Looking for a Microphone...

[duderdude2]

I'm looking for a decent microphone, but had no idea where to get started. We'll be using the microphone to record narration for some of our videos.

Unfortunately, we won't be recording in the quietest environment, so are there microphones that only pick-up nearby sounds? And do any come in with built-in wind screens or is that something you purchase separately? Oh, and do most microphones work with video-editing software out of the box (specifically, Vegas)?

Any suggestions would be fantastic, thanks!

[Soopafresh]

Price range?

[duderdude2]

Price range?

Ah yeah, that might be handy, huh? I'd like to keep it $200 or below (and cheaper would be better!), but I'm willing to go above that if need be.

[Soopafresh]

Yes, you can record with Vegas, Audacity, etc

Audio Technica AT2020USB is very good for $150. You can find it for less if you shop around. USB Mic, comes with desktop stand. It's cardoid, so it picks up the sound from the front and much less from the sides and the back.



You'll want to place it on top of some grip style shelf liner so it doesn't pick up desk vibrations.

http://www.amazon.com/Grip-Shelf-Drawer-Liner-Black/dp/B000KFSOFI/ref=pd_sim_dbs_k_2

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/552791-REG/Audio_Technica_AT2020USB_AT2020USB_Co...icrophone.html

You can get fancier with it by putting it on a better stand, allowing you to attach a pop filter, a nice but not mandatory accessory.

Finally, you'll want to install an additional sound card driver - Asio4all to compensate for the mic latency while you record. http://flstudio.image-line.com/help/html/effects_trackswindow_diskrecording_asio4all-USBmic.htm

[duderdude2]

Thanks so much Soopafresh, that looks great! The reviews seem to be fantastic too. So one more question: If I wanted to get a stand for it with a built-in pop filter, do I have to get something specifically for this model, or will any general stand do? (I honestly have no idea). Any recommendations?

Thanks again!

ETA: Oh, and about that sound driver--will that remove all latency? We'll be doing a lot of recording, so want to make sure it's not too much of an issue

[Soopafresh]

Accessories furnished: pivoting stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch; tripod desk stand; 10' (3.1 m) usb cable

It should work with any 5/8" diameter stand (5/8" is standard)


As far as latency is concerned, it depends on how fast your PC and the audio card/onboard audio.
If you're worried, you have a couple of options: (you'll have to do the research on sound quality)

ART M-One Mic which has onboard headphone monitoring 0 Latency



Samson G-Track



Here's a config of a USB mic on a Mic stand with pop filter.



ART M-ONE USB on a Mic stand

[duderdude2]

Thanks again Soopafresh, I went ahead and ordered it (only $100 on Amazon)! You've been a huge help!