Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone with Cakewalk Sonar LE Review

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(More customer reviews)Small video to demonstrate the audio quality. The video was shot in iMovie and I didn't really care about the quality of the video (since it didn't matter). I was about two feet away from the microphone the entire time, talking at normal volume.
If you use GarageBand or Logic (Mac OS), the audio options for vocal enhancement will make the mic sound even louder when recording podcasts or music. Audacity also has such options, but if you're a Mac user stick with GarageBand/Logic. There is very little white noise or static when recording with the mic. A really good use for the mic is podcasting, as your voice is projected quite clearly to the audience. Since it's USB powered you can use it anywhere, for anything, but I don't find it to be all that portable (i.e. for remote webcam); for me not a big deal. But if you're at home and want a better audio alternative for voice chat or Skype, this mic is excellent.
Overall I'm quite satisfied. Well worth the money.


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The C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic is an affordable studio condenser mic with a USB interface, granting musicians who record music on computers a simple, affordable way to capture high-quality vocal and acoustic instrument performances. The mic also opens up possibilities for anyone who records audio, from Podcasters, journalists and students to business people adding audio files to websites and multimedia presentations.

Based on the C01 The C01U condenser microphone is based on our Samson's C01, and features a 19mm internal shockmounted diaphragm with a cardioid pickup pattern, ensuring pristine, studio-quality recordings.
A high-quality A/D converter and USB output provide the direct PC connection, and the microphone itself is built to last, with solid die-cast construction.
Plug-and-Play Seamless integration was the idea, and it was obtained by creating a studio condenser microphone that can be plugged into any computer with no in/out boxes, no expensive computer pre-amps, and no drivers to install--just a USB cable.
The C01U works perfectly on any computer, Mac or PC, and with any DAW software program. It immediately solves a huge problem for users of many laptops, many of which have no other input method for audio devices.
Samson SoftPre The Samson C03U is designed to be fully functional without installing additional drivers. But for those who would like a little something extra, Samson offers its downloadable SoftPre software applet, which gives you an Input Level Meter, Volume control, High-pass filter and Phase Switch, for Mac or Windows.
Cakewalk Sonar LE The C01UCW package comes bundled with Cakewalk Sonar LE, the vastly popular digital audio workstation software, giving users additional power and versatility to digitally record audio in any situation.
SONAR LE has been designed to provide a simple yet complete solution for creating music. With support for up to 64 tracks and 24 track effects, 8 physical in/outs at 24bit/192kHz, SONAR LE is an ideal match for the CO1U. The package also includes 2 instruments, 6 MIDI effects, and 14 audio effects.
Accessories In addition to the C01U microphone and Cakewalk software, the package comes with a desktop mic stand, mic clip, and USB cable.
CO1U Specifications
Frequency Response: 20 - 18000 HZ
Polar pattern: Hypercardioid
Element type: Electret condenser type
Diaphragm thickness: 3 microns
SPL: 136 dB Max.
Dimensions (H x W x D): 7 x 2.125 x 2.125 inches (180 x 54 x 54 mm)
Weight: 1.06 lbs. (.48 kg)

What's in the Box C01U Microphone, Cakewalk Sonar LE Software, Desktop Mic Stand, Mic Clip, USB Cable, Owner's Manual

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Tascam US-800 8 Input USB 2.0 Computer Audio Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)Posting my experience with this device in case it is useful to anyone else.
I purchased the 800 about a week ago. As far as recording features go, it is great; super-low latency, decent preamps, digital i/o and midi, nothing to complain about and 6 xlr inputs for $200 is way better than any competing product. However, there are problems playing ordinary Windows audio that may make the 800 unsuitable for your needs. At least in Windows 7 x64, I can't speak for any other OS.
Within a day of plugging in the interface, I began having memory usage issues. Task Manager was reporting 3.8gb in use, even with just about every non-essential process killed. I'd try opening something that put me over the 4 gb limit and virtual memory would kick in, rendering my computer so slow as to be unusable; the only way to free resources was to restart. This happened day after day, to a computer that was previously reliable enough that I wouldn't reboot it for weeks at a time.
After a lot of googling, diagnostic programs, and trial and error, I figured out the problem: any non-asio audio played through the 800 would never leave memory (I had the 800 set as the default playback device in the Sound control panel). Every mp3, flash video, dvd, and game would leave their audio buffer in system memory even after closing the program. I confirmed this by setting up Foobar to use asio while Windows Media Player would use Windows' audio; every mp3 I played in Foobar would disappear from RAM after it was done playing, while Windows Media Player grew more and more bloated with every song, and wouldn't relinquish hundreds of megabytes after I closed it. This was also the case with VLC Player being used for flash video and dvds, Firefox and Chrome, and every game I tested. Same result when using Ableton Live vs any non-asio program.
There is a workaround if you have an S/PDIF output on your computer; just set your digital out as the default playback device in the control panel (I disabled the 800 just to be sure) and connect it back to the 800. I've confirmed that this solved the problem, and asio works perfectly alongside ordinary audio this way. Unfortunately many laptops don't have a digital out.
As an audio interface strictly for recording, the 800 has worked flawlessly and is a better value than just about any interface below $300. However, if you're merely a hobbyist like me, who wants both an interface and an upgrade from your motherboard's noisy and cheap converters for everyday use, unless you don't mind (and have the capability of doing) the S/PDIF trick you might want to look elsewhere.

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Mackie Onyx 1620i FireWire Recording Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)this mixer is amazing. if you have wanted to build a project studio or record your band in your rehearsal space, this is the mixer you need.
the pre's sound great. very quiet (even when jacked).
the eq is really fun to play around with. you can really find the sound you are looking for with a few tweaks.
i'm using Ableton as my recording DAW. it's really snappy and after a few tweaks, very hard to notice any latency.
the Firewire I/O also works with Pro Tools, which is great. the driver is available for purchase on the mackie website.
for this price, you won't find anything even close to the same ball park.


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Digidesign Mbox 2 USB Audio/MIDI Pro Tools LE Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)Excellent interfase for those who are starting a home studio or have to move their equipment often!!! excelent choice!
It's versatility is amazing, taking you out anytime to record any outdoors with simplicity and extreme portability
Also it envolves the most awarded recording software in the market, Protools! letting you work with video post-production
or just audio!!!
Just the perfect choice if you are starting your way in the recording world or even if you need a portable device to work
with Protools outdoor, giving you 2 mic/line inputs and midi!!!
I proudly recomend this product!!!

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M-Audio Firewire Solo US35030 Firewire Audio Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm using this on an Apple PowerBook G4 with a 1.33 GHz processor and 768 MB RAM. I mainly record through GarageBand, and after about 10 hours of use, it has worked flawlessly so far.
Controls in front are intuitive. The clip LEDs let you know when your input volumes are maxing out.
Note that you can record only two sources at once: either the front two (mic and line in) or the rear two (two line ins). I initially thought you could record 4 simultaneous tracks with this. There is, however, a switch on the front of the unit that allows you to choose front or rear inputs.
There is an extra firewire plug in the rear of the unit, which allows you to daisy-chain several firewire devices. This works perfectly for me on my 12" PowerBook, which only has one firewire input.
Very low latency on this unit. I can play my electric through GarageBand's multi-effects units while listening on my headphones, and I notice almost zero latency. I'm anxious to try it on my amplifier, to see if it would be suitable for live performance.
I would recommend this for anyone who's thinking about getting into home recording. It's very well designed, well built, and should suit me well for years.

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The FireWire Solo is designed from the ground up as an easy-to-use, high-quality interface for songwriters to record guitars, vocals and more on the computer. Compatible with most popular music software, this compact bus-powered unit is small enough to go anywhere you want to take your music. In addition to the 1/4" guitar input right on the front panel, a professional XLR microphone input also lets you record vocals and acoustic instruments. There are also dual line inputs for effects, drum machines and other outboard gear. FireWire connectivity, up to 24-bit/96kHz sample rate support and digital I/O all add up to outstanding sonic performance. As simple to connect and operate as it is powerful, FireWire Solo is the foundation of your computer-based songwriting studio.

Analog and Digital Inputs The FireWire Solo features two front-panel inputs, one XLR for microphones (featuring phantom power, gain control, and a clipping LED); and one guitar input (with gain control and clipping lED).
The rear of the device features 2 unbalanced 1/4-inch line inputs for connecting drum machines or other devices, and a front-panel switch toggles between front/rear inputs.
The rear also features a two-channel S/PDIF digital input and output. Connect another device and get four simultaneous in/out channels.
Headphone Output Use the 1/4-inch stereo headphone output to monitor, or use the two-channel rear 1/4-inch outputs.
The front-panel knob controls both levels.
Mac and Windows Compatible The FireWire Solo will work with both Macs and PCs with FireWire ports. It's powered by the FireWire bus (power supply included for use with 4-pin ports), and features an additional port for easy device chaining.
On either platform, you'll enjoy flexible software-based routing/mixing with near-zero latency monitoring.
Includes Ableton Live Lite Ableton Live Lite delivers much of the functionality of Ableton Live—the revolutionary, multi-award winning music production solution that allows you to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise and edit your musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment. Live brings your acoustic, electronic and virtual instruments—as well as your digital audio recordings and MIDI sequences—together in a single interface with unparalleled ease of use.
What's in the Box FireWire Solo Recording Interface, CD-ROM containing driver software and user manual in PDF form, Printed Quick Start Guide, 6 pin to 6 pin FireWire cable, 6 pin to 4 pin FireWire cable, Power Supply

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PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 USB Recording Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)Brand New Review for Nov 2010:
I recommend this only if: 1) you are not recording a guitar with high output pickups through the instrument-in, because it will clip even with the gain turned all the way down on the AudioBox, 2) you are not using an SM57 or some other dynamic mic that requires more than 35dB of gain, otherwise it will be too quiet, and 3) your headphones have an impedance above 100 ohms, otherwise the USB-powered Audiobox can't keep up with the current draw and will have no bass in the headphone monitoring out.
If you meet those conditions, then this is a great, affordable, stable recording interface. On my Mac it's plug-n-play, both on my older G4 powerbook with Tiger and newer 2010 Mac Mini with Snow Leopard. On the Mac, no separate software or drivers are needed. The construction of the AudioBox is very good. All metal box, and metal knobs. The blue metal looks great.
The mic preamps sound pretty darn good, crystal clear if you're using a condenser mic. For recording vocals on condensers, this interface is great. If you're on an old system, however, recording direct guitar and running it through a virtual amp simulation will give you latency problems. Not as much on Core 2 Duo systems and above. Be advised that the zero-latency monitoring is for a clean signal going in, not the processed sound from your software plugin, thus you can't do zero-latency distorted guitar recording that way unless you listen to yourself play clean while recording.
Now officially this does not have line-level recording ability. So you can't take the headphone output from a walkman, guitar amp, or mp3 player into this. But actually that does work as long as you carefully keep the line signal volume low and plug it into the instrument jack on the AudioBox. I've done this and it records just fine. But if the line volume gets turned up too high, you risk burning out the chip inside the AudioBox, since it wasn't engineered with safety mechanisms for that, thus Presonus says it doesn't do line-in.
It gets 4 stars for what it does well, and minus 1 star because of the caveats / exceptions listed at the beginning. As with all gear buying, my honest recommendation is to save up and get something 1.5X the cost of what you thought you could afford. If I could do it all over again, I would get an Echo Audiofire 4, Focusrite Saffire Pro 14, or Apogee Duet and call it a day. But, my Audiobox has served me well for over two years now, made some great clear recordings, right up until I got new headphones with too low impedance and the bass dropped out.

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ART USB Dual Pre 2 Channel Preamp Review

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(More customer reviews)I finally got a chance to use this little beauty for two recent live recording sessions, and I am extremely satisfied with it.
I recorded two live vocalists using Shure SM-58 microphones. The only musical accompaniment was a "harmonium", an Indian classical instrument that's like a keyboard driven by a hand-operated bellows like an accordion.
Both the sessions were unplanned and spontaneous, recorded in a normal living room, and that's exactly the kind of situation I had in mind when I bought this unit. Earlier, I would miss out on recording such sessions because of the hassle and time required for setting up my Peavey PV-10-USB mixer, which is not exactly portable nor light-weight. OK, I do miss out on having a couple of extra mics for a background singer and the harmonium, but the compromise is well worth it in terms of sheer ease of setup, and most important, WITHOUT any compromise in sound quality.
The setup with this unit is extremely simple. here are the steps I followed:
1. Plug the mics into the XLR input jacks on the front
2. Conenct the unit to your PC with the USB cable - if you have Windows Vista or Windows 7 it is recognized immediately as a USB device
3. Select "USB audio codec" as your default recording device in Windows by right-clicking on the speakers icon in the taskbar
4. Choose he recording properties that you want (I picked stereo / 16-bit / 48 kHz) and save this selection by clicking OK
5. Fire up your recording software ( I use Sony Sound Forge)
6. Set the levels of each channel using the hardware gain control knobs on the device
7. You are ready to record
All the above steps took me less than 5 minutes. My PC runs Windows 7 and it worked without a hitch (Windows 7 rocks, by the way!)
Note that I do not monitor the recorded sound from my laptop while recording - I simply use headphones plugged into the socket at the back of this unit for real-time monitoring.
Sound quality:
I essentially purchased this unit to get around the limitations of my PC sound card - I wanted the A-D conversion taking place outside the PC, and that's exactly what this device does very well. It is capable of 16-bit digitization at a maximum sampling rate of 48 kHz, i.e., better than audio CD quality.
Each channel's sound was crystal clear, capturing the highs and lows with zero audible distortion. I had set the gain control knobs about halfway (between 8 and 14 db on the dial) such that the levels on my recording software did not exceed -4 db on average and -1 db at peak. I could NOT tell the difference between the sound quality recorded with this device and the sound I recorded with my Peavey mixer (using the same microphones and the same singers). I don't believe that the unit itself adds any significant distortion to the sound, and you will essentially be limited only by the quality of your microphones.
Caveats:
1. Vocals obviously have a limited frequency range, so I cannot say what the sound quality will be for extreme highs and lows. But in the range I recorded (approx 800 Hz to 3 kHz), it was flawless.
2. All my recording is in casual settings, i.e., NOT in a studio. There is a fair bit of background noise, so again, maybe there are subtle differences which may become noticeable in a studio environment using professional condenser mics.
Dislikes: Just two minor cribs:
1. I cannot control the degree of left-right separation in the recording mix. This is because each channel has its own gain control knobs, instead of a master gain level knob with a left/right balance. So if I have only one singer singing a particular passage, I have almost zero signal in the other channel. A master gain control with L/R balance would have been a nice thoughtful touch. So I've taken off half a star for that.
2. (a) The choice of colours for letters/numbers makes them slightly hard to read - I need to squint hard to read them. (b) USB cable not included. Another half star gone.
Likes:
1. Very compact and yet very solid build quality
2. Needs no external power - draws USB power from the PC
3. Extremely simple and flawless setup - I didn't even need to read the instructions
4. Can handle condenser mics as it has a 48V phantom power supply
5. Universal mic input jacks - XLR and 1/4"
6. Headphone monitoring with its own level control - very helpful
Overall:
A strong "buy" recommendation, if you want to make quick and easy CD-quality live recordings with extreme portability. Absolutely amazing value for money - there is nothing in the market at this quality and price point that I am aware of.


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PreSonus Inspire 1394 4X4 Firewire Recording Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)Now this is the way computer peripherals are supposed to work - 15 minutes or so after opening the box, I was laughing my way through my first home recording effort. No tearing my hair out, no frantic searching on-line for new drivers, no pouring through obscure FAQs looking for solutions... it simply works! Mind you, this is with Mac OSX, 10.4.11.
Audio quality is plenty good to my middle-aged ears, and completed recordings downloaded to my IPod sound just as good as any commercial tune. Sure, crank the gain up full and add the boost and you can hear a little bacon frying in the background, but more sedate settings are very quiet indeed.
The absence of buttons and knobs on the unit is fine as well, the on-screen control panel has proven fast and easy to use.
Bottom line? The Presonus Inspire is simple, inexpensive, and performs well.


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Now compliant with Intel Macs! The INSPIRE 1394 is a revolutionary FireWire Recording System featuring professional quality 24-bit/96k analog to digital conversion rate, four simultaneous inputs, software control panel as well as audio recording and production software giving you the smallest, most flexible, most affordable and all-inspiring computer recording studio ever! What's InsideThe INSPIRE 1394 is loaded with state of the art components and technology enabling the easiest computer recording experience ever. The INSPIRE 1394 installs effortlessly on both Windows XP and Macintosh-based computers and works seamlessly with virtually all popular recording software including Cubase, Nuendo, Sonar, Cakewalk, Logic, Logic Express, Digital Performer and many others. The microphone and instrument preamplifiers loaded in the INSPIRE 1394 are designed to deliver ultra-low noise, high gain preamplification for all types of microphones and instruments needed for professional quality recordings. Ins and OutsThe front panel of the INSPIRE 1394 features two custom-designed PreSonus microphone preamplifiers with +48V phantom power and two instrument Hi-Z inputs. The back of the INSPIRE features selectable line or phono (with RIAA filter) inputs great for all types of keyboards, samplers, drum machines and turntables. Outputs on the INSPIRE 1394 include RCA unbalanced and mini TRS jacks as well as headphone output. Software Control PanelThe INSPIRE 1394 is comp...

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Samson CO1U USB Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)The audio quality of the mic is outstanding, worthy of 4 stars on its own. I use it to do production for radio and it sounds nearly as good as the studio mics. The problem lies with the software and the drivers. Mac users aren't the only ones experiencing headaches. If you are going to use this microphone on a Windows PC, I highly recommend using the native Windows drivers instead of the Samson SoftPre drivers, as the XP drivers are much more stable. The SoftPre, for some reason, conflicts with the native XP drivers and is prone to crashing and causing erratic audio performance - such as stuttering, clipping and popping noise, none of which I get using XP's drivers. The Samson drivers also crashed my computer three times in the first couple of days I used it, so now I am using the XP drivers. The Samson drivers aren't fully compliant with Windows XP, and as such you'll get a barrage of warnings when installing them ("Drivers are NOT digitally signed...may cause system instability!"). Its kind of a disappointment, because the SoftPre has some very useful basic features like Gain, LPF and such, but if you know anything about working with DAW's, any capable editing program will have these functions built in anyways. So for the price, I say go for it...just stay FAR away from Samson's software.
*update*
This mic works perfectly with the native OS X Tiger drivers. Its truly plug and play, have been using it in Garage band with no problems. Also, this mic works perfect with Vista...no software needed.
ALSO...I notice alot of people commenting on adjusting the balance when using this microphone. You dont need to do that, because you are forgetting that this is a MONO sound source. In your audio editing program, select the Samson CO1U, and then when you select input, choose "Input 1 MONO" instead of "Input 1-2 Stereo." Stereo is out of balance because again, its a single mono source. Hope this helps.

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Samson CO1U USB Condenser Microphone

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LightSnake STUSBXLR10 LightSnake USB Microphone cable Review

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(More customer reviews)The cable is fine and if you have a good dynamic mic then you can get a good sound from it. I use a Mac and you do have to go into sounds under preferences to set the mic up properly. Otherwise, with garageband it all worked fine. My only complaint is that it is not made clear anywhere on the packaging or website that this cable does not provide phantom power. So you can't use it with a condenser mic. I just wish this was made more clear to me before buying.

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TASCAM DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio Review

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(More customer reviews)After wanting a digital multi-track for a long time, I finally decided on this model, and I'm glad I did.
One thing that is not included in a list of specs is the usability factor. I've purchased my share of electronic devices for making and recording music over the years. Just looking at a dry list of specs has often been my method of deciding on what to buy. Well, on paper the DP-008 looks good, but it's not until you use this to cut a few tracks that you realize how well it is designed. I'm SOOOO glad I didn't buy the DP-004, as this model is clearly the results of Tascam eliminating the weaker aspects of the 4 track model just in time for the 8 track version.
I have seen a lot of digital multi-tracks that look good on paper, but to use them is a real pain. The fact that the DP-008 has all the individual track knobs means that you don't have to go flipping through pages on a menu or choosing the "hot track" in some other way. Here it's all laid out logically and makes tweaking the final stereo mix a piece of cake. Sure it would be nice if there were level sliders rather than dials, but these work just fine.
I use this model to record myself playing guitar and bass, run a Boss drum machine into it, and I record vocals with an external mic though a small mixer that has some helpful effects on it. You don't need a mixer, though, as the included mics are quite good. I am able to record several tracks, "bounce" them if I want to, and then write them to a stereo master mix. Then, I export that mix on the unit itself (sounds weird, but basically you're just creating a wav file that can be seen by a computer). The final step is connecting the DP-008 to a computer and merely dragging the song files over to the computer. I then use Audacity to convert it to an ogg file or mp3.
I use Linux and the process of transferring songs to the computer is very simple. In the past you would have received a useless cd-rom with a crappy "song transfer" program and maybe some crapware to go along with it. I'm glad that Tascam has decided to treat the customer right and state it clearly: There is no need for special software. Once you export the song, it will show up as an external storage device and you can simply transfer the files over to your computer, whether it's a PC running Windows or Linux, or a Mac.

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Monster Cable AI STUDIOLINK Monster iStudioLink 1/4 to 1/8 adapter Review

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(More customer reviews)works fine for me, it records pretty quiet without a pre-amp, but thats only on my computer. the problem with recording is that computers have a limit to how much they can amplify sound (based on strict regulations), so whenever you want to record straight from a guitar, you need to turn everything up all the way. But that doesn't have anything to do with this product.
This is very high quality, and if you are a person you can appreciate that, then this is perfect for you.

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Shure PG58-QTR Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with 1/4-inch Cable Review

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(More customer reviews)Building a home studio, owned a few mics before this, some were more expensive some cheaper. This microphone blows them all away, there's a reason Shure has such a good reputation in this industry. This mic is built rock solid, the switch feels really solid and I don't have to worry about it breaking. First time I used this I was absolutely amazed at how crisp and clear the recording was. I'm buying two more.

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Tailored for performers of every level, the affordable Shure PG58 vocal microphone is a rugged performer that's tuned to accentuate the clarity of lead and back-up vocals. This PG58-QTR model includes a 15-foot XLR-to-1/4" cable, microphone clip, 5/8" to 3/8" thread adapter, and a storage bag. It's backed by a 2-year warranty.

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Behringer FCA202 Review

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(More customer reviews)In August 2006 I purchased this small audio interface (1.10" x 6.10" x 4.53") to connect my notebook with my mixer.
Until today I am very satisfied with the device. Being a user of Apple's LOGIC I found no trouble in setting the interface up. No installation of any software was necessary (the same applies for Garage Band). In Mac OS X it allows you an easy configuration via the audio application.
Attention PC users: Windows requires you to install drivers before you connect the unit to the computer. Unless an ASIO driver is used, the set-up might be tricky, too.
Additionally everybody should consider the following system requirements:
PC
Intel or AMD CPU, 1 GHz or higher
min. 512 MB RAM
6-pin or 4-pin FireWire interface
Windows XP SP2
MAC
G4/G5 or Intel Core Duo, 800 MHz or higher
min. 512 MB RAM
6-pin or 4-pin FireWire interface
MAC OS X 10.3.9 (Panther) or higher
The connection via FireWire works flawlessly and supplies the interface with power, too. Therefore the included external power adaptor has not seen much use so far.
From my point of view this interface serves any home-recording musician (especially if you use a Mac) and the artist on stage who wants to hook up his notebook to other devices. Needless to say, it is not suited for more complex tasks or even studio use due to its limited inputs and outputs. But this is not the purpose of it anyway, which allows me to recommend it for the mentioned tasks.

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Pro Tools Mbox Mini (3rd gen) Review

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(More customer reviews)First let me say, I have no idea what the other guy is talking about. I just got my Mbox Mini the other day and had zero issues installing the program.
As for using the Pro Tools, it can do everything and sets the standard. I wish it came with more plug-ins, but those that are included cover all aspects of sound production. I was surprised to see a trimmed-down Guitar Rig 4 plug-in included.
While the learning curve for Pro Tools is steep, once you get the hang of it, there isn't anything it - and you, can't do!

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Shure SM57 Microphone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you have used Shure SM57's before, you can probably skip this review.
If you are new to the wide-world of audio recording, this mic should be the first mic in your mic box. Get one of thee NOW if you haven't already. (I just paid $65 for mine here, used). It is a great mic for recording pretty much anything and will produce an acceptable sound. It is also great for live use as well. I have been into audio engineering as a professional for over 20 years (as well being a musician) and played hundreds of shows, been in dozens of studios, and have home-recorded for a long time. You know what microphone I run into more than any other? The Shure SM57. It has been used in the studio and on stages for decades- to mic up guitar cabs, drums, and pianos among other things. I have seen a lot of metal/thrash/punk bands use them for vocal mics. Yet they are subtle enough where I have seen people record acoustics guitars with great success. There is a reason for that- while yes, there are better sounding mics out there, when you buy a Shure SM57 ($100 new), you know EXACTLY what it is going to sound like and that the sound is unbeatable for the money. They are virtually indestructible as well, and when they do crap out (IF they do- I have a few that have been dropped numerous times, one took a beer bath, general abuse, and they still worked great) you can usually just get a new capsule for them for around $30-40, solder it in and BAM! it's as good as new.
Yes, there are other mics out there for the same money that sound as good (the Audix i5 comes to mind), and while they have their place and some have the same sound quality as a SM57, I highly urge anyone thinking of getting into audio engineering as more than a hobby start out with a 57. Why? Because it is the mic that ALL other

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Blue Microphones Snowflake USB Microphone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you are looking for an inexpensive but high quality, small & portable, USB microphone, the Blue Snowflake is a great choice. Blue Microphones Snowflake USB Microphone

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Whether you're recording your newest podcast, talking business on the web, or just narrating your latest great family movie, the Blue Snowflake Microphone can capture it with amazing clarity and depth that's head and shoulders above any comparable portable USB on the market!The Blue Snowflake Microphone works on both Mac and PC with no complicated drivers to install: just connect it to your computer's USB port, follow the prompts and you'll have high-fidelity sound in no time. It's perfect for podcasting, voice recognition software, iChat, and VoIP software such as Skype and Vonage. Or use it for dictation, field recording, lecture recording, and narration for slideshows and PowerPoint presentations. The sky's the limit. It's even great for recording music via GarageBand and other multitrack recording software.

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