GearPop Blog

Samson Go Mic Compact USB Microphone – Plug n’ Play

Samson Go Mic Compact USB Microphone is a versatile computer-based miking and recording solution. Due to its custom compact design, the Go Mic is able to clip directly onto your laptop or sit unobtrusively on your desk. Plug and play operation also means it’s completely compatible with a Mac or PC, with no drivers required. The Go Mic is perfect for recording music, podcasts or field recording, but its range of functionality extends beyond typical USB microphones. The Go Mic is also ideal for voice recognition software, iChat, web casting and even Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Samson Go Mic Features Portable USB condenser microphone Plug and Play Mac and PC compatible, no drivers required Custom compact design that clips to a laptop or sits on a desk Perfect for recording music, podcasting and field recording Ideal for voice recognition software, iChat, VoIP and web casting Transducer Type: condenser, pressure gradient with USB digital output Frequency Response: 20Hz-18kHz Cardioid or omni Polar Patterns Resolution: 44.1kHz/16-bit 1/8-inch headphone output High-quality components and meticulous engineering ensure the Go Mic will offer clear, professional audio reproduction in any number of applications. Thanks to its switchable cardioid and omni polar patterns, you can pick whichever pattern is more appropriate for your specific situation. Plus, with a frequency response of 20Hz-18kHz and a resolution of 44.1kHz/16-bit, you can be sure you’re getting professional audio specs in a compact, multi-purpose design

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Rode VideoMic Pro Compact Shotgun Microphone

The Rode VideoMic Pro compact design is ideal for use with HDSLR cameras, camcorders and audio recorders. Noise transference has been significantly reduced using both a revised, more elegant shock mounting system and a lightweight premium cable. The microphone has a broadcast-quality condenser capsule with a supercardioid pickup pattern to capture audio from the front, while minimizing pickup from the sides and rear. An integrated shockmount and foam windscreen minimize handling and wind noise to keep your recordings crystal clear. On the rear of the mic, you’ll find a 3-way level control that offers -10dB, 0dB, and +20dB modes. There is also a 2-step high pass filter with 0 and 80Hz settings, letting you minimize the impact of low frequency hum, camera motor noise, and similar distractions. The mic has a standard camera shoe and a 3/8 inch threaded mount for easy attachment to cameras and boom poles. The 1/8 inch (3.5mm) plug is compatible with a wide variety of different cameras and audio devices. The VideoMic Pro operates for up to 70 hours on a single 9V battery, allowing you to work in the field without constant replacements.

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Blue Microphones Yeti USB Microphone – Silver Edition

Create unparalleled recordings and send them directly to your computer with Blue Microphone’s Yeti USB Microphone. The Yeti uses Blue Microphone’s proprietary tri-capsule technology to produce pristine, studio-quality recordings. It features four different pattern settings so you can record vocals, instrumental music, podcasts, or interviews in ways that would normally require multiple microphones. With simple controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain, you’ll be creating exceptional recordings right out of the box.

Blue Microphones

Yeti USB Microphone at a Glance:

  • Ideal for recording music, podcasts, interviews, and more
  • Multiple pattern selection for exceptional audio
  • Built-in headphone amp for zero latency monitoring
  • Gain switch and mute button
  • Mac and PC compatible
Blue Microphones
Blue Microphones Yeti USB

Unique, adjustable design and on-board mute and gain controls for professional-sounding results. View larger

Blue Microphones Yeti USB

Control your recording in real-time with a 3.5mm jack that lets you listen as you record.
View larger

Blue Microphones Yeti USB

Easy to install–simply plug the Yeti into a USB port and you’re ready to record. View larger

Four Different Pattern Modes for Versatile Recording

Using Blue Microphone’s proprietary tri-capsule technology, the Yeti can record sounds that range from the barely audible to the deafeningly loud–all without a loss of fidelity. Depending on what kind of sound you are recording, you can choose from four distinct pattern modes:

  • Stereo mode: The stereo mode uses both the left and right channels, and is ideal for capturing a realistic, general sound image.
  • Cardioid mode: Well-suited to podcasts, sung vocals, and other voice work, cardioid mode records sound sources that are directly in front of the microphone. It delivers a rich, full-bodied sound.
  • Omnidirectional mode: Omnidirectional mode picks up sound equally from all directions. It is best used in situations when you want to capture the ambience of “being there”–like a live recording of a band’s performance.
  • Bidirectional mode: Bidirectional mode records from both the front and the rear of the microphone. It is ideal for capturing the nuance of a musical instrument, or recording an interview between two people.
Control Your Recording in Real-Time

With its controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain, the Yeti puts you in charge of every level of the recording process. If you are experiencing distortion or feedback while recording an especially loud source, simply adjust the microphone’s sensitivity with the gain control. Or, if you want to take a break in the middle of a podcast, use the instant mute button.

The microphone comes equipped with a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack and allows you to listen to what you’re recording in real-time, without latency delays. You can adjust the volume of your headphones using a control on the front of the microphone.

Innovative Design Makes Recording Easy

The Yeti features a visual design inspired by classic recording equipment–a stylish, retro aesthetic that will complement any computer system. Its metal grille and shiny, chrome-toned frame recall the look of old-timey microphones.

Because it’s built on a hinge, you can adjust and pivot the microphone in relation to the sound source, improving sound quality. Once you have it at a desired angle, you can use the set screws to secure it in place. The microphone can also be folded down for easy portability, or removed completely from its base for field recordings.

Hassle-Free Setup

The Yeti requires no complicated drivers to operate; simply plug it into your computer’s USB port with the included USB cable, calibrate it with your operating system, and you’re ready to record.

The microphone is compatible with Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP (Home and Professional), and Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher), and requires a minimum of 64 MB of RAM.

The Yeti USB Microphone is backed by a two-year limited warranty.

What’s in the Box

Microphone, adjustable stand, USB cable, and instructions.

Yeti Features Comparison Yeti
Yeti
Yeti Pro
Yeti Pro
Studio-quality audio via digital USB
Blue’s premium condenser capsules in a proprietary triple setting
Four recording patterns (stereo, omni, cardioid, and bi-directional)
Adjustable Microphone gain control for varying volumes
Mute button
Zero-latency headphone output with volume control for direct monitoring
Adjustable angle on its integrated custom-designed desk stand
Driverless installation for both Windows and Mac
Professional recording via analog XLR
Separate analog circuit path
Maximum recording resolution 48 kHz/16-bit 192 kHz/24-bit
Optional Radius shockmount available

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Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone, Cardioid

The SM7B is a selectable frequency response microphone that delivers warm and smooth audio in close-proximity studio and vocal applications. Optimized shielding from external electromagnetic hum, along with internal shock mounting, external windscreens and adjustable bass roll-off and midrange emphasis response settings provide clean, consistent reproduction.

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Zoom H1 Handy Recorder

It’s Zooms smallest recorder ever. But don’t let its size fool you. The H1 Handy Recorder has Zooms renowned recording technology and studio-quality microphones in Zooms easiest, most portable device ever.

Now Zoom recording technology is available to everyone. And with an infinite variety of applications, you’ll want to take your H1 everywhere. From musical performances, songwriting sessions and rehearsals to seminars, conferences, journalism or capturing audio for video, the H1 gives you clean, clear stereo sound effortlessly.

Like all Zoom recorders, the H1’s onboard microphones are configured in an X/Y pattern, for stunning stereo imaging. Because both mics are arranged on the same axis, they are equidistant from the sound source for perfect localization and no phase shifting. The result is great stereo recordings with natural depth and accurate imaging.

FEATURES:

  • Under your thumb – With its newly designed user interface, the H1 is also our easiest recorder to use. All its functions are at your fingertips, such as track marker, auto record, low cut filter, level and volume controls with on-board buttons

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Blue Microphones Snowball USB Microphone (Textured White)

Create studio-quality recordings with Blue Microphone’s Snowball, a USB microphone with exceptional sound-capture capabilities. Using Blue Microphone’s award-winning dual-capsule and circuit design, the Snowball produces crisp, clean recordings that are free of feedback and distortion. A unique pattern switch allows you to toggle between three different settings, giving you the flexibility to record vocals, instrumental music, podcasts, interviews, and more. With a plug-and-play design that is both Mac and PC compatible, the Snowball requires no additional drivers and is ready to record straight out of the box.

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Blue Microphones Spark Condenser Microphone, Cardioid

The versatile Blue Microphones Spark Cardioid Solid-State Condenser Microphone is designed to achieve professional quality recordings in any creative environment. Focus Control provides two recording modes–one with low-frequency sensitivity–that allow you to record a wide range of instruments. The included pop filter and shockmount reduce plosives and distortion while providing isolation during recording. The microphone includes a stylish wood carrying case and a recording guide offering professional recording tips.

Blue Microphones Spark

Retro design is inspired by classic chrome microphones. View larger

Blue Microphones Spark Focus Control

Achieve even greater clarity and detail with Focus Control. View larger

Blue Microphones

Spark Cardioid Solid-State Condenser Microphone at a Glance:

  • Blue’s condenser capsule design
  • Two recording models for a wide range of recording styles
  • Includes custom-designed shockmount and pop filter to reduce unwanted noise
  • Stylish wood carrying case
  • Detailed recording guide with professional tips
  • Backed by a three-year manufacturer’s warranty
Blue Microphones
Two Modes for Versatile, High-Quality Recording

The Spark offers two usage modes–Normal Mode and Focus Mode–that are easily selected with the Focus Control switch. Normal Mode–with the Focus Control switch out–delivers a robust timbre that creates a large audio landscape. Focus Mode–with the Focus Control switch in–allows the microphone to capture greater clarity and detail, resulting in a recorded signal that will easily sit in a track or final mix. Focus Mode is ideal for lead vocals intended to sit well in the mix of a rock-and-roll or pop track.

Clear and Present Recording

When using the Spark microphone to record a single sound source, the Spark’s cardioid pattern will help eliminate the unwanted ambient room sound often captured with omnidirectional or wider pattern microphones that can make your recordings sound unprofessional. With the Spark, the end result is a clear and present recording, just like a professional studio.

Pop-Filter and Shockmount Eliminate Unwanted Noise

The Spark package includes a custom-designed, easy to install pop filter, which helps minimize disruptive popping noises and sibilance sounds (such as when a singer pronounces “p” and “b” consonants). The uniquely-designed shockmount isolates the microphone from vibrations, bumps, and low frequency noises resonating in the recording area.

Focus Your Sound

The Spark microphone is designed to help you achieve professional quality recordings in any creative environment. One of its coolest features is the Focus Control switch. Recessed in the lower groove of the body tube at the rear of the microphone you will find a small, two-position button. With this button in the “out” position (Normal mode), your Spark provides increased low-frequency sensitivity for recordings with great impact and definition. When the button is pressed to the “in” position (Focus mode), the Spark will provide even greater clarity and detail.

Extra Features Offer Convenience and Guidance

The Spark comes with a wooden storage case that will keep the microphone, shockmount, and pop filter safe during storage and transport. Blue Microphones also provides a guide with professional recording tips for using Spark on a variety of instruments and vocal sounds.

The Spark is backed by a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.

What’s in the Box

Spark microphone, wooden case, pop filter, shockmount, and recording guide.

What Critics Are Saying About the Blue Spark Microphone

“If someone said they could only afford one condenser mic, I’d recommend Spark not just for the versatility, but the quality.”
–Electronic Musician

“Spark is a genuine ‘jack of all trades’ working for males vocals, steel- and gut-string guitars and in front of a guitar amp.”
–Mix Magazine

“From drum overhead to guitar to hand claps, the Spark is an entry-level all-rounder that really does not play favorites.”
–Recording Magazine

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