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A decent microphone is important, but (in my opinion) not as important as the space you are recording in, which should be reverb-free.

A £1000 microphone in a reverberant space could well sound worse than a £30 microphone in an acoustically treated or soft-furnished room.

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A client of mine invested in one of these and I think the sound quality is great. The built in pop filter is really convenient too.

Note: it is a USB mic, so designed for recording sound to a computer.

If this is too pricey there's a smaller and less expensive version too (called the USB Mini), though I haven't tried that myself.

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NT-USB | Professional USB Microphone | RØDE

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The NT-USB is perfect for streamers, musicians and any type of creator looking to record professional audio with a simple plug-and-play setup. Learn more here.

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As more and more podcast contributors join shows virtually, ensuring that the sound quality on their end of the line is as high as possible is an increasingly complex challenge.

If a contributor doesn't have a headset of their own, I will often send one to them. It can make a big difference, and you don't have to pay the earth for a decent all in one mic/headphones

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The Sennheiser PC series of headsets are also good (I'd say not quite as good as the New Bee)... Also see note on pop filters below.

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Product description

Noise Cancelling USB headset with dynamic stereo sound

The Sennheiser PC 8 USB headset is a great value, convenient binaural PC headset for internet-based calls. With simple Plug and Play installation via the USB cable, you can connect it to your computer easily and start chatting and calling on the internet (Skype, VoIPbuster etc...) straight away.

Clever design features

This PC 8 headset allows you to enjoy calls hands-free without breaking the bank. Its light and practical binaural style headset let you focus all your attention on your conversations, isolating external noise.

The PC 8 headset not only delivers Sennheiser stereo sound, but it also features a quality noise-cancelling microphone that ensures your voice is easily understood, without you having to shout.

It also comes with an in-line volume/mute control that lets you adjust your volume or mute your mic without touching your computer.

Sennheiser recommends this headset for:

Internet telephony users who want a super-easy and comfortable stereo headset.

Compatibility with PC or Mac

This headset is compatible with any PC or Mac - whether a laptop or desktop.

Noise-cancelling clarity with the noise-cancelling microphone, your voice is easily understood without the need to shout

USB plug & play simply plug into your PC or Mac USB port and start calling over the net

A double-sided design ideal for easy listening during conversations, it also helps you to focus, stopping you from becoming distracted by background noise

Light and comfortable with the lightweight headband, it's easy to forget you are even wearing a headset

Handy volume control the in-line volume/mute control lets you make quick adjustments without fiddling with your computer settings

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The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. The Sennheiser PC 8 USB headset is a great value, convenient binaural PC headset for internet-based calls.

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Wearing a decent pair of headphones whilst recording is essential. It means you can monitor the recording and be rest assured that it is clean, without hum or unwanted background noise

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These are my "workhorse" headphones. Sturdy, reliable; they are perhaps a bit pricey for those starting out (and you can get much cheaper pairs, see below) and if you wear them for a long time they can make your ears hurt (as all fully enclosed headphones are prone to do). If this is a concern, check out open back headphones (though I can't comment on these as I've never used them)

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Closed over-ear headphones that ensure professional sound in the studio. Extremely comfortable to wear. Robust design. Made in Germany.

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These are a pair of more affordable headphones, and I've used them many times (mainly for video work). They're fine. And from a reputable manufacturer. My only criticism is that they are a bit flimsy. But you pay for what you get and all that jazz.

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Great sound doesn't have to cost a fortune. These comfortable, lightweight, supra-aural headphones provide dynamic audio with crisp bass and good external noise attenuation without breaking the bank.

The HD 206 is a pair of closed, dynamic stereo headphones for the budget-conscious music lover, featuring powerful sound reproduction, good attenuation of ambient noise and outstanding wearing comfort.

Powerful sound reproduction

Rich, crisp bass response

Lightweight and comfortable to wear

Good attenuation of ambient noise

Extremely rugged

High-quality leatherette ear pads

Gold-plated 1/4" (6.3 mm) jack adaptor

2-year guarantee

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Great sound doesn't have to cost a fortune. These comfortable, lightweight, supra-aural headphones provide dynamic audio with crisp bass and good external noise attenuation without breaking the bank. The HD 206 is a pair of closed, dynamic stereo headphones for the budget-conscious music lover, featuring powerful sound reproduction, good attenuation of ambient noise and outstanding wearing comfort.

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A lot of people record podcasts using Zoom. And in many cases, Zoom is fine. If so, make sure that in your settings you select the option to record all contributors' audio separately.

The downside with Zoom is that you are recording someone's voice as it sounds transmitted over an internet connection.

The difference with a virtual studio (or at least one worth their salt) is that they record contributor's audio locally (usually in their browser) and then progressively uploads that higher quality audio to the studio from where you can download it.

When using a virtual studio it is essential that everyone wears a headset or headphones. Otherwise, the system will trigger automatic noise reduction, which in turn will reduce the quality of the audio.

Even a pair of cheap earbuds is always better than nothing!

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If you are planning to go out and about to record your podcast, then an audio recorder is an essential piece of kit.

In recent years, I've only used Zoom equipment, so that's the only manufacturer I'll post here...

Other manufacturers are available.

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So this is a Zoom device that I haven't used - at least not much. But it get's talked about so much I feel I do need to post it.

Note that if you are used to using mics with low self-noise, the self noise on the in-built microphones on this device will probably give you a bit of a shock. Always use an external mic wherever possible.

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Inputs and Outputs

INPUTS | The H4n Pro offers two locking XLR/TRS combo jacks, each with switchable phantom power. Additionally there is a mic/line input via the stereo 1/8" input jack.

OUTPUTS | Monitor your performance with headphones or connect to external devices using the stereo 1/8" line output with dedicated volume control.
| The Drummer's Collective, NYC

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INPUTS | The H4n Pro offers two locking XLR/TRS combo jacks, each with switchable phantom power. Additionally there is a mic/line input via the stereo 1/8" input jack. OUTPUTS | Monitor your performance with headphones or connect to external devices using the stereo 1/8" line output with dedicated volume control.

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I and my colleagues have used the Zoom H5 extensively. When we bought it, it wasn't much more than the H4 but the main advantage is that you can buy different types of mic capsule to give you a variety of pick up patterns. This is useful for fast moving live situations that you are trying to capture on the fly.

Note that if you are used to using mics with low self-noise, the self noise on the mic capsules on this device will probably give you a bit of a shock. Always use an external mic wherever possible.

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Inputs and Outputs

Ins
The H5's XLR/TRS combo inputs can handle both mic- and line-level signals for microphones, wireless receivers, mixers, keyboards and more. Each input has a dedicated gain control knob. The supplied XYH-5 capsule also provides an additional mic/line input via a ⅛" mini phone jack.

Outs
A Line Out with adjustable volume allows you to send audio from the H5 to the input of a camera or other device without the need for an attenuator cable. In addition, there's a separate headphone output with a dedicated volume control. You can use both outputs simultaneously to route audio to your DSLR while monitoring with headphones.

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Ins The H5's XLR/TRS combo inputs can handle both mic- and line-level signals for microphones, wireless receivers, mixers, keyboards and more. Each input has a dedicated gain control knob. The supplied XYH-5 capsule also provides an additional mic/line input via a ⅛" mini phone jack.

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This is my recording device and I love it.

I see that the F8N has been discontinued, so the link is to its successor.

It's numerous channels mean that it is possible to record complex setups with multiple contributors.

It's incredibly low self-noise, which if combined with equally quiet mics, leads to incredibly clean and crisp recordings.

But this is only recommended if you intend to take your audio recording ambitions very seriously!

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If you are using a recording device, rather than a computer, then you'll need an analogue (XLR) mic. I feel very affectionate towards Sennheiser's K6 series of modular microphones.

Sadly discontinued (and replaced by the less versatile, but still well received, MKE600 mic), this link to an Ebay auction of a second hand K6/ME66 combo will almost certainly be over by the time you read this. But it'll give you an idea of what to look for on used equipment websites if you are interested.

I have the K6 power module and then the ME64, ME66 and ME67 modules, and I think it's a great microphone kit for a wide range of scenarios.

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Sennheiser ME66 & K6 Shotgun Mic Kit | eBay

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Complete with Rykote softie and handle. Its low self-noise yields an improved signal-to-noise ratio appropriate for typical digital recording systems.

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Another analogue / XLR microphone more suited for audio recorders (see separate column) than computers, this is my main 'go to' mic for most situations.

It's pricey and so probably only suitable for those who are really wanting to pursue their audio production ambitions, but I love it.

It's stereo, so ideal for atmos gathering as much as recording voices. It has a pretty decent / flat frequency response and it has very low self-noise.

I have to say that I've never been a huge Audio Technica fan (mainly because I was disappointed by the first mic I bought from them) but they have done very well indeed with the BP4025!

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BP4025 Large Diaphragm X/Y Microphone | Audio-Technica

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Designed with a unique large diaphragm capsule, the BP4025 stereo mic delivers natural, powerful sound reproduction for broadcast & professional recording.

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I'm afraid I only have one recommendation really.

Riverside.fm

There are loads of virtual podcast studios out there, but after trying out Squadcast for a bit (who were fine) I went to Riverside.fm and found they just had the edge.

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Riverside.fm - Record Podcasts And Videos From Anywhere

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Riverside.fm makes it easy for podcasters and media companies to record remote interviews in studio quality. End result? 4k video and WAV audio content.

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I'd recommend getting some windshields to put on the headset microphones to reduce plosives.

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Movo WS-G10m Universal Furry Outdoor Microphone Windscreen Muff for All Lavalier 604888903684 | eBay

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Color: Dark Gray. Minimizes noise and ambiance.

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Yes that's right, this headset can often be picked up for less than £20, but it's the best headset I've come across so far for recording virtual podcast contributors

Also see note on pop filters below.

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New Bee USB Headsets with Microphone with 3.5mm Jack Noise Cancelling Mic Comfor | eBay

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The microphone can adjust the angle arbitrarily, avoiding plosives and saliva and ensuring that you can clearly pick your voice. Note: Mute function only in USB mode.

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Good beginner microphone for podcasting

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The product price includes 3 years' warranty and 30 day money back guarantee.

However, the Gear4music extended warranty scheme provides an enhanced service, and is designed to offer a higher level of protection than many 'free' warranties offered by some retailers and manufacturers.

The highlights of this enhanced warranty service are:

Warranty is extended to 10 years from the date of delivery.

Our Money Back guarantee is extended from 30 days to 180 days (terms apply after 30 days)

Collection and delivery costs are included for the first 2 years in the event of an item becoming faulty

Claim 50% cash back on the cost of the policy after 10 years if it has not been used!

Warranty is transferable if the item is re-sold

Loan or replacement equipment will be provided if the product isn't repaired within 30 days

If an item can not be repaired, a similar alternative product or cash discount (as defined in this policy) will be offered

The policy can be cancelled within 30 days, and at any time after that for a pro-rata discount

Please note that this extended warranty is currently only available on products sold within the UK, EU or EEA, and is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the extended warranty certificate provided.

For customers in outlying areas of the country, the price of the Extended Warranty may be marginally higher, due to the potential for higher collection and redelivery transport costs.

This enhanced warranty is in addition to the standard Gear4music and manufacturer warranty policies, and the Gear4music terms and conditions of trade. No statement or condition of sale contained within these terms affects or restricts your statutory rights as defined under the Consumer Contracts Regulation 2014.

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Samson Q2U Recording Pack - Making vocal recordings easy. The Samson Q2U Recording Pack contains everything necessary to quickly and easily obtain high quality vocal recordings. This consists of a Samson Q2U USB/XLR dynamic microphone, a foam windscreen, a desktop tripod stand, a 2.25m USB cable, and a 3m XLR cable.