Just wanted to say as someone who went to a general "film course" and only got the basics of audio. I have been learning as I go along since and your videos and tutorials are easily the most helpful I have found.
+CZsWorld Here's a comparison of the MKH-50 and Audio Technica AT4053b: ruclips.net/video/gAaVSlB7Vpg/видео.html Mic A is the AT, mic B is the Sennheiser.
+CZsWorld Yes. I did compare the MKH-50 to the Audio Technica last fall: ruclips.net/video/gAaVSlB7Vpg/видео.html Mic A is the Sennheiser, Mic B the Audio Technica.
I am so glad you recommended using headphones. I have at least a dozen different headphones in my collection. For your demonstration, I used Behringer HPS300 headphones. I recently got these to evaluate. They seem good for the price, and I was able to clearly hear the tight boxy sound of the small diaphragm mics you used. With light voices, these are all good on a boom. I did notice some splatter in the lower mid-range in all of them. I have a lower baritone, FM radio type speaking voice and prefer a large diaphragm condenser mic for narration and interviews. I do enjoy your comprehensive and detail oriented video reviews of audio equipment. Your attention to detail is appreciated. Thank you.
if you have a baritone voice you should try a flat Small diaphragm condenser, Large diaphragm condensers tend to make the sound warmer and you don't need it.SDC are just better representing lower frequencies.
The Audix is my work horse, it sounds incredible, its also awesome as a Foley mic. To my ears it has a silky high frequency curve, what I describe as sounding buttery, creamy, but its only noticeable with trancients. It has a surprisingly beefy low end for such a small mic. It actually has a fuller low end than the Rode NTG3.
Thanks for this info Curtis. I took a punt on the Samson CO2s which I've been testing via a Mix Pre-D fed to a Tascam DR 60D Mk 2. Recorder. (another of your recommendations, great product but the XLR inputs lock up, no matter, I leave them in situ.) The Samson mics sound very good indeed with or without a high pass filter employed on the Mix Pre-D. I was surprised how little attenuation these mics needed to produce a strong signal with a voice speaking quietly. Your recording sounded slightly biased towards a high-frequency brittleness when played back on my computer. My test recordings sounded great across the audio spectrum so I am delighted with this purchase. Thanks again.
I have been involved with sound for decades, but never for Video. I am setting up a small home based reverb prone room/studio. I have an ST 77 big ribbon and I love the sound of it for podcasting but you can definitely hear the reverb when trying to use it as an out of frame mic. I was almost convinced to go with a shorter shotgun., until I saw your videos. I think the AT4053b sounded the best and the rear capture I can get rid of with sound blankets behind the mic. Thank you so much for the video.
@@curtisjudd I do agree with him...Straight from Brazil, thanks! I am learning a lot. Yout channel is improoving my audio results, step by step, of course. It was horrible first time, now is just bad, but it is in a transformation process as much as i listen to you. Soon it wwill be acceptable!
Very helpful and instructive! I was having too much echo using Sennheiser ME66 and Audio-Technica AT897 boomed in a room doing interviews. After viewing this I decided to just try an AT2021 small diaphragm "pencil" condenser I had around (usually recommended for recording instruments) - it worked really well compared to the shotguns - none of the echo and good enough audio quality.
Great video Curtis, thanks, just a thought on booming and handling noise, I bought a long dead cat, split it down the stitching and glued it around my boom pole - voila! No handling noise and it doesn't look too bad...
Great comparison. I've got a pair of AUDIX SXChc and I'm really happy with them. You should have also compared them with the Schoeps CMC6 MK41 that are way more expensive, but a very common choice among HIGH END productions. It's a nice option to actually feel even better not to have spent TONS OF MONEY, if the sound is not THAT better.
+Curtis Judd I'm sorry. I didn't mean for you to BUY every single Mic! I thought in some way you could get to test them. In my country (Argentina) is very common to rent the High End equipment when the production requires it. Anyways, thanks for all your videos they've been very helpful.
+Franco Rimoldi No worries! My own personal issue is that if I borrow it, I'm almost certain I will love it so much I won't be able to send it back. :)
This was very helpful. I have the Rode NTG 3 shotgun mic. When I use it indoors I can hear that little hollow sound. I am working on learning more about Cardiod for indoor use. This video is very helpful, so many options...
Thanks for the very detailed explanation! Very cool and timely. I am looking to buy a new mic for my new RUclips/Green Screen Studio. In my setup the ideal place for the mic is over top of the camera which is about 8 feet away from me. I have a Samson Pencil Condenser mic which is going through my mixing board, to my computer. At this distance, the sound is not great, I have to add way too much gain to pick me up, and then the mic it too live. I did find that the ideal placement for it would be a ceiling mount just out of frame...about 3-4 feet from my standing position. So that is option 1...or I could get a shotgun mic. The question is, for the room I described, is there a particular mic you would recommend for this room?
No, I’d stick with a pencil condenser but get it closer. Within 18 inches will give the best results, but anything closer than 8 feet will be an improvement.
Thanks for the response @@curtisjudd the issue is that I am in a full body green screen studio, so I can’t get the mic that close…I have 8 foot ceilings and I am 5’ 6” I could use a lav, but I don’t want a mic in the shot…is there any kind of mic that can be used at a distance like this?
@@dcefola you could try a long shotgun like the RODE NTG8 but it has to be aimed very precisely. Otherwise, you may just have to work with a distant mic and live with the extra room ambience.
This was a great comparison episode Curtis. Not to put you on the spot (you can decline to answer - I understand), but what's your favorite out of all of these?
Good question - mine came with my boom pole - a K-Tek Avalon pole. I haven't seen the nylon webbing in other places but I'm sure there must be a source somewhere. Maybe a question to K-Tek support?
Hi! Are you taking about the brownish net like thing, that is covering the part where the XLR cable plugs into the mic? What does that do? I've got it with an xlr cable I bought, but I can't see any benefit to it.
@mdmamusicproduction his maybe does that, but mine (looks the same as the one in the video) is too soft to do anything. I could see a harder material doing that for sure. I was wondering if it may prevent interference or some. I'll probably throw it away if I can't find an explanation that makes sense in my case. Mine are almost as soft as a fishing net would be. It would be like rolling a piece of paper around it. That being said, thanks for the answer.
Hi Curtis very nice comparison thank you! In a later comparison if you do can you please add the Sanken CS-M1 witch I am kinda leaning of buying lately because is great on a boom for interiors and it's great on cam too.
@@curtisjudd Yes sorry, I though you had some easy ways to get gear for free ;-)! After all you are in my opinion the best audio gear reviewer out there . Thank you for your answer I am looking to get more info on this mic because it looks like a great allrounder (interior dialogue(less prone to reverb and room sounds) , on cam (good side isolation and great focus, and sooo short and light), and can easily double as an instrument mic for someone like me who does a lot of live music recordings. And its a Sanken! We all know they don't do bad mics. This one is well isolated and quiet and probably well made.
@@budgetsmartgear1167 Yes, but usually not for pro-level gear like Sanken. I would recommend you have a listen to Michael Wynne's CSM1 video: ruclips.net/video/JkoHb8n9ERc/видео.html Then he also provides some comparison clips with the Sanken CS3e: ruclips.net/video/5JD9bT3qRRM/видео.html
Hi Curtis, and thanks a lot for the videos, super helpful! Have you ever used a Neumann Km 185? Is there any chance you could also do a comparison video on wireless audio/timecode options available such as the zaxcom TRX900CL?
Thanks. I have not used the Neumann but will see if I can arrange for that in the future. I'd love to cover Zaxcom gear but will need to save my money for a good long time before I can cover that. :)
They all sounded pretty similar judging over my Shure SE215's. The good news is that I feel a lot better now for ordering a SDC for dialogue, can't wait for it to be delivered.
Thanks for your great vidoes! I want to know how is Rode NTG3 compare to NTG5 when recording indoor and outdoor dialogue? I got a NTG3, Zoom H6, and a set of Deity connect with w lav pro. I'm recording independent films (most indoor and some outdoor). What would you suggest me to buy now?
Really glad I watched this, was planning on getting an NT5 soon but actually hearing them, the Samson CO2s seem like they should do just fine for now. Somewhere down the line, I'll see about the AT4053b or the Audix. Thanks for another great video!
Great video for boom mics. I'm looking for a recommendation for a boundary mic for use in a roundtable discussion that I'd like to have recorded. We will be using it for video as well. 4 people at a square table with subjects about 2-3 feet from each other all facing towards the center of the table.
Hi TSG, thanks. I have only used some older Audio Technica boundary mics for conference calls and they, unfortunately, don't make the same model any longer. So I don't have any specific recommendations in the boundary mic domain, unfortunetaly.
Hi Curtis. Huge thanks for these videos. I'm shopping for an indoor mic for dialogue specifically for radio -- no video. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the Rode NT3 as compared to the Rode NT5. Thanks again.
+Curtis Judd Ill shot you a text tomorrow. We need to keep collaborating. Things have just been crazy with the new baby and with film projects? We need to make sure we meet up at NAB too. Lets chat tomorrow.
Hey Curtis, Thanx for all the help ! I have a Zoom f8n and a sennheiser 416, But i need a good super cardioid.. what should i go for today. I like the sound of the 416 more then ex the CMIT-5U (its too clean )Thanx again , you are the best !!!
CALIBRATED SPEAKERS Unless You are listening through calibrated speakers or quality headphones/headamp it may be impossible to know which Mic sounds best. Most Uncollaborated Speakers sound bloated and unfocused. Hence a brighter mic or one that has high frequency noise may sound better in that circumstance. I use a fully calibrated set up. To my older ears through that system the AKG sounds best. The other variable that may need to be considered is the Mic preamp used and how it works with a given Mic. I have to say Curtis does a great job with the audio!
@curtisjudd right I really hate that it does that. As a simaler style content creator where I just want to help people with good knowledge fast. I appreciate what you have done even if youtube doesn haha.
Hello Curtis, since you made the review a long time ago, are you still using the audio technica 4053b or do you prefer/recommend others? I plan to use it manly indoor, but can you use it outdoor too? Or do I need an other one for that?
Hi Curtis, did you ever make a video treating the subject of room echo reduction materials (maybe also cheaper but reliable solutions). Because more than once we had to deal with sound guys that were very good in making miracles to take a nice audio even if the room sounded badly (using very expensive mics and mixers), but sometimes it was so much effort when treating the room in advance could have seemed a little clumsier and longer in the beginning (and less "soundguyish work") but way faster and more effective in the long run. Thank you in advance!
Chris, absolutely spot on video, so much to learn just by watching you throughout the clip. Lots of integrity is shown throughout (again more to learn I suppose) and excellent experience. Lots to think about now... Thanks. May I ask if you need the sound devices as well or is it enough to have the mic connected to the camera via some adapter to 3.5mm jack or is it missing the whole point here? I never mean to be a pro at this but obviously sound is even more important than video...
Hi Elliot, good question. If the goal is to use a camera with a 3.5mm input, you might be better off with a mic that has a 3.5mm output like the RODE VideoMic Pro+. The audio quality will be pretty much the same and you won't have to fiddle with adapters. You can boom a VideoMic Pro like this: ruclips.net/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/видео.html
Am I of bad taste if I like the sound of the cheapest (Samson) the most? Was considering an NT5 for indoor dialogue or voice overs (yes I somehow mostly record client's voice overs not in a studio), but this video is so helpful. Thank you for making this, Curtis.
Curtis Judd Thank you. One question if you don't mind. I often have to record a voice over of company management personnel for corporate vids. They have no time to go out to a rented studio so I have to take their vocals in their offices, as you can imagine, far from ideal. Reverb city and noiseville. Currently I only have an NTG3 and an MKH 60. For my situation would you say I better go with an NT5 for its lower noise floor (though less narrow pick-up) or the Samson for narrower pick up but it's got higher noise floor? Or should I invest in something like the NT1 and perhaps a portable sound booth (do these help?)?
Hi Raya, The microphones you have are very high quality but as shotgun microphones, probably not ideal for reverberant rooms.You can go a few different directions and if you're doing voice-over work, yes, treating the room would probably be my highest priority. That could take the form of sound blankets (even if you just put one on the desk/tables). But a portable vocal booth would probably be even more effective. Often, when people do voice-over work, they use large diaphragm condenser microphones but your two shotguns would also be very good options as long as you can manage the reverberation and noise. Good luck!
Hi Curtis! Are you familiar with the Behringer B5 microphone? If you are, how do you feel about it as a budget option for indoor dialogue in untreated spaces? I've heard that it is pretty low noise for the price category. Thank you!
Hi Curtis. This is an extremely helpful video; and I certainly appreciate your efforts. I am wondering if the Sennheiser ME64 is in the same class with these 5 mics, and suitable for indoors dialogue recording in a room that is apt to have echo problems?
Hi Mark, yes, definitely in the same class as microphones such as the RODE NT5. The cardioid pickup pattern is nice indoors because you won't have the same phase issues as a shotgun mic may have if there's a lot of reverb and/or the talent ends up slightly off axis. I haven't used the ME64 personally, but my experience with Sennheiser mics in general has been very good. They tend to be a little brighter sounding which means they tend to emphasize high frequency sound a little bit more than many others. Best wishes!
It's unclear whether the C02 is cardiod or supercardiod: B&H and Amazon say these are "cardiod" mics. The B&H description says "Tight Supercardioid Polar Pattern: In addition to the front-firing design of the capsule, the cardioid polar pattern minimizes pickup at the off-axis sections, eliminating ambient noise and reducing feedback." Amazon says they are cardiod. The Samson datasheet calls them "cardioid", or "tight cardiod". What is the pattern? Are there different versions of this mic? I am looking for a RUclips dialog mic for outside the shot, in an furnished non-echoey room, with quiet street noise from a closed window in the next room, and medium keyboard noise, for a reasonable price. Note: I already have access to a large diaphram studio mic with a cardiod pattern. But it picks up too much ambient noise when spaced at 1-2 feet distance from the talent.
One note regarding polar patterns. They occur on a continuous spectrum. I don't know why Samson didn't keep their specs and marketing consistent, which would be a good marketing practice, but it is important to understand that the answer isn't so black and white. Based on my experience with it, the polar pattern on the CO2 seems narrower on the front vs. most cardioid microphones that I've used, so I'd say it is closer to super-cardioid than most large diaphragm cardioid microphones.
You sort of answered this question before, but I really wonder how it would sound like if you used a more open cardoid condenser mic like a voiceover mic (TLM 103) in place of a super-cardoid. Would it sound much more echo-y? I have a TLM 103, but its used in a very specific, well absorbed and bass absorbed location for voiceovers. It would be cheap for me to use my TLM 103 and hoist it over to the video area, but that area isn't very dampened (it's a tiny bit, but not much) and also I would have to take it out and set it up again in the voiceover area which is somewhat of a procedure in my space. My other choice is to just buy a second mic stand + the Samson C02 (can get both for Euro 82 total, since they sell the Samson C02 as a single in my area) or just use a lapel mic. The problem with my lapel mic (Sennheiser ME-2 and Zoom H1) is that it sounds alright, but not as clear even with processing and amplification in Adobe Audition. It sounds a bit muffled and dark. The fourth option is to also try a different lapel mic, like a JK mic-j 044 which is only 31 Euros and from tests I heard is a bit brighter than the ME-2. So many decisions!!! Oh and I'm also kind of broke now, so that's the other thing. Ha, ha!
+Ernoburger I would start with your Neumann. The RODE NT5 in this sample is a cardioid mic. I think that is a completely legitimate option. In my tests, some cardioids actually pick up less reverb than hyper-cardioids. Just depends on the mic and the room.
Shotgun microphones have a long interference tube with slits along the body of the microphone. Sometimes, when the same sound enters the sides of the mic close to the same time it enters the front, you get a strange warbling sound. This can happen in reverberant rooms.
Physics and the design of the interference tube. The interference tube works on the assumption that sound/noise from the sides should be eliminated and sound coming in the front of the mic is what you want to keep. So when you get the same sound in the side and front, that assumption is no longer valid and you get the warbling/phase interference issues.
Nice comparison, and thank for the wav files. The at4053b looked like the best from a technical standpoint, but I still think the Audix sounded the best. Can you link to the acoustic blanket you are using?
+DrGroovoo Thanks. The sound blankets have one serious caveat: They wreaked of petro-chemicals when I first received them. I had to wash each one three or four times just to tame the smell (I can still smell them) but at least I can stand to be in the same room with them now. On the bright side, they do a very nice job of mellowing a room. Another nice thing is that you can buy them white on one side, black on the other so they are large light bounce fabrics as well. So with all those caveats, I bought them here: www.vocalboothtogo.com/product-category/acoustic-sound-blankets-for-sound-absorption-producers-choice/
+DrGroovoo Thanks. I'm going to do an episode on the sound blankets. They do a nice job mellowing the room and I love that you can buy them black on one side, white on the other. But they have one big problem: When I first received mine they stank badly of petrochemicals. I had to wash each one four times and hang them outdoors on a clothesline in the sun for a few days to take care of most of the smell. Even after all that, there's still a fair bit of residual odor. I'm not sure whether that was flame retardant or something else but it was so bad I would get a sore throat when in the same room with them for more than about 5 minutes. So that's the big caveat. If you're still up for lots of washing, this is where I bought them: www.vocalboothtogo.com/product-category/acoustic-sound-blankets-for-sound-absorption-producers-choice/ Good luck!
+Bethel Imaging Great minds think alike! That's exactly what I ended up doing. The chemicals were pretty potent but the laundry detergent and baking soda helped quite a lot after 3 - 4 washes per blanket. Thanks!
Thank you for the great videos. Would the sE Electronics sE8 microphone (pencil, cardioid) be a candidate for indoor dialogue? It is claimed to have low noise and be very neutral. I just have not seen it suggested for this purpose.
Curtis, could you make some sound samples that have kids and a tv blaring in the same or adjacent room? I'm looking for a live streaming talking head setup in a noisy room and i need to test which one isolates the source best from off-screen.
Yes. As I do new microphone tests, where appropriate, I will test them in noisier spaces in addition to the regular tests. Have you looked into RTX Voice? It cuts out almost all background noise though it does sound a bit like you are talking with a mouth full of cotton balls.
@@curtisjudd i've heard of it, and i imagine it's great for mics that are right up on the source. I suppose i could see how well it does for mics that aren't 1-3 inches from the source but i don't think it was made for off-screen mics like that and i have my doubts. besides, my current mic is just a USB $20 headset so I want something that can give me better audio anyway.
I mean this with respect: I think what you are trying to achieve is impossible with current technology. Having a hidden/off-screen microphone with blaring TV and screaming children in the same room is simply not going to sound like a studio recording.
Great job Curtis! I'm a new subscriber today!!! I'm using a Logitech C920 webcam for video tutorial recordings. The audio isn't that great. I'm thinking of using a Polsen OLM-10 lav mic that I have for better audio. Obviously I'm on a budget, but you've peaked my interest big time on the Samson 2pack. How do you think the Samson would compare to my Polsen wired lav mic? Help. BTW, B&H had the Samson CO2 listed as Cardioid Polar Pattern, not Super Cardioid.
Hi James, good to meet you here. I haven't heard the Polsen before but most lavalier microphones sound different than boom mics because they are body worn. I'd start with the Polsen and see how it works. The CO2s are pretty mid-rangy sounding, not my favorite. But with some EQ, can sound OK. It also depends on the space in which you record. So before spending any money, I'd try out the lavalier.
@@jamestheradioman Strangely, the icon they show on the mic looks closer to super-cardioid, but remember that this is a spectrum so it is probably somewhere between the two.
Thank you, Curtis! A quick question - for doing a single person indoor sit-down interview with an overhead boom stand, would a hyper-cardioid like the Audio Technica AT4053b be suitable for a subject who moves, shifts, leans forward, etc during the interview or would the wider field of a super-cardioid or cardioid be more worry free? I don't want to be continually adjusting my interviewee. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Yes, a microphone with a wider polar pattern would make that easier. Just note that it may also pick up a bit more ambient noise with that wider polar pattern, so it is a tradeoff.
Hi Cutis, I guess by indoor dialogue you would be typically thinking boomed dialogue for a film/video so would you differentiate dialogue from say somebody speaking on a conference panel with a table top mic to this or would you treat them the same in terms of which mic you would choose? Andy
Hi Andy, I'm coming at it from the perspective of a filmmaker, though some of this applies also to corporate and event work as well. For a panel discussion where you have a PA system, usually the front of house engineer ("sound guy") will use a dynamic microphone for each person. The reason for that is that dynamic microphones are easier to manage in terms of feedback when you have people speaking into them which are not necessarily experienced with microphone technique. Or they might use headset mics if the people move (e.g., TED talks use headset mics).
@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis, I was referring more to where there wasn't a PA or sound engineer but it sounds as though these would work well as tabletop mics for each speaker into a Tascam/Zoom. I've since watched a few more of your videos relating to this and have ordered some to try out. Thanks again.
Hello Curtis, since a week I am watching all the videos on your channel and I am very impressed. Thanks for all the tests and advices you give. For me it is the beginning of the road to create my own channel, and I am in a faze of equipment completing. My biggest problem name is: how to choose the proper mic for my indoor dialogues (I call them rather „monologues” cause in most cases I will be the only person on the screen)? I have adapted one room in my house for a studio (about 20 sqm), so I expect many sound problems. If I had sufficient budget would buy AT4053b. But I do not have. I do not like too much Samson C02s. But I have no major objections to the Rode NT5. My voice is rather low and I thought that maybe the Rode "cheaper brother" M5 could be an enough good choice in such conditions and for the beginning (on a boom, half meter from my mounth etc.). What do you think about this idea?
Hi, yes that could be an ok choice if you have a good preamplifier behind it. The M5 is a touch noisier than the NT5 from reports I've seen (I haven't tested it personally), but that's still very good and at a good price with a good warranty. A good choice overall.
Thanks for the support. Undoubtedly, I will give them (M5 pair) a chance. Based on your recommendation next week I'm going to "hug" the Tascam DR-60D MK2. As for the noise, I expect that the M5s will be less noisier than C02s and ... again thanks to you ... I found an incredibly useful and effective tool. They call it AUPHONIC :)
I now ended up with a Rode NTG1 to get more level out of my voice when the mic is about 40 cm away not on top but in front of me out of camara. I compared the noise levels in my quiet room by my mom and I cannot find any difference in the noise between 40db and 50db setting at my zoom F8. When I put both in audacity and normalise it to -3db, the noise is round about -45db to -48db. But comparing the loudness to your samples here, that is too much to work at the -23db LFS or the like you mention as a standard. As far as I see, the minimum noise level should be better if I reduce to a lower loudness. But I cannot postprocess, because I am doing live streaming. Can you help be, is the settings at the zoom at your samples at round about 40db short before 12 o'clock? When you normalize it, is there any loudness wverage level you can tell me to help comparing and set the gain staging at best? I have at the end a Blackmagic Design Studio HD video switcher in my kitchen, thus I think I didn't get it much better either, but don't like to ruine it by a bad gain staging. My Zoom output (XLR) goes with -10db to an Art Tube TPS Valve preamplifier that is rather cheap, but I think it's level at 12 o'clock didn't introduce much more. Comparing to your noise floor, I didn't expected the NTG1 is at -45 to -48db at -3db normalizing. Did you get similar noise floor and is my gain crap? Thank you
It sounds like maybe you have some noise in your space. Are there fans, appliances, AC, or other sound sources? If so, it is a simple matter of deciding whether or not you can turn any of those off. Also, you can try moving the microphone closer. Try to get it 25-30cm from the mouth of the person speaking if possible.
Hi Aksel, I have heard a fair bit about it but have not personally used it because it is a little harder to come by in the US, but it is on my list of mics to try at some point. The tests I've heard sound really good and the main downside I've heard is that it is somewhat more susceptible to handling noise so hand booming this mic can be tricky and requires a very good shockmount. Thanks and best wishes!
I hear a slight hiss from the Samson C02, anyone else hearing this as well? I suppose if some post-processing isn't out of the question, the Samson is good enough such that the high-frequency hiss can be removed in RX. Still a concerning artifact however.
Definitely there, yes. This is a super budget microphone and it gets budget results. But if you're on a tight budget, it can work if you can live with or post process out a bit of that noise.
Hi Zbilja, thanks. That is just some nylon netting so that when you disconnect the XLR, it doesn't damage the carbon fiber pole if it swings and hits it.
Thank you for these videos. Really informative. I know this one is 3 years old but wondering if you have tried the Behringer C2's. For $53, you get a pair, hard case, stereo stand. They even have a pad AND high pass switch. Such a great deal. Curious about how hot they are and their self noise.
If you have to buy 20 microphones they would be good for the price but generally they arent well enough to consider using them. They sound very tinny and have too much noise. A Behringer B5 though would be one of the cheaper microphones that can capture somewhat accurately.
Hey, Judd, another great video! I'm right now watching tons of reviews from your channel, pleased with all tips and details. Right now I'm looking for some versatile boom mic to professional/prosumer level at the range of 300 US dollars. Beyond that I'll need to invest in the pole, some nice windscreen and shockmouth and maybe the Zoom H6 or the F3 recorders (I own the H4n and the DR100mkII). I'd like to ask if you have any 2022 boom mics review for that case. I am at this very moment, by yours recommendations, deciding between the Azden SGM-250, the Sony ECM-674, and the Sennheiser MKE 600 ones, but the NTG4 for its price range kind of interest me (not for anything else). The cheaper the better, cause I really have some more itens in the list... PS: I have to admit my favorite one was the NTG5, but U$499 I really do not have to spend.
@@NasnuvenPaulo My second choice would be to save up more money and buy something like a DEITY S-Mic 2. Or if saving more isn't an option, I'd look at the Audio Technica AT875R: ruclips.net/video/8NknNRy2uXQ/видео.html
Hi Samuel, yes, it is on my list but the challenge is that there are affordable mic stands which work great for seated interviews, but then the next step up is very expensive...Are you looking for affordable or more pro-level boom setups?
Curtis Judd personally, I would like to see something somewhere in the middle, if possible. I saw your inexpensive mic stand video but I wasn’t clear what the pros and cons are if I purchased that stand (mind you, I’m looking to hook up a either a NTG 2 or 3 to a Zoom H4n)...so I want to get something a bit sturdy but not overly expensive. I hope this helps.
@@SamuelRiveraFilms The $25 stand is fine for shotgun mics like the NTG2 or NTG3, assuming you do NOT mount the recorder out at the end of the boom. Presumably you'll have a cable between the microphone and the recorder and will have the recorder mounted on the camera rig or even on a table. If that's the case, that $25 stand does a fine job and is plenty sturdy. If you're planning to mount the recorder on the stand, there is this option which is less expensive than a carbon fiber boom pole on a century stand (which is what I usually use): ruclips.net/video/r484j2aD1aE/видео.html
Curtis Judd Curtis, thanks so much! Quick question regarding the $25 stand. Do you think i would be able to mount the recorder toward the base without it falling over?
@@SamuelRiveraFilms Oh yes, shouldn't be a problem at all to mount the recorder on the vertical part of the stand. Also, you can make the stand even more stable by placing a saddle sand bag on the legs of the stand - the type of sand bags used for light stands: amzn.to/2FofWrO
I'm sorry Curtis. I have one question. I am working as a teacher, having online classes but my frontyard has 3 dogs who are barking all the time. I would like to buy a boom microphone but not sure which one to get. I want a best balance between good sound and noise rejection. Would OKTAVA or NT5 do the job? Or would you recommend something else. Thanks man for your content.
A boom mic may not be the best choice if you need sound rejection/isolation. In that case, close miking with a broadcast dynamic microphone like a SHURE SM58 or SM7B or something similar will work better in terms of rejecting noise.
Thank you for your comparison. I have the Røde NT5, it's connected to the Rødecaster Pro and I use it in a well treated room. BUT I get so much echo in my recording, that I don't want to use this mic. Do you have a tipp for me, what could I do wrong?
@@curtisjudd Thanks for your reply. It's 50cm from my mouth pointing to it. The room is very well treated, I hear no reverb when clapping. It's the room where I record my Podcasts, mainly with a Røde Procaster. The dip in quality from the Procaster to the NT5 is still very significant.
@@dajok A boom microphone will always sound less like a broadcast microphone that is much closer to your mouth so this sounds about right. Of course I'd need to hear samples of each to comment on whether there are any potential things you could do to optimize the sound of the boom mic.
@@curtisjudd I understand, it's very difficult to give advice on an audio problem, without hearing the problem. I have to dive a little deeper into this mic, then I'm sure I will get it under control. Thank you for your responds! That's very kind of you.
Curtis, right now I am booming a Rode Video Mic Pro+ in my quiet youtube studio and am picking up a lot of noise from my Yongnuo YN-600 LED light's fan. The light is about 10 feet behind the mic and to its left, but the noise is pretty severe. Soon I will be replacing the light's fan with a quieter one, but I want to do even better than that. My question for you: would switching from my Rode shotgun mic to a hypercardioid mic like the Audio Technica AT4053b help reduce that fan noise? I'm a huge fan. Thanks for the wonderful education so far.
Curtis, while we are on the subject, may I ask one more question? I just finished replacing the fan on my Yongnuo YN600 and the fan noise is significantly reduced. But it is definitely not perfect. Probably 80% better. My question: fan noise coming from lights-is this something that can be cleaned up easily in post? I must admit I have not yet messed around in Adobe Audition yet so I am totally ignorant with regards to audio post editing. But in general, is fan noise from lights something which it is standard operating procedure to edit out, or is it best practice to find a key light that is dead silent? My understanding is that even high-end lights like the Aputure COB 120d (which you like) have fans.
Hi Ronald, That depends. I use lights with fans like the C120 but I do not do any noise reduction in post. There are a few factors: 1) the C120's fans are rather quiet, they were specially designed to spin at lower RPMs so very little of the sound makes it into the recording. The fan noise is there, but it sits well below the dialogue, somewhere around -70dB and 2) Noise reduction, even in the high-end pro apps like Izotope RX are always a tradeoff. You can reduce noise effectively with them but you trade that for artifacts. So I usually just reserve that for very noisy recordings. 3) Microphone position is critically important. I boom from above with the mic aimed down at about a 45 degree angle and then adjust it from there to use the mic's polar pattern to reject as much of the fan noise as possible. Best to put on a set of headphones and adjust the mic's position until you hear as little of the fan as possible. More professional microphones and recorders made a difference as well because they typically record a wider dynamic range. But I'd get numbers 1 & 3 above sorted out first. I hope that makes sense. Best wishes!
Thank you for taking the time to offer such a thorough reply. I will begin experimenting with mic position right away. My c-stand > boom arm > ball head > rode videomic pro+ setup affords me a great deal of flexibility. Curtis, I think your channel and the way you interact with us via comments really is RUclips and the internet age in general at its absolute finest. Thanks.
Hey Curtis, thanks for another helpful video. I have a Rode NTG3 and I'm wondering if you think getting the Samson C02 would be a good option for indoor audio instead of the NTG3, or since they're both super cardioid, it'd be redundant and the Rode would most likely perform similarly or better.
Hi Andrew, only if you’re running into situations where that NTG3 is running into phase issues - often a strange warbling sort of sound. The C02 sounds quite a lot different than the NTG3 as well, so it doesn’t cut especially well with the very warm sounding NTG3. Happy recording!
Nice comparison. Th Samson C02 lacks some low frequencies which would make it better for me, but its not bad sounding. The Audix sounds to my ear, is a little similar to the Samson, but better in the low and higher frequencies. I like the sort of like the sound of the Audio Technica AT4053b as it doesn't sound like it has a lot of higher frequencies like some of the other mics you reviewed has, but it sounds a bit muddy and muffled to me without EQ. I am not a huge fan of Rode mics like the NT5 as many to my ear tend to sound a little on the bright side, with the exception of some of their more recent mics from 2014 onward, the NT1, NT1 USB and Stereo Video Mic X which I do quite like.
+DynamixWarePro Thanks for the insights! I agree on RODE, though their NTG3 has been out for a while and sounds quite good to my ear. Thanks for your thoughts!
Hi Curtis, great comparison! Honestly, they sound pretty close to me. The AKG sounded sweetest, somehow. Have one question, I picked up a Deity S-Mic 2 recently. Do you think it is a decent mic for indoor work as well, or should I invest in one of these from the comparison (I do narrative work, Short films, web serieses etc primarily). I'm kinda leaning towards grabbing one of the Samsons, honestly. Just wanted your advice
If you're getting good results with the S-Mic 2, I'd stick with that. If you're recording in very reverberant rooms quite often, then one of these make sense. I'd let your ears decide. :)
Many thanks for sharing Curtis, and for your recommendations. I know that you can't review all, but what do you think of Sennheiser microphones? Have you ever used any for dialogue recording?
+microbroadcast I very much like the Sennheiser microphones that I have used so far, in particular, the MKH50 and the MKE2 lavalier. They're a little on the bright side for some voices but the quality is always top notch and the MKH50 in particular is used in a ton of larger budget film and TV shows. We had a look at the MKH50 here: ruclips.net/video/JXTpL4Ovr2I/видео.html And the AVX with MKE2 lavalier here: ruclips.net/video/U9RjMXtmVLc/видео.html
The DPA 4017B is a beautiful microphone in a lot of ways - small, light, sounds very nice, reliable, interchangeable preamps, in-built hp and high frequency boost switches. It is now my primary shotgun microphone. It also handles transients more gracefully than most entry level shotgun microphones.
Great comparison! I am considering buying the AT 4054b but I am in doubt if I should also consider the Neumann KM 185 as an alternative. What are Your thoughts?
consider purchasing a "shotgun mic" like the Senheiser MKH 416. This also happens the be the industry standard boom mic. The Neumann will be much less forgiving of poor acoustics and off axis sound.
Hello thank you for your attention , but in your opinion which the directional microphone would be more versatile in outdoor and indoor scenes recordings ? would be rotate NTG3 , ME66 or what ? leading low production budget at the right time ... hug
Where or how do the mics get their phantom power? Could an inexpensive interface provide the power or does one need a more expensive mic pre amp recorder type device?
Based off of what I hear in this video, The Rode NT5 seems to be the most crisp, and sounds the best. The Audix SCX1 and The AT 4053b sound kind of muffled in comparison. I always read online that the Audix and the AT are considered way better for indoor film dialog. Why is this? Is more muffled dialog sound the way hollywood films do it, and I just don't notice?
Hi Mike, hearing is very personal and everyone's preferences are different. It's totally fine that you prefer the NT5. Also, this sample here was only with my voice and each voice sounds best with different microphones. I suspect that the film mixers, who record on a daily basis for their work, generally find the others to work well with the largest sampling of voices. But that's just a guess. Happy recording!
hey curtis, thank you for the review although this was long ago, i made the mistake of buying the deity s mic 2 for indoor interviews/testimonials. it sounds so echoy and the noise floor After post production was -40 db, i had to do noise reduction at 50 percent to make it somewhat good have there been any new low budget hypercardioids since this video that youd recommend? Thanks curits
Hi LT productions, thanks. It is ok to use shotgun microphones indoors if you aim them precisely and manage reverb and ambient noise. I think the more important thing is to get some sound blankets to manage that reverb/echo and manage as much of the ambient noise as possible. Best wishes!
Hey guys, Is there a reason why Curtis was using the ZOOM unit to measure the noise floor as oppose to using the Sound Devices one? Also, can noise floor be measured in real-time? I'm completely new to this and am trying my level best to understand "how to do it right". Thanks for any help you may send my way.
Probably because Zoom F8 has 8 XLR inputs, so could record all of the mics simultaneously to make sure they're comparing recording of the same background noise
I really like your mic reviews. As I am considering getting a dedicated indoor dialogue mic I have been watching your videos over and over in the last couple of days ;) It would have been really nice though if you would have tested them as well in a room which is not sound treated because in your room the mics all do sound decent. I also own the Nt5 and an SMic2 and tested them against a cheap Akg C1000S (hypercardioid) in an untreated room with tiles on the floor and although the general quality of the akg is way beyond the other two mics, the unprocessed audio of that mic was clearly better in terms of voice to ambience ratio. The difference between the cardioid supercardioid and hypercardioid mics is barely noticable in rooms with controlled ambience and non reflective surface
This is a bit outside the review. But I have been looking for a shotgun mic. What would be the best (at a reasonable price) shotgun (or other type) microphone to record an audience, primarily singing. Thanks I should add I'd like an XLR out and it work off of phantom power. I have no interest in having to deal with batteries. The mixer can supply +48v just fine. Thinking of a pair of Audio-Technica AT897. Thanks again.
Hi Glynne, shotgun mics are not usually the best choice for indoor recordings, particularly in reverberant spaces. Nevertheless, here's a comparison of 5 shotgun microphones with which I am personally familiar (I haven't used the AT897 but have heard good things about it): ruclips.net/video/veD8BVXV3Ls/видео.html
Just wanted to say as someone who went to a general "film course" and only got the basics of audio. I have been learning as I go along since and your videos and tutorials are easily the most helpful I have found.
Thank you Jonathan, I appreciate the feedback.
2:03 Samson C02 - super-cardioid
4:18 Audix SCX1HC - hyper-cardioid
5:29 AKG Blueline CK93 - hyper-cardioid
7:00 Audio Technica AT4053b - hyper-cardioid
8:20 RØDE NT5 - cardioid
Thank you.
Rode NT5.
Samson on their website lists the C02 as a Cardioid Polar Pattern mic, not Super Cardiod ☹️.
excellent comparison, everything was clear and I love how you silhouette yourself so that you do not distract form the content.
+DIYCameraGuy Thanks!
+DIYCameraGuy Felt the same!
+DIYCameraGuy It was a nice touch.
2:48 Samson "In terms of..."
4:50 Audix "In terms of..."
6:09 AKG "In terms of..."
7:21 Audio Technica "In terms of..."
8:39 Rode NT5 "In terms of..."
Thanks for the critique. Sorry to repeat.
Curtis Judd Audio Haha my man, that's not a critique at all! I thought it would be helpful to hear the same words across all mics. You do a great job!
Thanks Juan, good point, hadn't thought of it in those terms! Good idea, it turns out that my repeated phrase serves a good purpose. :)
I actually liked that Curtis (perhaps unintentionally) repeated this with each mic because it really made the differences in sound stand out 😅
check this out
I'd love to hear one of these cheaper mic vs. say, the MKH-50.
+CZsWorld Here's a comparison of the MKH-50 and Audio Technica AT4053b: ruclips.net/video/gAaVSlB7Vpg/видео.html Mic A is the AT, mic B is the Sennheiser.
+Curtis Judd
I've actually seen that one, haha!
+Curtis Judd
Guess I forgot about it.
+CZsWorld Yes. I did compare the MKH-50 to the Audio Technica last fall: ruclips.net/video/gAaVSlB7Vpg/видео.html Mic A is the Sennheiser, Mic B the Audio Technica.
I am so glad you recommended using headphones. I have at least a dozen different headphones in my collection. For your demonstration, I used Behringer HPS300 headphones. I recently got these to evaluate. They seem good for the price, and I was able to clearly hear the tight boxy sound of the small diaphragm mics you used. With light voices, these are all good on a boom. I did notice some splatter in the lower mid-range in all of them. I have a lower baritone, FM radio type speaking voice and prefer a large diaphragm condenser mic for narration and interviews. I do enjoy your comprehensive and detail oriented video reviews of audio equipment. Your attention to detail is appreciated. Thank you.
Thanks Phil!
if you have a baritone voice you should try a flat Small diaphragm condenser, Large diaphragm condensers tend to make the sound warmer and you don't need it.SDC are just better representing lower frequencies.
The Audix is my work horse, it sounds incredible, its also awesome as a Foley mic. To my ears it has a silky high frequency curve, what I describe as sounding buttery, creamy, but its only noticeable with trancients. It has a surprisingly beefy low end for such a small mic. It actually has a fuller low end than the Rode NTG3.
Thanks John, good to hear your experience with the Audix. Seems like a great mic!
small diaphragm condensers have no problem at all reproducing low frequencies, in fact are better capturing natural sound especially in the low freq.
Thanks for this info Curtis. I took a punt on the Samson CO2s which I've been testing via a Mix Pre-D fed to a Tascam DR 60D Mk 2. Recorder. (another of your recommendations, great product but the XLR inputs lock up, no matter, I leave them in situ.) The Samson mics sound very good indeed with or without a high pass filter employed on the Mix Pre-D. I was surprised how little attenuation these mics needed to produce a strong signal with a voice speaking quietly. Your recording sounded slightly biased towards a high-frequency brittleness when played back on my computer. My test recordings sounded great across the audio spectrum so I am delighted with this purchase. Thanks again.
+Richard Parrington great to hear they're working well. Cheers!
I have been involved with sound for decades, but never for Video. I am setting up a small home based reverb prone room/studio. I have an ST 77 big ribbon and I love the sound of it for podcasting but you can definitely hear the reverb when trying to use it as an out of frame mic. I was almost convinced to go with a shorter shotgun., until I saw your videos. I think the AT4053b sounded the best and the rear capture I can get rid of with sound blankets behind the mic. Thank you so much for the video.
You're welcome and happy podcasting!
You have probably the most proffesional channel about mics! Thanks ;)
Thanks Rogal.
@@curtisjudd I do agree with him...Straight from Brazil, thanks! I am learning a lot. Yout channel is improoving my audio results, step by step, of course. It was horrible first time, now is just bad, but it is in a transformation process as much as i listen to you. Soon it wwill be acceptable!
@@ClaudioPerin Thank you Claudio!
Excellent review Curtis! Really, thank you a lot. I`m enrolled in audio classes with you which have been very helpful. Thanks!
Thanks André for the feedback! Keep making great sound!
Thank you for the summary. It helped a lot, and I wish more RUclips tutorials offered that!
Thanks Eric!
What is the Hollywood industry standard for an indoor hypercardiod? Like, what would pair well with a Sennheiser MKH-416??
Sennheiser MKH50: ruclips.net/video/CqasOA0kFno/видео.htmlfeature=shared
Love those Blue Line Series AKG's I have 2 off them. Nice build quality.
I agree, great mics at great price.
How about the AKG CK98 shotgun? Would it sit somewhere between say a Rode NTG1 and NTG3?
Hi Curtis:this is very good video for people that would like a selection of mics to choose from and then a review on them to help make up their mind.
+john erwin Thanks John.
This was super helpful. For my application, the Audix looks the best.
👍 Happy recording!
Very helpful and instructive! I was having too much echo using Sennheiser ME66 and Audio-Technica AT897 boomed in a room doing interviews. After viewing this I decided to just try an AT2021 small diaphragm "pencil" condenser I had around (usually recommended for recording instruments) - it worked really well compared to the shotguns - none of the echo and good enough audio quality.
+Aaron Ebata Great news! Glad it worked!
VERY, very helpful analysis! Thank you for putting this together!
You're welcome!
I personally liked the Audio Technica AT4053b and the Audix SCX1HC (in the order of preference).
Thanks again Curtis! :D
Thanks Sankararaman!
Great video Curtis, thanks, just a thought on booming and handling noise, I bought a long dead cat, split it down the stitching and glued it around my boom pole - voila! No handling noise and it doesn't look too bad...
Haha! A furry boom pole - great idea!
This kind of stuff is so, so good, Curtis. Thank you.
Thanks Justin.
Great comparison. I've got a pair of AUDIX SXChc and I'm really happy with them. You should have also compared them with the Schoeps CMC6 MK41 that are way more expensive, but a very common choice among HIGH END productions. It's a nice option to actually feel even better not to have spent TONS OF MONEY, if the sound is not THAT better.
+Franco Remold Thanks Franco. I'll cover the Schoeps in a future piece once I can afford it.
+Curtis Judd I'm sorry. I didn't mean for you to BUY every single Mic! I thought in some way you could get to test them. In my country (Argentina) is very common to rent the High End equipment when the production requires it. Anyways, thanks for all your videos they've been very helpful.
+Franco Rimoldi No worries! My own personal issue is that if I borrow it, I'm almost certain I will love it so much I won't be able to send it back. :)
Hahahaha! You're right !
This was very helpful. I have the Rode NTG 3 shotgun mic. When I use it indoors I can hear that little hollow sound. I am working on learning more about Cardiod for indoor use. This video is very helpful, so many options...
Thanks Suzin!
Thanks for the very detailed explanation! Very cool and timely. I am looking to buy a new mic for my new RUclips/Green Screen Studio. In my setup the ideal place for the mic is over top of the camera which is about 8 feet away from me. I have a Samson Pencil Condenser mic which is going through my mixing board, to my computer.
At this distance, the sound is not great, I have to add way too much gain to pick me up, and then the mic it too live.
I did find that the ideal placement for it would be a ceiling mount just out of frame...about 3-4 feet from my standing position.
So that is option 1...or I could get a shotgun mic.
The question is, for the room I described, is there a particular mic you would recommend for this room?
No, I’d stick with a pencil condenser but get it closer. Within 18 inches will give the best results, but anything closer than 8 feet will be an improvement.
Thanks for the response @@curtisjudd the issue is that I am in a full body green screen studio, so I can’t get the mic that close…I have 8 foot ceilings and I am 5’ 6” I could use a lav, but I don’t want a mic in the shot…is there any kind of mic that can be used at a distance like this?
@@dcefola you could try a long shotgun like the RODE NTG8 but it has to be aimed very precisely. Otherwise, you may just have to work with a distant mic and live with the extra room ambience.
It would have been nice to know how they connected but I'll assume XLR. ?? Thanks for posting this. I could not tell the difference in any of them.
Yes, all of these are XLR microphones.
This was a great comparison episode Curtis. Not to put you on the spot (you can decline to answer - I understand), but what's your favorite out of all of these?
+Basic Filmmaker Thanks, my favorite is the Audio Technica though I like the AKG more than I expected.
Curtis Judd
Thank you sir.
Thanks for the well-done compro, Curtis. Keep them coming.
Thanks! Will do!
The Samson C02 sounded just fine to me, thanks so much for the review! So glad to know I don't need to drop millions of dollars on equipment!
Yes! Go with what sounds good to your ears. :)
I just listened to the Samson on the Zoom H6, and it does not fair as well on that as it does here. It has a lot more hiss/noise floor noise.
Mine work perfectly with my H5
Yes, the H6 preamps produce a bit more noise than the SD 633.
Danny, how far away have you positioned the microphone?
The Oktava MK-012 needs to be on there. It sounds phenomenal and it's dirt cheap.
Yes, thanks, working on it. Not easy to source in the US.
Hi Curtis.
Could you tell me where I could get those XLR female connector protective rubber that you can see in the thumbnail of this video?
Good question - mine came with my boom pole - a K-Tek Avalon pole. I haven't seen the nylon webbing in other places but I'm sure there must be a source somewhere. Maybe a question to K-Tek support?
Hi! Are you taking about the brownish net like thing, that is covering the part where the XLR cable plugs into the mic? What does that do? I've got it with an xlr cable I bought, but I can't see any benefit to it.
@@matango1979 i think that it attenuate damage when the xlr connector hit the floor as sometimes can happen.
@mdmamusicproduction his maybe does that, but mine (looks the same as the one in the video) is too soft to do anything. I could see a harder material doing that for sure. I was wondering if it may prevent interference or some. I'll probably throw it away if I can't find an explanation that makes sense in my case. Mine are almost as soft as a fishing net would be. It would be like rolling a piece of paper around it.
That being said, thanks for the answer.
Hi Curtis very nice comparison thank you! In a later comparison if you do can you please add the Sanken CS-M1 witch I am kinda leaning of buying lately because is great on a boom for interiors and it's great on cam too.
Thanks. Will need to find a way to buy a CS-M1. 🤓
@@curtisjudd Yes sorry, I though you had some easy ways to get gear for free ;-)! After all you are in my opinion the best audio gear reviewer out there . Thank you for your answer I am looking to get more info on this mic because it looks like a great allrounder (interior dialogue(less prone to reverb and room sounds) , on cam (good side isolation and great focus, and sooo short and light), and can easily double as an instrument mic for someone like me who does a lot of live music recordings. And its a Sanken! We all know they don't do bad mics. This one is well isolated and quiet and probably well made.
@@budgetsmartgear1167 Yes, but usually not for pro-level gear like Sanken. I would recommend you have a listen to Michael Wynne's CSM1 video: ruclips.net/video/JkoHb8n9ERc/видео.html Then he also provides some comparison clips with the Sanken CS3e: ruclips.net/video/5JD9bT3qRRM/видео.html
Hi Curtis, and thanks a lot for the videos, super helpful! Have you ever used a Neumann Km 185? Is there any chance you could also do a comparison video on wireless audio/timecode options available such as the zaxcom TRX900CL?
Thanks. I have not used the Neumann but will see if I can arrange for that in the future. I'd love to cover Zaxcom gear but will need to save my money for a good long time before I can cover that. :)
They all sounded pretty similar judging over my Shure SE215's. The good news is that I feel a lot better now for ordering a SDC for dialogue, can't wait for it to be delivered.
🎤Happy recording!
Thanks for your great vidoes! I want to know how is Rode NTG3 compare to NTG5 when recording indoor and outdoor dialogue?
I got a NTG3, Zoom H6, and a set of Deity connect with w lav pro. I'm recording independent films (most indoor and some outdoor).
What would you suggest me to buy now?
Hi Justin, they can work, they just need to be aimed carefully. Here are some audio samples: ruclips.net/video/bv1xUShuUY0/видео.html
I would love to see you compare a Neumann mic short shotgun in one of your videos. Specifically the KMR 81 D vs CMC641.
Me too! If only I could afford one. 😀
Really glad I watched this, was planning on getting an NT5 soon but actually hearing them, the Samson CO2s seem like they should do just fine for now. Somewhere down the line, I'll see about the AT4053b or the Audix. Thanks for another great video!
You're welcome and best wishes Caleb.
Wow the 2 recorders I have, with the microphones I´m choosing from, thanks for this
Great video for boom mics. I'm looking for a recommendation for a boundary mic for use in a roundtable discussion that I'd like to have recorded. We will be using it for video as well. 4 people at a square table with subjects about 2-3 feet from each other all facing towards the center of the table.
Hi TSG, thanks. I have only used some older Audio Technica boundary mics for conference calls and they, unfortunately, don't make the same model any longer. So I don't have any specific recommendations in the boundary mic domain, unfortunetaly.
@@curtisjudd Thank you for your response. It's much appreciated.
Hi Curtis. Huge thanks for these videos. I'm shopping for an indoor mic for dialogue specifically for radio -- no video. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the Rode NT3 as compared to the Rode NT5. Thanks again.
Hi Kaitlyn, I have not used the NT3 personally, but have heard many people use it for indoor dialogue and the tests I've heard all sound very good.
Always crushing it! Thanks Curtis!
+UpHill Cinema Thanks Levi! Good to hear from you and hope all is well!
+Curtis Judd Ill shot you a text tomorrow. We need to keep collaborating. Things have just been crazy with the new baby and with film projects? We need to make sure we meet up at NAB too. Lets chat tomorrow.
Hey Curtis, Thanx for all the help ! I have a Zoom f8n and a sennheiser 416, But i need a good super cardioid.. what should i go for today. I like the sound of the 416 more then ex the CMIT-5U (its too clean )Thanx again , you are the best !!!
I like the Sennheiser MKH8050.
@@curtisjudd Thanx for that! I will go for that 👍
In case you didn't know, having a thin plastic film like that over your insulation actually helps with its bass-mitigating properties.
Thanks.
CALIBRATED SPEAKERS
Unless You are listening through calibrated speakers or quality headphones/headamp it may be impossible to know which Mic sounds best. Most Uncollaborated Speakers sound bloated and unfocused. Hence a brighter mic or one that has high frequency noise may sound better in that circumstance. I use a fully calibrated set up. To my older ears through that system the AKG sounds best. The other variable that may need to be considered is the Mic preamp used and how it works with a given Mic. I have to say Curtis does a great job with the audio!
Thanks Aaron.
Love the summary provided first
👍
Too bad the RUclips algorithm punishes for that.
@curtisjudd right I really hate that it does that. As a simaler style content creator where I just want to help people with good knowledge fast. I appreciate what you have done even if youtube doesn haha.
Hello Curtis, since you made the review a long time ago, are you still using the audio technica 4053b or do you prefer/recommend others? I plan to use it manly indoor, but can you use it outdoor too? Or do I need an other one for that?
Hi Curtis, did you ever make a video treating the subject of room echo reduction materials (maybe also cheaper but reliable solutions). Because more than once we had to deal with sound guys that were very good in making miracles to take a nice audio even if the room sounded badly (using very expensive mics and mixers), but sometimes it was so much effort when treating the room in advance could have seemed a little clumsier and longer in the beginning (and less "soundguyish work") but way faster and more effective in the long run. Thank you in advance!
Hi Anthony, we made a video on using sound blankets: ruclips.net/video/uzyEaVYCk3s/видео.html
Chris, absolutely spot on video, so much to learn just by watching you throughout the clip. Lots of integrity is shown throughout (again more to learn I suppose) and excellent experience. Lots to think about now... Thanks. May I ask if you need the sound devices as well or is it enough to have the mic connected to the camera via some adapter to 3.5mm jack or is it missing the whole point here? I never mean to be a pro at this but obviously sound is even more important than video...
Hi Elliot, good question. If the goal is to use a camera with a 3.5mm input, you might be better off with a mic that has a 3.5mm output like the RODE VideoMic Pro+. The audio quality will be pretty much the same and you won't have to fiddle with adapters. You can boom a VideoMic Pro like this: ruclips.net/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/видео.html
Am I of bad taste if I like the sound of the cheapest (Samson) the most? Was considering an NT5 for indoor dialogue or voice overs (yes I somehow mostly record client's voice overs not in a studio), but this video is so helpful. Thank you for making this, Curtis.
No, not of bad taste at all. Everyone hears a little differently and the monitors/speakers/headphones you use make a big difference, too. Best wishes!
Curtis Judd Thank you. One question if you don't mind. I often have to record a voice over of company management personnel for corporate vids. They have no time to go out to a rented studio so I have to take their vocals in their offices, as you can imagine, far from ideal. Reverb city and noiseville. Currently I only have an NTG3 and an MKH 60. For my situation would you say I better go with an NT5 for its lower noise floor (though less narrow pick-up) or the Samson for narrower pick up but it's got higher noise floor? Or should I invest in something like the NT1 and perhaps a portable sound booth (do these help?)?
Hi Raya, The microphones you have are very high quality but as shotgun microphones, probably not ideal for reverberant rooms.You can go a few different directions and if you're doing voice-over work, yes, treating the room would probably be my highest priority. That could take the form of sound blankets (even if you just put one on the desk/tables). But a portable vocal booth would probably be even more effective. Often, when people do voice-over work, they use large diaphragm condenser microphones but your two shotguns would also be very good options as long as you can manage the reverberation and noise.
Good luck!
Hi Curtis! Are you familiar with the Behringer B5 microphone? If you are, how do you feel about it as a budget option for indoor dialogue in untreated spaces? I've heard that it is pretty low noise for the price category.
Thank you!
Haven’t used it, unfortunately.
Great test! To my ears, the Samson sounded most natural!
+Bethel Imaging Thanks!
Hi Curtis. This is an extremely helpful video; and I certainly appreciate your efforts.
I am wondering if the Sennheiser ME64 is in the same class with these 5 mics, and suitable for indoors dialogue recording in a room that is apt to have echo problems?
Hi Mark, yes, definitely in the same class as microphones such as the RODE NT5. The cardioid pickup pattern is nice indoors because you won't have the same phase issues as a shotgun mic may have if there's a lot of reverb and/or the talent ends up slightly off axis. I haven't used the ME64 personally, but my experience with Sennheiser mics in general has been very good. They tend to be a little brighter sounding which means they tend to emphasize high frequency sound a little bit more than many others. Best wishes!
Thanks very much, Curtis.
It's unclear whether the C02 is cardiod or supercardiod:
B&H and Amazon say these are "cardiod" mics. The B&H description says "Tight Supercardioid Polar Pattern: In addition to the front-firing design of the capsule, the cardioid polar pattern minimizes pickup at the off-axis sections, eliminating ambient noise and reducing feedback."
Amazon says they are cardiod.
The Samson datasheet calls them "cardioid", or "tight cardiod".
What is the pattern? Are there different versions of this mic?
I am looking for a RUclips dialog mic for outside the shot, in an furnished non-echoey room, with quiet street noise from a closed window in the next room, and medium keyboard noise, for a reasonable price.
Note: I already have access to a large diaphram studio mic with a cardiod pattern. But it picks up too much ambient noise when spaced at 1-2 feet distance from the talent.
One note regarding polar patterns. They occur on a continuous spectrum. I don't know why Samson didn't keep their specs and marketing consistent, which would be a good marketing practice, but it is important to understand that the answer isn't so black and white. Based on my experience with it, the polar pattern on the CO2 seems narrower on the front vs. most cardioid microphones that I've used, so I'd say it is closer to super-cardioid than most large diaphragm cardioid microphones.
The Rode has the nicest sound, most rounded, warm and clean, not too pricey, great warranty and support.
👍
Not related but, what are you using for your background? Excellent video! Thanks!
White paper from Savage.
@@curtisjudd thank you for the response!
What's the netting around the connection to the xlr cable? Is that some sort of copper shield for reducing interference?
Also do you invest much in your cables?
No, just nylon webbing so that when the connector swings free it is less likely to damage the graphite boom pole.
Yes, most of my cables these days are custom cables with Mogami cable and Neutrik connectors.
@@curtisjudd Thank you for the reply 👍
Thanks for the review, most useful interesting and enlightening.
Thanks Grant!
I use a Rode M3 Cardioid Condenser Microphone with the Tascam DR-60DmkII Audio Recorder and love it!
You sort of answered this question before, but I really wonder how it would sound like if you used a more open cardoid condenser mic like a voiceover mic (TLM 103) in place of a super-cardoid. Would it sound much more echo-y? I have a TLM 103, but its used in a very specific, well absorbed and bass absorbed location for voiceovers. It would be cheap for me to use my TLM 103 and hoist it over to the video area, but that area isn't very dampened (it's a tiny bit, but not much) and also I would have to take it out and set it up again in the voiceover area which is somewhat of a procedure in my space. My other choice is to just buy a second mic stand + the Samson C02 (can get both for Euro 82 total, since they sell the Samson C02 as a single in my area) or just use a lapel mic. The problem with my lapel mic (Sennheiser ME-2 and Zoom H1) is that it sounds alright, but not as clear even with processing and amplification in Adobe Audition. It sounds a bit muffled and dark. The fourth option is to also try a different lapel mic, like a JK mic-j 044 which is only 31 Euros and from tests I heard is a bit brighter than the ME-2. So many decisions!!! Oh and I'm also kind of broke now, so that's the other thing. Ha, ha!
+Ernoburger I would start with your Neumann. The RODE NT5 in this sample is a cardioid mic. I think that is a completely legitimate option. In my tests, some cardioids actually pick up less reverb than hyper-cardioids. Just depends on the mic and the room.
+Curtis Judd Alright, I give that a try. Either that or buy the Samson. Thanks!
+Ernoburger Best wishes and happy recording!
Hello, all of your videos are so informative. I had one question, why shotgun mics are not used in reverberant rooms?
Shotgun microphones have a long interference tube with slits along the body of the microphone. Sometimes, when the same sound enters the sides of the mic close to the same time it enters the front, you get a strange warbling sound. This can happen in reverberant rooms.
@@curtisjudd thank you so much, anyways why is that happens?
Physics and the design of the interference tube. The interference tube works on the assumption that sound/noise from the sides should be eliminated and sound coming in the front of the mic is what you want to keep. So when you get the same sound in the side and front, that assumption is no longer valid and you get the warbling/phase interference issues.
Nice comparison, and thank for the wav files. The at4053b looked like the best from a technical standpoint, but I still think the Audix sounded the best. Can you link to the acoustic blanket you are using?
+DrGroovoo Thanks. The sound blankets have one serious caveat: They wreaked of petro-chemicals when I first received them. I had to wash each one three or four times just to tame the smell (I can still smell them) but at least I can stand to be in the same room with them now. On the bright side, they do a very nice job of mellowing a room. Another nice thing is that you can buy them white on one side, black on the other so they are large light bounce fabrics as well. So with all those caveats, I bought them here: www.vocalboothtogo.com/product-category/acoustic-sound-blankets-for-sound-absorption-producers-choice/
+DrGroovoo Thanks. I'm going to do an episode on the sound blankets. They do a nice job mellowing the room and I love that you can buy them black on one side, white on the other. But they have one big problem: When I first received mine they stank badly of petrochemicals. I had to wash each one four times and hang them outdoors on a clothesline in the sun for a few days to take care of most of the smell. Even after all that, there's still a fair bit of residual odor. I'm not sure whether that was flame retardant or something else but it was so bad I would get a sore throat when in the same room with them for more than about 5 minutes. So that's the big caveat. If you're still up for lots of washing, this is where I bought them: www.vocalboothtogo.com/product-category/acoustic-sound-blankets-for-sound-absorption-producers-choice/ Good luck!
+Curtis Judd maybe try washing them with some baking soda (if you haven't already)?
+Bethel Imaging Great minds think alike! That's exactly what I ended up doing. The chemicals were pretty potent but the laundry detergent and baking soda helped quite a lot after 3 - 4 washes per blanket. Thanks!
Thank you for the great videos. Would the sE Electronics sE8 microphone (pencil, cardioid) be a candidate for indoor dialogue? It is claimed to have low noise and be very neutral. I just have not seen it suggested for this purpose.
I would think so, as long as it is boomed close to the talent, within 30cm or so.
@@curtisjudd Thank you so much.
Great comparison! I was impressed with the Samson for its price.
+MyPlaceOnYT Thanks! Yes, the Samson is impressive for its price.
Curtis, could you make some sound samples that have kids and a tv blaring in the same or adjacent room? I'm looking for a live streaming talking head setup in a noisy room and i need to test which one isolates the source best from off-screen.
Yes. As I do new microphone tests, where appropriate, I will test them in noisier spaces in addition to the regular tests.
Have you looked into RTX Voice? It cuts out almost all background noise though it does sound a bit like you are talking with a mouth full of cotton balls.
@@curtisjudd i've heard of it, and i imagine it's great for mics that are right up on the source. I suppose i could see how well it does for mics that aren't 1-3 inches from the source but i don't think it was made for off-screen mics like that and i have my doubts. besides, my current mic is just a USB $20 headset so I want something that can give me better audio anyway.
I mean this with respect: I think what you are trying to achieve is impossible with current technology. Having a hidden/off-screen microphone with blaring TV and screaming children in the same room is simply not going to sound like a studio recording.
Great job Curtis! I'm a new subscriber today!!!
I'm using a Logitech C920 webcam for video tutorial recordings. The audio isn't that great. I'm thinking of using a Polsen OLM-10 lav mic that I have for better audio. Obviously I'm on a budget, but you've peaked my interest big time on the Samson 2pack.
How do you think the Samson would compare to my Polsen wired lav mic? Help.
BTW, B&H had the Samson CO2 listed as Cardioid Polar Pattern, not Super Cardioid.
Hi James, good to meet you here. I haven't heard the Polsen before but most lavalier microphones sound different than boom mics because they are body worn. I'd start with the Polsen and see how it works. The CO2s are pretty mid-rangy sounding, not my favorite. But with some EQ, can sound OK. It also depends on the space in which you record. So before spending any money, I'd try out the lavalier.
@@curtisjudd Samson lists the mic pattern pickup as cardioid not super cardioid. Your video says it's super cardioid.
@@jamestheradioman Strangely, the icon they show on the mic looks closer to super-cardioid, but remember that this is a spectrum so it is probably somewhere between the two.
Thank you, Curtis! A quick question - for doing a single person indoor sit-down interview with an overhead boom stand, would a hyper-cardioid like the Audio Technica AT4053b be suitable for a subject who moves, shifts, leans forward, etc during the interview or would the wider field of a super-cardioid or cardioid be more worry free? I don't want to be continually adjusting my interviewee. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Yes, a microphone with a wider polar pattern would make that easier. Just note that it may also pick up a bit more ambient noise with that wider polar pattern, so it is a tradeoff.
Have ever think to test Sennheiser e614 and comparing with the audio Technica
Yes, it is on my bucket list. 😀
Curtis Judd whoosah. Can't wait
Hi Cutis, I guess by indoor dialogue you would be typically thinking boomed dialogue for a film/video so would you differentiate dialogue from say somebody speaking on a conference panel with a table top mic to this or would you treat them the same in terms of which mic you would choose? Andy
Hi Andy, I'm coming at it from the perspective of a filmmaker, though some of this applies also to corporate and event work as well. For a panel discussion where you have a PA system, usually the front of house engineer ("sound guy") will use a dynamic microphone for each person. The reason for that is that dynamic microphones are easier to manage in terms of feedback when you have people speaking into them which are not necessarily experienced with microphone technique. Or they might use headset mics if the people move (e.g., TED talks use headset mics).
@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis, I was referring more to where there wasn't a PA or sound engineer but it sounds as though these would work well as tabletop mics for each speaker into a Tascam/Zoom. I've since watched a few more of your videos relating to this and have ordered some to try out. Thanks again.
Hello Curtis, since a week I am watching all the videos on your channel and I am very impressed. Thanks for all the tests and advices you give.
For me it is the beginning of the road to create my own channel, and I am in a faze of equipment completing. My biggest problem name is: how to choose the proper mic for my indoor dialogues (I call them rather „monologues” cause in most cases I will be the only person on the screen)? I have adapted one room in my house for a studio (about 20 sqm), so I expect many sound problems. If I had sufficient budget would buy AT4053b. But I do not have. I do not like too much Samson C02s. But I have no major objections to the Rode NT5. My voice is rather low and I thought that maybe the Rode "cheaper brother" M5 could be an enough good choice in such conditions and for the beginning (on a boom, half meter from my mounth etc.). What do you think about this idea?
Hi, yes that could be an ok choice if you have a good preamplifier behind it. The M5 is a touch noisier than the NT5 from reports I've seen (I haven't tested it personally), but that's still very good and at a good price with a good warranty. A good choice overall.
Thanks for the support. Undoubtedly, I will give them (M5 pair) a chance. Based on your recommendation next week I'm going to "hug" the Tascam DR-60D MK2. As for the noise, I expect that the M5s will be less noisier than C02s and ... again thanks to you ... I found an incredibly useful and effective tool. They call it AUPHONIC :)
+MODUS TAO yes, Auphonic is handy!
I now ended up with a Rode NTG1 to get more level out of my voice when the mic is about 40 cm away not on top but in front of me out of camara. I compared the noise levels in my quiet room by my mom and I cannot find any difference in the noise between 40db and 50db setting at my zoom F8. When I put both in audacity and normalise it to -3db, the noise is round about -45db to -48db.
But comparing the loudness to your samples here, that is too much to work at the -23db LFS or the like you mention as a standard.
As far as I see, the minimum noise level should be better if I reduce to a lower loudness.
But I cannot postprocess, because I am doing live streaming.
Can you help be, is the settings at the zoom at your samples at round about 40db short before 12 o'clock? When you normalize it, is there any loudness wverage level you can tell me to help comparing and set the gain staging at best?
I have at the end a Blackmagic Design Studio HD video switcher in my kitchen, thus I think I didn't get it much better either, but don't like to ruine it by a bad gain staging. My Zoom output (XLR) goes with -10db to an Art Tube TPS Valve preamplifier that is rather cheap, but I think it's level at 12 o'clock didn't introduce much more.
Comparing to your noise floor, I didn't expected the NTG1 is at -45 to -48db at -3db normalizing. Did you get similar noise floor and is my gain crap?
Thank you
It sounds like maybe you have some noise in your space. Are there fans, appliances, AC, or other sound sources? If so, it is a simple matter of deciding whether or not you can turn any of those off. Also, you can try moving the microphone closer. Try to get it 25-30cm from the mouth of the person speaking if possible.
Hi Curtis. I was wandering if ever tried the Oktava MK-012, I heard is a great mic for dialogues but I am scared to pull the plug.
Hi Aksel, I have heard a fair bit about it but have not personally used it because it is a little harder to come by in the US, but it is on my list of mics to try at some point. The tests I've heard sound really good and the main downside I've heard is that it is somewhat more susceptible to handling noise so hand booming this mic can be tricky and requires a very good shockmount. Thanks and best wishes!
Thank you very mucho for your fast response!!
By the way, I'm interested in a review of the Saramonic VmicLink5 5.8GHz Wireless System...
Me too! I had a pre-production kit but there were some issues and Saramonic is working to address them now.
I hear a slight hiss from the Samson C02, anyone else hearing this as well? I suppose if some post-processing isn't out of the question, the Samson is good enough such that the high-frequency hiss can be removed in RX. Still a concerning artifact however.
Definitely there, yes. This is a super budget microphone and it gets budget results. But if you're on a tight budget, it can work if you can live with or post process out a bit of that noise.
I have a problem I have a lot of reverberation on the interior decor!!
Hang blankets to mellow out the reverb.
Hi Curtis,
great video as usual!
Btw, what is that plastic thing covering XLR connector on the boom pole?
Thanks!
Hi Zbilja, thanks. That is just some nylon netting so that when you disconnect the XLR, it doesn't damage the carbon fiber pole if it swings and hits it.
Did you create the netting or buy them, if you bought them where from?
It came with the boom pole. Unfortunately, I haven't seen them for sale anywhere.
Thank you for these videos. Really informative. I know this one is 3 years old but wondering if you have tried the Behringer C2's. For $53, you get a pair, hard case, stereo stand. They even have a pad AND high pass switch. Such a great deal. Curious about how hot they are and their self noise.
Hi BMS, have heard of it but haven't tried it. Does it have a Supercardioid polar pattern?
If you have to buy 20 microphones they would be good for the price but generally they arent well enough to consider using them. They sound very tinny and have too much noise. A Behringer B5 though would be one of the cheaper microphones that can capture somewhat accurately.
Hey, Judd, another great video! I'm right now watching tons of reviews from your channel, pleased with all tips and details.
Right now I'm looking for some versatile boom mic to professional/prosumer level at the range of 300 US dollars. Beyond that I'll need to invest in the pole, some nice windscreen and shockmouth and maybe the Zoom H6 or the F3 recorders (I own the H4n and the DR100mkII).
I'd like to ask if you have any 2022 boom mics review for that case.
I am at this very moment, by yours recommendations, deciding between the Azden SGM-250, the Sony ECM-674, and the Sennheiser MKE 600 ones, but the NTG4 for its price range kind of interest me (not for anything else). The cheaper the better, cause I really have some more itens in the list...
PS: I have to admit my favorite one was the NTG5, but U$499 I really do not have to spend.
Of those, I’d probably choose the Sennheiser.
@@curtisjudd could I ask you what would be your second choice?
@@NasnuvenPaulo My second choice would be to save up more money and buy something like a DEITY S-Mic 2. Or if saving more isn't an option, I'd look at the Audio Technica AT875R: ruclips.net/video/8NknNRy2uXQ/видео.html
Curtis, any plans on making a video on boom mic stand set up’s?
Hi Samuel, yes, it is on my list but the challenge is that there are affordable mic stands which work great for seated interviews, but then the next step up is very expensive...Are you looking for affordable or more pro-level boom setups?
Curtis Judd personally, I would like to see something somewhere in the middle, if possible. I saw your inexpensive mic stand video but I wasn’t clear what the pros and cons are if I purchased that stand (mind you, I’m looking to hook up a either a NTG 2 or 3 to a Zoom H4n)...so I want to get something a bit sturdy but not overly expensive. I hope this helps.
@@SamuelRiveraFilms The $25 stand is fine for shotgun mics like the NTG2 or NTG3, assuming you do NOT mount the recorder out at the end of the boom. Presumably you'll have a cable between the microphone and the recorder and will have the recorder mounted on the camera rig or even on a table. If that's the case, that $25 stand does a fine job and is plenty sturdy.
If you're planning to mount the recorder on the stand, there is this option which is less expensive than a carbon fiber boom pole on a century stand (which is what I usually use): ruclips.net/video/r484j2aD1aE/видео.html
Curtis Judd Curtis, thanks so much! Quick question regarding the $25 stand. Do you think i would be able to mount the recorder toward the base without it falling over?
@@SamuelRiveraFilms Oh yes, shouldn't be a problem at all to mount the recorder on the vertical part of the stand. Also, you can make the stand even more stable by placing a saddle sand bag on the legs of the stand - the type of sand bags used for light stands: amzn.to/2FofWrO
Great video. Thanks! Any suggestions for affordable boom mic stands?
If booming for a seated interview/talking head, the on-stage stands have worked well for me: bhpho.to/2Zne8H5
I'm sorry Curtis. I have one question. I am working as a teacher, having online classes but my frontyard has 3 dogs who are barking all the time. I would like to buy a boom microphone but not sure which one to get. I want a best balance between good sound and noise rejection. Would OKTAVA or NT5 do the job? Or would you recommend something else.
Thanks man for your content.
A boom mic may not be the best choice if you need sound rejection/isolation. In that case, close miking with a broadcast dynamic microphone like a SHURE SM58 or SM7B or something similar will work better in terms of rejecting noise.
Even happier that I went with the AT4053b;) Nice comparisons.
+Ray Ortega Me, too! Thanks Ray.
Thank you for your comparison. I have the Røde NT5, it's connected to the Rødecaster Pro and I use it in a well treated room. BUT I get so much echo in my recording, that I don't want to use this mic. Do you have a tipp for me, what could I do wrong?
How far do you have it positioned from your mouth? How is the room treated? When you clap in the room, do you hear any reverb?
@@curtisjudd Thanks for your reply. It's 50cm from my mouth pointing to it. The room is very well treated, I hear no reverb when clapping. It's the room where I record my Podcasts, mainly with a Røde Procaster. The dip in quality from the Procaster to the NT5 is still very significant.
@@dajok A boom microphone will always sound less like a broadcast microphone that is much closer to your mouth so this sounds about right. Of course I'd need to hear samples of each to comment on whether there are any potential things you could do to optimize the sound of the boom mic.
@@curtisjudd I understand, it's very difficult to give advice on an audio problem, without hearing the problem. I have to dive a little deeper into this mic, then I'm sure I will get it under control.
Thank you for your responds! That's very kind of you.
I have a pair of c02 samson mics, would it be terrible to record audio for short films outdoors?
P. D. Thanks for all your great videos.
No, it would NOT be terrible. :) You will probably need some wind protection for them, however. The foam windscreen often is not enough.
Curtis, right now I am booming a Rode Video Mic Pro+ in my quiet youtube studio and am picking up a lot of noise from my Yongnuo YN-600 LED light's fan. The light is about 10 feet behind the mic and to its left, but the noise is pretty severe. Soon I will be replacing the light's fan with a quieter one, but I want to do even better than that.
My question for you: would switching from my Rode shotgun mic to a hypercardioid mic like the Audio Technica AT4053b help reduce that fan noise?
I'm a huge fan. Thanks for the wonderful education so far.
Hi Ronald, it might help a tiny bit, but likely not a huge difference. I find mic position to have more of an effect in cases like this.
Curtis, thank you, I'll do some experimenting with mic position. You da man!
Curtis, while we are on the subject, may I ask one more question? I just finished replacing the fan on my Yongnuo YN600 and the fan noise is significantly reduced. But it is definitely not perfect. Probably 80% better.
My question: fan noise coming from lights-is this something that can be cleaned up easily in post? I must admit I have not yet messed around in Adobe Audition yet so I am totally ignorant with regards to audio post editing. But in general, is fan noise from lights something which it is standard operating procedure to edit out, or is it best practice to find a key light that is dead silent?
My understanding is that even high-end lights like the Aputure COB 120d (which you like) have fans.
Hi Ronald, That depends. I use lights with fans like the C120 but I do not do any noise reduction in post. There are a few factors: 1) the C120's fans are rather quiet, they were specially designed to spin at lower RPMs so very little of the sound makes it into the recording. The fan noise is there, but it sits well below the dialogue, somewhere around -70dB and 2) Noise reduction, even in the high-end pro apps like Izotope RX are always a tradeoff. You can reduce noise effectively with them but you trade that for artifacts. So I usually just reserve that for very noisy recordings. 3) Microphone position is critically important. I boom from above with the mic aimed down at about a 45 degree angle and then adjust it from there to use the mic's polar pattern to reject as much of the fan noise as possible. Best to put on a set of headphones and adjust the mic's position until you hear as little of the fan as possible.
More professional microphones and recorders made a difference as well because they typically record a wider dynamic range. But I'd get numbers 1 & 3 above sorted out first. I hope that makes sense. Best wishes!
Thank you for taking the time to offer such a thorough reply. I will begin experimenting with mic position right away. My c-stand > boom arm > ball head > rode videomic pro+ setup affords me a great deal of flexibility.
Curtis, I think your channel and the way you interact with us via comments really is RUclips and the internet age in general at its absolute finest. Thanks.
Hey Curtis, thanks for another helpful video. I have a Rode NTG3 and I'm wondering if you think getting the Samson C02 would be a good option for indoor audio instead of the NTG3, or since they're both super cardioid, it'd be redundant and the Rode would most likely perform similarly or better.
Hi Andrew, only if you’re running into situations where that NTG3 is running into phase issues - often a strange warbling sort of sound. The C02 sounds quite a lot different than the NTG3 as well, so it doesn’t cut especially well with the very warm sounding NTG3. Happy recording!
Nice comparison. Th Samson C02 lacks some low frequencies which would make it better for me, but its not bad sounding. The Audix sounds to my ear, is a little similar to the Samson, but better in the low and higher frequencies. I like the sort of like the sound of the Audio Technica AT4053b as it doesn't sound like it has a lot of higher frequencies like some of the other mics you reviewed has, but it sounds a bit muddy and muffled to me without EQ. I am not a huge fan of Rode mics like the NT5 as many to my ear tend to sound a little on the bright side, with the exception of some of their more recent mics from 2014 onward, the NT1, NT1 USB and Stereo Video Mic X which I do quite like.
+DynamixWarePro Thanks for the insights! I agree on RODE, though their NTG3 has been out for a while and sounds quite good to my ear. Thanks for your thoughts!
+Micheal Pacitto Ideally, that would be the best strategy.
Hi Curtis, great comparison! Honestly, they sound pretty close to me. The AKG sounded sweetest, somehow. Have one question, I picked up a Deity S-Mic 2 recently. Do you think it is a decent mic for indoor work as well, or should I invest in one of these from the comparison (I do narrative work, Short films, web serieses etc primarily). I'm kinda leaning towards grabbing one of the Samsons, honestly. Just wanted your advice
If you're getting good results with the S-Mic 2, I'd stick with that. If you're recording in very reverberant rooms quite often, then one of these make sense. I'd let your ears decide. :)
Many thanks for sharing Curtis, and for your recommendations. I know that you can't review all, but what do you think of Sennheiser microphones? Have you ever used any for dialogue recording?
+microbroadcast I very much like the Sennheiser microphones that I have used so far, in particular, the MKH50 and the MKE2 lavalier. They're a little on the bright side for some voices but the quality is always top notch and the MKH50 in particular is used in a ton of larger budget film and TV shows.
We had a look at the MKH50 here: ruclips.net/video/JXTpL4Ovr2I/видео.html
And the AVX with MKE2 lavalier here: ruclips.net/video/U9RjMXtmVLc/видео.html
How about dpa 4017C or 4017B? This mic has two version I don't know why but it's litle bit expensive because of some reasons?
The DPA 4017B is a beautiful microphone in a lot of ways - small, light, sounds very nice, reliable, interchangeable preamps, in-built hp and high frequency boost switches. It is now my primary shotgun microphone. It also handles transients more gracefully than most entry level shotgun microphones.
Great comparison! I am considering buying the AT 4054b but I am in doubt if I should also consider the Neumann KM 185 as an alternative. What are Your thoughts?
I would also consider the Neumann but the polar patterns are, of course, somewhat different between the two.
Thanks! I have a "difficult" room with too much echo / reverb. Do You know which of the two will pick up the least "room"?
consider purchasing a "shotgun mic" like the Senheiser MKH 416. This also happens the be the industry standard boom mic. The Neumann will be much less forgiving of poor acoustics and off axis sound.
Hello thank you for your attention , but in your opinion which the directional microphone would be more versatile in outdoor and indoor scenes recordings ? would be rotate NTG3 , ME66 or what ? leading low production budget at the right time ... hug
+Johnny Beckhann Hey Johnny, I'd go with the NTG3.
Thanks so much for this video man.
👍
Where or how do the mics get their phantom power? Could an inexpensive interface provide the power or does one need a more expensive mic pre amp recorder type device?
Most audio interfaces and field recorders supply 48V phantom power.
Based off of what I hear in this video, The Rode NT5 seems to be the most crisp, and sounds the best. The Audix SCX1 and The AT 4053b sound kind of muffled in comparison. I always read online that the Audix and the AT are considered way better for indoor film dialog. Why is this? Is more muffled dialog sound the way hollywood films do it, and I just don't notice?
Hi Mike, hearing is very personal and everyone's preferences are different. It's totally fine that you prefer the NT5. Also, this sample here was only with my voice and each voice sounds best with different microphones. I suspect that the film mixers, who record on a daily basis for their work, generally find the others to work well with the largest sampling of voices. But that's just a guess. Happy recording!
hey curtis,
thank you for the review although this was long ago, i made the mistake of buying the deity s mic 2 for indoor interviews/testimonials. it sounds so echoy and the noise floor After post production was -40 db, i had to do noise reduction at 50 percent to make it somewhat good
have there been any new low budget hypercardioids since this video that youd recommend?
Thanks curits
Hi LT productions, thanks. It is ok to use shotgun microphones indoors if you aim them precisely and manage reverb and ambient noise. I think the more important thing is to get some sound blankets to manage that reverb/echo and manage as much of the ambient noise as possible. Best wishes!
@@curtisjudd great advice curtis, thanks man
Hey guys, Is there a reason why Curtis was using the ZOOM unit to measure the noise floor as oppose to using the Sound Devices one? Also, can noise floor be measured in real-time? I'm completely new to this and am trying my level best to understand "how to do it right". Thanks for any help you may send my way.
Probably because Zoom F8 has 8 XLR inputs, so could record all of the mics simultaneously to make sure they're comparing recording of the same background noise
I really like your mic reviews. As I am considering getting a dedicated indoor dialogue mic I have been watching your videos over and over in the last couple of days ;)
It would have been really nice though if you would have tested them as well in a room which is not sound treated because in your room the mics all do sound decent.
I also own the Nt5 and an SMic2 and tested them against a cheap Akg C1000S (hypercardioid) in an untreated room with tiles on the floor and although the general quality of the akg is way beyond the other two mics, the unprocessed audio of that mic was clearly better in terms of voice to ambience ratio. The difference between the cardioid supercardioid and hypercardioid mics is barely noticable in rooms with controlled ambience and non reflective surface
Thanks. I’ve started doing that in the newer mic reviews. Best wishes on your search!
@@curtisjudd I have settled on the Audix SCX1 and am very happy with it. Thanks again for your review!
@@Awrange Congratulations and happy recording!
This is a bit outside the review. But I have been looking for a shotgun mic. What would be the best (at a reasonable price) shotgun (or other type) microphone to record an audience, primarily singing. Thanks
I should add I'd like an XLR out and it work off of phantom power. I have no interest in having to deal with batteries. The mixer can supply +48v just fine.
Thinking of a pair of Audio-Technica AT897. Thanks again.
Hi Glynne, shotgun mics are not usually the best choice for indoor recordings, particularly in reverberant spaces. Nevertheless, here's a comparison of 5 shotgun microphones with which I am personally familiar (I haven't used the AT897 but have heard good things about it): ruclips.net/video/veD8BVXV3Ls/видео.html
Hey Curtis, love your reviews. What are your thoughts on the MKH 50?
Love it. We did a review of it back in 2015. A search for MKH50 Curtis Judd should pull it up.
I like the Rode NT5..I listen to your test with headphones... It sounds "fuller" to me.
+Superfoot Great! Good choice.
Would love to see the NGT4+ thrown in here !
Oh, the shotgun microphones are over here: ruclips.net/video/veD8BVXV3Ls/видео.html
And pro-level super and hyper cardioid mics (non-shotgun) are here: ruclips.net/video/RYWD5wI6B9k/видео.html