and comments and wouldn't miss a new test. He said it is too much fun. Everyone keep sending them.
And to you folks in Poland who speak better english than I--keep making those suggestions.
Monday, January 21, 2008
New Mic is Different. I Like it.
Have you noticed a lot of Voiceover folks like the same mics that are popular in broadcast radio stations? Why is that? Is it because a lot of us came from that background and it’s just what we are comfortable with? Is it because the most popular are dynamic mics that are easier to set up and maintain? Or could it be that sound? You know what I’m talking about. Clean, clear, bright, easy to understand and easy to equalize to match the station’s over-the-air processing.For most of the rest of us, the Large Diaphragm Condenser is the usual weapon of choice. It picks up every nuance of the spoken voice and is easier to “work” with intricate and subtle variations in vocal delivery. Do you know what I’m talking about?
Now we have found a new mic that sort of combines the best of both of those worlds—the MXL V88. Right off the bat I’m recommending you do whatever you can to try this mic. It’s different. It’s bright, clean and clear. Yet picks up the nuances you expect in an LDC. It’s also In Your Face present—right up front. It has a full dynamic range that should be easy to equalize if needed. But I’m betting you will like the full sound of the V88.
My recommendation—if you need mics for a radio station, TV sound booth, or if you do spots for any broadcast, you should try this mic. It’s priced a little less than the Shure SM7b and the Electrovoice RE20 and RE27 and is around the same price as another one of my favorites--the Heil PR40. The V88 has more range, sensitivity and lots more presence than those old standards. It will need phantom power.
I will do a TV spot and post it on the VO Mic Test site soon. We can all hear it in action. Or go listen to the “out of the box” test now.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Another USB
Wow! This USB Mic thing is neat. I can see using this MXL 008 on the road for just about any need. It seems like the perfect podcasting setup. The kit is as complete and turn-key as you would want. MXL apparently put a lot of thought into the final use and purpose of this mic.
I have a secret agenda for this particular mic to really put it through a supreme test by a known field reporter for a major network. Then we will see how these USB deals work out.
Stay tuned....and check out our very quick test on the VOMictest page. (Very quick--isn't that why they made these USB mics?)
More coming about this mic.
I have a secret agenda for this particular mic to really put it through a supreme test by a known field reporter for a major network. Then we will see how these USB deals work out.
Stay tuned....and check out our very quick test on the VOMictest page. (Very quick--isn't that why they made these USB mics?)
More coming about this mic.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Fast & Furious
I knew it would happen. I have great news to share, new mic tests to post and tons on the way. But--my company is signing on a new Cable TV Lease Access Channel tomorrow night and I need to fill in some production holes right away.
In the meantime....You may notice John Weeks comparison of his Neumann TLM-103 condenser to his Cascade Fathead ribbon.
Wait a minute--there's almost an $800 to $1000 difference between those two mics. OK, do you hear that much difference?
I have used ribbon mics for many years. Everything from RCA DX77's and 44's to some of the newer chinese ribbons. They are alright, but have a little "sheen" on my voice that makes me prefer other choices besides ribbons. They seem wonderful for long narrations. Tell me what you think of his test.
I can't wait to show you the new mics we received to test today...should I tell you now--or wait and just post the tests?
Let me put a little more heat in the transistors (notice I didn't say tubes) and I promise a test this week....Hey, I promise several tests.
And don't forget....we expect more updates on new things for you and me from the NAMM show.
VO MIC TESTS
In the meantime....You may notice John Weeks comparison of his Neumann TLM-103 condenser to his Cascade Fathead ribbon.
Wait a minute--there's almost an $800 to $1000 difference between those two mics. OK, do you hear that much difference?
I have used ribbon mics for many years. Everything from RCA DX77's and 44's to some of the newer chinese ribbons. They are alright, but have a little "sheen" on my voice that makes me prefer other choices besides ribbons. They seem wonderful for long narrations. Tell me what you think of his test.
I can't wait to show you the new mics we received to test today...should I tell you now--or wait and just post the tests?
Let me put a little more heat in the transistors (notice I didn't say tubes) and I promise a test this week....Hey, I promise several tests.
And don't forget....we expect more updates on new things for you and me from the NAMM show.
VO MIC TESTS
Friday, January 11, 2008
Sound Card or Digital Interface?
Have you ever wondered if the new, higher resolution USB or Firewire interfaces process your audio at higher quality than a high quality sound card? So have I. And I admit to the ignorance of suggesting to my partner NOT to go with a sound card that one of his technicians recommended he use. But I am a dummy, remember.
Now I know plenty of pros that know what they are doing that are using high end soundcards and they sound fantastic.
Our buddy John Weeks invested in a Lynx L22 and wanted to hear the difference to his M-Audio 192 soundcard. So he shared a little test he did.
His vocal chain is: Neumann TLM 103, Manley Voxbox, Soundcard. He's not using any EQ, about a db of compression and about a db of limiting on these.
Hear the test in a .wav file Here....scroll down.
Now I know plenty of pros that know what they are doing that are using high end soundcards and they sound fantastic.
Our buddy John Weeks invested in a Lynx L22 and wanted to hear the difference to his M-Audio 192 soundcard. So he shared a little test he did.
His vocal chain is: Neumann TLM 103, Manley Voxbox, Soundcard. He's not using any EQ, about a db of compression and about a db of limiting on these.
Hear the test in a .wav file Here....scroll down.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Powerful New Wireless for our Radio/TV Buds
You know I am a big fan of both.
LECTROSONICS AND HEIL SOUND ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Rio Rancho, NM – January 2008… Lectrosonics, recognized the world over as a leading manufacturer of wireless microphone systems and audio processing products, and Heil Sound, creators of world-class microphones for recording, live sound, and broadcast professionals, are pleased to announce they have entered into a strategic partnership. The agreement—reached in late November 2007—combines two of professional audio’s leading technology producers, with the result being a new handheld wireless microphone destined to re-define the landscape for high quality, professional wireless microphone systems.
The first product resulting from the combined effort is known as the Lectrosonics UTPR20. Combining the capsule from Heil Sound’s legendary PR20 dynamic microphone—recognized as one of the industry’s premier instruments for vocals, snare, and cymbals—with Lectrosonics highly acclaimed UT Series Digital Hybrid Wireless® transmitters; this new handheld wireless microphone system integrates two leading technologies into a single device. The Lectrosonics UT transmitter makes the most of the PR20 capsule with its Digital Hybrid Wireless technology, thus ensuring compandor-free audio for wide dynamic range and neutral frequency response.
The new UTPR20 will have a distinctive look when compared to the standard UT transmitters in the Lectrosonics line. The UTPR20 employs Heil’s grill basket and capsule identifier ring. At the foot of the transmitter, this exciting new product features a gold-colored battery access ring to match the unit’s overall color scheme. Featuring 100 mW RF power that facilitates long range application usage, 256 synthesized frequencies, and full compatibility with Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid Wireless and analog receivers, the new UTPR20 is a state-of-the-art, handheld wireless microphone system incorporating many advanced features that provides users with a wide range of possibilities for high-quality speech and vocal performance.
Karl Winkler, Lectrosonics Director of Business Development, commented on the new strategic partnership, “I’m personally very excited about the partnership between Heil Sound and Lectrosonics. Bob Heil literally wrote the book on concert sound and has worked with everyone in the industry. The combination of the UT transmitter and the Heil PR20 capsule brings out the best in both components. This is a win-win partnership in every way.”
Bob Heil, CEO and Founder of Heil Sound, echoed Winkler’s enthusiasm. “We’re very proud and honored to announce that two American companies—Lectrosonics and Heil Sound, Ltd.—have collaborated on an exciting new product for the entertainment and commercial audio industries,” said Heil. “We have recognized for some time that we needed a wireless microphone offering, but we were more interested in partnering with an established player as opposed to re-inventing the wheel. This past summer, Karl and I were working together on a project for American Idol, and the opportunity for collaboration presented itself. We now have a product that combines our incredible PR-20 element with Lectrosonics’ robust Digital Hybrid Wireless technology. I believe this new wireless microphone will address many wireless issues people routinely encounter, and it will provide world-class sound quality in the process.”
Lectrosonics will show the new UTPR20 at Winter NAMM in January 2007, and anticipates delivery of this product in February 2007. MSRP is estimated at $1695.
About Heil SoundWith a history dating to the 1950’s, Bob Heil has pioneered numerous innovative products for audio professionals, including the Heil Talk Box as well as perfecting the first electronic crossover. A recipient of the first ever “Pioneer Award” at the 1995 Audio Engineering Society convention, Heil’s microphone designs have won accolades for their sonic performance and the ability to capture a performance with all the character and subtleties of the original. Heil was recently invited into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to put up a display of his historically important gear—a first for any equipment manufacturer.
About LectrosonicsWell respected within the film, broadcast, and theater technical communities since 1971, Lectrosonics wireless microphone systems and audio processing products are used daily in mission-critical applications by audio engineers familiar with the company’s dedication to quality, customer service, and innovation. Lectrosonics is a US manufacturer based in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Visit the company online at www.lectrosonics.com.
LECTROSONICS AND HEIL SOUND ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Rio Rancho, NM – January 2008… Lectrosonics, recognized the world over as a leading manufacturer of wireless microphone systems and audio processing products, and Heil Sound, creators of world-class microphones for recording, live sound, and broadcast professionals, are pleased to announce they have entered into a strategic partnership. The agreement—reached in late November 2007—combines two of professional audio’s leading technology producers, with the result being a new handheld wireless microphone destined to re-define the landscape for high quality, professional wireless microphone systems.
The first product resulting from the combined effort is known as the Lectrosonics UTPR20. Combining the capsule from Heil Sound’s legendary PR20 dynamic microphone—recognized as one of the industry’s premier instruments for vocals, snare, and cymbals—with Lectrosonics highly acclaimed UT Series Digital Hybrid Wireless® transmitters; this new handheld wireless microphone system integrates two leading technologies into a single device. The Lectrosonics UT transmitter makes the most of the PR20 capsule with its Digital Hybrid Wireless technology, thus ensuring compandor-free audio for wide dynamic range and neutral frequency response.
The new UTPR20 will have a distinctive look when compared to the standard UT transmitters in the Lectrosonics line. The UTPR20 employs Heil’s grill basket and capsule identifier ring. At the foot of the transmitter, this exciting new product features a gold-colored battery access ring to match the unit’s overall color scheme. Featuring 100 mW RF power that facilitates long range application usage, 256 synthesized frequencies, and full compatibility with Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid Wireless and analog receivers, the new UTPR20 is a state-of-the-art, handheld wireless microphone system incorporating many advanced features that provides users with a wide range of possibilities for high-quality speech and vocal performance.
Karl Winkler, Lectrosonics Director of Business Development, commented on the new strategic partnership, “I’m personally very excited about the partnership between Heil Sound and Lectrosonics. Bob Heil literally wrote the book on concert sound and has worked with everyone in the industry. The combination of the UT transmitter and the Heil PR20 capsule brings out the best in both components. This is a win-win partnership in every way.”
Bob Heil, CEO and Founder of Heil Sound, echoed Winkler’s enthusiasm. “We’re very proud and honored to announce that two American companies—Lectrosonics and Heil Sound, Ltd.—have collaborated on an exciting new product for the entertainment and commercial audio industries,” said Heil. “We have recognized for some time that we needed a wireless microphone offering, but we were more interested in partnering with an established player as opposed to re-inventing the wheel. This past summer, Karl and I were working together on a project for American Idol, and the opportunity for collaboration presented itself. We now have a product that combines our incredible PR-20 element with Lectrosonics’ robust Digital Hybrid Wireless technology. I believe this new wireless microphone will address many wireless issues people routinely encounter, and it will provide world-class sound quality in the process.”
Lectrosonics will show the new UTPR20 at Winter NAMM in January 2007, and anticipates delivery of this product in February 2007. MSRP is estimated at $1695.
About Heil SoundWith a history dating to the 1950’s, Bob Heil has pioneered numerous innovative products for audio professionals, including the Heil Talk Box as well as perfecting the first electronic crossover. A recipient of the first ever “Pioneer Award” at the 1995 Audio Engineering Society convention, Heil’s microphone designs have won accolades for their sonic performance and the ability to capture a performance with all the character and subtleties of the original. Heil was recently invited into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to put up a display of his historically important gear—a first for any equipment manufacturer.
About LectrosonicsWell respected within the film, broadcast, and theater technical communities since 1971, Lectrosonics wireless microphone systems and audio processing products are used daily in mission-critical applications by audio engineers familiar with the company’s dedication to quality, customer service, and innovation. Lectrosonics is a US manufacturer based in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Visit the company online at www.lectrosonics.com.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
First New Mic Announcements
The first of the new mics to be introduced at the NAMM show were released today. I have been interested in the Lauten mics since they came out with the Horizon. I have asked Lauten about suitability for voiceover and they wisely suggested that I just “try one.” Finances have dictated investing in sure things lately so I asked around if anyone has tried one. Never heard from anyone but musicians that loved the product and the company. I have spoken with Brian Loudenslager on the phone and through email and he is a super dude that I really believe takes great concern with delivering a quality product. Still—no voiceover tests.The mic we are most interested of the three announced new models is the FC-357 (sounds like a pistol). On the Lauten website, it says: Superb for clean vocals, voiceovers and instruments! Some suggested uses include: Vocals, voiceovers and instrument recording.
Company to debut three new studio microphones at the 2008 Winter NAMM show SANTA CLARA, CA, January 7, 2008 – Lauten Audio, a professional microphone maker, will debut three new studio microphones at the 2008 Winter NAMM show in booth #6983; the LT-381, FC-357 and ST-221. Each new model compliments each other as well as their first product, the Horizon tube microphone, and enriches their professional studio microphone line.
The FC-357 is a solid-state multi-pattern large diaphragm condenser microphone. The FC-357 has class-A electronics and a dual-diaphragm capsule capable of omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-8 polar patterns. This microphone is for recordists looking for very clean and natural sound reproduction.These new models are expected to ship in the second quarter of 2008. List prices will be announced by March, 2008.
Check back soon. Big News and Tests coming.
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