Blue Snowball USB Mic Review

Today, due to popular request, I tested out the Blue Snowball Usb Microphone. Earlier this year, I tested out the Blue Snowball iCE, and still, the requests kept rolling in for the regular snowball. 

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $50 on Amazon.

What's In the Box

1. Microphone
2. USB Cable
3. Table Top Stand
4. Documentation

This microphone also comes with a 2-year warranty.

Performance / Features

The build quality is decent. It's a plastic body, and it feels relatively cheap. The grill is actually metal which adds a nice touch, but it still feels like a sub par product. The actual microphone stand on the other hand feels much nicer than most table top mic stands that I have encountered. The problem that I have with table top microphone stands is they offer no shock absorption, so it will pick up noise every time you bump the table.

On the back of the microphone there are three settings as follows:

1. Cardioid Polar Pattern
2. Cardioid Polar Pattern with 10db Pad
3. Omnidirectional Polar Pattern

The specs sheet (user manual) does not provide any listed frequency response, but a website I found SoundOnSound.com listed the frequency response as 40Hz to 18kHz. When listening to the examples you can tell that the frequency response differs depending on the microphone capsules you are utilizing.

When using the Cardioid microphone capsule, you seem to have a relatively full frequency response. Once you switch to the omni directional setting, the low end gets cut out and the audio becomes very tinny and unnatural sounding. 

Pros

• Relatively cheap
• Decent sound on Cardioid setting
• Simple to use

Cons

• Desktop Microphone Stand
• USB Microphone
• Omnidirectional Capsule unusable for professional audio

Conclusion

This is a decent microphone. It is relatively cheap, sitting around $50, and it honestly sounds like a $50 microphone. The cardioid setting is useful, but once you move to the omnidirectional setting, the audio becomes unusable if you plan on releasing the audio.

I don't think that I can recommend this rendition of the microphone to anyone, unless you are dead set on using the omni directional pattern. If you're not planning on using the omni pattern, just stick with the blue snowball ice. Also, I would only recommend this microphone if you are looking for a simple and easy to use solo podcasting microphone. If you're planning on recording multiple people, or game (with lots of noise in the background), I do not think this microphone is right for you.

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Blue Snowball: http://amzn.to/21kQ71X
Blue Snowball iCE: http://amzn.to/1QARj6c

Do You Even Comic: Nowhere Men

Do you even science on this edition of Do You even Comics: "Nowhere Men." This Image title, created by writer Eric Stephenson and artist Nate Bellegarde, first debuted back in 2012 for a single issue run. Fun fact, the book's name comes from the Beatles song "Nowhere Man," also the name is inspired by the fact that things seemingly come out of nowhere for the scientists in this story.

The Story

Dade Ellis, Simon Grimshaw, Emerson Strange and Thomas Walker are to science as what the Beatles were to music. In this universe "science is the new Rock'n'Roll." These scientist started on a journey that would culturally change and influence science for years to come. The story starts long after the four have gone there separate ways but while they were together they made "World Corp", and as Eric Stephenson put it," What if Apple and Microsoft weren't rivals but teammates." The group splits because of make a decision on a disaster in their R and D department. From this point the story weaves in a group of young astronauts infected with a strange virus on a space station created by WorldCorp.

The virus is infecting and affecting the crew in weird ways that transforms them, leaving the team desperately trying to get home. This story only begins as it comes to an end in its six issue run, Questions are asked and not answered. The book is a mystery worth reading.

Why this Book?

I discovered this book because of the covers, yes the art drew me in but can you blame me? I would wander into the comic shop pick up my books and see these covers by Nate Bellegarde and Jordie Belleaire and would pause to stare at them. Finally one day after the collected trade came out I picked up the book and was like "What!? Science is the new Rock'n'Roll? I gotta get this book." The colors by Jordie (Pretty Deadly and Zero) are so fantastic and eye catching I love the pallet he works with, it makes everything click as the story jumps between two time periods. I also love the art and aesthetics of the book, how its broken into articles and graphs mixed with traditional panels...it all works. Lastly the "mutations/creatures" are so original looking and intriguing. All these puzzle pieces led me to this book. My only complaint is that it just ends without a resolution.

The ending made me so upset that I went to the internet back in 2013 and I read an article about the story continuing in 2014. I was excited only to have those hopes let down because the book was not renewed. That is until now, 2016, the book and team are back to continue the series. Spoilers! Sina Grace is in it well his appearance. I am very happy to see this book return and do a second six issue arc. If you want to check it out click below to get volume one.

If this sounded like a book for you then get it here:

Book:Nowhere Men Vol. 1

BSP-009: How To Become a Video Creator

There has been an awakening...have you felt it. I'm back with new episodes of The Bandrew Says Podcast, but things are a little bit different. If you remember the first 8 episodes, you'll know that they consisted of me researching the news, finding statistics about dark things, and discussing them in depth and attempting to solve these issues that people have been trying to solve for hundreds of years. I am no longer able to do that because it took too much of a toll on me. So here's what we're doing now.

This podcast will now focus on a more personal reflection on my weeks and what I've been working on (in regards to geeks rising, podcastage, bsp, etc.) as well as a discussion of interesting tech news, and my opinions on how to do certain things.

View fullsize

For instance, in this episode I discuss how to become a video creator. I may go more in depth in terms of the technology actually required to do such a thing, but this is a very top level look at the process and what I think is important. 

I also discussed some photography and mentioned an image I took that I was pretty proud of. I have included it to the left of this paragraph and I hope you think it's cool.

Other than that, I hope you enjoy the relaunch of BSP, and I hope you're excited for the new direction I decided to take it. I personally cannot wait to make some more episodes and share my experiences and knowledge with you. i hope you find useful information and a large benefit from this podcast.

If you have the time, please leave a 5-star rating in iTunes along with a couple word review, and don't forget to subscribe and share it with all your friends. Until next week. High Five More People!!!

AACCC: Panels!

This past weekend was full of amazing cosplayers and an exhibit hall full of talented creators, I'm talking about Amazing Arizona Comic Con. But the real reason I was there was for all the amazing panels the Con had to offer.

Writers Unite! 

This panel was a hostful of writers gathering to share their knowledge in the comics field for those of us just starting out.

Jim Zub (SkullKickers) moderated the panel, he and Brain Augustyn (Gotham by Gaslight) pointed out that we live in a time where we provide our own proving gorund aka the internet. Charles Soule (She-Hulk, Swamp thing, Letter 44) really took the panel for me, he went into detail about what it takes to get into the industry and how it can be hard starting out. Scott Lobdell (Teen Titans, X-Men) also admitted the struggles of being a writer and noted that he collected his regestion letters over the years.

Collectively the entire panel provied some great pointers on starting off as a writer in comics. Here is a break down of tips I picked up.

Tips

• Start small (build your resume with short stories showing off different ideas and writing).
• Work out an artist agreement (money usually works)
• Communitcate (writer/artist partnership, be blunt)
• Enjoy and write the storys you want to tell and read
• Hunting vs Fishing (Fishing is good) Put hooks out and wait.
• Don't be a Creep (artists or on editors)

Kevin Eastman

The man who created a small book called "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turltes" humbled the mainstage for Q&A on all his projects including eveything TMNT. 

Kevin started with a speech on the 33 year history of the Turtles. The story starts at The Mirage Studios (his home) in November 1983. Co-creator Peter Laird and Kevin had a love for kung fu movies and superheroes, they would chat and the turtles came from a drawing of "what would be the most ridiculous ninja?" A turtle.  The ideas spun out from there and everything was inspired and created with love of comics. The book debuted in 1984 at Portsmouth, NH Mini-Con, the 16 issue original run grew from there.

A few things got cleared up for me about the tutles like why the colored head bands. So originally red but for marketing and to distinguish them, they were giving differently colors that Peter and Kevin thought about. Casey Jones is Kevin's favorite HUMAN character and he loved the first Turlte's movie/ the work that Jim Henson did creating the movie costumes.

Basically it turns out the guy who got to created Ninja Turltles and make comics that turned into a phenomenon loves his job and loves how everything has grown. Mr. Eastman seems like a fantastic man who is grateful for people readingi the comics and being able to work on so many amazing projects.

If you want to check out any of these amazing creators check them out below:

• Brain Augustyn
• Charles Soule
• Jim Zub
• Scott Lobdell
• Kevin Eastman

Versus Series: NW-700 vs BM-700

	NW-700	BM-700
Cost	$23.00	$27.00
Microphone Type	Condenser	Condenser
Frequency Response	20Hz - 16KHz	20Hz - 20KHz
Polar Pattern	Cardioid	Cardioid

When looking at the specifications, you may think that the BM-700 should have been the microphone that came out on top, but when listening to the actual sound produced by each microphone the NW-700 is the real winner.

The NW-700 had a much tighter low end and provided more accurate audio reproduction. This led to less booming with the acoustic guitar and vocals, and much better electric guitar sounds.

Both microphones require a minimum of 4.5v to work well, but can run using a full +48v of phantom power without damaging them. Either microphone would be a fine addition to your cheap microphone collection, but if you only have the budget for one, I would recommend the NW-700.

Buy the NW-700: http://amzn.to/1oeCLm6
Buy the BM-700: http://amzn.to/1ThRwQB

Audio-Technica ATR2500-USB Mic Review / Test

Today I reviewed another USB microphone from Audio Technica. This time, the ATR-2500 USB Condenser Microphone. This is part of the ATR series, which Audio Technica describes their affordable line of microphones. But that clearly does not translate into poor quality when it comes to audio.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $75 on Amazon.

What's In the Box

1. Microphone
2. USB Cable
3. Microphone Mount
4. Table Top Stand
5. Documentation
6. Life Time Warranty

Performance / Features

The build quality of the microphone is nice for about 90%. The remaining 10% feels like cheap plastic. The microphone stand is cheap and does not feel sturdy enough to hold the microphone stand, and the microphone mount provide no shock absorption.

The specs sheet says that this microphone provides 30Hz - 15kHz, which does not look like the best, but when listening to the microphone, I think it sounds perfectly fine. It seems like they made up for the lack of high frequencies through clever EQ of the microphone.

The microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which is fairly directional. When testing it out, it seems like the pick up pattern is about 180-degrees. So anything in front of the mic it will pick up, and anything behind it, it will only pick up low frequencies of. When testing this out on the keyboard test, we heard a LOT more of my voice versus the keyboard, but you could still hear a bit of clicking in the background. During the distance test, we heard a bit of a drop off in volume as the distance increased, but it was not as drastic as a dynamic microphone. 

Pros

• Nice sound
• Good build quality
• Provides EVERYTHING you need to record
• Decent sound isolation

Cons

• Horrible Microphone Mount
• USB Microphone

Conclusion

All things considered, I think that this is a fairly nice microphone. The acoustic guitar and voice sounded really nice through this microphone, and the electric guitar sounded great as well. There was a bit of background noise picked up when typing on a keyboard. I think if you buy this microphone your best bet would be to invest a few extra bucks on a shock mount, a pop filter, and a proper microphone stand and then you would be good to go.

I would recommend this mainly for podcasters or musicians who will be controlling the recording environment a little more than a live streamer would. With proper attention paid to the location of the microphone and the audio treatment in the room, this will be a microphone that you could use for podcasts or youtube covers for years to come.

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy it on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1Thnc8P

AACCC: Exhibit Hall

Amazing Arizona Comic Con has come to an end but the coverage is still going on. Over Valentines's Weekend I had the chance to explore downtown convention center for Comic Con and I was lucky enough to meet fantastic artists, writers and voice actors. Over the next few days you'll get to read about some of the amazing panels that Amazing Arizona Comic Con had to offer.

Until then here are some images from the exhibit hall.

Bad Aax UM-600 Condenser Mic Review

Today I am testing out another USB microphone that comes with absolutely everything you will need to start recording. It is the Bad Aax UM-600 USB Microphone Kit.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $50 on Amazon.

What's In the Box

1. Microphone
2. USB Cable
3. Shock Mount Mount
4. 5/8 to 3/8” microphone stand mount
5. Pop Filter
6. Padded Mic Pouch

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is nice. It has an all metal body and metal grill and has some nice weight to it. The mic stand is a sturdy metal, the shock mount is metal, and the microphone storage pouch is only decently padded. 

The frequency response is 20Hz-18kHz, which is a pretty nice frequency response. Vocals sounded pretty nice on this microphone. Electric guitar sounded a bit muddy. Acoustic guitar sounded slightly muddy as well. This can be easily resolved by adding a quick low cut on your EQ to control the boomy sound.

The microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which is fairly directional. When testing it out, it seems like the pick up pattern is about 180-degrees. So anything in front of the mic it will pick up, and anything behind it, it should cancel out. When testing this out on the keyboard test, we heard a LOT more of my voice versus the keyboard, but you could still hear a bit of clicking in the background. During the distance test, we heard a bit of a drop off in volume as the distance increased, but it was not as drastic as a dynamic microphone. 

Pros

• Nice sound
• Good build quality
• Provides EVERYTHING you need to record

Cons

• Not great with sound isolation
• A bit boomy in low end
• Lacks documentation
• USB Microphone

Conclusion

So all around, I think that this is a good mic. If you know me, you know I am not a big fan of USB microphones because of the lack of customization options. But, if you are looking for a decent sounding starting microphone, this is a great option. It's only $50 and you can start recording for that amount and get pretty decent audio quality and then run a quick low cut in your DAW to clean up the low end and you'll be good to go. All around a nice microphone. 

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy it on Amazon: http://amzn.to/20PAsUQ

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Mic Review / Test

Today I am testing out a microphone that I was incredibly excited to get my hands on. The Audio Technica AT-2020. This whole series of microphones is supposed to be great, and my first impression is good.

As per usual, I do need to include a disclaimer that this is an XLR Condenser microphone. That means that you need a proper audio interface for your computer, and you need proper phantom power (+48v) for this microphone to function properly.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $99 on Amazon.

What's In the Box 

1. Microphone
2. Microphone Mount
3. 5/8 to 3/8” microphone stand mount
4. Padded Mic Pouch
5. Documentation

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is excellent. It has an all metal body and metal grill and has some nice weight to it. The mic mount is a nice sturdy metal, and the microphone storage pouch is very nicely padded for protection.

The frequency response is 20Hz-20kHz, which is everything you will need out of a microphone. I think that the acoustic guitar sounds very nice and clean. Vocals sound crisp on this microphone. Electric guitar sounds nice as well. I think it does extremely well in the low end by picking up those frequencies while controlling them and avoiding an overly boomy sound.

The microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which is fairly directional. When testing it out, it seems like the pick up pattern is about 180-degrees. So anything in front of the mic it will pick up, and anything behind it, it should cancel out. When testing this out on the keyboard test, we heard a LOT more of my voice versus the keyboard, but you could still hear a bit of clicking in the background. During the distance test, we heard a bit of a drop off in volume as the distance increased, but it was not as drastic as a dynamic microphone. 

Pros

• Great sound
• Nice build quality
• Full frequency response
• Not overly boomy in the low end

Cons

• Not great with sound isolation

Conclusion

So all around, I think that this is a great microphone and I found it very difficult to find any negatives for this microphone. 

I would not recommend this microphone to someone who is not concerned with getting high quality audio, or willing to invest in a proper Audio Interface. If you are just doing voice overs for gaming videos and are on a budget, this is not a microphone for you. If you're starting a little home studio, and want to record higher quality audio, this is a great starter mic. 

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Audio Technica AT2020: http://amzn.to/1ScCehb
Behringer UM2: http://amzn.to/1WYlPMI  

AACCC: Amazing Arizona Comic Con 2016

It had only been a month and here we are for the second convention of 2016. This weekend at Phoenix Convention center in downtown Phoenix, Arizona is the 6th annual Amazing Arizona Comic Con. The convention runs two and half days of programming and events from Friday 12th - Sunday 14th.

This con has amazing guests no pun intended, but the line up is full of talented artists and writers and creators;  Kevin Eastman, Chris Claremont, Rob Liefeld, George Perez, Ryan Ottley, Kyle Higgins and more like a fashion show, cosplay contest and anime. 

Here are some panels Im excited about through out the weekend.

Friday

Arrival

"Waiting Nightmares 2" Comic Book Release with Logan, Joshua and Tania

Saturday

10:30: Kevin Eastman signing (TMNT)

12:00: Captain America with Steve McNiven and Charles Soule

2:00: TMNT Q&A

3:00: This is X-Men with Chris Claremont

4:00: Writers Unite

5:30: Amazing Fashion Show 

Sunday

12:00: Marvel Mutant Mayhem

1:00: Amazing Geek Fashion

3:00: The Voice! (Voice Acting Panel)

Now not all panels will be covered but you can expect lots of photos and article covering this con over the next week following the con. 

Superhero Sunday: The Rocketeer

Strap on your jetpacks, dawn your helmets and lets take to the skies in this month's Superhero Sunday with The Rocketeer.

The History

Created in 1982 by writer-illustrator Dave Stevens, who first got work penciling for Tarzan (newspaper comic 1975) then getting recognized for is pin up work and later went on to storyboard for Hanna-Barera.

The Rocketeer is a fun adventure book that was birthed out of paying homageage to the old serials from the 1930s through 50s.  The story first appeared as a backup issue in Starslayer for Pacific Comics. The four issue was released by Eclipse comics under the title Rocketeer.

The Character

The story takes place in a fiction 1938 Los Angeles, but who is this helmeted hero? Cliff Secord a racing stunt pilot (barnstormer) discovers a mysterious package hidden in his hanger. Gangsters fleeing the scene leave left a prototype jetpack that kickstarts Cliff's adventures and lead him on a jet fueled dream.

The 1980's comic contnued its fun for years as Cliff went on one-shot journeys and adventures as The Rocketeer. He would fight crime and rescue his main squeeze Betty (Dave Stevens modeled off of Bettie Page the Queen of Pin-Up). Cliff the lunkhead with the heart iof gold went on to fight Nazi's and the mobsters but every comic was great fun.

Why this hero?

As always I did not read the comic until well after its creation. I probably like most didnt dicsover The Rocketeer as a comic at all but instead as the 1991 Disney film. Yes, in the 90s Stevens approved Disney to adapt the comic into film. This movie is where I found the Rocketeer and was instantly in love with the character. The costume is this amazing suit that lets you fly around with an awesome helmet and you become this hero who saves the day, it was everything I wanted to be as a kid (maybe now too). After the movie I wanted to be The Rockteer and I was inspired to find those 80s comics.

The Rocketeer comic rights changed hands and went from Dark Horse to IDW. Dave Stevens passed in 2008 but the comic series was revived in 2011 by IDW with the talented writer Mark Waid, the book would recieve trades of collected new adventures. The Rocketeer is not the dense heavy work of Alan Moore nor is it Garfield. No, The Rocketeer is high flying fun and a real treat for anyone who wasn't wax nostalgic about 1930s-50s.

Recommended Reading:

• Rocketeer: The Complete Adventures
• The Rocketeer: Cargo of Doom
• The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror

Blue Icicle XLR to USB Mic Converter/Mic Preamp Review / Test

Today I am testing out another "cheap" microphone interface. This time it is a device by Blue Microphones that is designed for a single microphone; The Blue Icicle.

What's In the Box 

1. Blue Icicle
2. 6-Foot USB Cable

Performance / Features

The build quality is not that great. It is a plastic enclosure, and it feels very light. The volume knob is plastic as well, and it is wobbly. 

The design is incredibly simple, on one end is the XLR connector to plug your microphones XLR cable into. The other end has a USB port to connect the device to your computer. On the body is a single knob that controls your microphones input volume, and lastly the word ICICLE lights up when it is connected to the USB port.

The Icicle is listed as providing +48v of phantom power and when measured, I showed +44.4v of power making it through the XLR Cable. This power should be sufficient to power most, if not all, condenser microphones. 

Pros

• Cheap Interface
• Good sound
• Low amount of noise
• Easy to use

Cons

• Cheap build quality
• No Latency Free Monitoring

Conclusion

This device is pretty cool. It powers condenser microphones and it has a very low amount of noise. The NW-1500 sounded great through it. I don't think you need this if you are just going to be using a dynamic microphone though, I think you would be fine with just a simple XLR to USB Cable. Other than that, this is a nice option for a single XLR Condenser microphone user who wants to record to their computer.

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Blue Icicle: http://amzn.to/1SoI6o7
Behringer UM2: http://amzn.to/1WYlPMI  
XLR to USB Cable: http://amzn.to/1QCXZU8

Audio Technica ATR2100-USB Mic Review / Test

Today I'm testing out maybe my favorite USB microphone that I have tested out to date. The Audio Technica ATR2100-USB

The reason I like this microphone so much is because of a very special attribute...it has a USB plug as well as an XLR plug! That means that you can use this microphone to record directly on to your computer, then take it down to your bowling alley and use it on the PA to sing some Lynyrd Skynard Karaoke. In all seriousness, this is an AMAZING feature because it allows you to grow and upgrade to an audio interface with a better preamp and more control over your microphones sound.

What's In the Box 

1. Microphone
2. Microphone Clip
3. Microphone Stand
4. USB Cable
5. XLR to XLR Cable
6. Documentation

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone feels decent. It has a metal body, but the grill feels like it's plastic, or at least it is metal that is coated in plastic. There is an LED light on the front to indicate the microphone is plugged into the USB port and is receiving power, and directly below that there is an on/off switch that feels somewhat flimsy.

On the bottom of the microphone we have a USB port to connect the microphone to your computer. There is a headphone jack to allow for latency free monitoring and audio playback when it the microphone is connected to your computer through the USB cable. There is a headphone volume control. And lastly there is an XLR plug which allows you to plug your microphone into an amplifier, mixer, or preamp.

(note: the headphone jack does not work when the microphone is only plugged in using an XLR cable. It also does not work if you are connected to an XLR cable and the usb cable is plugged into a charger. However, it does work if you have the XLR cable plugged in and the USB cable plugged into your computer).

The mic has a Cardioid Polar Pattern, and it is decent at cancelling background noise. When I was typing on the keyboard it did pick up a bit of noise in the background. So it is not the best at cancelling out noise, but it still sounds pretty good!

The frequency response is 50Hz - 15kHz which is plenty for a starting podcaster or voice over artist. Voice sounds incredibly crisp and clear through this microphone and acoustic guitar sounds full and wide as well. I think it does fall a little flat when recording electric guitar though.

Pros

• USB Microphone & XLR Microphone (allows room to expand and grow)
• Nice build quality
• Good sound
• Latency free monitoring (in USB Mode)
• Decent at noise cancellation

Cons

• No microphone gain control

Conclusion

This is hands down my favorite USB microphone that I have tested out yet. This is because of the microphones versatility. It provides great sound through the USB function, and it still allows you to grow and get better microphone preamps, or even use the microphone in a live situation. With that being said, I wish I could recommend this to everyone who is just starting out as solo podcaster or anything. It's an amazing product and I'm glad that I finally got around to testing it out.

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Audio Technica ATR2100-USB: http://amzn.to/1nSfAy5

Behringer Ultravoice XM8500 Review/Test

Today I'm testing out another cheap Dynamic Microphone. This time it is the Behringer Ultravoice XM8500.

Being that this is a Dynamic microphone, it does not require phantom power to function. That means that you should be able to utilize an XLR to USB cable (which I demonstrate in this video).

What's In the Box 

1. Plastic Storage / Carrying Case
2. Microphone
3. Microphone Clip
4. 5/8" to 3/8" Mic Stand Adapter
5. Documentation

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone feels pretty sturdy. It is an all metal body and a metal grill and it has some nice weight to it. 

The mic has a Cardioid Polar Pattern, and it is incredibly directional. As you get off access, the amount of pickup drops exponentially. It rejects background noise incredibly well (you could hardly hear the keyboard), so if you are going to be using a mic in a loud area, this may be a good option.

The frequency response was not listed, but it sounds comparable to the frequency response of the SM58, with slightly boosted mid frequencies. Let's be honest. If you're buying a $20 microphone, chances are, you're not too concerned with the specifications, you're more worried about if it sounds good or not. Well, I think this microphone sounds good.

Pros

• Extremely Cheap
• Nice build quality
• Decent sound
• Good at Isolating sound

Cons

• Lack of Documentation
• Muddy low end

Conclusion

In all honesty, this is a nice sounding microphone for $20. There are it's draw backs, but you have to remember; It's $20! If you are on a budget and are looking for a durable microphone, this is a great option. It works with an XLR to USB cable, so all you need is the Mic, a Stand, and the Cable and you're good to go.

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Behringer XM8500: http://amzn.to/1S7zvWv
Pyle PDMIC58: http://amzn.to/1S7zwtD
USB to XLR Cable: http://amzn.to/1lMypB6 (not the cable used, but same type of cable)

Do You Even Comic: Daytripper

Hello and welcome to another edition of Do You Even Comic. This month we are looking at the wonderful title, "Daytripper" by Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba. The Vertigo title was printed in 2010 then hit #1 on New York Times Charts and won the Eisner Award for "Best Story Arc" in 2011.   

The Story

Enough awards and praise, lets get into the story of "Daytripper." The story follows Bras de Oliva Domingos, the child of a world famous Brazilian author, who wants to be an acclaimed writer himself. The story is beautiful as each chapter follows a different part of his life, but at the end of each chapter he dies. 

Daytripper is all about quiet moments and the journey of life, the reflections we take and the paths we go down, it looks at each path and says "what if that was it"? Its these quiet moments, these little moments that I love in stories. The story of a man living life, but told so magically. The book has rhythm and words like lyrics. The art is surreal at times and always amazing. 

Why this book?

This book was my first exposure to the twin brothers that created this story and my first time really seeing non american art. It would be a few years after reading this book that I could see the influence of Brazilian art style like Daytripper seep into American comics and I am so delighted it has. This art help capture the emotions and moods of a story like nothing I had seen before. Daytripper is for those of us that day dream and get lost in emotional journeys. Its for storytellers and all of us that think about the "what if."

Check out more by http://fabioandgabriel.blogspot.com/ 

If this sounded like a book for you then get it here:

Book: Daytripper

Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface Review / Test

Today is the first review I am completing of an Audio Interface. I am diving into these devices because the USB Audio Adapters that I have been recommending have been altered and no longer provide sufficient voltage to power certain mass produced condenser microphones. So today I am starting with the $30 Behringer U-Phoria UM2 Audio Interface. This is a 2-input / 2-output USB device so you can connect an XLR or 1/4" sound source to your computer.

What's In the Box 

1. Interface
2. USB Cable
3. Quick-Start Guide

Performance / Features

The build of this thing is all plastic and it does not feel durable. The input jacks feel a little bit loose and the gain controls are a bit wobbly as well. However, if you keep this on your home studio desk, I don't think you will have any trouble with this thing. You just need to be careful with this thing.

The interface offers two inputs. The first input is a combo jack, meaning it can accept an XLR cable or a 1/4" cable. The second input is strictly a 1/4" cable. Next to each input there are two lights, the first is to let you know that the interface is picking up the signal, and the second light will blink red when you are clipping (too loud).

We also get +48v Phantom Power on this thing. There is a switch on the back that allows you to toggle the power on/off. I measured the voltage pass through when the power was switched on and I measured ~+46v. So this should be able to provide sufficient voltage to most, if not all, condenser microphones.

The interface provides two outputs as well. The first output is a 1/4" headphone output jack on the front. The second is an RCA output on the back so you can connect this to studio monitors, or an amplifier. 

When it comes to noise, this thing gets pretty noisy once we pass 75% on the gain knobs. Fortunately, when using a condenser microphone, I doubt you will get above 60%. However, if you're using a dynamic microphone, you may need to crank the gain and you may get stuck with some nasty hiss.

Pros

• Extremely Cheap
• +48v Phantom Power
• Gain Control Knob
• Clipping Indicator Light

Cons

• Plastic build quality
• High Noise Past 75% Gain

Conclusion

I really like this interface. I think it's a great starting interface since it is so cheap. It offers a single XLR input so you can plug in your condenser microphone and get a full +48v. I would recommend this to anyone who is considering getting a USB Soundcard to power a condenser microphone. Those soundcards are not designed to power microphones, therefore you will have to invest in a phantom power supply, and that takes your total cost to around $25-$30. You might as well just purchase this interface instead. It provides more features and was designed to actually work with your microphone. 

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Sabrent USB Adapter Warning

There's not much to say right now except, do not buy a Sabrent USB Soundcard if you plan on using it with a condenser microphone (BM700, BM800, NW700, NW800, NW1500, etc.) They changed the audio chip inside which dropped the voltage pass through by 1.5v causing a huge decrease in performance. Some people have even claimed that their microphones don't work at all. So please hold off on buying this if you're using it for a condenser microphone. 

NOTE: It should work great if you are using a DYNAMIC microphone that requires no voltage. I still think it's a great option for that. 

Pyle-Pro PDMIK1 Dynamic Mic Review/Test

Today I am testing out the Pyle-Pro PDMIK1 Dynamic Mic. The first thing to note about this microphone is that it costs about $4 on amazon.

What's In the Box 

1. Dynamic Uni-directional Microphone
2. 6.5-foot XLR to 1/4" Microphone Cable

Performance / Features

The build quality is what you would expect from a cheap microphone, but I do think that feels slightly better than the SF920, 930, & 940. There is also an on/off switch which feels better than most other switches I've come across. But when it comes down to it, it is a $4 microphone and it's built like it. I would not test this mics durability and expect it to still work.

The frequency response is listed as 50Hz - 15kHz which is pretty nice for such a cheap microphone. However, I feel like it was lacking a bit of presence when I tested out the acoustic guitar. For electric guitar I think it sounded fine, and for voice it sounds decent as well. I do HIGHLY recommend getting a pop filter though as there is little to no built in filter to keep the mic from picking up every plosive.

It is a uni directional polar pattern which is what you would expect from a dynamic microphone. It does great with this and picks up very little room noise. You could hardly hear the keyboard over my voice, and when I stopped talking, there was still very little keyboard noise. Also, as we got farther away from the microphone the amount of sound the microphone picked up dropped significantly.

Pros

• SUPER CHEAP
• Decent sound
• SERIOUSLY! IT'S ONLY $4!
• Great at Isolating Sound Source / Doesn't Pick up Background Noise

Cons

• Plastic build quality
• Picks up lots of plosives
• Lacks presence with acoustic instruments

Conclusion

Honestly, I think this is a great starter microphone, or if you are on an extremely tight budget. That's who I recommend it to: beginners or people who don't have much disposable income. Just keep in mind what you are buying; a $4 microphone. You will need to invest in a pop filter and stand, and if you have a designated microphone input on your computer, it may work since this is a Dynamic microphone and does not require any voltage to function. Also, chances are it will not be very durable, so be careful with it.

If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Pyle-Pro PDMIK1: http://amzn.to/1ZId8ew
XLR to 3.5mm Cable: http://amzn.to/1ZIdfXx
1/4" to 3.5mm Adapter: http://amzn.to/1ZIdrpL

Neewer 3.5mm Mini Lapel Mic Review / Test

The Neewer 3.5mm Mini Lapel Mic is a super cheap option for people who want to try a lavalier mic for their videos.

What's In the Box 

1. The Microphone(s)

Performance / Features

The build quality on these mics is terrible. I have had multiple mics fail in the middle of a day long shoot which ended up rendering the video for the entire day useless. This is a huge pain, but you have to realize that they are about $1.50 a piece.

The microphone sounds decent, especially when held in front of the sound source. It has a decent enough low response and a clear high end. However, once the microphone is clipped to a shirt, you lose a lot of the clarity. This is fairly common with most lapel microphones, so I can't hold it against this mic in particular. 

Pros

• SUPER CHEAP
• Decent sound

Cons

• Horrible build quality
• Picks up lots background noise
• Loss of clarity when clipped to shirt

Conclusion

I think that this is a great entry level lapel microphone. If you're trying to make a vlog or something, this is a great option to see if you like the idea of using a Lapel mic. I don't think that this is a good long term option (but I still continue to use them after a few mishaps with the mic failing).

So I would recommend this to anyone interested in lapel mics, or to anyone who is on a budget. If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

5-Pack: http://amzn.to/1JRw9E4
3-Pack: http://amzn.to/1WiuTvw
USB Soundcard Used: http://amzn.to/1INAuru

V-Moda Boom Pro Headset Mic Review / Test

Today I am testing out the V-Moda Boom Pro Headset Mic. This is an add on microphone for any headset that has a 3.5mm microphone port. It is listed to be compatible with the V-Moda M-100's and some Beats headphones. However, I found that it is compatible with any headset that has a 3.5mm line input. This is not the microphone input jack, but rather, the 3.5mm jack that you plug the cable that runs to your computer into. 

What's In the Box 

1. V-Moda Boom Mic
2. TRRS Splitter Cable
3. Warranty

Performance / Features

The build quality on this thing feels pretty nice. The joints all feel like they are sturdy. You can articulate the microphone. The cable is braided so it will hopefully last longer. The remote in the middle of the cable feels decent, and it has a headphone volume knob and microphone mute switch as well as a clip. Lastly the TRRS splitter is rubber and feels slightly cheaper than that actual headset. 

The frequency response on this mic is not listed but based on the performance I think it sounds really nice. The voice sounds natural and doesn't sound overly compressed like most headset microphones. The microphone was also fairly hot. I was plugging directly into my computer and had the level at about 5%. 

The polar pattern based on my examination seems to be omni-directional. That means that it picks up sound in every direction. When typing on my relatively quiet keyboard you could hear a bit of the noise in the background. This leads me to believe that the microphone will pick up a lot more noise if the user were using a mechanical keyboard.

Pros

• Nice voice sound
• Braided cable 
• Compatible with many headsets

Cons

• Picks up background noise
• Overly hot signal

Conclusion

I think that this is a really nice product. It's great to have the option of replacing a crappy microphone on a headset with a much higher quality one. However, this does require that your headset have a 3.5mm line out. So you will have to do your own research and find out if the headset you own or the headset you're looking at fulfills those needs. Just be careful with clipping because this microphone has an incredibly hot signal.

Other than that, I would just recommend this to anyone who isn't happy with their mic, and has a compatible headset. If you have any additional questions about this headset, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

V-Moda Boom Pro Headset Mic: http://amzn.to/1n3YYDo
V-Moda Crossfade M-100: http://amzn.to/1J5WmhZ
Afterglow AG-9 Headset: http://amzn.to/1J61HFW