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Logitech USB Desktop Microphone
by rayys_mamma
I bought this microphone recently,after starting an online course,where a microphone(for communication purposes) was necessary.
Although I already had a webcam (also by logitech) with an integrated mic, I really didn't know how to use the mic without the camera.
I managed to get this at a very reasonable price ... thanks to an online auction site,so if you're looking for a good deal I would suggest browsing online,as its much cheaper.
Now for the description.The microphone stands at approximately 22 centimeters (when head of microphone is tilted straight up)The base is a square shaped silver colour, and is quite heavy to provide a stable hold.On the base is a button-;when the microphone is plugged in,this button ,once pressed changes to a bright green,and turns the microphone on.The head of the microphone is black and tilts up to about a 90 degree angle,which I believe is ideal if you move around,or positions quite a lot.
To set the microphone up couldn't be easier.Just plug the USB (the lead is reasonably long too) into a computer or a laptop ...and thats it! It doesn't require any additional drivers as it uses "plug and play"
Now comes the important part!The sound quality!I am a huge fan of logitech products as they actually DO what they SAY,and this microphone is no exception.I've had other mics in the past and they don't even compare.The voice is clear,crisp and smooth with NO ECHO whatsoever.
I do use this product to communicate with family abroad via skype and they're amazed by the clarity.Just to test how my voice sounded I used "sound recorder" on my computer and was very impressed.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a good quality microphone and with this brand, you really can't go wrong.
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Shure SM58
by MamaC
I have a home studio and purely use this handheald mic for practising and recording guide vocals through an Alesis firewire mixer. When I first purchased this it came in a lovely well present silver box and case.
I have found this unidirectional vocal mic to go on for years now. It's taken quite a few years of battering ... what with the good, the bad and the worst vocalist!! And it's still survived.
It's not the greatest for use in the pro studio as this would require a good condenser mic. But live stuff, karaoke and laying guide vocals whilst sitting at your mixing desk is great. I was surprised to hear the lack of 'noise' on this mic and it's built like a tank. The built in spherical filter reduces and pops and clicks etc. Buying an addition windshielf for this mic is recommended, along with a good XLR cable.
-Sound quality-
Great handling of mids and bass, unbelieveable in fact! Built in shockmount minimises handling noise. Recordings are pretty much crystal clear.
-The bad news-
Last week I held a singing party and the SM58 decided to pack up mid-way through, I have no idea, but someone who thought they could sing was shouting rather loudly in it and the poor mic packed up.
-The good news-
Purely because of the quality of this mic and the fact that it has coped with so much over the last 5 years, I believe it's worth taking it into my local music shop to pay for it to be fixed, I simply wouldn't be without this mic.
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SE Electronics SE2200a Condenser Microphone
by jonnybos
I have used this microphone in all of my recordings since i purchased the microphone. For a microphone below £200 i could not expect any more from this product. The signal is very clean although the signal to noise ratio could be a little better.
The microphone itself comes in a special protective carry case which seems robust ... enough to safely store the microphone without damage however i don't believe the case would survive were it to be given flight case like duties, none the less though the case is of good quality. There is a small adapter for your microphone stand to make sure that the microphone can be mounted on most mic stands.
There is also an included shock mount which works very well in insulting the microphone but it can be a bit flimsy and there are better shock mounts out there, however for a microphone of this level the investment is not worth it.
The microphone does have a very colored and unique sound so its not a lot of use for much other than vocals however it also sits nicely with acoustic guitar. That being said the vocal sound, at least for my voice is incredible and the results require very little EQ in post production.
For a vocal microphone at a budget price look no further than this microphone as i don't believe i have found a better sound for less than £400. I edit this post later and link some examples when i have completed some samples.
One more thing i would like to add, is that this microphone can not handle particularly high SPL levels despite what SE would have you believe.
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