BSP-132: Twitter Timeout, Facebook Forced to Decrypt Messages, and More

On episode 132 of the BSP I talk about YouTube paying creators tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to post content to their platform first as well as promote their monetization tools, Twitter putting Alex Jones in time out for a week based on a periscope livestream, and Facebook being pressured by the courts to decrypt end to end encrypted messages to assist in a probe into MS-13 activities. 

Subscribe to the full audio podcast at http://www.bandrewsays.com

Twitter: @bandrewsays
Ask Questions: AskBandrew@gmail.com
Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:40 - YouTube Paying Creators Money to Promote Monetization Features
05:11 - Facebook Being Pressured to Break Messenger’s Encryption
08:10 - Twitter Puts Alex Jones in Timeout
* https://www.mediamatters.org/video/2018/08/14/pericope-alex-jones-tells-supporters-get-their-battle-rifles-ready-against-antifa-mainstream-media/220995
11:50 - The End of the Rode Broadcaster
12:42 - What do you think the TSA can do to improve Air Travel Security?
* https://abcnews.go.com/US/exclusive-undercover-dhs-tests-find-widespread-security-failures/story?id=31434881
* https://www.vox.com/2016/5/17/11687014/tsa-against-airport-security
* https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/gao-says-there-is-no-evidence-that-a-tsa-program-to-spot-terrorists-is-effective/2013/11/13/fca999a0-4c93-11e3-be6b-d3d28122e6d4_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.ed1dad1d88ac
15:01 - Twitter sucks for Healthy Conversations
16:45 - 2 Pieces of Feedback on Audio Interfaces
18:18 - Ask Bandrew
18:34 - Email 1
19:14 - How do I address topics clearly on my podcast?
21:34 - How long should my podcast be?
23:17 - Email 2
23:44 - Thoughts on Samson Technology Gear
24:48 Email 3
25:00 - C01u Pro vs BM800 & UMC202HD?
27:00 - Outro

BSP-131: YouTube Recommends Phones, Alex Jones De-Platformed, and More

On episode 131 of the BSP, I talk about Discord selling video games, Youtube adding a subscription shelf back to the homepage, YouTube certifying and recommending phones, Youtube deleting Alex Jones’ channel, and the FCC lying about the DDoS attack in 2017. 

Ask Questions: AskBandrew@gmail.com
Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:41 - Sunshine Summit 2018
* www.sunshineandpowercuts.com
01:18 - This Experiment is Over
* youtube.bandrewsays.com
* creatorcasestudy.com
04:18 - Discord Selling Games
05:51 - YouTube Adding Subscription Shelf on Homepage
07:38 - YouTube Certifying & Recommending Phones
10:11 - YouTube Deleted Alex Jones Channel
* FB Statement: https://newsroom.fb.com/news/2018/08/enforcing-our-community-standards/
* Hank’s Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3pkkSNRug4
* JRE Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uxwmcg7H5DU
23:31 - FCC Lied About the DDOS Attack in 2017
* Office of Inspector Generatl Letter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uPl5NsbXowzbXrYf9KHBp-GVilTLQqyW/view
26:11 - Movie of the Week: Dracula (1931)
* Buy it on iTunes: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/movie/dracula-1931/id322443654?mt=6&at=1001l4W2 (affiliate)
29:40 - WYHTS: What triggers Air Marshalls to follow you on planes?
31:04 - WYHTS: Finding a balance between security & invasion of privacy?
33:26 - WYHTS: Logitech showing off Blue Snowball and Yeti & Ignoring Nice Microphones!!!
35:15 - Ask Bandrew
35:32 - How do I stop saying Uhhh and Umm in my podcast?
41:07 - Should I buy the Zoom H5 Portable Recorder or a USB Audio Interface?

Subscribe to the full audio podcast at https://www.bandrewsays.com

Twitter: @bandrewsays
Ask Questions: AskBandrew@gmail.com
Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

BSP-130: Logitech Acquires Blue Microphones, TSA Tracking US Citizens, and More

On episode 130 of the BSP, I talk about launching a new youtube channel and the reasoning behind it, I talk at length about Logitech Acquiring Blue and what that means for Blue. I also cover YouTube launching international youtube premium shows, Apple killing a portion of their affiliate program, TSA Tracking U.S. Citizens, Rode announcing a new dual lav recording kit, and Sennheiser announcing a bluetooth microphone.

Ask Questions: AskBandrew@gmail.com
Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Launched a New YouTube Channel
* http://youtube.bandrewsays.com
01:48 - Logitech Acquires Blue Microphones
07:54 - YouTube Launches International YouTube Red Show
08:47 - Apple Kills a Portion of Their Affiliate Program
11:27 - TSA Tracking U.S. Citizen
13:34 - Rode SC6-L Mobile Interview Kit
15:59 - Sennheiser Memory Mic
17:27 - WYHTS
17:45 - Why we should be okay with YouTube Experiments
18:45 - YouTube selectively enforcing policies
19:59 - You shouldn’t be mad about being demonetization
22:25 - PewDiePie is popularizing the analysis of Art
23:25 - I am not becoming less annoying
23:49 - Ask Bandrew
24:03 - Email 1
24:33 - Do you check out fans' creations?
24:57 - Do you participate in fans’ projects?
26:09 - Email 2
26:52 - How do I remove background noise from my recording?
29:21 - Outro

My YouTube Kit: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-youtube-kit
My Favorite XLR Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-xlr-mics
My Favorite USB Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-usb-mics

NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): If you purchase an item using my amazon link, it provides me a small referral fee. For more info check my FAQ page links below.

Check the FAQ to see if your question was already answered: http://www.geeksrising.com/faq

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Personal Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays

TPR-147: Series in Review Mission Impossible 3

Series in Review continues with the Mission Impossible films. Malcolm and Zach host this episode and dive into  Mission Impossible 3!

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS: thepaperrobots@gmail.com (the paper robots at gmail dot com) OR tweet @Paper_Robots

REFERENCED:

Follow:

ZACHARY ROSS JACKSON

MALCOLM RUSSEL-NELSON

LOGAN NAUGLE 

  • Twitter:  @thatlogan
  • Instagram: @thatlogan
  • Comics: thatlogan.com/comics

Follow us on:

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

 

BSP-129: YouTube Killing the Trending Tab, YouTube Strikes Alex Jones' Channel, & More

On episode 129 of the BSP, I explain why Patreon acquired Kit.com, as well as cover Anchor launching a podcast studio, YouTube killing the Trending Tab, YouTube blocking Dislike button spam, The YT web player dynamically adjusting to fit a videos native resolution, YouTube striking Alex Jones’ channel, Twitch launching the Creator Camp, Apple fixing the Core i9 Thermal Throttling, Verizon launching a VPN, a new Stream deck from El Gato, and much more. 

Ask Questions: AskBandrew@gmail.com
Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:51 - Practicing What I Preach!
01:49 - I Do Enjoy Making Videos
03:32 - Why did Patreon Acquire Kit.com?
04:52 - Anchor Launches Podcasting Studio
06:28 - YT News Flash: https://youtu.be/UkUdsH7xWOc
06:44 - YouTube Explore Tab Experiment
07:58 - Despamming Dislikes Button
08:28 - YouTube Web Player Adapting to Vertical Video
09:45 - YouTube Strikes Alex Jones
12:12 - Twitch Launches Creator Camp
* https://www.twitch.tv/creatorcamp/en/
13:20 - Apple Fixed Core i9 Thermal Throttling
* https://www.macrumors.com/2018/07/24/apple-addresses-macbook-pro-throttling/
16:10 - Verizon Launches a VPN
18:32 - Stream Deck Mini
19:24 - New Shure Gear?
20:41 - Suggested Film of the Week - Castle Freak
23:25 - Thoughts on a $300 Microphone Boom Arm
25:25 - Initial Thoughts on Rode Broadcaster
26:17 - What You Had to Say
26:44 - Apple Should Admit Fault to Regain Good Faith from Consumers
28:58 - Well Produced Videos are Essential Now
30:06 - Screen Recording & Digital Audio Routing
31:56 - Ask Bandrew
32:23 - Email 1
33:38 - SunshineAndPowercuts.com
33:55 - Thoughts on Online Media Affecting Attention Spans
40:20 - Outro

My YouTube Kit: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-youtube-kit
My Favorite XLR Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-xlr-mics
My Favorite USB Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-usb-mics

NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): If you purchase an item using my amazon link, it provides me a small referral fee. For more info check my FAQ page links below.

Check the FAQ to see if your question was already answered: http://www.geeksrising.com/faq

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Check us out, Follow us, & Like us over at:
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Personal Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays

TPR-146: Series in Review Mission Impossible 2

Series in Review with the Mission Impossible spy/action film series starring Tom Cruise and starting in 1996, we discuss and breakdown our favorite parts of the movies and what we think could be done better.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS: thepaperrobots@gmail.com (the paper robots at gmail dot com) OR tweet @Paper_Robots

REFERENCED:

Follow:

ZACHARY ROSS JACKSON

MALCOLM RUSSEL-NELSON

 

 

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► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

 

BSP-128: Google Fined $5 Billion, Apple Keyboard Gate / Throttle Gate, & More

On episode 128 of the BSP, I think you for 70,000 subscribers, and apologize for the issues with last weeks episode. In the news, I cover Google being fined $5 billion for breaking EU anti trust laws, FouseyTube’s concert, Family of Five getting banned from YouTube, Apple keyboard failure and Apple’s response, Apple storing iCloud data on Chinese state owned servers, Core i9 Macbook Pros being throttled, and Amazon Prime Day being an absolute disaster. 

Ask Questions: AskBandrew@gmail.com
Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Thanks for 70k Subs
01:26 - Sorry for Episode 127 Video Issues
02:30 - Google Fined $5 Billion for Breaking Anti Trust Laws
08:30 - FouseyTube Concert
09:59 - Family of Five / Daddy of Five Banned
10:56 - Apple Keyboard Gate
13:55 - Apple Storing iCloud Data on Chinese State Run Servers
15:48 - Core i9 Macbook Pro Throttle Gate
* Dave 2D: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx8J125s4cg
* Jonathan Morrison: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-p9-QZSdPM
18:34 - Amazon Prime Day Disaster
21:35 - WYHTS: Buying a PC for 1/4 the Price of a Mac
23:12 - WYHTS: Thoughts on the Blue Yeti?
24:32 - WYHTS: Smart Phones Tracking You
25:33 - WYHTS: Democratization of the Internet is OVER
27:07 - WYHTS: Paying Money to Avoid Windows 10
27:50 - Ask Bandrew
28:20 - Email 1
29:04 - Will you be on the Sunshine Summit 2018?
29::45 - Email 2
30:16 - Do you present your podcast as though it was live, or record segments?
30:57 - How long do you spend on the podcast?
31:58 - Why do I start the podcast recording multiple times?
35:13 - Email 3
35:58 - What is your new desk?
* https://amzn.to/2A0svsv
37:03 - What’s your favorite X-Files episode?
39:25 - Outro

My YouTube Kit: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-youtube-kit
My Favorite XLR Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-xlr-mics
My Favorite USB Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-usb-mics

NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): If you purchase an item using my amazon link, it provides me a small referral fee. For more info check my FAQ page links below.

Check the FAQ to see if your question was already answered: http://www.geeksrising.com/faq

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Check us out, Follow us, & Like us over at:
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Personal Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays

TPR-145: Series In Review Mission Impossible

Series in Review starts again with the Mission Impossible films. Action film series starring Tom Cruise and starting in 1996, we discuss and breakdown our favorite parts of the movies and what we think could be done better.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS: thepaperrobots@gmail.com (the paper robots at gmail dot com) OR tweet @Paper_Robots

REFERENCED:

Follow:

ZACHARY ROSS JACKSON

MALCOLM RUSSEL-NELSON

LOGAN NAUGLE 

  • Twitter:  @thatlogan
  • Instagram: @thatlogan
  • Comics: thatlogan.com/comics

Follow us on:

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

 

AmazonBasics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone Review / Test

Today we're looking at a microphone from Amazon...let that sink in. Amazon is making microphones now. The mic we're looking at is the efficiently titled AmazonBasics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone

For the majority of this review, I have the mic connected directly to my mac with the gain set at approximately 40%, with a boost of +4dB in post to make the audio more listenable. 

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $43.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone (Preinstalled mount: 5/8" threading)
  2. Desktop Tripod
  3. 1.5m USB Cable
  4. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 50Hz - 18kHz
  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  3. Sensitivity: -35dB
  4. Bit Depth: 16-Bit
  5. Sample Rate: 48kHz

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic feels bad man. The body is made out of a very cheap feeling plastic that feels very weak. The grill is metal and feels sturdy enough to withstand a few drops, but the mic is all around very light and feels cheaply made. On the top of the mic there is a Blue LED indicator light to indicate that you are connected, and this light will turn red if you mute the microphone with the large microphone mute button. The light unfortunately does not offer any sort of metering to inform you of a clipping signal. On the back you have a single USB port, and on the bottom you have the mount. 

The frequency response is listed as 50Hz - 18kHz. No graph was provided, so we're unable to analyze that. Listening to the audio samples it sounds as though there is somewhat of a boost in the low mids section with at times leads to a boxy sound, or almost muddy sound on the electric. There also seems to be a boost that slightly accentuates more nasally tones. 

The overall performance here was surprising. On the electric guitar the tone was a little bit muddy, but definitely usable for demos. The acoustic guitar sounded pretty nice with the low mids adding a good amount of body, while the highs remained clear without being overpowering. For singing this had a warmer tone to it, and all around it was fairly smooth sounding. For spoken word, it also sounded surprisingly good for the price. As previously mentioned, it can sound a little bit nasally, or a little bit boxy, but all around for skype meetings, chatting with friends, or recording demos at home, I think it was really nice.

Pros

  • Overall nice sound for the price
  • Clean preamp up to about 80%
  • Plenty of gain, without being too hot

Cons

  • Terrible performance with plosives
  • On the verge of being boomy at times
  • No 0 latency monitoring
  • Really bad feeling build quality

Conclusion

To summarize my thoughts of this microphone in a single word: Surprised. This microphone exceeded all my expectations. A lot of budget usb microphones fail significantly in at least one of these tests, but this mic provided usable audio in every scenario. Is it the best microphone on the market, no. Did they sacrifice a lot on the build quality, yes. But it does seem like they sacrificed the build quality to allow more money to be placed into the audio quality which turned out great.

If you're looking for a budget usb condenser microphone, and you're considering this mic, I would suggest it, but make sure to pick up a pop filter, make sure to take care of it, and if you have a few bucks left over, I'd suggest picking up a boom arm.

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the AmazonBasics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone
US: https://amzn.to/2utsY1f
UK: https://amzn.to/2zL1r0o
CA: https://amzn.to/2zH3baQ
DE: https://amzn.to/2zUmIVJ

TPR-144: Creating Compelling Characters

What makes a character compelling? On the episode a host-ful of creators discuss what they like about the characters they read or watch as well as what makes a compelling character in their own works. Logan (writer) is joined by Nicholas Cordell Orr (artist), Jess Herron (artist) and Cynthia Gerriets (toy designer)!

char·ac·ter

ˈkerəktər/

noun

  1. 1.

    the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual.

    "running away was not in keeping with her character"

    synonyms:personality, nature, disposition, temperament, temper, mentality, makeup; More

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS: thepaperrobots@gmail.com (the paper robots at gmail dot com) OR tweet @Paper_Robots

REFERENCED

Follow:

Jess Herron

Cynthia Gerriets

Nicholas Orr

Logan Naugle

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► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

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BSP-127: Tags on YouTube Don't Matter, YouTube Copyright Takedowns, Macbook Pros, and more

On episode 127 of the BSP, I talk about how tags on youtube impact your search and discover, new copyright identification and take down tools, youtube funding news organizations, youtube incognito mode coming to android, New Macbook Pros & Apple eGPU, the FBI arresting a former Apple Engineer, Apple passcode still able to be brute forced, and License plate tracking at malls.

Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:36 - Tags on YouTube No Longer Matter for Search & Discovery
* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0N6nC7heqc
04:45 - New Copyright Takedown Tools
* https://youtube-creators.googleblog.com/2018/07/helping-creators-protect-their-content.html
09:17 - YouTube Funding News Organizations
* https://youtube.googleblog.com/2018/07/building-better-news-experience-on.html
14:30 - YouTube Incognito Mode Coming to Android
15:30 - New Macbook Pros & eGPU
* https://appleinsider.com/articles/18/01/04/apple-t2-chip-in-imac-pro-takes-control-of-boot-security-facetime-camera-functions-previously-managed-by-cpu
* https://www.macworld.com/article/3245764/macs/the-t2-chip-makes-the-imac-pro-the-start-of-a-mac-revolution.html
20:27 - FBI Arrests Ex Apple Engineer
23:51 - Apple Fixes Password Cracking Tool & It’s Bypassed Immediately
24:43 - License Plate Tracking at the Mall
* https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2018/07/california-shopping-centers-are-spying-ice-contractor
26:15 - Commenter Calling me Out & Keeping me Honest
28:18 - Chicago Transit, Disney Land, & Disney World using Facial Recognition
29:10 - Ask Bandrew
29:40 - Email 1
30:11 - What do you do with all the mics?
30:38 - Do you consider selling your microphones?
32:04 - Do you have a closet full of microphones?
33:18 - How much have you spent on microphones?
32:45 - Email 2
33:25 - How should I process my audio in OBS?
36:08 - Email 3
36:23 - If you got the RE20 first, would you like it more than the SM7b?
Outro

My YouTube Kit: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-youtube-kit
My Favorite XLR Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-xlr-mics
My Favorite USB Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-usb-mics

NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): If you purchase an item using my amazon link, it provides me a small referral fee. For more info check my FAQ page links below.

Check the FAQ to see if your question was already answered: http://www.geeksrising.com/faq

Vote For The Mics You Want Reviewed: http://www.geeksrising.com/podcastage

Check us out, Follow us, & Like us over at:
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Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/podcastage
Personal Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays

TPR-143: Writer Bryan Edward Hill

Writer Bryan Edward Hill comics back to the podcast to discuss his comic career and more Batman! 

Currently writing DETECTIVE COMICS for DC, his works also include:Writer: POSTAL, ROMULUS, Top Cow. MICHAEL CRAY, D.C Comics. TV: ASH vs THE EVIL DEAD, TITANS

Follow:

Bryan Hill

MALCOLM RUSSEL-NELSON

ZACHARY ROSS JACKSON

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Behringer B-2 Pro Review / Test

Today we're looking at a "higher end" microphone from the budget company Behringer; the Behringer B-2 Pro. 

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at 10:30. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $150.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Hardshell Storage Box
  2. Microphone
  3. Shockmount (Includes: 5/8" & 3/8" adapter)
  4. Foam Windscreen
  5. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional
  3. Sensitivity: -37dB to -34dB
  4. Max SPL: 137 / 149dB
  5. Equivalent Noise: 16-18dBA
  6. Impedance: <100-ohms
  7. Power Requirement: +48v

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic feels fairly average for mics in the $100 price range. It has an all metal body as well as a somewhat flimsy feeling metal mesh grill. On the front you will find a 3-way polar pattern selection switch to move between the cardioid, omnidirectional, and bi-directional polar patterns. On the rear you'll find the high-pass switch that rolls off at 6dB/octave at 150Hz, as well as a -10dB pad if you're recording loud sound sources. 

The frequency response is listed as 20Hz - 20kHz. We're only going to focus on the cardioid polar pattern response here as it's the most used pattern. It has a surprisingly flat response from 1kHz and below with a slight roll off beginning at 150Hz, which reaches -2dB by 50Hz. From 1kHz and up there's a gradual boost that hits +2dB at 7kHz, and then there's a large boost which reaches +5dB at 10kHz and gradually rolls off until it hits 0dB at 20kHz.

The overall performance here was decent. On the electric guitar, the low end felt a little loose, but did not get muddy, and then the treble air boost provided a nice amount of liveliness to the recording. The acoustic guitar sounded too focused in the high end, and left the strings resonance sounding dominating and a bit of a grating tone all around. For singing, the mic added a breathy quality to the voice as well as a bit of extra grit. For spoken word, I think the high end is a detriment to the microphone as it accentuates mouth noises, breathe, and sibilance a bit too much.

Pros

  • Relatively flat low mids and lows
  • All polar patterns are pretty usable (Rare in this price range)
  • Nice build quality
  • Plenty of nice accessories

Cons

  • Shrill in the higher end
  • Susceptible to plosives
  • Relatively high noise floor at 16-18dBA
cardioid
Omni.png
Bi.png

Conclusion

Although this microphone would not be my first choice in any use case, for the price I think it's a pretty good deal. Therefore, if you're looking for your first mic to record music in your home studio, I think this would be a fine option given the plethora of accessories that are provided with the microphone, and the clean and clear tone you can get out of the microphone. Just make sure to pick up a pop filter along with the microphone.  

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Behringer B-2 Pro
US: https://amzn.to/2L3nqAU
UK: https://amzn.to/2zvQRui
CA: https://amzn.to/2N4g29d
DE: https://amzn.to/2uarcC0

 

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV

BSP-126: Companies Reading Your Gmail, Samsung Leaking Your Photos, & MORE!

On episode 126 of the BSP, I talk about Google Duplex potentially being implemented into Data Centers, 3rd party app developers having access & reading through your gmail accounts, Samsung randomly texting photos from your gallery to people in your contact book, and the Australian airports implementing biometric scanning as a proof of concept to roll out countrywide biometric scanning. 

Later, I share 4 audio books I’ve loved this year, get corrected about loud sound sources destroying condensers, talk more about the companies fighting California’s new privacy laws, and the possibility of paying for privacy. In the ask bandrew segment I cover what XLR cables I use, then cover the Space Force and if I believe this is leading up to disclosure, and end the podcast by showing an awesome Blue Yeti microphone fail on television.

Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v
Audible Promo (66% off 3-month Gold Membership): https://amzn.to/2u5di49 (Affiliate Link) (7/2/18 - 7/17/18)

00:00 - Intro
00:43 - Thank You!
01:48 - The Biased SM7B Shill Returns
02:34 - Google Duplex Launching in Call Centers
04:58 - Google Gives 3rd Party App Developer Access to Your Gmail
* Google Blog: https://www.blog.google/technology/safety-security/ensuring-your-security-and-privacy-within-gmail/
* Google Security Check: https://myaccount.google.com/intro/security-checkup/3?pli=1
10:43 - Samsung Texting App Randomly Sending Photos from Gallery!
13:49 - Australian Airports Replacing Passports with Biometric Scanning
18:09 - Products I Wanted
19:08 - 4 Audio Books I’ve Loved this Year
* Audible Promo: https://amzn.to/2u5di49 (Affiliate Link) (66% off 3 Month Membership of Audible Gold) (7/2/18 - 7/17/18)
23:07 - Correcting Condensers Destroyed by Loud Sounds
24:42 - Opposition to California Law to Sell and BUY our information
27:01 - You ARE The Product! Paying for Privacy.
29:59 - Ask Bandrew
30:13 - Email 1
31:02 - What XLR Cables do you Use?
32:02 - Are Provided Cables Any Good?
33:02 - My Understanding of XLR Cables.
34:48 - Email 2
35:54 - Is Alien Disclosure on the Way?
40:53 - What Would The Public Reaction Be?
43:52 - What’s the Purpose of the Space Force?
46:18 - Email 3
46:40 - Serious Blue Yeti Microphone Fail
47:41 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
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My YouTube Kit: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-youtube-kit
My Favorite XLR Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-xlr-mics
My Favorite USB Mics: https://kit.com/podcastage/my-favorite-usb-mics

NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): If you purchase an item using my amazon link, it provides me a small referral fee. For more info check my FAQ page links below.

Check the FAQ to see if your question was already answered: http://www.geeksrising.com/faq

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Check us out, Follow us, & Like us over at:
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Electro Voice RE27 N/D Broadcast Dynamic Mic Review

Today I have finally completed the Electro Voice expansion of Pokemon: Mic Edition. We're looking at the last mic in their RE-series of mics, which just so happens to be the most expensive of the three; the RE27 N/D.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at 12:30. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $150.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Hardshell Storage Box
  2. Microphone
  3. Microphone Mount (Includes: 5/8" & 3/8" adapter)
  4. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 45Hz - 20kHz
  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  3. Sensitivity: ~-52dB
  4. Impedance: 150-ohms

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic is on par with all of EV's other mics that I've tested; excellent. It has a steel body and a nice metal mesh grill. Along the side there are vents that allow for the Variable D technology that helps keep the proximity effect in check. It weighs in at 1 pound 9 oz, so it is a pretty heavy microphone as well. Near the bottom of the mic it has 3 switches that cut portions of the frequency response. 1st is a 6dB cut at 250Hz, 2nd is a 12dB cut at 1000Hz, and 3rd is a 3dB cut of the presence and treble boost. Lastly there is an XLR port on the back of the microphone.

The frequency response is listed as 45Hz - 20kHz. In the neutral mode this microphone has a relatively flat frequency response from 1khz and below, but above that there is a drastic boost that peaks at +7dB above the mids. There are two peaks at 4kHz and 6kHz and then it rolls off the remainder of the treble and air after that. I found the only really usable setting for spoken word was to enable the high cut, and leave the other switches alone. 

The overall performance of this mic was a bit of a shock initially. When I pulled it out of the box a month ago and plugged it in, I almost sent it right back. With the neutral settings it is very harsh, shrill, and forward in the higher frequency range. Once I enabled the high cut though the tone become MUCH better and actually enjoyable to listen to. It also does a great job at off axis rejection and rear rejection, but it should be noted that the off axis coloration is very honky, and terrible sounding.

Pros

  • Slightly higher output than other dynamics due to Neodymium magnet
  • Handles processing well
  • Great job at off axis and rear rejection
  • Great build quality

Cons

  • In neutral mode, the mic sounds bad
  • The low cuts are a bit too drastic
  • Off axis coloration is bad
freq.png
polar.png

Conclusion

For electric guitar, acoustic guitar, and singing I did not enjoy this microphone much at all. It simply is not a tone that I would look to use in those applications. For spoke word however, I found it rather enjoyable when you have the high cut enabled and get relatively close to the microphone. If you're looking for a bright & smooth microphone for podcasting and radio broadcasting, I think this will be a great option, but just make sure to cut those highs and use proper microphone technique.

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Electro Voice RE27 ND
US: https://amzn.to/2lQoZaz
UK: N/A
CA: N/A
DE: https://amzn.to/2MHkqdN

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV

TRP-142: Series in Review Pt. 3

"A Series in Review!" The breakdown of the Batman Trilogy continues as we look into the final chapter, Dark Knight Rises.

Malcolm and Zach are joined by Logan to discuss their final thoughts on Nolan's Batman Trilogy.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS: thepaperrobots@gmail.com (the paper robots at gmail dot com) OR tweet @Paper_Robots

REFERENCED:

Follow:

LOGAN NAUGLE 

  • Twitter:  @thatlogan
  • Instagram: @thatlogan
  • Comics: thatlogan.com/comics

ZACHARY ROSS JACKSON

MALCOLM RUSSEL-NELSON

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BSP-125: YouTube Disables Custom Thumbnails, Video Creator Grant Money, and More!

On episode 125 of the BSP, I talk about YouTube launching the miniplayer on desktop, YouTube disabling custom thumbnails, VidCon launching a grant program where you can receive $2000, Twitch updating stream discovery, HaveIBeenPwned integrating with Firefox & 1 password, Twitter allowing for physical 2fa tokens, a Contractor trying to sell surveillance tools to track political dissidents, a man who threatened Ajit Pai being arrested, another data aggregator leaking 340 million personal data records, and California passing a new consumer privacy act.

Merch; https://teespring.com/stores/podcastage-store
Discord: https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v

00:00 - Intro
00:38 - Uploading the Podcast to Podcastage
* http://www.bandrewsays.com
01:23 - Subtly Improving Your Podcast
02:16 - A Bunch of New Videos
* Ultimate Travel Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOJLbc0R3wI
* Must Love Karate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUubJoEPGBo
* Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/podcastage
* Podcastage Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgERLtGP9QM
04:03 - YouTube Mini Player on Desktop
05:10 - YouTube Disables Custom Thumbnail
* https://productforums.google.com/forum/m/#!category-topic/Youtube/-EpSdU2730A
07:01 - VidCon Video Creator Grant
* https://www.vidconcreatorgrant.com/apply/
10:08 - Twitch Updates Stream Discovery
* https://trello.com/b/qfZCai4F/discovery-updates
11:37 - HaveIBeenPwned Integrates with Firefox & 1Password
* https://blog.agilebits.com/2018/06/25/watchtower-we-shall-fight-on-the-breaches/
14:13 - Twitter Allows for Physical 2fa Tokens
15:00 - Contractor Tried Selling Surveillance Tools to Track Political Dissidents
16:40 - Man Who Threatened Ajit Pai Arrested by FBI
18:32 - Another Leak of 340 Million Personal Data Records
20:51 - California Passes New Consumer Privacy Act
22:25 - Blackberry Key 2 (I want it!!!)
* https://puri.sm/shop/librem-5/
* https://smartphones.gadgethacks.com/how-to/4-best-phones-for-privacy-security-0176106/
24:36 - What I’ve Been Testing
25:21 - What You Had to Say
31:17 - Ask Bandrew
31:35 - Email 1
31:58 - Would you prefer an RE20 Colored SM7b, or an SM7b Colored RE20?
32:58 - Email 2
33:42 - What Are Your Thoughts on Full Time YouTubers?
34:20 - Would You Want To Be a Full Time YouTube Creator?
36:50 - Email 3
37:11 - Thoughts on Android Phones?
38:19 - Can Loud Drums Ruin a Condenser Mic?
* http://blog.shure.com/fact-vs-fiction-tim-vear-explodes-audio-myths-2/
39:09 - Thoughts on Mechanical Keyboards?
40:03 - Would You Want to Earn Money from Podcasting?
41:35 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

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TPR-141: Comic Creator Dan Schkade Returns !

Comic creator and friend, Dan Schkade (always say full name) returns to the podcast to catch up and talk about his most recent project, Lavender Jack and comic being release through WEBTOON. Dan strikes at the heart of story telling and "moments" that help shape and define a story by showing and not telling. He uses examples like: Mad Men, Better Call Saul and George of the Jungle!

WORKS: Dan Schkade is a freelance comic book writer and artist. current series through WEBTOON: Lavender Jack!

His credits include Will Eisner's The Spirit, Battlestar Galactica: Gods and Monsters, San Hannibal, and The Fowl.  Lastly he is a member of the comic creator collective Helioscope. 

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS: thepaperrobots@gmail.com (the paper robots at gmail dot com) OR tweet @Paper_Robots

Follow:

DAN SCHKADE

LOGAN NAUGLE

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► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

 

AKG P220 Condenser Microphone Review

Today we're looking at another microphone from AKG's 20 series microphones, the AKG P220.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at 12:30. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $150.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Hardshell Storage Box
  2. Microphone
  3. Shockmount (Includes: 5/8" & 3/8" adapter)
  4. Extra shock mount eleastic bands

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  3. Sensitivity: ~-34dB
  4. Max SPL: 135 / 155dB
  5. Equivalent Noise: 16dBA
  6. Impedance: 200-ohms
  7. Power Requirement: +48v +/- 4v

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic feels awesome. It has an all metal body that feels very robust in your hand, coming in at over 1 pound. The grill also feels very sturdy and does not bend when squeezed with fingers. On the front you have two switches, a high pass filter, which rolls off frequencies at 300Hz at 12dB/octave, and a -20dB pad.

The frequency response is listed as 20Hz - 20kHz. Unlike most microphones, this does not have a natural roll off in the low frequencies. Instead it has a minor dip around 150 hz and a boost from 150 down to 500Hz peaking at +4dB, which is then rolled off at 50Hz and down.  The mids are very flat from 100Hz -  4.5kHz at which point a gradual boost begins which ends up peaking at +4dB at ~11kHz, and then rolls off up to 20kHz.

The overall performance of this mic left me a bit underwhelmed. I did really like this microphone on the acoustic guitar as it had a nice full body and then the treble and air boost added some nice percussiveness to the tone. However, on electric guitar, spoken word, and singing, I did not enjoy the mic, and the dislike all stems from the treble and air boost. The boost led to the treble frequencies sounding a bit overpower on the electric guitar, while it left the spoken word and singing sounding top heavy, a bit brittle, breathy, and sibilant. 

Pros

  • Nice flat mids
  • Awesome build quality
  • Nice shockmount & storage box provided

Cons

  • Relatively high noise floor at 16dBa
  • Fairly sibilant

Conclusion

I was not terribly impressed with this microphones performance. The treble & air boost on this thing added some very unfavorable characteristics on the vocals and electric guitar. Although I did personally like this mic on the acoustic guitar, i think the tone is very specific and not very versatile. With all this being said, I don't think I can really recommend the microphone. 

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the AKG P220
US: https://amzn.to/2tuNbDi
UK: https://amzn.to/2lwNRng
CA: https://amzn.to/2tuRAGx
DE: https://amzn.to/2tEzwcj

 

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV