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Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone, With Built-In Headphone Jack & Volume Control, Perfect for Content Creators (Black)?
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Audio Technica AT2020USB+
It's on sale on Amazon atm for $120, so you could throw in something extra like a pop filter for example and still be in your budget.
That is a great USB mic. I've used it for professional work. Worth the 150. Much better than any other options in a similar price range.
Also, I am seeing it at Amazon for 130. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_X1GRQ52TFMFF7S2NZ3PH You can use the difference to buy a pizza.
That is a great USB mic. I've used it for professional work. Worth the 150. Much better than any other options in a similar price range.
Also, I am seeing it at Amazon for 130. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_X1GRQ52TFMFF7S2NZ3PH You can use the difference to buy a pizza.
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM
I would prefer to recommend the XLR version but without having an interface already it would be over budget.
And leaves some room for a nice stand and pop filter
Also this is the microphone I used: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=sr_1_7?crid=39EV58L24QP2X&dchild=1&keywords=audiotechnica+at2020+usb&qid=1630786954&sprefix=audiote%2Caps%2C229&sr=8-7
You can stand it up out of the frame and it makes your voice an incredible amount clearer. Plus no static or background noise. It’s pricier, but I also do some music stuff so it was worth it for me to have. Then just threw in an AirPod to hear, and my whole set up was super clean and smooth. Worked perfectly.
are you saying you plugged headphones directly into a USB microphone?
How is that possible?
Does the AT2020 have a 3.5mm headphone output?
edit to add:
Dang! it does!
AT2020
ok, you will also need an interface (can't plug an XLR into your computer)
and an xlr cable.
and a mic stand.
they do actually make a USB version of the at2020... which would be cheaper as a starting point, but would limit what you can do in the future since you wouldn't be able to use the mic in other settings.
for example, if you got this: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM
you would be good to go immediately and not need extra stuff.... but you wouldn't be able to use that mic in non-computer settings, or swap in a different mic like you would if you had a stand alone interface.
This is the one I use Audio Technica AT2020USB I use it with a scissor boom
You actually can just plug it into your computer, it's a USB mic.
It does have a mini stand, that you put on your desk.
Edit: Wait, I was wrong, here is a link to the same headphones with a USB interface and stand for $150.
My setup is mostly for movies/TV, gaming and discord.
Would SMSL SA50 (or would the Micca Origen+ be better?) + ELAC B5 be good for a desk setup?
I already own this microphone, is that something I should incorporate into my decision?
I plan on getting a sub down the line, should I consider this in my amp choice?
Should I bother getting a sound card for my computer if I have an amp? If not, would usb or 3.5mm to RCA better sound quality? If so, does the sound card in particular matter?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
No. It's a cheap large diaphragm condenser. If you're serious about decent audio for a podcast or whatever and don't want to deal with anything other than a USB cable, skip it and get an AT-2020 USB.
The primary reason people think it sounds good is because they've never heard their voice through anything better.
Regardless of price, what is better? This or Audio-Technica AT2020 USB plus?
As I just mentioned above, how about the Audio-Technica AT2020?
Nope, no stand. You'll need the stand and an XLR. If you're looking for a USB version of the AT2020, I think that one comes with a stand.
FYI OP: the frequency response and signal to noise ratio are virtually identical for these two mics. the AT2035 includes a switchable -10db pad, a switchable low-end roll off, and it comes with a shock mount.
those extra feature may make it worth $50 more for some people, but not everyone. the choice is yours.
one of these two mics is absolutely your best choice for a budget vocal mic, though.
(also, we're assuming you have an interface or mic preamp and you're not trying to plug directly into your computer. if you DON't have these things, then you will need to get a USB mic, not an XLR mic. luckly, audio-technica also makes a AT2020USB)
Yeah I have a pop filter, and I'm lining my closet with thick blankets on the walls to try to soundproof it a little for better acoustics. What does an interface even do? How would a USB one like this sound?
Also, you might look into the Audio Technica AT2020 Plus if you're doing this often - it will give you some more monitoring options so you can mix the Skype audio from other people AND hear yourself so you can make sure that your side of the audio is good.
When you are not listening on headphones to your own mic, often times you can miss external noise that is being picked up (maybe a dog barking in the background or the A/C kicking on in your house).
There ARE better microphones, but I think this strikes a good balance between convenience and price for you. I can easily spend $1,000 on a setup for you! Ha.
That's one thing I didnt mention. It's just my basement and I wont be glueing egg cartons to any of the walls :P There's plenty of rooms I can test out the acoustics in, but not something I'll base my decision on when choosing the mic.
I love the potential upgrading, thnx for the heads up on that. but on second thought, separate interface? pre-amp? just my lack of knowledge in this field is pushing me to go with the AT2020USB and get a pop filter separate. Also, its 41% off! that seems like a good deal.
The filter doesnt look like itll attach to the mic or stand anywhere. could be wrong tho. Do i have to anchor the filter on something other than the mic setup?
I may take you up on that, I ALWAYS run into problems/questions. If you know anything about lighting, thats where I'm at now (purchasing a green scree soon) but atm, I have this lamp that I shine in my face, which is decent/better on camera, but burns my peepers! any tips on illuminating my face without going blind?
EDIT: also, there sometimes backround noise. Mostly just some humming from machines. That should be easily fixed right?
You definitely want a condenser mic like repelican said. this is an example of a solution that might work well for you.
Right now I'm using a G430... Now you can tell why I want to upgrade my audio... Are you using the 598's with onboard audio or a sound card?
What USB mic would you recommend? What about the AT 2020 USB?
hehe i know the feeling :) its also got a built in pop filter. (pop filters takes away the plosives and makes it sound generally better) if you want a bit cheaper bundle herehttp://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM?psc=1 not saying this one is worse but its a bit more budget oriented, my friend has this and swears by it. sorry i don't have any personal experience with this one but it looks great. i would get the bundle on that page if i was just starting out and i was on a budget :)
THIS TUESDAY IS THE DAY I GET NEW INTERNET!!! I'm probably going to celebrate by streaming something...probably Destiny...maybe CoD.
I now have a sweet-ass microphone for my streaming setup. Even if my stream fails, I can use it on the PS4 (cuz plug and play rocks!) and I can jimmy rig something for the xbox one if I want to use it there.
I'm still in the process of trying to get a management job with my work...they're taking their sweet time lol
edit: I pre-ordered The Taken King PS4 and the Halo 5 Xbox One. Can't wait to see them in person!!
Oh, and I decided to practice and tryout for the PS4 side for BO3 this fall.
Edit again: I'm meeting some friends to watch the Spurs v ManU match tomorrow morning at a pub. Going to be fun! That is, if I can wake up for it (645 am).
I think the AT2020 will be a good pick for what you want. It's a sensitive microphone, so it will pick up two people very easily at a reasonable distance, it's good quality and it fits within your price range. You could probably get it cheaper elsewhere too.
I'd say it really depends on your show. With mine, it's just me and a mic and then I record my guests with a skype recorder, so I can't control what they're using for a mic anyway. I use an Audio Technica 2020USB+ and I absolutely love it. It's literally all I'm going to need for awhile. Any upgrading I want to do will simply be preferential on my part.
BUT, if you're doing a show with multiple hosts in the same room, /u/dbspin is right: get a decently priced mixer with the amount of channels you need and several ATR-2100's (which I used to have and is also very solid in quality).
As a standalone mic & headset for gaming I would personally go with:
- Mic - https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM (other good options are the Blue Yeti and Blue Snowball)
- Headphones - https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-RS-175-Wireless-Headphone/dp/B00SLUI5SA/ (many other good options out there, read the note below, but I recommend Audio-Technica, Beyerdynamic, Sony, etc. for headphones)
- Mic arm - https://www.amazon.com/InnoGear-Microphone-Suspension-Adjustable-Snowball/dp/B01L3LL95O/ (honestly really any, but you'll want something to get the mic closer to your mouth than it is to your keyboard)
- Bundle with everything - https://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-Acoustically-Headphones-Professional-Suspension/dp/B08WJH7N4T/ (note these are open-backed headphones meaning that sound is not contained to the earphones, other people will hear the games/music if they are nearby, and you will be able to hear the sounds going on around you, there are similar bundles with the Beyerdynamic closed-back headphones)
I personally am a Sennheiser fan, I think their headphones have great sound and are very comfortable for extended wear. They are very good for gaming, but not the best as they generally have a pretty even sound balance rather than the typical bass-heavy sound of gaming hardware. That said, if you listen to music as well, your ears will appreciate the clean mids & highs that Sennheiser usually has (other standard headphones like those by Audio-Technica, Beyerdynamic, etc. tend to have the same issue for games). To get the absolute best sound for gaming you would probably want to go with a gaming-focused headset such as those made by Razer, SteelSeries, Logitech, Corsair, etc.
I personally recommend a headset since the integrated mics usually do a good job of picking up just your voice and put the mic in the right place without extra equipment. I do games with a dedicated USB mic, but that's because I already have it set up and on an arm for my podcasting.
My personal recommendation for gaming would be:
This is it however it seems to have nearly doubled when I originally got it (nearly 2 years)
XLR is a type of audio plug I guess. It's mostly used in higher end microphones, and provides a lot more versatality and is more professional. USB is more for ease of use
Can never go wrong with the at2020
The AT2020 should come with a tiny little desk tripod, check the second picture. This one seems pretty expensive TBH, I think we got it from either a local shop or from these guys for just under 100 quid. It might have been on sale though, I'm surprised to see the price has gone up. I've found some slightly cheaper ones on ebay, but still around £110. Be careful you don't buy the XLR one that's listed on amazon for £85 instead of the USB one.
Here's the parts list. Every fan in the case (and CPU cooler) were replaced with 120/140mm Noctua Industrial fans. These things are awesome, hyper efficient, and can move a lot of air. They typically run under 1500RPM. The videocards are overclocked with MSI AB, +100 core and +400 mem, +120/90 on power and temp. The CPU is overclocked to just 4.375GHz.
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant
I picked up the Audio Technica AT2020+ USB microphone right now and it's pretty damn good for what I'm using it for. I got it for $148 on Amazon.
As i don't want to run XLR setup, would this AT2020USB+ at 130$ CAD be a better option than the q2u full price at 83$?
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&psc=1
It is an Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ and works well. I use it on a generic arm that allows me to push it out of the way when not in use. I use the 3.5mm out port for these cheap KZ AS10 IEMs because I hate wearing a headset.
If the slot was significantly bent then the slot's structure may be compromised but the photos look fine
There's a lot of decent quality desktop mics for cheap and better value
For a reputable brand at similar price there's the AT-2020 USB
Budget mics like Fifine and Neewer have whole kits with scissor stands, shock mounts, pop filter, foam caps for less than $30 total. 80% quality for 30% of the price. And for Discord calls and voice chat it's more than good enough; comes in USB and XLR flavors versions.
thx, what do you u think about this mic? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=ox_sc_act_image_1?smid=A2OH8CUXAUQ6XZ&psc=1
Thanks. I use OBS right now as I'm on PC, but I may start doing some other platforms like Switch as well, in which case I know the capture card I plan to use, but that is down the road.
Is this the mic you mentioned? https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM
Thanks for the advice about sticking to it for a while first, as that's what I've done at this stage, which is why I'm still using a relatively small budget. By any chance, could I dm yo my discord info, just to ask some follow-up questions? It'd be helpful just to share my screen while I talk through what I have so far. If not, totally fine, and thanks all the same!
Get this thing its Amazing!
- Amazon Audio-Technica AT2020USB PLUS http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZRTUZwDBKY
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant
Here’s everything. $1990 total. The headphones are open back and good for studio/ gaming. The mic is good for the price.
Honestly usb is most of the time good enough, for example the audio technica at2020 usb+ is a good mic.
But In my experience usb microphones create background noise but I also prefer having an interface
here is another xlr mic set
The mic should've come with a small mount, usually its a small metal threaded ring that screws onto the bottom of the mic -- you can see it here on the amazon listing https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM
It's the part that mounts it to the tripod legs.
If you've lost that part, do not despair. There are good, cheap options that are better than that little mount.
Hop back on amazon and search for "Universal Shock Mount" they squeeze around the mic and will mount to the scissor arm. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=universal+shock+mount just find one that is compatible with the diameter of your mic.
For whichever one you select, you may also need an adapter for the threads. Often scissor mounts are a different threading than mic stands. Once again, search amazon for "5/8-Inch Male to 3/8-Inch Female Microphone Screw Adapter" Some mounts will come with it, some wont.
Thanks for such a detailed explanation.
I've been using my iPhone to record videos. While getting studio-quality recordings sounds pretty awesome, I'm not sure if I want to deal with the perceived hassle of setting up multiple mics, having cables running everywhere, and etc. Furthermore, I don't think I'm good enough to warrant such a high-quality setup (lol).
I also am not crazy about the idea of having a big mic stand in my bedroom (where I play/record). Something that would take up a lot of space (or so I would think). I did some cursory searching on youtube and as I learned a little bit about dual mic configurations I was left with far more questions than I originally entered with.
I don't know. I could afford a couple mics, and an XLR to USB interface, and some kind of a mounting system. It's just kind of intimidating to me, and I'm not sure if it's currently worth all the effort given everything else.
For a bit of context, here's a video I shot with my iPhone. That video has the best audio I've ever captured with my iPhone. I know that's not saying much, but that's pretty good for my iPhone. So maybe the bar is pretty low, but I'm guessing I'd probably be thrilled with the quality from that audio technica USB mic that was recommended to me above.
What I'd really like is some kind of a simple solution. If I knew that I could set up a pair of mics easily and take it down just as easily, and maybe if I knew what the hell I was doing I wouldn't be so reluctant to try it. This appeals to me because it comes with a little tripod which I could sit on my desk, and that way I could use my webcam to record video (while that records audio). So I can be facing my desk to record, and it's relatively low profile and can be placed elsewhere without too much fuss when not in use.
Maybe a dual mic setup could be similarly convenient and low-profile; I don't know. What do you make of all this?
Best mic I've ever owned - AT2020USB. It's fairly small and you don't really need any other audio equipment when recording in your hotel/apartment.
Which one is it ? Audio Technica AT2020USB Plus Cardioid Large Diaphragm Condenser USB Mic https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7ObVCb1PH73BK
Or Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006H92QK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rPbVCbW0EFMGE
No mixer, just an AT2020 USB version.
Mic: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Arm: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00GLJDMPO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Mount: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00H40WUQG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Cant find the windscreen, but was just a generic one from amazon :)
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
It works great. I just don't need it anymore. It's very good for studio recording and podcasting. Compatible with windows and mac.
Here is the amazon listing for the microphone: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/
Here is the craigslist link: https://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/ele/d/audio-technica-at2020/6604492931.html
Sorry on mobile can't format
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_Nre3zb3H1DS09
If you want to record into your computer, this is a great option.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wwSTzb62FEYER
I also had the mod mic and was not liking the quality of it in the vids I did on twitch or YT. What I ended up going with is the AT2020 USB Plus so far I have been really happy with it. I did get an el cheapo arm do yourself the favor and get a better arm than the el cheapo it does the job but it sucks lol. The Rode PSA1 is the arm I would get (I do plan on it when funds come available).
1). Unfortunately, I don't know if I have the link to the original podcast anymore, since it was only done once before they went their separate ways. And in order to get all of my material from the school, I'd have to go through them for distribution, and I'm not sure how easily they'd allow that.
2). My available time each week is truly dependent on the week itself. I work a part time job which is not always consistent. Usually I work late afternoons Thursday-Sunday, but the rest of the days are truly just up to where I'm needed that specific day. However, I can always take a specific day off that everyone can be free on in order to ensure I am available consistently on that weekly basis. All I'd need to know is when everyone else is free.
3). When I worked on my radio show back at the school, it was a live two-hour format with a break every twelve minutes. Often times, we would take a few things throughout the week, from general entertainment news, and compile everything together the day of before the show. Not all of the show was improved by any means, but being in a live format where there are no edits definitely makes you think about what you can say and how long you can do so.
With that being said, I do edit, both videos and audio, and I'm actually working on an audio drama in my spare time from time to time (fun fact). So, I can edit and distribute with ease for sure, that's not a problem. And as stated before, I was the main lead co-host on my show, so I have no worries being heard in a hosting format. And obviously gathering content and the like go hand in hand with everything I've already said.
4). Excuse me if I'm sounding silly here, but I'm not exactly sure what you mean, but I have been up all night dealing with some family emergencies. What it appears to be is you asking me if I'd like to be on an already existing show as a "field expert" on a specific topic. In which case, absolutely. As I said, I'm not souly looking to start my own podcast from the ground up. If someone comes along and asks to take me under their wing, I'd be very interested in doing so. And of course, guests often turn into regular occurrences, so I have no quarrels with that.
5). Yes, I do. The microphone of choice I have is a Blue Yeti, which I know may be a major turn off for many people, but it's always done me well. Obviously with any mic, the environment is important, and the only main thing that hinders my sound quality is my graphics card's fan, which when in intensive use can get loud, but can easily be edited out with some simple editing in Adobe Audition, which is what I personally use for my audio editing. Otherwise, I am not set up in a sound stage or anything, but I find that my audio quality is rarely irreversible, and as long as my graphics card isn't in intense use, it shouldn't be a problem at all.
With that being said, I am considering getting this soon, but the main problem is having the money to spend on that when I'm going on vacation with my family for a week in just a few days. With that next paycheck being a little light, it may have to wait for a month or so. But it is a future investment I do have on my mind.
6). I kind of already touched on this earlier, but I mainly work weekends in the afternoon (4-10 PM Central Time), and the rest of the week is really dependent on the day, but it tends to be about the same. As previously noted, I will be going on a vacation in the next few days, which means I won't really have my recording equipment to do any recordings, obviously. However, I will remain active in whatever forum used to communicate (Personally, I find Discord to be a good communication device, if only for text). And as also previously noted, once I know everyone's availability, I can work around it with my work schedule with relative ease.
Thanks for asking these questions. I try not to shove every detail of information into my post at once, and overwhelm any onlookers. So it's good to know that there is some interest in the post.
I definitely agree with you on game selection. I see so many people in a YouTube Gamers Facebook group covering the same games as PewDiePie, JackSepticEye, Markiplier and wondering why they don't grow at all.
I do think that it's fine to make videos on a game if you're new if you have a niche. For example, the PC version of NieR: Automata has a lot of issues, and there are plenty of user mods to alleviate those issues (by using the FAR mod, among other tools). Not many people have video tutorials on those (and none at the time I made the video, I think), so I made some tutorials on those.But that requires some research and knowhow on the game you're covering.
Between three of the videos, I have something like 7.5k views, which is not bad for a fledgling channel like mine (and I didn't really promote the videos on social media).
The AT 2020 is something you might want to link to in your article. I'm happy with my Blue Yeti, but I've heard people prefer the AT 2020.
I'd throw a shoutout for Hitfilm 4 Express as a great free video editing tool. It does pretty much everything you need to out of the box, for no cost, and you can buy reasonably priced upgrade kits to get fancier effects (I think the starter pack is worth the 10 bucks, but I didn't need it).
It doesn't seem to support MP4s with multiple audio tracks (only selects the first one), but if you're using audacity to record your mic, this isn't too much of an issue.
As for scheduling, really good information there. I actually didn't know that information about alerts.
I'd say game specific sub-reddits are fantastic for views. I do a lot of Warframe stuff, and if one of my videos gets popular there, I can easily see 10x the views on a video.
But yeah, great article as a whole and a good intro for newbies.
Check out either of these https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-PLUS-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM or https://www.amazon.com/AKG-PERCEPTION-Professional-Instrumental-Microphone/dp/B00167QUWI
Small diaphragm mics placed near the soundhole will help reduce ambient and background noise so the focus is more on what is coming straight out of the hole. I personally prefer pencil style mics for this. and fyi I play black metal so really the only acoustic stuff I do is for short little intro's and interludes so I'm not exactly and "expert" but that's my two cents
Edit: I also own a blue yeti for PC gaming and I sometimes use it to do awful clippy distorted vocals, and like others said it's good for scratching together ideas, but not "studio" "recording" quality
Well the AT2020 comes in a USB version, which will do you just fine. No need to go XLR with it unless you want to spend more money or have loftier plans. Here's a link for the USB one.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/
If you feel compelled to use XLR, I recommend this. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E6T56EA/
You want the right tool for the right job. The purpose of a LAV mic is to get audio when a mic is preferred to not be seen or when you really have no way to follow the talent around with a boom (for example, I use a LAV for anything Virtual Reality). The audio quality will never match a mic that has a larger condenser.
As you mentioned it's more about quality and ease of use, I would highly recommend the Audio-Technica AT2020USB (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/). It has a wide frontal pickup pattern and is USB. I set this up for a fellow streamer and it allowed her to put the mic next to her monitor (out of camera view) and listen to music over speakers (she refused to wear headphones). The stand that it comes with can be dodgy and I would recommend some type of mic stand that has a shock mount to prevent desk/keyboard vibrations being picked up. This will also allow more freedom of movement without mic rustling on clothing unless you are really going to take the time to setup your LAV correctly before each broadcast (cable loop and undercover please (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TGNHBA/)).
If you decide that having a LAV is what you would like to do, there are two sure fire options. The Sennheiser G3 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CWQTXG/) and the RodeLink (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TV90DX0/). If money is no problem, you can never go wrong with Lectrosonics (http://www.lectrosonics.com/US/Wireless-IFB/category/22-wireless-ifb.html).
As far as the audio logistics, you will have the receiver audio out cable go into the mic audio in on the computer. That's if you dont have a mixer or anything like that. The wireless pack will have a dedicated mute switch in the event you need to cough or go to the restroom.
Also to note, wireless packs will chew through batteries and it's always a good idea to replace them when the pack reads one bar for the battery. Last thing you want is a dead mic mid broadcast and you have to scramble for batteries.
Response got long winded. TLDR I'm using this now which was the solution for me: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-PLUS-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1474319029&sr=1-1&keywords=at2020+usb+plus
My solution was a different microphone. Unfortunately I suspect it won't be the solution in your case. I was using this AKG Pro Audio P3S Dynamic Microphone. After some research I came to the conclusion that Dynamic Microphones aren't really great for recording vocals. At least compared to other types such as Condenser Microphones.
Anyway, before getting my new microphone I tried a cheap Logitech desktop Mic I had in storage (I have no idea why its $40, I got it for ~$8). This was better than the Dynamic Mic but not by much.
So I decided to get a new microphone. I wanted something nice so I started researching condenser microphones. The small issue with them is they usually need a preamp of some kind, as far as I could tell anyway. Good preamps can be $100 bucks and I'm not one to cheap out on hardware so I wasn't going to get a low end one.
Instead I decided on the Audio Technica AT2020 USB Plus. This way the preamp is built into the microphone and everything is converted to digital at the microphone instead of inside the computer, which avoids any interference. This solved my problem with people hearing me in discord.
I would steer away from the cheap/gaming audio gear if he's doing video editing. If he doesn't have headphones already, then my pick would be something like a Sennheiser 518 ($80) and an AT2020USB ($130) for dubbing. If he just needs a VoIP microphone then something like the Zalman ZM-Mic1 ($6) is fine.
Mic, DAC, Amp and headphones.
Thoughts?
This is what i use personally and couldnt be happier:
Audio Technica AT2020+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
AudioTechnica M50X Professional Monitor Headphones + Slapya Headphone Case
Neewer Scissor Boom
I've got an amazing home microphone I use for voice recording. Pretty affordable for the quality.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB PLUS Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_s5ZUxbX6G390A
My latest sketch https://imgur.com/NllmZWs
Well you could always just use your headset and a standalone mic. I can't think of any streamer who uses a standalone mic and speakers because the issue of feedback is kinda hard to solve. If you are set on using a standalone mic and speakers then your best bet is to get a cardioid microphone. These types of mics are designed to only pick up nearby sounds from a certain angle so you could possibly avoid feedback with one. Some good cardioid mics are the AT2020 and the Blue Yeti
You can try just using your hand to redirect the sound waves from your mouth towards your ear, or you can try just closing one ear with a finger or hand. Sometimes you see people do it when they are doing licks or runs for pitch precision.
In terms of equipment, yes this is why musicians in studios wear headphones while singing. They can hear the background music and monitor their vocals as they are being recorded.
Equipment:
Audio-Technica AT2020USB PLUS Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
Rode NT-USB USB Condenser Microphone
One of those USB microphones with built in headphone monitors should work for you. The Rode has better sound quality and comes with a pop filter. The Audio Technica is cheaper, comes with no pop filter, and is slightly bassy sounding. You will probably want a microphone stand and a decent pair of headphones as well.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
These headphones are really nice and neutral sounding. Close-eared for good recording. The more expensive m50x actually are less neutral and will give a little bit of bass coloring to music.
Edit: If you start doing regular covers this will work well for that as well. You can download the audio files from youtube karaoke videos and then play them using Audacity as you record and monitor your vocals. Audacity is a free recording program that lets you also edit all your tracks. If you play instruments these microphones will do fine with those as well, but you'll have to be careful about placement and room reflections/modes/background noise etc.
Okay so if I went with this bundle you think I'd be good to go? http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM?keywords=at2020&qid=1455618095&ref_=sr_1_2&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-2
What the heck is that M-Track thing? Can I use this USB mic and skip the interface?
As long as they're clear and stereo you're fine, I currently have a gaming headset that I bought when I was a bit less educated in audio. I use stereo on them even though they have surround sound because it's muddy and easier to hear where people are on clear stereo. The mic is mediocre as well so I've put together what I'm currently saving money to get after quite a bit of research.
Microphone: AT2020+
Headphones: ATH-M50x
Some other options:
USB Direct
USB Headset
USB via separate pre-amp
- Audio-Technica AT2020 Condenser Microphone
- Audio-Technica AT2035 Condenser Microphone
- Audio-Technica AT2050 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
- Rode NTG2 Condenser Shotgun Microphone
- Rode NT1 Condenser Microphone
...or, if you just need the very best, there is always the
Suggested USB pre-amps:
I have the PLUS version of this MIC, its AMAZING!
Studio Quality XD
Not an expert on this topic, but I think the AT2020USB Plus model was made to address this very issue. Maybe sell your non-plus model and go for the upgrade?
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-PLUS-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM/
I originally bought a Blue Snowball and it seemed okay enough for solo recording at the time, but I eventually had to upgrade to a Audio Technica 2020USB Plus which not only picks up multiple people remarkably well but is just so much crisper for all purposes. The Audio Technica is actually the same one used by the Rooster Teeth Achievement Hunter guys, to give you a sense of how top-notch and professional it sounds. It's absolutely worth the price, and I'd strongly urge you to save up for it.
- Audio-Technica AT2020USB PLUS Cardioid Condenser
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5ZX9FM/
Best one you can get XD, Sound is studio quality.
>sweet ass mixer
Ehhh.. you don't really need a mixer :P The Shure X2U takes care of that if you only have one mic to record with. Also, I'd personally recommend the AT2020USB+ over just the AT2020USB; the headphone jack for live monitoring is extremely useful, imo. That being said, I'd recommend the AT2035 over any AT2020 model if you get the Shure X2U, but obviously that requires a little more money. The nice thing about the AT2035 is that it comes with a shock mount, which imo is a must, even for beginners.
this mic is fucking fantastic https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT2020USB-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00B5ZX9FM grab it with a metal stand to hold it + a pop filter and it's everything you could ever want in an audio setup
(side note: the $65 one he linked is also good if you're on a budget)
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