Help me with choosing a microphone

Fellow Bargain hunters, I am in need of a mid-range microphone (100-150) for online casting/commentary/podcasting, and general vocal & instrument recording. I've looked into 2 types of microphones that suit my current needs: Dynamic and condenser microphones. of those, I have treaded high and low over the internet to find whatever information I could, and my findings are (in no particular order)

  1. CAD M179
  2. Studio Projects B1
  3. MXL990
  4. Audio Technica AT2020/AT2035
  5. Shure SM57/SM58
  6. Blue Yeti/Snowball

One problem I've encountered is that most of these mics do not have a direct USB connection. Phantom power, Pre-amps, mixer boards and XLR->USB cables need to be bought as the microphone itself does not contain them. Would any audiophiles/Sound experts like to share their expertise on the above electronic goodies, or simply recommend another model.

Comments

  • I bought an AT2020 a few months ago for $105 shipped on ebay and love it. Would never go back to a dynamic mic for recording vocals.

    If you are going to be recording instruments, I imagine you'll be needing a recording program. I use Cakewalk Sonar X3, though there are many good options. You will also need some type of audio interface to handle the playback/recording. You can get decent cheapish usb ones like this http://us.focusrite.com/usb-audio-interfaces/saffire-6-usb they generally have phantom power with the press of a button.

  • Unfamiliar with the virtues of other microphones you list, but as someone subscribed to alot of Youtube musicians and vloggers, I'll just comment that I've heard alot of good results over the years from people using the cheap-and-cheerful Blue USB microphones. In addition, a couple of months ago I can remember reading a glowing review of the new 'Nessie' model. Review may have been on the Pocket-Lint site.

    Other than the Blue mics, Rode shotguns are pervasively used to very good audio effect by professional Youtubers and, increasingly, it seems, the smart amateurs. Careful placement may see one do double/triple duty for you? No idea about specific Rode model prices, or the Blue 'Nessie' potential lowest price, but maybe a couple of extra options/google searches for you to do.

  • I own and use an Audio Technica AT2020USB condenser microphone for recording audio fx for my animations.
    Review (http://voicecouncil.com/review-audio-technica-at2020-usb-con…)
    Video Review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx07A2nlvfI)

    Got it off PCCG for $119 delivered (Seems to be $199 currently excluding shipping). The mic is plug and play and does not require phantom power (meaning no additional 3rd party software or hardware required to power it, as long as you have a computer).

    Going off the cheapest route, I'd opt for Audacityas my main recording program (Free and Open source). When you decide to invest more into it, you could try Cakewalk or Cubase.

    Here are other USB powered condenser mics for your consideration:

    AKG Perception 120 $179
    Review (http://skatter.com/2010/08/akg-perception-120-usb-microphone…)
    Video Review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTneljY778I)

    Samson C01U
    Review (http://www.macintouch.com/samsonc01u.html)
    Video Review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEOz77WB7Lg)

    Samson Meteor USB
    Review (http://the-gadgeteer.com/2012/04/09/samson-meteor-mic-usb-st…)
    Video Review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGQ4kJVAv1E)

    All the best =)

  • Samson CO1u USB condenser microphone. Too easy to use and it has a great quality to it. No phantom powered pre-amps, mixers or other bs. just plug in and go. I use it to record vocals and guitar. It's just less than $150. Check out some of the reviews (i'm at a work computer other i'd link you some)

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