I personally think these are all outstanding options (that’s why I own them), but if I had to pick a favorite it would be the FetHead simply because of the versatility that comes with being able to connect it directly to your mixer or interface. If you've got a favorite signal booster/mic combo, share it here!
I’m rocking a DM1 Dynamite. And dang that thing hits hard. I had to drop The big bottom on my rodecaster pro because The boost for The audio was truly awesome.
One thing to watch out for when connecting any of these is the length of cable between the mic and the mixer/interface. If your cable is introducing any noise, the booster will also boost that noise. The closer to the mic, the better.
For budgetary reasons, I went with the Klark Teknik mic booster CM-1 (works GREAT with my PodMic). Though it isn't in-line, the $26 I paid last week to buy it used on ebay means that the extra little patch cable was still well within budget and it works AWESOME for my rode PodMic! :) SO MUCH less noise
5/24/22 Just purchased the Klark Teknik CT1 Mic Booster. It arrives tomorrow. Thanks for all your videos. They really help a non educated audio guy like myself. 😁👍🎙🎤
Thanks for this great overview Tom. I have a PodMic with a Klark Technik CT-1 , I picked up mine on sale for about 20 Euros over here, then paired this up with a Native Instruments interface so far it is working just fine.
“Just for funsies”…the anamorphic lens is always fun to see being used. Also loved the water main into the house water pipes analogy. Use it all the time to explain signal flow. Great video again Tom! 🤘🏼
I grabbed the Klark teknik one for $30 off amazon. I got into my audio chain; GoXLR Mini with a Rode Podmic...huge difference. I was pumping 65db of gain without the booster with a 10db makeup gain on the compressor. Now I have 55db gain with 0db make up gain on the compressor. Now with much more head room, I can make better tweaks to my mic. While you where right about it not fitting into audio interfaces directly, I made it work with what I had on hand. The price to performance is a great value. Thanks for making this video. Great content has always.
That's awesome! Sounds like you really hit the sweet spot. Just because a mixer/interface has a decent amount of gain doesn't mean it's going to sound good when it's maxed out 👍
I have the Klark Teknik CT-1 myself, it works perfectly for my dynamic mic and the build quality is solid and heavy for a small item. I see no reason why people getting into xlr mics should spend more than 30-40 bucks for a mic BOOSTER (aside from stockout issues) as arguably all of the boosters shown by Tom here does not affect the sound quality. Really, it's just a booster guys use that money saved into something else like the mic itself or a decent stand. Cheers 🤙
Great video - This is the video I was looking for when I first got my SM7B. Going to save this as I know I will be asked about this topic lots in the future. Thanks
Ok as a regular listener I think we need to institute a 'PUN TAX' - as you know I'm old so when I bought my cloudlifter back when that all there was. I've purchased a dozen over the years and to my knowledge they never failed. A little story for you I went into a studio here in Nashville and tested about 60 mics with my voice. The best Mic was the almost as expensive as my first new car a Neumann mic. But since podcasting doesn't make money and it's stupid to plug a $1000+ mic into a Rodecaster the Mic that best for ME was the Rode Procaster (the Pod Mic's bigger brother). I want to try the new Earthworks ETHOS but I doubt I'll switch. I do run it through a Cloudlifter because lets face it the pre-amps on the Rodecaster are not the best. If I run something into my computer I use my Sound Devices Mic pre 6 ii which has much better pre-amps and something I don't use the Cloudlifter. If I'm traveling light (just my M1-iPad) I have an Earthworks ICON USB that plugs into my iPad
I haven't used a Procaster myself, but they do always sound awesome. I also haven't used a Neuman, but I did watch the Podcastage review of the $7000 one this week. Maybe a pun tax could fund that for someone?
hello tom , i am from indonesia. today i just searching about mic booster and finally today you make video about that thankss . good review as always, i watch some your videos about rode podmic and the other microphone. i just ordering rode podmic today stay healty and fittt thanks for the videooo keep inspiring
As a new sound guy, I just bought the PodMic w/ an Audiobox Go to connect it to my computer. And only after I noticed that the output of the mic was basically 0, I had to put my audio interface all the way to 50 to be able to hear something but then the other issue is that you get an horrible hiss in the background. So guys if you buy this combo (or with the focusrite solo) you'll most likely need one of these as well (I personally fell for the Fethead Germanium as it is very good and still under a 100 euros in france)
Thank you for this great informativ video. I did a lot of research before buying my setup. Finally I got a Rode Procaster, FetHead and a Rode Podcaster Pro. I was kinda torn between the Cloudlifter and the FetHead but the price did it for me.
I also own a FetHead and I love it. I also use it on a Shure SM7B. I saw the reviews on the FetHead, Dynamite and Cloudlifter. The Fet actually had the best reviews and it’s not as bulky. Great review. I love your channel! I’ve bought a few products based off of your recommendations and haven’t been wrong. THANKS!
Thank you! I was able to get a 2003 Sony ENG camera in near perfect condition form eBay last month for a great price! It's a ton of fun and looks great on screen.
Very good review, thank you Tom. I have a CL-2 but it's not exactly cheap nor small so not convenient when on the road... so the FetHead type will do just great 👍
I really love the FetHead. And full disclosure, I actually didn't want one. I thought the Cloudlifter was better and only got a FetHead so that I could get experience with it to know more about what people are using and I ended up liking it the best 😁
Very intimidating indeed! Got the Rode podmic then found out I needed a cloud lifter....Got it and then learned that not all interfaces are created equal because it still doesn't work!!! Just purchased the Shure MV51.....we will see how it goes! BTW....Love your videos!
@@DrWurzeli - The M-audio M-track solo never worked with the cloud lifter. I use the Maonocaster Lite (Rodecaster Pro on my wishlist) and I couldn't get it to work well with the podmic. Took me a while to learn that the Maono interface mixer does not support phantom power!!
@@SilkMasquerades interesting, thanks. thats a bummer of course that the Maono doesnt have phantompower. to hear about the mtrack-solo surprises me since always worked well for me - very nice interface for the money - although I never used an inline-preamp with it, will have to try that myself one day since it should output +48V of PP. fingers crossed the Shure MV51 works well for you!
It can definitely be intimidating! I've always hesitated when recommending mics since I know most people just want a simple solution and not a list of gear to buy/learn. I think these are a simple solution. thanks for the kind words! 👍
The other point is that if your mic is too quiet, especially with the SM7B, it might be that you have to remember to get really up close and intimate with the mic. This for me took some time to get used to staying close to the mic.
There is a version of the FetHead that delivers phantum power to your mic too. It's called the FetHead Phantom. It costs twelve Euros more. The normal FetHead clocks in at 63€. Why you want it? There are older condensor mics around that sound incredible but have a farely low signal output.
Condenser mics pick up every sound, even one's I can't hear, like the AC compressor on the roof, my clothing when I move, etc. It was intolerable, so I switched to an MXL BCD-1 dynamic mic and love it. I will get one of these boosters shortly to help.
I am those guy who purchased Podmic and audio interface after watching your video and VERY excited to test only to find out the signal is very quiet at max gain. Luckily there is cheaper alternative than the cloud lifter, ordered the Klark Teknik. Podmic+Evo4+My voice is no go for Final Cut Pro voiceover work. I need to go very close to the mic with 100% gain. and still apply max +12dB gain on FCPX. Hope the Klark Teknik will fix that once it arrives. Thanks for these videos.
I once had to record a 10-minute show that was scheduled while I was at work, so I brought my mic, booster, and interface, but I forgot my XLR cable, so I just plugged the booster directly into the interface and mic haha
Hey Tom, in this video you showed the Scarlett 2i2, if I ordered a Rodecaster pro, I wouldn't need this correct? Just ordered a bunch of gear your links, I can't thank you enough for making it so much easier to understand than literally every other channel on digital media out there. You're the man!
Thanks for the information. I've got the Rode VideoMic NTG (shotgun mic - highly directional supercardioid polar pattern | Acoustic Principle: Pressure gradient electret condenser) so sounds like I shouldn't need it with the RodeCaster Pro. Just about to pull the trigger on the RodeCaster Pro...I appreciate these videos...very helpful in my decision making process.
@@tombuck Tom, just got RodeCaster Pro delivered yesterday. Have you ever directly connected a 3.5mm mic (like the Rode NTG) directly into the XLR connections in back of RodeCaster Pro? Found RODE VXLR, XLR Pro, and XLR Plus adapters for this. Though not sure if I need to convert 48v phantom power down to 4-volt for this to work properly. Actually want Rode NTG mic to power up when I power up RodeCaster Pro. Any feedbacks appreciated….trying to save $ and not buy another Mic with XLR connection.
I have a weird feeling about boosters. Current setup: procaster into rode ai1 (60db gain) in a boomy untreated small room. When I add a fethead - I hear a lot more room boominess. Although I do like a lower noise. I like the overtones of my voice without the booster despite a slightly higher noise. Will try to add a few curtains and carpets and hope to get a good tone with fethead booster
A great option for the sm7b or any dynamic mic is the dbx 286A it's an older model but it sounds fantastic, it is a rack unit though, but it has a mic preamp, compressor, noise gate and a EQ(low & high) 80hz high pass and 48v phantom power all built in. I found mine used for $40 on marketplace.
Thanks for this and all of your videos. Looks like the Klark is on sale on Amazon for $30.15 US. Picked one up and should arrive today. Will be pairing it with my PodMic and a Yamaha AG03 Mixer. Currently, the mixer is maxed out, so hoping this will help.
love your stuff. i got a podmic after watching your videos a year ago and have a cloudlifter now as well. I sound great. I think the Sure mic is missing some of the high end
So glad it's been helpful! Thanks for the kind words! The Shure does have a few EQ switches on the back to level out the sound a bit if needed, and they work pretty well, but the PodMic has a lot more high end.
Julian is much smarter than me, so it’s probably worth listening to him. But in my personal experience, aside from when using the RCP2, mic boosters have helped to easily make things sound better.
@@tombuck Thanks yeah it’s hard to know for sure I guess without trying it, I think I will given that my preamp provides 55db of gain yet Shure says the SM7B they recommend 60db
FINALLY!!!! someone broke down into laymen's terms for us that dont have a degree in sound design...... I would like to ask though, can you please maybe make a tutorial of how to set plugins for the wave xlr. I copied a couple of profiles for streamers that had a voice similar to mine(very deep but muddy) but it doesnt seem to be working for me. I dont understand noisegates and eq very well. id appreciate if you would consider doing this.
I'm so glad it was helpful! I haven't used the Wave XLR myself, so I can't speak to it specifically. I also don't use a ton of plugins, but I do use some of the EQ options on my Rodecaster pretty often. What I've found best for things like noise gates is to use a very light touch. I typically start by making a change until it seems noticeable, and then backing it off a bit.
Great overview, Tom 👍 I just bought the Klark Teknik CM-1 as it was the cheapest I could find in Australia - works a treat and was 1/4 the price of the Cloudlifter CL-1 for a similar device setup and gain boost.
The Klark Teknik is now married to my Shure SM7b because I think it will never come out again. I think the nob could be sometimes too large. I just read more about this issue somewhere else. otherwise. Awesome product.
Js its probably better to try and put the boosters as close to the microphone as possible in the signal chain. so if using the fethead you should try and plug it into your mic rather than into the interface. This is because otherwise any interference picked up along the xlr cable will be boosted by the fethead. if you plug it in to the mic then the interference will be picked up after the signal and won't be boosted so will be comparatively quiter. XLR cables are balanced but even still best practice is to have these added on the microphone side.
this actually might be why the other ones deliberately made themselves not fit into an interface. Especially the clark may have worried that people woul.d think its gain is less clean if it was plugged directly into an interface
Great video! I am using the SE DM1 Dynamite for my Podmic/Rodecaster Pro set up. It touts +28dB of clean gain. It also fits into the RCP, like the Fethead. Comes in at the Fethead price range, too. ($99) I also have a Klark Teknik CT1. I got mine for $35, I think. I definitely prefer the DM1 over the CT1, but for the price, it's hard to argue the value. My gain is set to 6 with the DM1 and I can hover around the unity mark, depending on what I'm doing. (Teams meetings, it can go north, but I record with it right around there.)
Awesome video, Tom! I purchased the shure mv7x and the focusrite scarlett solo. I am very happy with my purchase however I do notice that my sound, in comparison to my guests, when I interview them on zoom, sounds a little noisy. So now I am considering a booster. These all seem like good options. Many thanks and Blessings!! -John
This is super helpful! I have an (unused) PodMic due to low signal level through Scarlett 2i2, and this answered lots of questions about options for more gain from the mic. I appreciate that you included country of origin and a little manufacturer information. I prefer to shop as ethically, and sustainably as possible, and am willing to pay a bit more for that. The Sirui anamorphic looks great! Love the (somewhat) subtle flares. Fun!
You said most people would not need a signal booster with phantom power passthrough to boost most condenser mics. But what about using one to pass through power to ANOTHER signal booster!
Where did you get your microphone wall mounts from , I’m starting to collect microphones so this would be an awesome way to display them as a pose to having lots of shelves ?! 😎🤔
I need to get my mic louder before it reaches my recording device (which has lots of self noise). My preamp has plenty of gain, but I can't use much of it without clipping. Would a booster help, or also make it clip?
Useful for low gain ribbon mics and dynamic mics, I use a custom made fethead for both types with great results. Love your collection of video cameras by the way...
Can u help me with something different this topic, or you can give me a link, maybe my question relate to one of your video u talked about. Where or how can make RUclips video cover for each of video that I will upload on RUclips? I’m still learning and I think I’m still far for many things. Thank you.
Ahh, that's a great question. I don't have a video about this, but my wife does: ruclips.net/video/wwB82E7dibM/видео.html Basically, you create a small clip that can be saved to your computer and then added to each project when you're editing.
Hey Tom - thanks for doing a tips video on this! I had issues with my Shute SM7B in the Focusriite interface until I added a Cloudlifter preamp. It was night and day in terms of gain and less room noise. Thanks also for mentioning the colored windscreens. I’ve been curious about that for a while as it looks cool :)
I can't stop laughing every time I get to minute 8:47 😆 Thank you, Tom! For all the great advice and the moments of humor. You have no idea how much I've learned from your videos! (I just ordered a couple of FetHeads, btw. Obviously, using your affiliate link 😉)
I have 2 of that ones made in the Netherlands in my shopping cart for a while..i checked now, and price is 69€ each, at this time.. I The Klark Tecnic is 29€.. ..in truth, as it is a keeper, my 2 podcast mics, i won't mind buy the TritonAudio for dynamic mics..the review on the shop is almost 100% 5star...and they sound amazing it looks like.. I will wait for post-christmas time, for electronics buying.. About China..these Klark stuff, is about 4.6 out of 5star..very, very good i think! If, there is a brand, with European quality standards client demand, i can buy it. ..After long time cheap was their "how-to" do stuff, to catch west, i think they are in "do with best quality" mode on now.. they will have to partner with some recognized brand, to launch products..but if it is good, i can buy it, if tested by someone.. The chinese phones are a good example..they are right there! And, it has prevented some brands to go crazy with prices..so, at least, we give it a chance.. Nice one, Tom! I have to listen better again.. I tested it only once, and unless it is past midnight, with low outside noise, i will need them .
I know this is an older video, but I've been watching a bunch of your stuff lately and this one brought up a question: How did you ultimately remove the branding on that Rode PSA1+? It looks a lot better than the attempt you showed in the review video, so I'm really curious because I'd like to do the same thing.
I used this stuff from Amazon: geni.us/letterremover? It's intended to remove vinyl letters from fabrics. I wore gloves and put A LOT of it on the logo and waited a few minutes for it to start peeling/crackling. Then I put more on it and used an alcohol wipe to rub it off. A regular cloth can damage the fabric and a paper towel will shred really quickly, so an alcohol wipe works best. Don't be scared to use a lot of the solvent as long as you're using gloves for safety. I repeated on the 3 remaining logos and now you can't even tell they were ever there 👍
I search for Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT1 but you whats recomend? Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT1 or Coda (really like the sound of this in the video), and what is the diference of Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT1 and Klark Teknik Mic Booster CM1?
Honestly, the biggest difference is the form factor. The CM1 is more like a traditional Cloudlifter while the CT1 is more like a Fathead. They'll both get the job done though.
Here's why I used a condenser mic with passthrough phantom power. I thought the levels from the Rode NTG 2 were low and I didn't have that greatest of preamps so I used a Fethead to boost the levels but I still needed to power the shotgun mic and that's why I needed passthrough power.
@@tombuck oh and for others reading this the ntg2 can be powered by a battery but if would give off this slight hum when battery powered that I didn't like
I am definately getting the Coda Stealth. I have a setup very similar to you with that Rodecaster and podmic. I find the levels are pedestrian. I have been FRUSTRATED! I will keep testing, thanks for the research.👍
Dang, I can't use the stealth one because my microphone is on a small tripod-like stand that I move around and stuff. So it's too low for it to plug in.
No but I do use a condenser mic, the AT2020, and the sound level is very quiet unless I crank the gain, but then the signal just starts peaking. Maybe I should get that special phantom-pass booster or whatever you called it. What was the model, and do I turn the 48v phantom power on on my Scarlett usb when I use it?
![[Eng Sub] KLARK TEKNIK MIC BOOSTER. CM-1, CM-2 и CT-1](/img/1.gif)
I personally think these are all outstanding options (that’s why I own them), but if I had to pick a favorite it would be the FetHead simply because of the versatility that comes with being able to connect it directly to your mixer or interface.
If you've got a favorite signal booster/mic combo, share it here!
I really like the cloudlifter I have.
I’m rocking a DM1 Dynamite. And dang that thing hits hard. I had to drop The big bottom on my rodecaster pro because The boost for The audio was truly awesome.
Fetheads are amazing. The clark teknic scared me for a while kind of was jammed for awhile.
I’m really mesmerized by those subtle anamorphic lens flares from your backlight.
I love ‘em 👍
One thing to watch out for when connecting any of these is the length of cable between the mic and the mixer/interface. If your cable is introducing any noise, the booster will also boost that noise. The closer to the mic, the better.
Very good point!
I bought one of the Cloudlifter model because it was the best rated & most recommended, but haven’t used it yet. Very thorough video on this topic!
I love the design of the Cloudlifter! It's not as compact, but it's got that awesome vintage style 😁
For budgetary reasons, I went with the Klark Teknik mic booster CM-1 (works GREAT with my PodMic). Though it isn't in-line, the $26 I paid last week to buy it used on ebay means that the extra little patch cable was still well within budget and it works AWESOME for my rode PodMic! :) SO MUCH less noise
5/24/22 Just purchased the Klark Teknik CT1 Mic Booster. It arrives tomorrow. Thanks for all your videos. They really help a non educated audio guy like myself. 😁👍🎙🎤
The CT-1 is great. Such and easy thing to recommend given the price and it makes a world of difference.
I have concluded after extensive research, that Tom really likes blue.
It's an alright color I guess 😉
What makes u say that
I like your videos. I talk back to you sometimes but haven't yet paused one of your videos to lecture you... yet.
Remember when RUclips used to allow video replies as comments? That seems like it’d be useful now 😁
@@tombuck I miss annotations
Thanks for this great overview Tom. I have a PodMic with a Klark Technik CT-1 , I picked up mine on sale for about 20 Euros over here, then paired this up with a Native Instruments interface so far it is working just fine.
Glad to hear it's working and sounding great!
“Just for funsies”…the anamorphic lens is always fun to see being used. Also loved the water main into the house water pipes analogy. Use it all the time to explain signal flow. Great video again Tom! 🤘🏼
Thank you for teaching me that analogy!
New anamorphic lens looks great! 🔥
Thank you! It's so sharp!
I'm using the Fethead, love it! Plus it's made in my motherland 💪
I always think about you when using the FetHead because I remember when you first got it. 👍
I grabbed the Klark teknik one for $30 off amazon. I got into my audio chain; GoXLR Mini with a Rode Podmic...huge difference. I was pumping 65db of gain without the booster with a 10db makeup gain on the compressor. Now I have 55db gain with 0db make up gain on the compressor. Now with much more head room, I can make better tweaks to my mic. While you where right about it not fitting into audio interfaces directly, I made it work with what I had on hand. The price to performance is a great value. Thanks for making this video. Great content has always.
That's awesome! Sounds like you really hit the sweet spot. Just because a mixer/interface has a decent amount of gain doesn't mean it's going to sound good when it's maxed out 👍
I do so love the strained, stretching puns and clever word salads.
Pun salad is quite nutritious 👍
I really enjoy your jokes. Make the content less overwhelming and more #cool.
Greetings from Hermosillo, Sonora. You have a huge fan from México. :)
Hola and gracias! 😁
I purchased 4 Clark Teknics for my SMB7s and have been very pleased.
Nice! That's a great combo for shure.
You completely explained every and all questions I was wondering about signal boosters....Thanks Tom!!!!.....
I'm so happy to hear this! Sometimes I worry that the info gets lost in translation 😁
I have the Klark Teknik CT-1 myself, it works perfectly for my dynamic mic and the build quality
is solid and heavy for a small item. I see no reason why people getting into xlr mics should spend more than 30-40 bucks for a mic BOOSTER (aside from stockout issues) as arguably all of the boosters shown by Tom here does not affect the sound quality. Really, it's just a booster guys use that money saved into something else like the mic itself or a decent stand. Cheers 🤙
The price of the CT-1 is awesome and makes it super accessible. I love that.
Great video - This is the video I was looking for when I first got my SM7B. Going to save this as I know I will be asked about this topic lots in the future. Thanks
Ok as a regular listener I think we need to institute a 'PUN TAX' - as you know I'm old so when I bought my cloudlifter back when that all there was. I've purchased a dozen over the years and to my knowledge they never failed. A little story for you I went into a studio here in Nashville and tested about 60 mics with my voice. The best Mic was the almost as expensive as my first new car a Neumann mic. But since podcasting doesn't make money and it's stupid to plug a $1000+ mic into a Rodecaster the Mic that best for ME was the Rode Procaster (the Pod Mic's bigger brother). I want to try the new Earthworks ETHOS but I doubt I'll switch. I do run it through a Cloudlifter because lets face it the pre-amps on the Rodecaster are not the best. If I run something into my computer I use my Sound Devices Mic pre 6 ii which has much better pre-amps and something I don't use the Cloudlifter. If I'm traveling light (just my M1-iPad) I have an Earthworks ICON USB that plugs into my iPad
I haven't used a Procaster myself, but they do always sound awesome. I also haven't used a Neuman, but I did watch the Podcastage review of the $7000 one this week. Maybe a pun tax could fund that for someone?
hello tom , i am from indonesia. today i just searching about mic booster and finally today you make video about that thankss .
good review as always, i watch some your videos about rode podmic and the other microphone. i just ordering rode podmic today
stay healty and fittt thanks for the videooo keep inspiring
I'm glad the timing worked out! Hopefully the video was helpful for you 👍
As a new sound guy, I just bought the PodMic w/ an Audiobox Go to connect it to my computer. And only after I noticed that the output of the mic was basically 0, I had to put my audio interface all the way to 50 to be able to hear something but then the other issue is that you get an horrible hiss in the background. So guys if you buy this combo (or with the focusrite solo) you'll most likely need one of these as well (I personally fell for the Fethead Germanium as it is very good and still under a 100 euros in france)
Today I bought the FetHead. I asked the guy for it in a music store and he said “is it for the SM7B?”… he was right 😂
Haha, it should just come as a kit 😁
14:50 I feel You. Thank u for this Great Comparison you make the Video Quality is Top Level , The Whole Setup is Amazing and Thank U Again
Wow thanks Osvaldo! I'm glad it was helpful.
Thank you for this great informativ video. I did a lot of research before buying my setup. Finally I got a Rode Procaster, FetHead and a Rode Podcaster Pro. I was kinda torn between the Cloudlifter and the FetHead but the price did it for me.
I'm glad it's working out for you. The FetHead is my personal favorite.
I also own a FetHead and I love it. I also use it on a Shure SM7B. I saw the reviews on the FetHead, Dynamite and Cloudlifter. The Fet actually had the best reviews and it’s not as bulky. Great review. I love your channel! I’ve bought a few products based off of your recommendations and haven’t been wrong. THANKS!
I'm so glad to hear that the videos have been helpful! I agree that the FetHead is my favorite simply because of the quality and the compact design.
Great video. Some sweet camera gear in those b-roll shots!
Thank you! I was able to get a 2003 Sony ENG camera in near perfect condition form eBay last month for a great price! It's a ton of fun and looks great on screen.
I’m so glad you're making a video on this!
I hope it's helpful!
CT 1 is currently $30 on Amazon! Thanks for another great video!
That's an awesome deal!
Very good review, thank you Tom. I have a CL-2 but it's not exactly cheap nor small so not convenient when on the road... so the FetHead type will do just great 👍
I really love the FetHead. And full disclosure, I actually didn't want one. I thought the Cloudlifter was better and only got a FetHead so that I could get experience with it to know more about what people are using and I ended up liking it the best 😁
Thank you so much for these videos! You’ve made starting my podcast so much easier.
I'm really happy to hear that! Good luck with your show!
That lens is dreamy!
Very intimidating indeed! Got the Rode podmic then found out I needed a cloud lifter....Got it and then learned that not all interfaces are created equal because it still doesn't work!!! Just purchased the Shure MV51.....we will see how it goes! BTW....Love your videos!
what interface or pre-amp are you using for the mic?
@@DrWurzeli - The M-audio M-track solo never worked with the cloud lifter. I use the Maonocaster Lite (Rodecaster Pro on my wishlist) and I couldn't get it to work well with the podmic. Took me a while to learn that the Maono interface mixer does not support phantom power!!
@@SilkMasquerades interesting, thanks. thats a bummer of course that the Maono doesnt have phantompower. to hear about the mtrack-solo surprises me since always worked well for me - very nice interface for the money - although I never used an inline-preamp with it, will have to try that myself one day since it should output +48V of PP. fingers crossed the Shure MV51 works well for you!
It can definitely be intimidating! I've always hesitated when recommending mics since I know most people just want a simple solution and not a list of gear to buy/learn. I think these are a simple solution. thanks for the kind words! 👍
@@DrWurzeli -Yes...Thanks!
Super informative video, well done! And you sounded great with that ICON Pro 🔥
Love that mic! 🙌
The other point is that if your mic is too quiet, especially with the SM7B, it might be that you have to remember to get really up close and intimate with the mic. This for me took some time to get used to staying close to the mic.
Yes! The SM7B really works best when in close proximity. I've seen people use it as a shotgun mic and just, no....
Thanks for this great video. I hit the thumbs up and subscribed so I wouldn't feel like one of the 35,000 freeloaders who got something for nothing.
You’re too kind- thanks for the support!
There is a version of the FetHead that delivers phantum power to your mic too. It's called the FetHead Phantom. It costs twelve Euros more. The normal FetHead clocks in at 63€. Why you want it? There are older condensor mics around that sound incredible but have a farely low signal output.
Condenser mics pick up every sound, even one's I can't hear, like the AC compressor on the roof, my clothing when I move, etc. It was intolerable, so I switched to an MXL BCD-1 dynamic mic and love it. I will get one of these boosters shortly to help.
I am those guy who purchased Podmic and audio interface after watching your video and VERY excited to test only to find out the signal is very quiet at max gain. Luckily there is cheaper alternative than the cloud lifter, ordered the Klark Teknik. Podmic+Evo4+My voice is no go for Final Cut Pro voiceover work. I need to go very close to the mic with 100% gain. and still apply max +12dB gain on FCPX. Hope the Klark Teknik will fix that once it arrives. Thanks for these videos.
Do you still need to get that close even with the Klark Teknik? I would think that would take care of the gain level 🤔
@@tombuck Im still waiting for the Klark Teknik. Hope that fixes the problem I had.
Learned a lot about microphones from your video, thx Tom!
Really happy to hear that!
@@tombuck also I’m not a native English speaker, your English speaking is easy for me to listen 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I once had to record a 10-minute show that was scheduled while I was at work, so I brought my mic, booster, and interface, but I forgot my XLR cable, so I just plugged the booster directly into the interface and mic haha
Oh nice! Situations like that always call for some creative problem solving 😁
Hey Tom, in this video you showed the Scarlett 2i2, if I ordered a Rodecaster pro, I wouldn't need this correct? Just ordered a bunch of gear your links, I can't thank you enough for making it so much easier to understand than literally every other channel on digital media out there. You're the man!
Hey Doug thanks ! You’re correct, the RCP is its own interface and you don’t need anything else 👍
I have KlarkTeknik CT1, and it's works fine.
It's awesome. 👍
Thanks for the information. I've got the Rode VideoMic NTG (shotgun mic - highly directional supercardioid polar pattern | Acoustic Principle: Pressure gradient electret condenser) so sounds like I shouldn't need it with the RodeCaster Pro. Just about to pull the trigger on the RodeCaster Pro...I appreciate these videos...very helpful in my decision making process.
I'm happy to hear that! The Rodecaster is great and I love the Videomic NTG. It punches way above it's weight class.
@@tombuck Tom, just got RodeCaster Pro delivered yesterday. Have you ever directly connected a 3.5mm mic (like the Rode NTG) directly into the XLR connections in back of RodeCaster Pro? Found RODE VXLR, XLR Pro, and XLR Plus adapters for this. Though not sure if I need to convert 48v phantom power down to 4-volt for this to work properly. Actually want Rode NTG mic to power up when I power up RodeCaster Pro. Any feedbacks appreciated….trying to save $ and not buy another Mic with XLR connection.
I have a weird feeling about boosters.
Current setup: procaster into rode ai1 (60db gain) in a boomy untreated small room.
When I add a fethead - I hear a lot more room boominess. Although I do like a lower noise.
I like the overtones of my voice without the booster despite a slightly higher noise.
Will try to add a few curtains and carpets and hope to get a good tone with fethead booster
A great option for the sm7b or any dynamic mic is the dbx 286A it's an older model but it sounds fantastic, it is a rack unit though, but it has a mic preamp, compressor, noise gate and a EQ(low & high) 80hz high pass and 48v phantom power all built in. I found mine used for $40 on marketplace.
Woah, that's a great deal! Thanks for the tip!
this was literally perfect timing! just got my SM7B yesterday and gonna buy the interface and everything else.
Yea, the Timing is perfect! I just ordered my Rode Procaster
Nice! It’s pretty impressive how much difference a simple booster can make.
just buy a decent interface with a quality preamp and you dont need an inlinepreamp
@@DrWurzeli it's only 20 bucks and I got the money so why not just in case
Some people use the pass through with mics like the Sennheiser 416. Particularly useful if your preamp is noisy at higher gain.
Interesting! Do you know any brands of pass through boosters?
That's a great use!
FetHead Makes one called the "FetHead Phantom"
@@tombuck the FetHead is the one I keep on the shelf. Just don't use it with ribbon mic by mistake.
@@tombuck Thanks!
New camera angle 👀
Using the SE Dynamite 1 for my Shure SM7B. The gain on RidecasterPro is 17 -18 (within the green area)
That's perfect! I've heard great things about the Dynamite. 👍
I have the CT-1 so I am glad you said it is good :)
It's absolutely awesome! Especially for the price.
Thanks for this and all of your videos.
Looks like the Klark is on sale on Amazon for $30.15 US. Picked one up and should arrive today. Will be pairing it with my PodMic and a Yamaha AG03 Mixer. Currently, the mixer is maxed out, so hoping this will help.
Fantastic! That's a great price. I've used mine with the PodMic many times and it's been fantastic. I hope you like it!
love your stuff. i got a podmic after watching your videos a year ago and have a cloudlifter now as well. I sound great. I think the Sure mic is missing some of the high end
So glad it's been helpful! Thanks for the kind words! The Shure does have a few EQ switches on the back to level out the sound a bit if needed, and they work pretty well, but the PodMic has a lot more high end.
This video was definitely helpful got a microphone that was too quiet so I’ve been looking for a booster
LOL!!! 8:50 HOLLA.... Had To Pause So I Could Stop ROFL! Priceless....Now Back To The Video!
Thank you for an excellent video! It helped me pick the FetHead and save some money :)
Apparently this is not something that’s needed according to Julian Krause.
Julian is much smarter than me, so it’s probably worth listening to him. But in my personal experience, aside from when using the RCP2, mic boosters have helped to easily make things sound better.
@@tombuck Thanks yeah it’s hard to know for sure I guess without trying it, I think I will given that my preamp provides 55db of gain yet Shure says the SM7B they recommend 60db
Whoa the Stealth added a shocking amount of gain! This video is invaluable, Tom. Great work! And I’m *loving* the anamorphic lens!! 😍
Thanks Scott! The lens is super fun to shoot with. I had to stop myself from just making the whole video super wide 😁
Excellent comparison, very useful.
Glad it was helpful!
FINALLY!!!! someone broke down into laymen's terms for us that dont have a degree in sound design...... I would like to ask though, can you please maybe make a tutorial of how to set plugins for the wave xlr. I copied a couple of profiles for streamers that had a voice similar to mine(very deep but muddy) but it doesnt seem to be working for me. I dont understand noisegates and eq very well. id appreciate if you would consider doing this.
I'm so glad it was helpful! I haven't used the Wave XLR myself, so I can't speak to it specifically. I also don't use a ton of plugins, but I do use some of the EQ options on my Rodecaster pretty often.
What I've found best for things like noise gates is to use a very light touch. I typically start by making a change until it seems noticeable, and then backing it off a bit.
Tom, thanks for all your great content. Can I ask where you get the colorful Shure SM7b pop screens?
Reporterstore.com 👍
Great overview, Tom 👍 I just bought the Klark Teknik CM-1 as it was the cheapest I could find in Australia - works a treat and was 1/4 the price of the Cloudlifter CL-1 for a similar device setup and gain boost.
It's awesome, especially for the price!
The Klark Teknik is now married to my Shure SM7b because I think it will never come out again. I think the nob could be sometimes too large. I just read more about this issue somewhere else. otherwise. Awesome product.
I hope their wedding had great reception 😉
Nice!
KEVIN!!!
really useful instruction for beginners, as me. Thanks.
So glad to hear it was helpful! Thank you.
Great video, thanks.
Glad you liked it!
@@tombuck really great effort, thanks alot.
Js its probably better to try and put the boosters as close to the microphone as possible in the signal chain. so if using the fethead you should try and plug it into your mic rather than into the interface. This is because otherwise any interference picked up along the xlr cable will be boosted by the fethead. if you plug it in to the mic then the interference will be picked up after the signal and won't be boosted so will be comparatively quiter. XLR cables are balanced but even still best practice is to have these added on the microphone side.
this actually might be why the other ones deliberately made themselves not fit into an interface. Especially the clark may have worried that people woul.d think its gain is less clean if it was plugged directly into an interface
Great video! I am using the SE DM1 Dynamite for my Podmic/Rodecaster Pro set up. It touts +28dB of clean gain. It also fits into the RCP, like the Fethead. Comes in at the Fethead price range, too. ($99) I also have a Klark Teknik CT1. I got mine for $35, I think. I definitely prefer the DM1 over the CT1, but for the price, it's hard to argue the value. My gain is set to 6 with the DM1 and I can hover around the unity mark, depending on what I'm doing. (Teams meetings, it can go north, but I record with it right around there.)
I’ve heard great things about the Dynamite, but I haven’t used it myself.
Very helpful video, thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Awesome video, Tom! I purchased the shure mv7x and the focusrite scarlett solo. I am very happy with my purchase however I do notice that my sound, in comparison to my guests, when I interview them on zoom, sounds a little noisy. So now I am considering a booster. These all seem like good options. Many thanks and Blessings!! -John
did you end up getting a mic booster and was it a jurastic improvement?
@@woqe No, actually I did not. It was a user problem, lol. All good now :) Thank you!
@@EarthToTheOtherSide how did you fix it ? if you don't mind me asking
@@ThaEzioAuditore it was a setting in Zoom. I just flicked it off. Professional musician sound option.
"...broke it in half like a Kit Kat bar." 😂
Is that not an apt analogy? 😁
@@tombuck it was great! It is the exact analogy I would have used.. made me laugh.
This is super helpful! I have an (unused) PodMic due to low signal level through Scarlett 2i2, and this answered lots of questions about options for more gain from the mic. I appreciate that you included country of origin and a little manufacturer information. I prefer to shop as ethically, and sustainably as possible, and am willing to pay a bit more for that. The Sirui anamorphic looks great! Love the (somewhat) subtle flares. Fun!
Love this lens! Out of all the boosters, the FetHead is my favorite because it's reasonably priced, super versatile, and made in Europe.
You said most people would not need a signal booster with phantom power passthrough to boost most condenser mics. But what about using one to pass through power to ANOTHER signal booster!
I think that would rip a hole through the space-time continuum.
Where did you get your microphone wall mounts from , I’m starting to collect microphones so this would be an awesome way to display them as a pose to having lots of shelves ?! 😎🤔
Oh I’ve got you covered!
ruclips.net/video/hycjQY3fLwU/видео.html
@@tombuck that’s awesome! Thanks !
I need to get my mic louder before it reaches my recording device (which has lots of self noise). My preamp has plenty of gain, but I can't use much of it without clipping. Would a booster help, or also make it clip?
Just ordered the Klark now only $30 to test out with the sm7b.
Such a good deal! Should work great with the Shure👍
Useful for low gain ribbon mics and dynamic mics, I use a custom made fethead for both types with great results. Love your collection of video cameras by the way...
Thank you! I've been diving into old mint-condition gear on eBay for the past few months and the Sony ENG camera has been my white whale.
Can u help me with something different this topic, or you can give me a link, maybe my question relate to one of your video u talked about. Where or how can make RUclips video cover for each of video that I will upload on RUclips? I’m still learning and I think I’m still far for many things. Thank you.
Ahh, that's a great question. I don't have a video about this, but my wife does:
ruclips.net/video/wwB82E7dibM/видео.html
Basically, you create a small clip that can be saved to your computer and then added to each project when you're editing.
With the rcp 1, and the sm7b, do we need a cloudlifter?
I say yes definitely. If you'er a SUPER loud talker, then maybe not, but you'll likely be maxing out the channel's gain/volume.
What kind of microphone was the one that was connected to the arm in the video?
It's the Earthworks ICON Pro.
Hey Tom - thanks for doing a tips video on this! I had issues with my Shute SM7B in the Focusriite interface until I added a Cloudlifter preamp. It was night and day in terms of gain and less room noise. Thanks also for mentioning the colored windscreens. I’ve been curious about that for a while as it looks cool :)
Glad it was helpful! It’s pretty wild the difference that a booster can make 👍
I can't stop laughing every time I get to minute 8:47 😆
Thank you, Tom! For all the great advice and the moments of humor. You have no idea how much I've learned from your videos! (I just ordered a couple of FetHeads, btw. Obviously, using your affiliate link 😉)
Such a great and informative video
The Cloudlifter is super underrated!
You changed your channel name!
@@tombuck I did! HeyArcher is now my Vlog/photo channel.
I'm late.... but your puns are crazy.
Thank you!
I have 2 of that ones made in the Netherlands in my shopping cart for a while..i checked now, and price is 69€ each, at this time.. I The Klark Tecnic is 29€.. ..in truth, as it is a keeper, my 2 podcast mics, i won't mind buy the TritonAudio for dynamic mics..the review on the shop is almost 100% 5star...and they sound amazing it looks like.. I will wait for post-christmas time, for electronics buying.. About China..these Klark stuff, is about 4.6 out of 5star..very, very good i think! If, there is a brand, with European quality standards client demand, i can buy it. ..After long time cheap was their "how-to" do stuff, to catch west, i think they are in "do with best quality" mode on now.. they will have to partner with some recognized brand, to launch products..but if it is good, i can buy it, if tested by someone.. The chinese phones are a good example..they are right there! And, it has prevented some brands to go crazy with prices..so, at least, we give it a chance.. Nice one, Tom! I have to listen better again.. I tested it only once, and unless it is past midnight, with low outside noise, i will need them .
I think the FetHead is my favorite out of all of these, and it's pretty reasonably priced too!
I know this is an older video, but I've been watching a bunch of your stuff lately and this one brought up a question: How did you ultimately remove the branding on that Rode PSA1+? It looks a lot better than the attempt you showed in the review video, so I'm really curious because I'd like to do the same thing.
I used this stuff from Amazon: geni.us/letterremover?
It's intended to remove vinyl letters from fabrics.
I wore gloves and put A LOT of it on the logo and waited a few minutes for it to start peeling/crackling. Then I put more on it and used an alcohol wipe to rub it off. A regular cloth can damage the fabric and a paper towel will shred really quickly, so an alcohol wipe works best. Don't be scared to use a lot of the solvent as long as you're using gloves for safety.
I repeated on the 3 remaining logos and now you can't even tell they were ever there 👍
If I connect Rode Podmic directly to Rodecaster it works, when connect through Cloudlifter it don't work. I might have some broken version?
Be sure that Phantom Power is turned on in the RCP for the channel that you're using 👍
5:12 I wanted to buy a Cloudlifter CL-2 on Black Friday but I accidentally bought a Cloudlifter CL-1. It cost $135.
Still a great device! Bummer though if you were expecting two channels 😬
I search for Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT1 but you whats recomend? Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT1 or Coda (really like the sound of this in the video), and what is the diference of Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT1 and Klark Teknik Mic Booster CM1?
Honestly, the biggest difference is the form factor. The CM1 is more like a traditional Cloudlifter while the CT1 is more like a Fathead. They'll both get the job done though.
Here's why I used a condenser mic with passthrough phantom power. I thought the levels from the Rode NTG 2 were low and I didn't have that greatest of preamps so I used a Fethead to boost the levels but I still needed to power the shotgun mic and that's why I needed passthrough power.
Oooh, the NTG2, interesting! I assumed there were very specific use cases for it, but I wasn't entirely sure.
@@tombuck oh and for others reading this the ntg2 can be powered by a battery but if would give off this slight hum when battery powered that I didn't like
I am definately getting the Coda Stealth. I have a setup very similar to you with that Rodecaster and podmic. I find the levels are pedestrian. I have been FRUSTRATED! I will keep testing, thanks for the research.👍
It will give you more gain than you’ll ever need 😁
What about the SE Dynamite?
I don't have one, but I know it's got an excellent reputation and friends who have it all love it.
And here I was thinking I was going to have to buy a preamp.
Dang, I can't use the stealth one because my microphone is on a small tripod-like stand that I move around and stuff. So it's too low for it to plug in.
Thank you so much!
You're welcome!
No but I do use a condenser mic, the AT2020, and the sound level is very quiet unless I crank the gain, but then the signal just starts peaking. Maybe I should get that special phantom-pass booster or whatever you called it. What was the model, and do I turn the 48v phantom power on on my Scarlett usb when I use it?
"I always feel a little anxiety --- not only from existing"
I hear you, man.
I just recommend a goXLR then you don't need a cloud lifter becaue it just works.
It's great for certain things, especially if you don't need on-board recording like the Rodecaster. But that 72db of gain is pretty sweet!
I use the Dynamite 🧨 with the SM7B