I plan to begin podcasting. Also, know in the future I'd like to record vocals and keyboard (but not immediately).
I settled on the [="http://www.thomann.de/gb/mxl_990.htm"]MXL 990 microphone[/]="http://www.thomann…"]MXL 990 microphone[/]. Now, until yesterday I knew absolutely nothing. Including what a pop filter was. I now know in order to hook this mic into the PC I need a preamp with phantom power and preferably an audio interface. My sound card is a normal Creative 5.1. I was planning to spend about €100 on the two of them (low budget).
But then I discovered the [[url=http://="http://www.thomann…"]T-Bone Micplug USB[/]="http://www.thomann…"]T-Bone Micplug USB[/]. On the surface, to me, this looks like a good deal for €30. Is it terrible quality? Also, this appears to plug directly into the microphone w/o an XLR cord. Is that right? So, would this combo work for me?
I'm also not opposed to hearing other options/opinions on a good setup. I plan to purchase everything through Thomann.de and I'm in Dublin.
Comments
I've done a little more digging. Nobody seems to use the T-Bone
I've done a little more digging. Nobody seems to use the T-Bone Micplug. But the [[url=http://[/URL]="http://www.amazon.c…"]Blue Icicle[/]="http://www.amazon.c…"]Blue Icicle[/] seems popular.
It has good reviews. I know it's probably not as good as a "real" preamp and audio interface... So new question, anybody use a similar setup? Will there be a huge quality loss - or as a complete amateur will I not notice?
Don't get a Blue Icicle - the gain arrangement it employs intern
Don't get a Blue Icicle - the gain arrangement it employs internally is not up to the task.
The T-Bone Micplug, while not great, at least can be made to work in your situation. You can, of course, use standard XLR(M)-XLR(F) mic cables to extend the length. Don't be tempted to use USB extenders or hubs with it.
I recommend trying the CEntrance micPort Pro - the only one of t
I recommend trying the CEntrance micPort Pro - the only one of the small USB converters that actually includes a professional preamp. Read up on it - used by the BBC and the like.
[[url=http://[/URL]="http://www.micport…"]CEntrance -> MicPort Pro[/]="http://www.micport…"]CEntrance -> MicPort Pro[/]
The USB cable might not be very long. You could plug it straight
The USB cable might not be very long. You could plug it straight into the mic or use a cable to give you more reach.
Can't comment on the quality but similar units aren't given much credit when I've read about them.