Microphones for Livestreams: Mic Types and Positions
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- Опубликовано: 3 авг 2024
- In today’s episode, we demonstrate how different types of microphones in different positions work when it comes to livestreaming. We let you hear dynamic, condenser, boom, and lavalier mics and talk about the pros and cons of each.
#Livestream #Microphone #Position
Index:
00:00 Intro
00:13 Summary
00:24 Microphone types
01:04 Boom microphone
02:11 Lavalier microphone
03:33 Dynamic microphone
05:49 Condenser Microphone
06:48 Choosing a microphone
07:39 Please take my courses
If you’d like to learn how to make great dialogue audio for your film and video projects, please have a look at my courses at school.learnlightandsound.com including processing dialogue audio in Adobe Audition and DaVinci Resolve/Fairlight, recording sound, how to use the Zoom F4, F6, F8, and F8n, and how to get the most from the Sound Devices MixPre series of recorders. Our latest course is Sound for Live Streaming with the ATEM Mini.
Gear used or mentioned in this episode. The links below are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, Sweetwater, Pictureline or other affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases:
- Shure SM7B dynamic broadcast microphone - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/GYU7dHy
- Earthworks SR314 small diaphragm condenser microphone - B&H, Sweetwater geni.us/AqRF
- Shure TwinPlex Lavalier Microphones - B&H, Sweetwater geni.us/GI3A
- Sennheiser MKH8050 super-cardioid boom microphone - B&H, Amazon geni.us/mUcDk
- Canon C200 Camera - B&H, PictureLine geni.us/9Zi4m4a
- Canon 24-105 f/4L lens - B&H, Pictureline, Amazon geni.us/kZyU7e
Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: geni.us/G7by
Copyright 2020, Curtis Judd
Excellent. Love that I can so quickly get an answer that's balanced, logical and trustworthy. We need you to clone your values, Curtis. Thanks for the work you do.
Thanks James!
Thank you Curtis, I always watch your videos and I’ve learned a lot from them. I am a teacher and during our long lockdown (Italy) I chose a cheap dynamic mic over condenser or shotgun ones because of bad acoustic living room. I’ve even shared your advices with many collegues struggling with bad audio, larsen etc..last but not least I appreciate the kind and calm pace of your video..
Thanks so much Maria. Keep up the good work teaching! It is a noble profession.
Excellent! I will be sharing this with many people so I don't have to explain it 100 more times! Thanks Curtis!
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I like your format.
Quick statement of what the video is about without rambling. Straight to the point.
Thanks Jason. I like your hair.
I'd like to express my gratitude. I know that this video is almost one and a half years old now, but it's awesome to see how older mics can still work with bits of upgrades if you choose everything properly. As someone who lives in a country where these types of equipment are definitely NOT accessible, I can say for sure that you, Curtis, have helped me a lot. Many years ago I bought an AT2005USB based on your recommendation and I've used plugged on USB pretty much every day. Last year, I was able to get my hands on a GOXLR mixer to have the mic connect with XLR cables, and I added a Triton Fethead to give it a boost, it's been a blast! I've never heard a single complaint, the mic sound is awesome and everything works well. Sure, other mics might perform better or have better specs like the Shure SM7B, but those sell for x5 up to x10 their US prices here. The AT2005USB was ~$50 for me at the time, a bargain if you ask me, and with those upgrades from last year, hopefully, it will last a long time on top of those many good years already in use. Thanks for your work and your channel, Curtis!
Thanks so much and happy recording!
I learned sound a lot from you, sir! Every one of your videos is very informative and and contains so many things that I've never learn in the class. Thank you very much!!
Thanks Ahmad!
Finally, a great head-to-head of different mic types! Saving the link to share to the nth person who asks me to explain how these mics differ.
Thanks Ren.
It’s indeed the best video explaining the details and dive into it without blah blah talking , love it
Subscribed 🙌🏽
Thanks!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE SUMMARY IN THE BEGINNING!!!!!!!
I wish more people would do that. I still watched the rest of your video, very helpful.
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Always amazing and reliable info. I had to learn to do sound on a larger movie set on the fly awhile back, but had only mixed live music before.. got some great pointers from your channel. Thanks!!
Thanks Neon Street Productions!
I really enjoy your content. Your course was excellent, I learned a lot, and continue to learn. This is a great video on an important topic
Thanks Lloyd!
@@curtisjudd Hi, did you have a chance to try Godox WMicS1 UHF wireless system? I think it was announced today or this week
@@seregapathfinder No, not yet. Maybe some day!
@@curtisjudd I hope it would be good. So far that two person UHF set for $250 sounds as great option.
The SR 314 is so beautiful I don't mind it in shot at all. What a work of art!
It is a beauty.
Great content, well explained, to the point and helpful. Much appreciated Curtis. Big thanks.
Thank you Maros.
Thank you soooooo much for this great video! This has been troubling me for a while!
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Perfect timing! I just started live streaming and am not too happy with my mic setup.
Glad it helped!
Great video Curtis, and great timing! I just started a stream on Wednesdays. Having some fun with it, realizing I can't run my audio through audition first was my first challenge, gotta figure out my atem mini pro audio settings a bit better.
We got you, pal: ruclips.net/video/j4RLCBd3Q64/видео.html
This was a great video. Thank you for the explanation, which was short and clear. Overall I have learned a lot form your videos. Thank you for posting.
Thanks Rossen.
Highly recommend the Curtis Judd courses. Very thorough and very helpful. (Took Zoom F4 and ATEM Mini).
Thanks Art!
Great summary, thank you!!
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Incredible overview of the various options. Really concise AND comprehensive. This video just reaffirmed my distaste for lav mics. But to be fair, every video featuring a lav mic does that.
I think most live streamers would do well with a good boom mic, so long as they can get it at the right angle to minimize computer fan noise.
Audio Hijack on Mac is a great, affordable option for doing real-time processing like De-Noise (for the fan) and EQ (for desk/screen reflections).
Great stuff, Curtis!
Thanks for the input!
knowledgeable, calm, on the point = CJ, thank you for sharing your expertise!
Thank you Hagen!
@@curtisjudd I thank you🙏
Thank you Sir! I learned a lot from this content and also the past videos!
Thanks Syafiq!
That's just what I need! Thank you sir.
You are most welcome!
Thanks so much, I love your channel. Very useful tips.
Thanks!
Fantastic video as usual.
Thanks Owen!
Your reviews are awesome
Thanks Tassyo.
"Brilliant" No wasted time, No bull, Exactly what I needed to know for "Voice recognition writing" - thanks :) Liked and subscribed :)
Thanks Beach Bum. I wish I was at the beach right now. 😀
@@curtisjudd Ha' ha' - We just about hit 100F with great surf today, I hope your beach is delivering too - "Great-Vid" :)
amazing video. thank you very much
Thanks dr.
awesome, thanks it really helps to know what microphone to use for what purpose.
Thanks Michelle.
The SM7B is such a great mic., such a nice sound. Thanks, Curtis.
You bet, thanks Michael.
Great video (as always) Curtis!
Listening to this video with my monitor headphones on, I'm really surprised with how well suited the SR314 is to your voice, even when compared to the Shure SM7b.
Thanks Rob! I think I found a good fit for my piercing voice. 😉
@@curtisjudd lol insert eye-roll here! Seriously, that mic gives your voice the detail you can't hear from the SM7b, while taming the sibilance that bugs you way more than it does me, and likely everyone else :-)
@@RobKristjansson Hahaha! Thanks - I needed that eye-roll. Made my day! And you're right, I think most of us are more critical of our own voices.
Good topic. Good vid. Thx!
Thanks Ray! Appreciate you stopping by!
This was super helpful
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Excellent content!
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Hey， nice to see your video again!
Hi Sherlock FAN, good to see you again, too.
Thank you!
You’re welcome!
Thanks for that video - confirms my decision to use the Videomic NTG as a boomed mic above myself: Nothing to wear, nothing visible in front of me - maybe I will try some Primo Mic capsules as lavalier because they have really good sound for electret mics and are available in different patterns - omni, cardiod and figure eight.
With the Videomic NTG I have a very flexible solution without any phantom power or preamp hassle -- a 3.5 m 3.5mm stereo jack does the trick between mic and camera!
You are welcome!
Used to think that Curtis’s in-video text and titles are a bit too raw and simplistic and look off-putting but with time I started to like this style - I like listening to Curtis and if I want to - I just can stop the video and read the info I need. Keep on the good work!
Thanks.
Love this content!
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Wow, great timing! I don't do streaming, but the details you mention in every discussion usually carry over to other situations, and I am on this topic this weekend.
Just last night I was on a cliff overlooking the shore at high tide (California) to compare the separation between voice and ocean depending on what mic I was using in that situation. It happened to also be my first test of a dynamic microphone (a Sennheiser plugged into that small Tascam DR-10X). I had never owned a dynamic mic before and was surprised at how useable the results were if I held it in typical news reporter fashion.
If it's useful for anyone, my best result was a lavalier connected to the Sound Devices Mixpre-3 II, recording in 32-bit float. No surprise there. Actually I tried five devices in various ways, but I don't have the chops to do a detailed video like Curtis!
(Why the ocean? Just because it came up in a discussion about wedding videos, and I had no idea what would happen unless I tried it.)
This video brings up stuff that is very applicable in my corporate video life. Especially appreciate the observation about the effect of desks and computer monitors on sound reflection, as that is a common default setup.
The usual awesome and very practical info from Curtis Judd - thanks so much as always! -Dave
Thanks for sharing, Dave!
thank you :)
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Hey Curtis! Love your videos, great workflow! could you comment on or make a video on the Comica boom-Xd2 and the Boom-U2? would be interesting if you think they are something to get for us on a smaller budget!
Hi Max, a couple of years ago, someone in Comica's marketing department basically lied to me and then charged me for a product they lied about so I have a policy to not review their gear. I'm sorry about that.
@Curtis Judd - concise & helpful as always, thanks!
Do you plan on discussing headset microphones like Countryman, DPA, & Rode, at some point?
Greatly appreciated!
Hi Roland, yes, definitely.
Thanks for this overview, Curtis. I have a Rode Videomicro and I use it boomed above me for Zoom teaching my university design students. It seems to work well but I may switch to a boomed shotgun mic called the Synco Mic D2. Hoping it performs well as I also plan to use it for some VO work.
Should work as well as the video micro, I'd think. Best wishes!
The Best Audio RUclipsr
Thanks FRANZRANZ.
Amazing content as usual. Your work is incredibly valuable. Thank you! Question on the 8050 vs the Earthworks. I bought the Earthworks based on your initial review and I couldn't be happier with the sound. I've been able to keep it just out of frame but it's close and I find myself trying to inch it closer and closer because it just sounds better the closer you get. It's also pretty invasive to my "workspace". I am intrigued by the possibility of the 8050 and being completely out of frame. In the video I didn't see any test or comment about the sound of the 8050 if you are moving around (mostly turning your head, etc). Could you comment on your thoughts on that and..more importantly, I noticed after you did the Earthworks reviewed, it tends to be your go-to mic for your content here. Would you ever consider using the 8050 as your go-to for this? Really looking for the panacea of incredible broadcast (boomy) quality sound with the mic being completely out of frame and not within "hand gesture" distance in my workspace.
Hi Adam, The 8050 seemed to pick up a bit more of the desk and screen reflected sound in the boom position. It might work better in a "scoop" position from below the frame. That might get you the sound you want, but will still be "in your way". Hopefully the samples here will help you assess whether a boomed 8050 or similar microphone will give you the sound you want. If you turn your head, you will fall off a bit. Not as much as a dynamic mic like the SM7B, but a bit.
Epic light media said your are the best audio guy
I agree with them
Thanks!
Dynamic OMNI mics are awesome. I just got an EV 635 n/d-b. Doesn't have that muffly sound in the low end and highs arent too sibilant. PERFECT.
It also came with a triangle mic flag to advertise :-P
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my man deserve a cookie
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Excellent video as always. With most mic set ups, let’s say if you’re using a mix pre 3, is there a drastic audio difference between connecting straight to camera for integrated audio via 3.5 MM, or record going to an SD card and syncing in post later? Aside from losing 32 bit float clipping correction
I find that most of the newer cameras have better mic inputs than they used to have and so the difference is often negligible. The MixPre does the delicate work of amplifying the signal then the camera only has to do the analogue to digital conversion. Most of them do that decently - at least good enough for a livestream.
Curtis Judd with a Red Komodo, I set in camera gain to 0, mix pre to around 36db, that seems to get me close to -6 or so for talking shots
@@ClassicalTechnology 👍
underrated video
Thanks KingBean.
Hi Curtis. Useful video...thank you. I was wondering if you've ever covered sound panels. I noticed you have some around you in shot and was wondering if you've covered their use before? If not would you consider showing us how to properly use them and other sound trapping methods like blankets and bass traps? It would be great to see good off the shelf options, build your own kits and how to make cheap and cheerful "use what you've got around the house" ideas too. It would also be great to see how you maximise their usage within software too...please add non-adobe options as I have a religious objection to subscription based software. (I'm attempting to build my channel and business entirely with pay once software solutions which might make a good video on its own one day).
I covered them to some degree a few years ago when I first bought these panels from GIK Acoustics. As part of the purchasing process, they have several acousticians on staff. You send photos and dimensions of your space along with impulse response readings from your room and they design the treatment plan. I don't know a lot about acoustics myself so I'm not really in a position to teach a whole lot on the subject, but I've found that the channel here on RUclips called Acoustics Insider is quite useful.
Ahhh yes, The "Rogan" Shure SM7B. What I find doubly interesting is the tendency of metal vocalists to opt for Dynamic over Condenser mics (likely due to the proximity effect and rejection of room noise). Thoughts?
(Also that sound rejection is why you'll hear Rogan ask his guests to get right up on the mic. This is something that's cool to catch whenever you're listening to an episode).
Midnight Grind The main reason metal heads use a dynamic mic is because it is impossible for a human to overload a dynamic mic with voice. You can scream as loud as possible into a SM57 and it will not distort. In fact you can record a AA Fuel Dragster or a rocket launch with a SM57 just fine. But you can’t do any of that with most condenser mics as they will overload, blowout, distort, or otherwise get crunchy.
I think RallenMan is on to something. If they're going to belt out their vocals at top volume, a dynamic mic like the SM7B is a safe choice.
@@RallenMan @Curtis Thank you both! I've been wondering that for awhile.
I definitely prefer the proximity effect of a dynamic (can get right on top of it easily) over a condenser (3" off is pushing it).
@@xHadesStamps Oh most definitely. In the words of Booth Junkie, you can really chew on the microphone. - Might be paraphrasing though lol
I have a EV2 RE-20 mic that goes in clarett 2pre, and also use a dbx 286s (gate to get rid of background noise in untreated room). Because of the preamps, i don't have to get too close and the gate gives me a clean sound.
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cool vid bro, wish you coulda simulated a noisy room or have a noisy device in the room to really show the signal to noise ratio.
In a noisy room, I'd choose a close dynamic microphone all day long. Also, I found a headset which might work for you: Audio Technica Audio Technica BPHS1 Headset Microphone
I bought an Elgato Wave 3 and it sounds great even at an arms length away from my mouth; and as you'd expect, sounds like radio quality when I'm 5 inches away!
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This is the type of videos you want to keep in your favorites
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Your creating some great content the last few months especially with social distancing. Sending you some encouragement. Big difference in sound quality especially with your room profile.
Thanks BBQ Crasher!
Thank Curtis. 05:49 What it this mic picking up? It sounds like crackling, I don't know if I am describing it okay. The Dynamic and Condenser seem to be what I would have to settle for in the end. On that note, if you could pick a wired headset with best mic possible, what would be your suggestion? I need it for as clear and natural voice as possible, if any such mic does exist that is.
Hi HealMyTech. I'm not hearing crackling on my end, but perhaps your hearing is better than mine and you're hearing some really high frequencies? I'm not sure on headset mics, I haven't used any enough to recommend particular models. Best wishes!
Excellent thumbnail!!!!
Thanks Jay!
Been meaning to try a MKH8040 or 8050 as a desktop mic for podcast. They do that all the time in Europe on TV and elsewhere but rarely in N America. I’ll try it but maybe you can beat me to it as I am on vacation 😀.
Hahaha! I just happen to have an 8050 sitting here. Maybe I'll record my next podcast episode with it.
Amazing video! thank you very much :) so far i have found my favorite mics for almost all applications BUT wireless lav mics :( what would you recommend? right now i use the rode filmmaker rodelink kit but they are too noisy :( but the only mics less noisy are the dpa 4060 as far as i know and for the transmitters i have not found any that would make a big change :(
Wireless is tricky unless you're able to spend quite a lot. For "creators" with fairly simple needs, the RODE Wireless GO II isn't pristine, but good enough for no-budget video. If you're working paid jobs, that's when it makes sense to move up to Lectrosonics, Wisycom, Zaxcom, Audio Ltd., etc. And of course with those, the mics are not cheap either. I particularly like the SHURE Twinplex TL48.
@@curtisjudd thanks so much for the answer! :) i really appreciate that :) i check that out !
High Curtis ! I promised you ... and at last, here I am. M/Gothenburg/Sweden Ps. how hard can it bee 🤗
Hi Magnus.
As always, your videos are very informative. I have the Heil PR40 and I'm considering (after watching your NTG5 review) going with the NTG5. What are your thoughts? I want to position the mic over the monitor and out of the frame. Do you think I'll pick up the mac fan (which does go one during my streams)?
Hi Headless Creator, thanks. Yes, it likely will pick up some of the fan noise. You can move things around a bit and experiment with the best position for everything to reduce the amount of fan noise it picks up.
@@curtisjudd Thanks for the quick reply. I was also looking at the NTG4. I have the roadcaster pro (which I believe can provide phantom power to it). What do you think about that versus the NTG5? Again, thanks for your quick reply.
@@HeadlessCreator I would unequivocally opt for the NTG5 over the NTG4.
@@curtisjudd Thanks! I appreciate it.
Like the thumbnail 😁👍
That's thanks to Kacper M. my thumbnail guy. He does amazing work.
Thanks for this Curtis! I have a Rode VideoMic NTG as a boom mic, however, ambient and room noise does get picked up by the mic when I record like you said in this video. Do you think that a cardioid condenser microphone like the Rode NT1 will be better at rejecting ambient noise than the VideoMic NTG?
No, the NT1 will also pick it up. Best to manage the ambient noise by turning things off, using sound blankets, or whatever other means are available to you.
For a RUclips or streaming studio which is used regularly, what do you think of the Sennheiser ceiling mount, No. MZH 8000, for a small condenser mic?
It looks a lot simpler than having to set up a boom arm every time you need to broadcast.
Seems like a fine option if that works for you.
Hey Curtis--this is great! Curious to see where you'd place your favorite AudioTechnica at4053b for livestreaming? Could this be used off-camera with a Motu M4? How might this be w. kids in the background for Zoom calls (background noise rejection)... Thanks for all your awesome work btw! It's a great resource!
Hi Kevin, it would work about the same as the Sennheiser boom we demonstrated here, possibly a tiny bit less background noise. With kids in the background, most boom mics will pick up more of that noise than a cardioid dynamic microphone or a close cardioid condenser microphone.
@@curtisjudd thanks for the quick reply! I know this won't block out kids in the background, but is there a real-time plug-in or method you'd recommend to lower ambient noise (gently, w. no "mr. roboto/pumping" artefacts)?
@@kevinbain114 There is RTX Voice which works with nVidia RTX video cards. There are other software solutions, but I haven't tried them. The general issue is that these often clean up the noise but introduce artifacts - often soundalike a "mouthful of cotton" or "under water." So if you do use one, I'd recommend using a light setting to take the edge off the noise. You won't eliminate it all, but make it less distracting.
Thanks for this video Curtis. Q: Do you have any experience with boundary mics for recording a panel of speakers? I'm wondering if a couple boundary mics would be of benefit when lav mics are not an option.
Yes, but unless the room is really great from an acoustics point of view, they tend to pick up lots of room noise/reflections.
I would count presenters on current affairs and news programs as professional. Two Australian current affairs programs I watch, broadcast by the ABC, are The Drum and 7.30. Mostly, the presenters are wearing lav microphones, not hidden at all. Occasionally, "head worn," highly visible with the microphone almost touching the cheek.
I think many RUclipsrs are obsessing over the wrong things. Technical stuff, like the choice of equipment, is pretty easy to control. Appearing professional onscreen and editting well are both hard work and often overlooked. I can get any of the gear you mentioned by visiting a local store and handing over lots of money. The only way to acquire your skill onscreen is lots of directed practice. Similarly with lighting and post production.
In these days of Lockdown, and in comparison with USA, Australia is taking matters very seriously indeed, a lot of guests are calling in from ho,e. Their equipment is often a phone and the headset that came with it.
One thing matters. The message is the story.
Story is king. Producing quality audio ensures that story can be told nd hopefully knowing where to put their microphone while at home will help. Thanks for the input.
If they're sitting right in front of a big computer screen, a lavalier may not be the best sounding option. If they're sitting farther back from the screen, a lavalier can be a fine choice.
Between them all, I prefer dynamics because you can get really close to them without getting way too much prox effect (compared to condensers, which you have to be at least 3" off, if not more. I *hate* being far-miked. I also preferred the SM7B on your voice out of them all.
Thanks for the input.
@@curtisjudd You are very welcome.
11/10
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Hi Curtis, a little off topic, but I know you like working with the DPA4017B and wondered why you chose to use the MKH8050 rather than a 4018 ? They are both fantastic tools...
Budget is the only reason. I'd love to put a 4018 to use.
I wish there was a way to PM you-tubers but I would love to see a video about wireless audio spectrum bands. A more technical overview. I have the concept generally down between the lingo and what the Mhz are but I get into things like groups and bands and it would be nice to have a video to rewatch. If you'd like I'd be happy to send you my adx5d/adx1 if you wanted to do a video on those and how the scanning function works in their context or if you wanna do a review on them. Just an idea.
Thanks Billy, Good idea.
Curtis what do you think of headset mics for this scenario? For instance the Shure SM35. Apart from the fact that they are the most intrusive visually, would they not sound noticeably better than lav mics because of their position right next to the sound source?
Hello Heiner, I think headsets can work nicely, depending on your setup. Lavaliers can work as well, just not when right at a desk and computer screen. For headsets, if the mic has a cardioid polar pattern, that especially will avoid the reflected sound issue. If it is omni-directional, you might still have the same issue if close to a desk/screen.
Great episode. How about reviewing the microphones in wired and wireless earbuds, plus on-ear like Jabra for all Zoomers?
Thanks. Good idea. I don't have any wireless earbuds at the moment so would need to source them. The main thing that would give me pause on them is latency.
Curtis Judd “latency”? Can you explain to my semi tech self?
@@healthyinspirations6692 Latency = delay. Wireless headphones always have at least a little bit of delay. This can make it disorienting, at least to monitor yourself because it will sound like an echo. The earphones with some of the lowest latency are the AirPods Pro which measure in at close to 150ms. That's between 1 and 2/10ths of a second, just enough to be rather distracting. They can work fine for taking a phone call where you will not hear yourself, but if you're trying to monitor yourself, I haven't found wireless bluetooth headphones to be a viable option, for this reason among others.
@@curtisjudd Oh I get it thanks Curtis. But, just as the purists fought against the bit rate of music on an iPod there's millions who communicate on mobile and want to sound their best. I still think it's an opportunity for you. Although I have clients who Zoom using AirPods Pro, their voice is not as clear as if they had a microphone in front of their mouth. This, I believe is where the headsets (like Jabra and others) has more potential except for the downside of the poor visual appeal.
Tyvm for the vid. I'm currently using a JK MIC-J 069 for my live stream setup for VR. The mic quality is ok not the best but usable I have had some issues with the added noise from the wire rubbing on my clothes. Would a better quality mic such as the Rode HS2-BS fix this issue and provide a cleaner sound? The JK MIC-J 069 was very cheap $30 so I really can't complain as it does work but jumping to a high quality mic like the Rode HS2-BS for the price of $300 should provide better sound and not be plagued w/ noise issues from clothing. Suggestions and thoughts are appreciated.
Yes, headset mics are great because they follow you when you move, position the mic in pretty much the ideal position, and you shouldn't pick up any clothing rustle.
Can you do a video on syncing audio with video on a live stream? Especially when audio is coming faster through an audio interface opposed to video from a DSLR
Quick fix for that and one that Curtis uses is run your audio into your camera. Then you have perfect sync.
Hi Michael, as RallenMan suggested, I usually feed audio out of a line output on the interface to my camera inasmuch as possible. If that's not possible, most stream encoding apps (OBS, Ecamm Live, vMix, etc.) have a feature to delay the audio. You simply need to record a private test stream where you clap several times. Bring that recorded video into your video editing app and count how many frames between when you hear the clap and see the clap. Then go to your streaming app and apply that many frames as an audio offset. Best wishes and happy streaming!
Oh, also, I have a course on sound for livestreaming with the ATEM Mini if that is at all relevant to your situation. You can find it over at school.learnlightandsound.com. We demonstrate this exact method in the course.
@Curtis Judd I'd like to use a Heil PR40 into the mini-XLR on my BMPCC (and then into ATEM Mini Extreme ISO), but I noticed you once mentioned that the BMP's internal preamp isn't ideal for a dynamic. Do you think a Cloudlifter CL-1 would be a good solution? I'm trying to keep the clutter to a minimum. Also, I just discovered your 'Sound for Livestreaming with ATEM ...' course. Going to try to take that today ... really like your stuff!
Hi Bob, with an XLR output microphone like the Heil, you'll need some sort of preamplifier and a way to then convert the output of that preamplifier to a 3.5mm output for the ATEM. If you haven't already bough the Heil and you don't want a preamp cluttering your space, you might be better off with a microphone like the RODE VideoMic NTG or the DEITY D3 Pro - both of these have their own in-built preamps and output 3.5mm.
@@curtisjudd How 'bout PR40 > Cloudlifter > BMPCC > ATEM?
@@ziirn1 Does the BMPCC have an XLR audio input?
@@curtisjudd Yep ... its got a neat little mini-XLR input. I can get a XLR-to-miniXLR cord to go from Cloudlifter right into the camera. Prefer going into camera so the audio stays in sync with video going into the ATEM.
You think this is a good config?
I’m not sure of the quality of the input on the original BMPCC, but it should work if the camera can supply +48V phantom power.
Do you have a video about the best over the ear microphone?
I’ve used two, one very cheap, the other much more expensive.
Cheap: ruclips.net/video/ifNG-q-sIDg/видео.html
More expensive: ruclips.net/video/xXM5u6Ht67Y/видео.html
Hey Curtis,
I’m in the situation where I can’t avoid laptop fan sound relatively close to the mic.
I recently started using the free NVIDIA app called RTX Voice for noise reduction.
Do you have any experience with that app?
I use a RodeCasterPro and some Rode Mics. the RodeCaster is plugged into the computer via USB and the RTX Voice app picks it up, processes the sound (just noise removal) and presents the output as a virtual mic that can be used in apps like MS Teams, etc.
Apparently it works really well, as per user-feedback. For me -the user on this end of the communication- I don’t hear the result because I monitor the RodeCaster in the usual way, hearing the audio as it leaves the RodeCaster and thus before it is processed by RTX Voice.
Hi Geert, I have heard a lot of samples of RTX Voice. Can be a good tool, for sure. There is some latency and often it sounds like people apply it too heavily so that it sounds like they're speaking with a mouthful of cotton. But if used lightly, it seems like a great tool.
Hi Curtis, thanks for the swift reply! And thanks for the feedback - much appreciated. :-)
It’s hard for me to fine-tune it if I can’t monitor the result (just like I can monitor the on-board processing on the RodeCaster).
So, so far I’ve ridden it “YOLO - slider to the max” (LOL!) - the other side always said it sounded OK (but what do they know, right? It’s not like they’re sound engineers or something...;-) Must have used a lot of cotton in the process... ;-)
So thanks for the tips in that department.
I think I”ll use it in my Camtasia narration workflow and iteratively fine-tune from there: I take it that the “ideal setting” will be quite independent from the app that’s using the output from RTX Voice.
Hint: maybe you can do a little video on that? I mean: it’s not like you’ve never done a video on cleaning audio before... ;-)
Anyway: thanks again for the feedback and hints! Cheers!
Why not use the audio tools that are inside the Rodecaster? It has high pass filter, noise gate, de-esser, compressor and more for each mic. Then you can monitor the actual audio.
ArtK I do all that. But none of those tools do a consistent noise removal.
You could argue that the noise gate comes close, but no: the noise is there when you talk and “open the gate” (by talking).
BTW: using the noise gate actually makes it harder to remove the noise consistently in post.
I've use RTX Voice for about a 2 month now, it's pretty good actually. I've tested it with condenser (AT2020), shotgun mic (takstar SGC598) and boom mic (BoomPro) and i'd say it's pretty much the same as audacity's noise reduction effect but way much better (high ambient noise will make the sound like it's been through audacity's noise reduction several times, like that robot voices you know). And i found condenser mic is much better for RTX Voice due the large diaphgram condenser to maintain your voice character much better so RTX could generated the noise reduction really well. For shotgun mic and boom mic the result are always kind of washed out though, also i need to speak my words clearly and not to fast or i'll find noticeable washed voice.
Personally, i'd recommend RTX Voice for those that having self noise/hiss issue from their hardware. For professional podcast, i consider RTX voice as last resort.
Probably not the right location to ask this question, but will your review of the Zoom PodTrak P4 be coming soon?
I did a review on a pre-production copy not realizing it hadn't been released yet so I had to pull it. I'm waiting for my pre-ordered production copy to ship so that I can finish up the review and correct for any changes they made in the final shipping version.
I wonder if you would/could suggest *treatments for desktops* which give us that annoying reflection that interferes with "listenability" and clarity in so many podcasts and interviews? Or, is the only solution to choose a mic type and placement that can't "hear" these reflections? It seems the major benefit of the SM-7B, et al.
You can always put a sound blanket over a desk surface. 😀
@@curtisjudd Touche! And if you're sibilant, you can always talk from under it. :D
@@jimshaw899 Hahaha!
My at2020 picked to much ambient noise (Computer fans and air conditioner) and my boompro has an unbearable hissing. Currently using boom shotgun mic right now for my game streaming. Works great though, well as long i don't move or twisting my head around. So yeah i'm practically a dead doll on front of my monitor lol.
Haha! If it works...
Based on the thumbnail I thought this was gonna be a lot more educational on placement techniques but still good info
Glad it helped at least a little.
@@curtisjudd good stuff thank you
Amazing content. May I ask how I add the audio feeds into obs, if I plug Rode Wireless Go into my camera body, please? I cannot find it from obs audio devices list.
Thanks! Unfortunately I don't use OBS so I'm not sure. But you might check in with Eposvox - he's a master at OBS.
@@curtisjudd thanks so much for the information. YOU are the best. Cheers.
Hello Chris, very nice content. I'm musician and have a sennheiser e945. Can you please suggest how do I use it for live facebook streaming?
Hi Hemmige, You'll just need an audio interface to get the audio from your mic to your computer. The e945 should be a good fit for livestreaming.
@@curtisjudd Chris, thanks for your response. Im a musician and intend to live stream my concert, mostly from home. I plan to use my phone for video and the e945 for audio. How will I sync video and audio? Is it automatic? Also will need the headset buddy line level cable to not overload the audio?
@@HemmigeSPrashanth Ok, then you'll need an audio interface to take the XLR output from your mic into your phone. Which you get depends on your phone. I'm not familiar with the headset buddy?
...Livestreamtastic...!!!
👍
Seems to me that the reflections off the screen and desk can be managed with the lav mic, though it means more work and more...
Yes, if you move away from the desk and screen.
@@curtisjudd Just ordered my Mix pre 10ii🤗
@@bryanbarajasBB congratulations and happy recording!
Hi sir, could you share your opinion on Audio Technica ATR2500x Model. It would be really helpful ☺️
It is a little on the bright side but overall, very good value for the money.
@@curtisjudd I'm bit confused between Rode NT mini and 2500x.🥴
@@thevijayraj34 I don't have a dedicated review of the AT2500x, but Bandrew of Podcastage does. I'd trust his insights on this question: ruclips.net/video/wlx2yADwod0/видео.html
@@curtisjudd thanks 👍🏼
Which Microphone should I get when I‘m Gaming on TV? I’m putting the Mic on the living room table laying back on the Couch, so there is a relatively far distance between the Microphone and my face and I’m moving quite a bit, also there is Audio coming from far back the opposite direction from the TV. I tried an Rode USB-C Mic, which is an Directional Condenser Cardiod Mic (I think?), and tried some in the past, but I found most Mics I tested are working real good as far as I‘m sitting up straight or leaning forward, but as soon as I relax during gaming - leaning back- it‘s getting really quite and other find it hard to understand me. Can you recommend some Mics under 100$ or € which are directional because of the Audio coming from the back and probably condenser Cardiod, because of the moving, which also are good with far distances, when your face constantly is about a Meter away from the Mic?
In the case you describe, I’d look at headset microphones so it moves with you. That’ll result in the best sound.
@@curtisjudd yeah, but how do I get the sound from both, PS5 and PC/iPad from in that case? I'm playing cross platform Games with my friend and they are on Discord so I have to use Discord, which isn't available for PS5.
What about microphone combinations? On talk shows there is a desk mic, they use lav mics, and I assume there's also a boom mic. They sound great without a microphone inches from their face. Is that possible for a home set up?
On talk shows, they have a skilled mixer choosing one of the mics at a time and switching over to another mic when necessary. You can do that at home, too, but most home streams don’t have the luxury of a skilled mixer focused on nothing aside from mixing.
@@curtisjudd True, but if it's not live, one can do the mixing in post. I would have thought that the mixing is more than choosing one mic at a time, though, and might even involve subtraction as well as adding signals from various sources. Just wondering if you've ever tried anything like that. To me, a nearby dynamic mic plus a more distant or boom condenser in case you move around might be a good combination.
Curtis, how do I connect the Blue Yeti to the Atem Min? The Yeti requires phantom power which cannot be generated from the Atem, suggestions?
Hi Guy, Do you have the pro version of the Yeti with XLR output? If so, you'll need a mixer - there are thousands of options there. If you do not have the pro version (USB only), then there isn't a way to get that into the ATEM. Instead, you'll need to use an encoding app like OBS to combine the audio from the Yeti with the video from the ATEM.
Curtis Judd
Thank you Curtis for the swift reply. I do not have the pro version.
I carefully reviewed your tutorial of how to setup the Atem software for optimal audio quality, excellent stuff.
So as a newbie, I took the headphone jack input from the Yeti and plugged that into to the Atem, I took the micro usb connection and plugged directly into my iMac, it kinda works that way but I'm concerned that I may be doing more harm than good.
I hate the idea of needing a second mic when I have this beautiful Yeti, I wish it could be used for the Atem
Good point - the headphone output to the ATEM's input should technically work and will not damage anything. It is just that headphone outputs don't always provide the best quality audio. I'm not sure on the Yeti, but the results should speak for themselves. If you get good results that way, that's a legitimate solution.
I dont know where to pass this request to you: Do you have any plans about reviewing videoplayers? I am working with 16 ch ambisonic in Premiere. And it seems that only Prores and DNx supports 16ch audio. This calls for a player capable to execute such files - if any? When looking at the encreasing amount of products that supports multichannel audio, I guess a lot of your followers might be interested. I certainly am :-)
Your sessions has been a great inspiration and guidance for me when entering the audio/video production "world" - so thank you.
Hi Brent, DAWs should be able to play 16 channels of audio. But I haven’t heard of 16 channel ambisonic audio. Is this a specific new format?
@@curtisjudd Hi Curtis. Thanks for answering.
In order to create productions that supports larger physical speaker arrangements for immersive productions/soundscape etc, one would like to step up from 1. order ambisonics (4ch.)to 3. order ambisonics (16 ch.). B-Format supports up to 6. order ambisonics (49 ch).
This might be done by using more mics; but there are quite few, pretty good, plugins that can upscale 1. order ambisonics to 3. order ambisonisc. Such as O3A and Harpex. I use Premiere and, as you wrote above, content with 16 ch. can easily be handled by Premiere.
But á DAW is not necessarily the best solution for end user controlled play back scenarious in museums or shops. Such scenarious calls for a more dedicated and easely managed videoplayer with ex. loop functions. For that purpose you will need to export your production. The only 2 export formats in Premiere that supports 16 ch. are Prores (which I understand is your preference) and DNx.. - due to the fact that ex. h264/h265 only supports 5 audio ch. But Prores and DNx.. was never ment to be distribution formats (but editing formats), therefore it is hard to find players that support thes formats (and therefor supports multichannel audio beyond 7.1). Quicktime supports Prores, but does it support 16 ch. audio. VLC might be forced to execute Prores files, but only if a Quicktime decoder is installed. But what about DNx.. - and what about WIn 10.
I dont expect that you can ansver these questions. I just point out a field that is just ahead of many professional and amateurs when finishing their multiscreen- multitrack productions, and shall implement their work in end user installations.
Thanks again for commenting
Bent
@@bentmortensen9348 Thanks Bent. You just taught me new things about ambisonics. Sorry I couldn't answer your questions. Best wishes!
A year late and a dollar short.. Great review of mic placement concepts
Thanks for coming by!
Any video for recording natural sound or engines?
Kind regards Max
Hi Max, here's an interview where we talked with Watson Wu who does a LOT of sound effects recordings of cars: ruclips.net/video/tiqwjLat0Uk/видео.html
@@curtisjudd Dear Curtis.
Thank you so much for this link. You should know that I realy appreciate all the experience and knowledge you sharing here.
Wish you a great 2021.
Max
Lately I've been reviewing a documentary movie which involved interviewing a lot of people in less than ideal aural environment (small offices, large lecture halls etc.), and the only mic they used was a lav mic. The sound ended up atrocious, mostly unintelligible - especially in small offices with all that early mudding reflections. No amount of RX dereverb or harmonic enhancing could help. I wonder if there is a better way to capture sound for such interviews without sticking a huge mic in front of the interviewee's face.
Stick a small mic in front of the interviewee, just at the bottom of the frame. Or boom a high quality boom mic just out of the top the frame for a less visually imposing and slightly lower quality audio response.
Have you tried the Zoom ZDM-1?
Yes but need to to a bit more extensive testing with it. I can say that in my initial tests, it did NOT sound like a Shure SM7B - much less bass response in the ZDM1.
so all your audio for RUclips is at -23lufs? Im asking because your audio sounds so clear and not distorted even when I push the volume to the max.
Depends on the video. If you check stats for nerds (right click in the video and choose stats for nerds), this one sits at -9dB which is -23 LUFS. That's usually what I target for livestreams. For pre-recorded videos, I usually target -16 or -17 LUFS.
Boss, you have some phase issues with the LAV mic?
Yes, phase and comb filtering. I'm sitting at a desk (hard, flat surface), big computer monitor (hard, flat surface). The sound reflects off of these and creates the comb filtering you hear here. Lavs do sound like this when you work this close to hard reflective surfaces.