Samson C01 XLR Condenser Mic Review

Today we're not looking at another microphone from Samson, the C01.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen), with the input gain set at approximately 12:00. 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 around $75 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Plastic Storage Box

  2. Microphone

  3. Microphone Mount

  4. 5/8" to 3/8" Stand Adapter

  5. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 40Hz - 18kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Hyper Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~ -33dB

  4. Impedance: 200-ohms

  5. Max SPL: 136dB

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is perfectly fine given the price. It has an all metal body as well as a sturdy metal mesh grill, and a good amount of weight to it coming in at 1.1 lb. On the front of the microphone you'll find a blue LED light that lights up when phantom power on your interface is turned on and on the bottom you'll find the XLR port. 

The frequency response is listed as 40Hz - 18kHz. The bass frequencies begin to roll off at 150Hz but peak again at around 95Hz before rolling off the remainder of the low frequencies. The mids and presence fluctuate quite a bit with a minor boost around 600-700hz, a peak at around 1.7kHz, 2.7kHz, and 5.5kHz, with a broad boost from 6Khz to 12kHz. 

The polar pattern of this mic is Hyper-cardioid. This means that the front is sensitive and the rear of the mic has a small lobe of sensitivity with the dead spots around 112-degrees. 

The overall performance of this mic lacks. As far as a vocal mic it seems to lack significantly in the low frequencies, sounds a bit nasally, and has some minor sibilance issues as well. On the electric guitar, I had to put the mic right on top of the amp to get some low end in the guitar, but it did end up sounding fairly decent. The acoustic on the other hand sounded brittle in the high end. Something that was not listed on the specifications sheet was the self noise, and when I was testing the mic, it seemed like a fairly big downfall of this mic. Finally, the tone of the mic all around was somewhat harsh and become painful to listen to after lengthy listening sessions. 

Pros

  • Pretty good build quality

  • Comes with a storage box

Cons

  • Subpar performance with self noise

  • Lacks in the low end

  • Sibilance issues

  • Harsh tone that became painful after long listening sessions

C01Freq

Conclusion

I was somewhat let down by this microphone. I have really enjoyed the majority of Samson mics on the market, but this one didn't meet my expectations. The frequency response left a lot to be desired in that it left the voice and guitar sounding thin and harsh. The self noise also makes this unusable for professional applications as well.

Due to how competitive the mic market is, I don't think I can recommend this mic. There are too many mics in this price range for me to recommend a mic that doesn't perform amazingly.

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

Buy the Samson C01
US: https://amzn.to/2JgDkHs
UK: https://amzn.to/2EdQZvt
CA: https://amzn.to/2pZmnJ5
DE: https://amzn.to/2pZZPZu

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-113: Amazon Banking Services

On episode 113 I provide an update to my Twitch live-streaming, introduce a new segment where you guys tell me how dumb I am, talk about Amazon launching banking services, Mac OSX launching external GPU support, the first Chrome OS Tablet, the new iPad, Apple launching classroom tools, a new entry level GoPro, a serious issue with affiliate marketing, Jake Paul getting a talk show, Rhode Island blocking porn unless you pay, and much much more.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:38 - Update to Live Streaming
*     (Twitch Channel: http://www.twitch.tv/podcastage)
*     (WIDG Ep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-sZjVcyCTE)
02:24 - What You Had To Say (Getting Corrected by Viewers)
04:34 - Amazon Checking Accounts for Teenagers
07:31 - Mac OSX Launches External GPU Support
08:09 - First Chrome OS Tablet
09:30 - 2018 iPad Launch
10:45 - Apple Classroom Toolkit
12:38 - New Entry Level GoPro
14:03 - 90% Of Affiliate Posts Go Undisclosed
17:30 - Jake Paul Gets a Talk Show
20:14 - Rhode Island Blocking Porn Unless you Pay
23:28 - Apple TV Programming Coming 2019
23:55 - Ask Bandrew
24:12 - Email 1
25:06 - Can you quit caffeine?
26:05 - What is your dream job?
27:00 - Are panels beneficial for Fans & Creators?
29:40 - Is Roku the Best? 
* (Privacy Policy: https://docs.roku.com/doc/userprivacypolicy/en-us)
31:41 - Email 2
33:05 - Response to SP
33:40 - My Thoughts on Launching a Store
35:11 - Email 3
35:43 - Discussing Issues with C01u Pro
36:32 - Email 4
36:50 - How’d you come up with your intro?
37:26 - Do you have any future podcast plans?
38:29 - 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

Follow us on:
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► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

,

Neumann TLM102 vs Neumann TLM103 Comparison

,

TLM102

Price: $700
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -39dB
Max SPL: 144dB
Self Noise: 12dBA
Impedance: 50-Ohms

TLM103

Price: $1,100
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -33dB
Max SPL: 138dB
Self Noise: 7dBA
Impedance: 50-Ohms

Today we're comparing two high end microphones, the Neumann TLM-102 and TLM-103, in order to determine what the differences are, and which microphone is better.

The build quality of both of these mics is excellent. They both have an all metal body and metal grill and feel extremely well put together. The TLM102 is significantly smaller than the TLM103 though. It's about half the size of most other condenser microphones I've used as well.

The frequency response of these mics vary from one another. Both mics begin to roll off the bass frequencies at the same frequency, ~70Hz, however, the TLM102 has a more drastic high pass. Once we get up to ~4kHz, the TLM103 begins gradually boosting until it peaks at +4dB at 6.5kHz, and remains flat until 15kHz at which point it rolls off the air frequencies hitting -5dB at 20kHz. The TLM102 on the other hand remains flat until ~5.5kHz and then has a minor cut before boosting at 6.5kHz and peaking at 7.5kHz with a boost of ~3.5dB. The TLM102 then begins to slightly roll off the air frequencies starting at ~13kHz and drastically begins to roll off the air at ~14kHz hitting -8dB at 20kHz. 

As far as the overall performance of these microphones, both performed similarly in terms of background noise rejection, off axis coloration, and distance pickup. Where they really begin to diverge is when we compare the sensitivity and self noise. The TLM103 has a sensitivity that is +6dB louder than the TLM102 meaning you won't need to drive your preamp as hard. Additionally, the self noise of the TLM103 is 5dBA quieter than that of the TLM102 which means you'll have less noise introduced to your signal from the microphone. The tone of the TLM103 sounds brighter due to the earlier boost and more extended boost, but it also sounds slightly more mid forward. The TLM102 sounds very slightly darker, and when the two mics are A/B'd it almost sounds as though it has a minor scooped mid frequency due to the presence boost beginning 2.5kHz higher than the 103.

102vs103_Comparison.jpg

With all of the benefits of the TLM103 over the TLM102, I have to declare the WINNER the Neumann TLM103. This is due to the higher output level, lower self noise, smoother high frequencies, slight mid forward sound, and more extended bass frequencies. All of these factors, in my opinion, provide a better recording, which is what you'd expect given it costs $400 more.

If you have any questions, or want to provide your input, please leave a comment on the youtube video.

Buy the Neumann TLM-102
US: http://amzn.to/2wsL9GR 
UK: http://amzn.to/2wCPuHC 
CA: http://amzn.to/2xxbH6s 
DE: N/A

Buy the Neumann TLM103
US: https://amzn.to/2IT9gSa 
UK: https://amzn.to/2upKG8m 
CA: https://amzn.to/2I8Raur 
DE: N/A

Buy the Audient ID4
US: http://amzn.to/2BDwx9A 
UK: http://amzn.to/2sBOaUw 
CA: http://amzn.to/2HqSTvn 
DE: http://amzn.to/2GsVMe0

Neumann TLM 103 Review

Today we're not looking at a budget microphone, we're looking at a high end mic from Neumann, the TLM-103.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen), with the input gain set at approximately 10:00. 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. In the review I also include a test on the Audient ID4 to see how the mic sounds through a Class A Mic Pre.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back around $1,100 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Wooden Storage Box

  2. Microphone

  3. Microphone Mount

  4. 5/8" to 3/8" Stand Adapter

  5. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~ -33dB

  4. Impedance: 50-ohms

  5. Max SPL: 138dB

  6. Self Noise: 7dBA

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is what you'd expect out of a mic that exceeds $1,000. It has an all metal body that feels meticulously machined. It has a metal mesh grill that does feel a little bit weak (but it's not like this will be on stage taking abuse) and this thing has a good amount of weight coming in at 450g.

The frequency response is listed as 20Hz - 20kHz. It begins to roll off the bass frequencies at around 65 or 75Hz, and then remains flat all the way up through around 3.5kHz at which point it builds to a 4dB boost from 6kHz to 15kHz at which point it rolls off the remainder of the air hitting around -6dB at 20kHz. 

The polar pattern of this mic is cardioid. At 2kHz and 4kHz it has a fairly wide response that is almost omnidirectional but slightly quieter at 180-degreed. As a whole this thing picks up a large amount of ambient noise. 

The overall performance of this mic is excellent. The mic offers a very smooth tone, even though it has a broad boost from 4kHz - 15kHz. Additionally, this microphone has an excellent proximity effect that you can use to your benefit to beef up your voice or offset some of the boost in the presence/treble/air. The self noise of this mic is also only 7dBA, so it is quiet. This means it offers a dynamic range of 131dB which is more than you could ever need, but it's nice to have. However, it does tend to pick up a lot of ambient noise, so if you're in an untreated room, this may have a negative impact on your recordings.

Screen Shot 2018-03-26 at 8.38.02 PM.png

Pros

  • Very smooth frequency response

  • Great proximity effect

  • Low self noise of 7dBA

  • Dynamic range of 131dB

  • Great build quality

  • Handles processing very well

Cons

  • Picks up a lot of ambient room noise

  • Very expensive

Conclusion

I was very impressed with this microphone. On the electric guitar it provided a fairly accurate representation of the guitar amp, but it added more bite and attack due to the presence & treble boost. The acoustic guitar accomplished a sound I am always looking for, a nice full body without sounding muddy or boomy with a nice shimmer on the high end and good attack from the guitar pick. For singing, this thing sounded amazing. It really cut through the mix and sat forward without sounding shrill or harsh and the smooth tone made it sound very pleasing. For spoken word the presence/treble/air boost offer great clarity, while remaining clean sounding, and then if you need a bit more bass you have the buttery proximity effect to use. 

If you're a voice over artist or a musician and you're looking for a brighter microphone that is very pleasing to listen to, this is a great option if it fits within your budget, and I'd 100% recommend it.

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

Buy the Neumann TLM103
US: https://amzn.to/2IT9gSa
UK: https://amzn.to/2upKG8m
CA: https://amzn.to/2I8Raur
DE: N/A

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

TPR -127: COMIC CREATOR JP HERRON

Jessica Herron comic creator origins!  Anime, Tim Sale and, Japan led her to Midnight Furies, her ongoing comic series published on Webtoons! Stick around for all the details and check out the links in the down below.

We also find out that the podcast is "better than silence" or if you have to commute its "better than the person next to you." so give us a listen, thanks!

Follow:

Jessica Herron

LOGAN NAUGLE

Referenced 

Follow us on:

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

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

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

MUSIC Credit

Intro/Outro: Bandrew Scott of Geeks Rising

Other: Royalty Free Music from Bensound

BSP-112: YouTube Updates Firearm Policies

On episode 112 I discuss my first livestream on Twitch, Facebook rolling out a pattern like feature, GoPro licensing their lens & sensor technology for 3rd party devices, YouTube rolling out picture in picture on desktop, YouTube webcam launching, Youtube updating it’s firearm policies, YouTube annoying music listeners intentionally, YouTube distributing films to theaters, China banning parody videos, Facebook & Cambridge Analytica, Facebook collecting your call & text meta data, and what we can learn from Facebook & the data they collect?

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:46 - PSA
01:26 - Completed My First Twitch Stream
02:58 - Facebook Rolling out Patreon Like Feature
04:44 - GoPro Licensing Lens & Sensors for 3rd Party Devices
06:17 - YouTube Picture in Picture on Desktop
07:47 - YouTube Webcam Launching
09:55 - YouTube Updates to Firearm Policies
12:00 - YouTube Annoying Music Listeners Intentionally
14:24 - YouTube Distributing YouTube Originals to Theaters
16:12 - China Has Banned Parodies
17:56 - Facebook & Cambridge Analytica
20:48 - Facebook Collecting Your Call & Text Meta Data
22:18 - What Can We Learn from Facebook!?
23:56 - Ask Bandrew
24:13 - Email 1
25:05 - What are some of your recommended comedy entertainment? 
28:30 - Will you podcast with an NW700, Camera Mic?
29:05 - Will you review shotgun mic reviews?
29:26 - Will you review underwater mic?
29:41 - Will you change your intro?
30:36 - Email 2
31:04 - Why haven’t you reviewed more shotgun mics?
31:27 - Why haven’t you used a shotgun mic instead of the SM7b?
32:13 - Email 3
32:41 - What animal would be cutest scaled down to the size of a cat?
33:08 - What situation started out bad but ended up great?
33:53 - What makes you roll your eyes every time you hear it?
34:54 - Email 4
35:00 - What headphones would you recommend for video editing and music listening?
36:00 - 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

Follow us on:
► Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bandrewsayspodcast
► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

AT-2020 vs AT-2035 vs AT-2050 Comparison (Versus Series)

AT-2020

Price: $100
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -37dB
Max SPL: 144dB
Self Noise: 20dB

AT-2035

Price: $150
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -33dB
Max SPL: 148 - 158dB
Self Noise: 12dB

AT-2050

Price: $230
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8
Freq Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -37dB
Max SPL: 144dB
Self Noise: 20dB

Today we're comparing the entire 20 series of microphones from Audio-Technica; the AT-2020, AT-2035, and AT-2050 in order to determine which is the best option for you.

The build quality of these mics is very similar. They all feel as though they're built of the same material which does not feel cheap at all. All of the mics use an identical (or nearly identical) chassis to house the electronics, but the AT-2020 has a slightly short XLR stem at the bottom of the mic. The other difference between the mics is apparent in the switches. The AT-2020 has no switches, the AT-2035 has a -10dB pad and an 80Hz high pass switch, while the AT-2050 has a -10dB pad, 80Hz high pass switch, and 3-way polar pattern selector.

The frequency response of these mics has some significant differences. The graph below overlays the frequency response of all 3 mics (on the cardioid polar pattern). The 2020, has the most significant bass cut which makes the mic sound somewhat thin on voice. The 2050 has the flattest bass response, but also the most prominently boosted presence with a peak around 4kHz and a peak in the air around 12kHz. The 2035 lies right in between these two microphones with a more subtle bass cut, a more subtle presence boost and an air boost peaking at around 14kHz. 

As far as the overall performance of these microphones, the AT-2020 sounded thin on the voice due to the more substantial bass cut and consistent treble boost. The AT-2050 sounded overly boosted in the presence and treble frequencies which made it sound somewhat brittle, and slightly unpleasant to listen to. Of these three microphones the 2035 seems to offer the most natural response for spoken word.

The darkest line is the 2050, the 2nd darkest is the 2035, and the lightest is the 2020. 

The darkest line is the 2050, the 2nd darkest is the 2035, and the lightest is the 2020. 

With all that being said the WINNER of this versus series is the AT-2035. I chose this as the winner because it did of the most natural sound on spoken word. It did have a somewhat muddy sound on the electric and acoustic guitar, but this could be resolved by throwing on a high pass filter in post or by initializing the 80Hz high pass on the microphone. All around, of these three microphones, I just think that the 2035 did one thing the best.

If you have any questions, or want to provide your input, please leave a comment on the youtube video.

Buy the AT2020: 
US: http://amzn.to/1T73QEI
UK: http://amzn.to/2eIWqbM
CA: http://amzn.to/2wWf6j2
DE: http://amzn.to/2gn5enC

Buy the AT2035
US: http://amzn.to/2b9Fbj9
UK: http://amzn.to/2aFhJew
CA: http://amzn.to/2wn6Ozm
DE: http://amzn.to/2vOcRJx

Buy the AT2050
US: http://amzn.to/2Hl7cl0
UK: http://amzn.to/2EIVfHv
CA: http://amzn.to/2C1kfZt
DE: http://amzn.to/2o5YEGT

Shure PGA58 Dynamic Mic Review / Test

Today we're reviewing one of the cheaper dynamic microphones from Shure, the PGA-58.

For this review, I have the mic connected direction to the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (1st Gen), with the input gain set at approximately 75%. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in finalcut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $55-$60 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone
  2. Microphone Clip (No 5/8 to 3/8" adapter)
  3. Carrying Pouch
  4. Documentation
  5. Sticker

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 50Hz - 16kHz
  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  3. Sensitivity: -55dB
  4. Impedance: 150-ohms

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is on par with most other Shure microphones. It has an all metal body, and a metal grill that feels like it could handle the stage rather well. It has an off switch on the side which is always handy in spoken word situations, it has the XLR port on the bottom like you'd expect, and it has a good amount of weight to it, coming in at 10.37 oz.

The frequency response is listed as 50Hz - 16kHz. It begins to roll off frequencies starting at around 500Hz, and then is relatively flat up through 3kHz. At that point it has a boost that peaks at around 5.5kHz followed by a steep cut down to 6.5kHz with additional variations of a few dB through ~12kHz, which ends up rolling off at around 15kHz. 

The polar pattern of this mic is listed as cardioid. It does a good job at rejecting noise around the rear of the mic which would be ideal for live situations. This will assist in avoiding feedback from the PA and from on stage wedges. 

The overall performance of this mic is pretty decent. It did not do a great job in terms of handling noise or background noise rejection, but neither of these are bad enough to destroy the microphone. The off axis coloration of this mic does seem to lose a bit of the low end and high end as you move around to 90-degrees giving you a somewhat mid forward sound around the sides. The rear is quiet enough that you're not going to get much coloration from it though. 

Due to the bass roll off beginning around 500Hz, this thing will seem to lack body on instruments. On the electric guitar, I found it to be somewhat muddy, while the acoustic guitar lacked a bit in the low end and didn't have much shine to it. Where this mic really excels is on the vocal performances. It has a flatter response when compared to the SM58, and it rolls off the low frequencies to help ensure your voice doesn't get too muddy. 

Screen Shot 2018-03-11 at 8.28.30 PM.png

Pros

  • Less boosted High End compared to SM58
  • Cheaper alternative to SM58
  • Great build quality
  • On/Off switch

Cons

  • Dull sound on instruments / Slightly muddy on bassier instruments
  • Not the most flattering off axis coloration
  • Less smooth sounding than SM58

Conclusion

I think this is a rather decent alternative to the SM58 if you're on a limited budget. I don't think this microphone is ideal for acoustic guitar or electric guitar, but I think it is a fine vocal microphone for the $60.00 price tag. The less prominent presence boost, and the roll off in the bass frequencies may not be preferred for some musicians, and it may not stick through a mix as well, but I don't think you will have many issues with this in a live situation. Or if you do have this microphone and you want to start a podcast, or do gaming commentary, I think this would suffice for that as well.

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

Buy it on Amazon
US: http://amzn.to/2myIaI6
UK: http://amzn.to/2mgtHjf
CA: http://amzn.to/2FVlCrb
DE: http://amzn.to/2HK1XuE

Shure X2U XLR-to-USB Interface Review

Today we're reviewing an extremely portable travel interface from Shure, the X2u.

During this review video, I have the X2u connected directly to the Rode NT1, with the gain set at approximately 50% (not certain of gain since there are no markings). In post I boosted the audio by +6dB in Final Cut Pro to ensure the audio is at a listenable level. 

If you are interested in this interface, it will set you back $100.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Interface

  2. 3m USB Cable

  3. (2) Velcro Straps

  4. Carrying Pouch

  5. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Bit Depth: 16-Bit

  2. Sampling Rate: Up to 48kHz

  3. Power: +48v Phantom Power

  4. Gain: 50dB

Performance / Features

The build quality of this interface is great, which is what you'd want out of a travel/portable interface. It has an all metal body with a good amount of weight without becoming burdensome while traveling. On the front of this device you'll find a metering light, mic gain control, headphone volume control, monitor mix dial to mix between 0-latency monitoring and computer playback, a phantom power button, phantom power indicator light, and a power light.

On the left hand side you'll find a 3.5mm headphone jack which does offer 0-latency monitoring as well as computer playback. On the top you'll find the XLR port and on the bottom you'll find a usb port to connect it to your computer. On the back you'll find two slits that allow you to mount this to a mic stand with the velcro straps, and you'll find some foam padding to keep the device from sliding around too much.

The preamp on this thing offers 50dB of gain and it lists the noise floor of -78dB FS when the gain is set at 100%. It did get a bit noisy once we got about ~50-60% of gain.

The overall performance of this interface is decent. On one hand it has all the features you could need for a solo preamp interface (0-latency monitoring, mix control, metering light, etc). But on the other hand the preamp is nothing spectacular. The preamp is fairly noisy once you get about ~60%, and almost unusably noisy above ~80%. It was able to drive the Sm7b but you will have to boost the audio in post, and you'll likely have to do some noise removal since it will be a noisy signal. The A/D converters also lack with a max bit-depth of 16-bit, and when you listen to the recordings at high levels, I heard some digital interface. 

Pros

  • Extremely portable

  • Great build quality

  • Offers 0-latency mointoring

  • Has a mix to adjust 0-latency and computer playback

  • Offers +48v Phantom Power

  • It's bus powered!

Cons

  • Fairly noisy preamp

  • A/D converter limited to 16-bit 48kHz

  • Metering light not visible when connected directly mic.

Conclusion

This interface was difficult for me to decide on. As mentioned previously, it is insanely full featured in a small package which is a huge benefit when traveling. However, the preamp and a/d converter are somewhat lacking and if you're using a dynamic mic this will negatively impact your audio. So when it comes down to it, if you're just going to be using this for music demos, or as a backup for your podcast, I think it will be fine. You can work around the negative aspects of this thing. However, if you're looking to record high quality audio with a dead silent noise floor, whether on the road or in the studio, this interface will not cut it. 

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

Buy the Shure X2u
US: http://amzn.to/2tXVOcc
UK: http://amzn.to/2ICXtrd
CA: http://amzn.to/2GNpegc
DE: http://amzn.to/2G9c27p

Buy the Rode NT1 Kit
US: http://amzn.to/2i1eWfO
UK: http://amzn.to/2i3uFh8
CA: http://amzn.to/2qzk3dz
DE: http://amzn.to/2FCzPsk

TPR PODCAST EPISODE 126: WRITER DYLAN GRAY

Writer Dylan Gray hopes on and provide us with his origin into comics and working for Top Cow Productions. We bond over a love of the great Paul Dini as well as chat about comic convention travel plans. If you looking to get into comics as a writer there's no better way than just starting to write. But it doesn't hurt to meet and greet with companies and creators at Comic Cons.

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

Follow:

DYLAN GRAY

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

Follow us on:

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

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

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

BSP-111: YouTube Disinformation

On episode 111 I discuss Stephen Hawking passing away, Twitter live streaming MLS games, Apple acquiring texture and what this means, Trump creating a US Space Force, YouTubeTV’s price increase, YouTube’s fight with Misinformation / Disinformation, Chinese police using facial recognition glasses, Moviepass saying that they do not track you, and Apple picking up a new series from the creator of Bob’s Burgers.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:43 - Sunshine Summit 2018
01:27 - Stephen Hawking Passed Away
02:40 - Twitter Live Streaming MLS Soccer
03:54 - Apple Acquires Texture
06:18 - Trump’s Space Force
07:42 - YouTubeTV Price Increase
08:21 - YouTube’s Continued Fight with Misinformation
10:46 - Chinese Police Using Facial Recognition Glasses
13:03 - Movie Pass States They’re Not Tracking You
15:48 - Apple Acquired Show from Bob’s Burgers Creator
17:27 - Ask Bandrew
17:41 - E-mail 1
18:17 - What mic did you use on BSP-108
18:28 - Was that mic Dynamic or Condenser?
18:45 - What are your thoughts on it?
20:03 - Do you use the DBX286s on your podcast?
22:11 - E-mail 2
22:51 - Thoughts on Crowdfunding
23:33 - Thoughts on Solar Power Start Up Investments
25:50 - One Piece of Investment Advice
26:25 - Email 3
26:59 - Did you know NASA is going to mars?
27:50 - Opinions on Emoticons?
29:32 - Most expensive & cheapest mic you’ve reviewed?
29:51 - 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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► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Telefunken M81 Dynamic Mic Review

Today we're looking an awesome microphone from Telefunken, the M81.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at 3:00. 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 $250.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone

  2. Carrying Pouch

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 30Hz - 18kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~-60dB

  4. Impedance: 250-ohms

  5. Max SPL: 140dB

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic is outstanding. It has a great feeling machined metal body that has a really good amount of weight to it, which feels nice in the hand. It has a shiny metal mesh grill on the top which seems sturdy enough to handle the abuse of stage use. Inside the grill there is a substantial amount of foam, as well as an additional piece of foam to attempt to curb plosives.

The frequency response is listed as 30Hz - 18kHz. The frequency response on this mic has a slightly recessed mid section that helps with clarity, but avoids having a v-sound or scooped mid sound. The presence boost on this mic helps you cut through a mix, but immediately after the boost, the air frequencies are rolled off drastically to help battle shrill higher frequencies. Lastly, the low end is controlled well. It allows for some decent proximity effect without getting overly boomy or muddying up your mix.

The polar pattern of this mic is cardioid. The off axis coloration on this thing is incredible. At 90-degrees the tone is almost the exact same as at 0-degrees, just quieter. At 180-degrees the rejection is impressive as well. In my tests there was minimal keyboard noise from my Cherry MX blues, and I think would translate great to a live venue. 

The overall performance of this mic is excellent. On spoken word you're getting great clarity with a nice warm sound even with the slight mid-cut while the low end allows you to utilize the proximity effect without ruining a recording. One draw back to this mic is that it did not handle plosives well at all. Therefore if you plan on using this mic on a singer, you may want to add an additional windscreen. The company states that this mic is a great option for taming brighter vocals and guitar tones and for fattening up percussion, horns, and thinner sounding sources. 

Screen Shot 2018-03-15 at 6.41.19 PM.png
Screen Shot 2018-03-15 at 6.41.27 PM.png

Pros

  • Amazing off-axis coloration

  • Great rear-rejection

  • Sturdy build quality

  • Decent job with handling noise

Cons

  • Did not handle plosives that well

  • A bit expensive in comparison to other handheld dynamics

Conclusion

I think this is a great mic to have in your live mic locker. When comparing this to the industry standard SM58, the slight mid cut and the less prominent low end makes for better clarity in singing/guitar, as well as offering a more forgiving sound for performers with less than optimal microphone technique. The presence boost will also help stick through a mix, and the air roll off will keep the harshness from overwhelming your mix. If you're just looking for a new tone to add to your live sound, I think this would be a great option.

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

Buy the Telefunken M81
US: http://amzn.to/2FE7Tcj
UK: http://amzn.to/2FYio9G
CA: http://amzn.to/2FD6YIQ
DE: http://amzn.to/2IufmZd

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

 

TPR PODCAST EPISODE 125: DAVE BAKER RETURNS

Comic Creator Dave Baker returns to the podcast. We discuss the numerous books he has worked on in the past year as well as the new projects and web-series is making. A large part of comic life is working at going to conventions and selling you book, I got the chance to ask Dave a few convention travel tips and how to prep for comic conventions. Dave Bake is one of the hardest working story tellers I know and I encourage you all to check out his work linked below.

DAVE BAKER Works:

  • Action Hospital
  • Shitty Watchmen
  • Fuck off Squad
  • Suicide Forest
  • Web show
  • Script writing
  • Planet purgatory

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

Follow:

Dave Baker

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

 

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

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

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Neewer NW-3U USB Condenser Mic Review

Today I'm reviewing an insanely cheap USB Condenser Microphone from Neewer, the NW-3U.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to my 2017 iMac with the input gain set at 56%. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in finalcut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $15.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone

  2. Microphone Clip (No 5/8 to 3/8" adapter)

  3. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 20Hz - 17kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: -32dB

  4. Impedance: 100-ohms

  5. Max SPL: 132dB

  6. Self Noise; 16dBA

  7. Bit Depth: 16-Bit

  8. Sample Rate: 48kHz

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is lack luster. It has a plastic body which makes it feel like a cheap toy. It has a metal grill with minimal foam to assist in reducing plosives, and it is a decent weight but leans a bit on the light side.

The frequency response is listed as 20Hz - 17kHz. I have included a copy of the frequency response below, but I do not think that it is an accurate representation of the sound. This mic sounds as though it has a mid forward sound which causes a somewhat nasally tone. It also lacks in the lower frequencies which makes the microphone sound a bit thin.

The polar pattern of this mic is cardioid. The background noise rejection was nothing spectacular, but it did a decent job. At 90 / 270-degrees, there was almost no low frequencies; there was only treble. Once we got around the mic to 180-degrees, all the treble had been eliminated. 

The overall performance of this mic is shocking given the price. The stand out feature of this microphone is the preamp. Even with the gain set at 100% there was almost no noise. That is an impressive accomplishment in high end gear, and this thing comes from the budget bin. The tone of this microphone has it's limitations apparent in the nasally tone and thin low end, however, given the price tag, I think the price to performance ratio is amazing.

freqpolar.jpg

Pros

  • Insanely Cheap

  • Clean Preamps (even at 100% gain)

  • Decent sound quality

  • Great price/performance ratio

Cons

  • Bit depth limited to 16-bit

  • Cheap feeling build

Conclusion

If you are in the market for a new USB condenser microphone and you have a budget of around $30, I think this is a great option. If you were to pick this up along with a boom arm and a pop filter, you'd be ready to start recording. Will this be the end all be all in terms of audio quality, no. But will it out perform most, if not all other microphones at the $15 price tag; probably. 

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

Buy the Neewer NW-3U
US: http://amzn.to/2FySPID
UK: http://amzn.to/2FA1JFL
CA: http://amzn.to/2FDSc0J
DE: http://amzn.to/2Htf03C

 

BSP-110: Twitter Wants to Verify Everyone!

On episode 110, I talk about Washington State passing their own Net Neutrality laws, Facebook launching a breaking news tag, Twitter wanting to verify everyone, New youtube analytics coming soon, YouTube TV partnering/sponsoring the MLB, Movie Pass tracking you, Facebooks new App Locker collecting more data on you, and a new At The Gates album launching!

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:39 - Upcoming Live Stream Friday 3/16/18 8:00PM EST
01:31 - Done with the TLM103
02:13 - Washington State vs Net Neutrality
04:20 - Facebook Breaking News
06:40 - Twitter Wants to Verify Everyone!
11:41 - New YouTube Analytics
14:41 - YouTube TV & The World Series
17:33 - Movie Pass is Tracking You!
21:20 - Facebook VPN & App Locker are Tracking You!
24:07 - New AT THE GATES Album!
24:45 - Ask Bandrew
25:04 - E-mail 1
26:05 - Is the SM58 Worth the extra $60 over the SM48?
31:12 -  Email 2
32:58 - What’s your Favorite YouTuber?
34:21 - Can you use the Rycote Shockmount with the SM7b
35:10 - Email 3
35:19 - What’s the most embarrassing moment in your life?
35:42 - Where would you want to visit?
36:30 - Have you been abroad?
36:46 - 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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► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Blue Compass Broadcast Boom Arm Review

Today we're looking at the brand new Broadcast Boom Arm from Blue Microphones, the Blue Compass. 

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $100 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone Boom Arm

  2. Desktop Base Mount

  3. 5/8" to 3/8" Adapter

  4. Documentation

What's In the Box

  1. Horizontal Reach: 32-inches

  2. Maximum Weight: 2.4lbs

Performance / Features

The build quality of this boom arm is excellent. The majority of the build is aluminum with the exception of the joints/thumb screws. There is a cable raceway with clips that runs the length of the boom arm and helps keep your cable hidden away. Another great features of the boom is the fact that the desk mount sits flush against your desk, so nothing protrudes past the edge of your desk space. Lastly, the springs of this boom arm are all internal to avoid any unintentional bumps of springs, allowing for quieter operation.

Once you have the boom arm set ideally, you are able to tighten the thumbscrews at the seperate points to lock the boom arm in place. If you do want to move the boom arm with ease after you've set it you will need to loosen these joints again.

There's not much to say about the overall performance of this boom. It does exactly what it's supposed to do. It holds your microphone. The movement is quiet. And it looks great. 

Pros

  • Sturdy build quality

  • Hidden cable raceway

  • Great horizontal reach

  • Quiet movement

  • Holds up to 2.4 lbs of microphone

  • It looks rad on camera

Cons

  • The joints and thumb screws are plastic

  • If you have this placed on the side of your desk AND you use the SM7b so that you need to rotate the mic more than 30-degrees, you will have issues since the SM7b's cable placement is impeded by the boom arms joint.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an alternative to the Rode PSA1, or Heil PL2t, then this boom arm may be the perfect option for you. It's at the exact same price point of $100, but it stands apart from these other boom arms because of it's appearance. It is more likely to be confused with the high price tag Yellowtec Mika boom arms than it is to be confused with the PSA1 or PL2t. 

So when it comes to deciding on the broadcast boom arm for you, it depends on your desire for the appearance of these three booms. If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy it on Amazon
US: http://amzn.to/2FIZtzm
UK: http://amzn.to/2GgfNFJ
CA: http://amzn.to/2Ft7pp3

TPR PODCAST EPISODE 124: DIAMOND DISTRIBUTION AND SONY BUYS WIZARD WORLD?

Comic book Industry news continues to get shaking up and I discuss new changes to the comic market place. Plus  I chat about new comic book movies and publishing my comics online.

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

FOLLOW

LOGAN NAUGLE

► Twitter/Instagram:  @thatlogan

REFERENCED

BSP-109: YouTube Ads and Alex Jones

On episode 109 I talk about Twitter launching bookmarks, 3 new youtube live streaming features, Advertisers pulling advertisements from Alex Jones’ youtube channel, Youtube reinstating advertisements on Logan Paul’s channel, Youtube mistakenly taking down right wing channels & videos, Facebook facial recognition, Apple storing iCloud encryption keys in China, Apple using Google Cloud services to store your iCloud data, and China censoring social media responses.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:45 - Twitter Launches Bookmarks
01:33 - New YouTube LiveStream Features
03:58 - Advertisers Pull Ads off Alex Jones’ YouTube Channel
06:00 - YouTube Reinstating Ads on Logan Paul’s Channel
08:45 - YouTube Mistakenly Took Down Conservative / Right-Wing Channels
11:23 - Facebook Facial Recognition!
13:20 - Apple Storing iCloud Encryption Keys in China
16:03 - Apple Storing iCloud Data on Google Cloud
17:50 - China Censoring Social Media Response
19:48 - Ask Bandrew
20:13 - E-mail 1
21:27 - If you could switch two film characters, what would lead to the best improvement
22:48 - How do you deal with regret for not asking someone something?
24:49 - How do you measure conversational subtext? 
26:00 - E-mail 2
26:22 - Will you check out 12-Gauge Microphones
27:24 - E-mail 3
28:10 - Thoughts on Celebs Joining YouTube?
31:27 - How do you find new media?
34:11 - E-mail 4
34:25 - Favorite Film?
35:10 - Favorite Podcast?
36:05 - Want a Christmas interface?
36:10 - Boom Arm Recommendation for AT2020
37:09 - 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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► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

TPR PODCAST 123: ARTIST PHAROAH BOLDING

Artist Pharoah Bolding hops on the show and we discuss starting out in comics and what brought us to what we are doing today. Plus we chat about current media and pop culture; the things love and are annoyed with and more!

"Sometime we end up making 2 star epics."

The ideas we turn into creations are always perfect but we learn and grow from each and every project. 

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

Follow:

PHAROAH BOLDING

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

Follow us on:

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

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

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

BSP-108: H3H3 Productions Launching a Podcast Network

On episode 108 I talk the first Hyperloop being under construction, 5g from AT&T incoming, Conservatives being censored on twitter, Twitter rolling out new rules for bulk tweeting, Signal E2E Encrypted Messaging getting $50 Million in funding, H3H3 Productions launching a podcast network, and YouTube taking down an Info Wars (Alex Jones) video.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:31 - Excavation for 1st Hyperloop Began
01:46 - AT&T Launching 5G in 2018
03:17 - Conservatives Being Censored by Twitter?
06:02 - Twitter Rolled out New Rules on Bulk Tweeting
07:40 - Signal Received $50 Million in Funding!!!
10:14 - H3H3 Launching a Podcast Network?
11:31 - YouTube Took Down an Alex Jones Video!
16:00 - Ask Bandrew
16:15 - Email 1
16:37 - How do you research for a technology podcast?
18:14 - Email 2
19:20 - Why are people talking about Logan Paul instead of important issues?
20:24 - Why are so many people continuously discussing Logan Paul?
22:15 - Why don’t parents just say “Stop Watching Logan Paul”?
23:55 - E-mail 3
25:00 - Will you compare the AT2020 2035 and 2050?
25:26 - Do you buy your mics from Amazon?
26:23 - Will you review the ATH-M20x?
27:31 - Who are your favorite podcasters?
29:28 - Will you review the t6i or 70d?
29:41 - Will you live stream on youtube?
30:10 - What are your views of Logan Paul?
30:50 - Is the apogee duet worth the $600?
31:45 - Will you come to Hong Kong?
31:58 - RE20 vs. SM7B?
32:48 - 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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