Helpful tips for the aspiring producer

Here are a few useful tips for those of you recording at home.

1) Understand Microphone Polar Patterns
A polar pattern describes the shape and direction of the microphone’s “sweet spot”. Some mics pick up from one direction, some from all around and all offer different degrees of bleed from the sound source. Most of the time, you’ll want to use a uni-directional mic that is most sensitive to sound arriving on-axis.

More information on Polar Patterns

2) Know when to use a dynamic or condenser microphone

Dynamic and condenser mics have different frequency response characteristics. Dynamic mics (like the SM58®) tend to be “shaped” for vocal use. Condenser mics (often used in recording applications) can be “flatter” and usually have an extended high frequency response.
Detailed description on transducer types

 

3) Invest in a pair of studio headphones for the right application

A good pair of studio headphones won’t break the bank and will let you hear your mix with a great deal of clarity. Models with a swivel that allow you to use just one headphone at a time can be convenient for mixing applications.

More information about Headphones

 

 

4) Add a microphone adaptor and be totally portable

The Shure X2U provides a portable and convenient way to connect a professional quality XLR microphone into your computer by converting the analog XLR signal into USB. It also acts as the computer’s de facto sound card and provides zero latency monitoring, and is the perfect solution for  home recording and recording on the move.

More information on the Shure X2U, XLR to USB adaptor

 

There are plenty more educational documents, videos and downloads in the  education section of our website for microphones, in-ear monitoring  and home recording

All I want for Christmas is an X2u…

So Christmas is getting closer, and your folks still don’t know what present to buy for you. Or perhaps, you’re a budding recording artists, but don’t want to spend the tonnes of money needed to set up your own Abbey Road studio? If any of these sound like you, then here’s something that you should DEFINITELY put on your Christmas list!

The Shure X2u XLR-USB adapter allows you to connect any microphone straight into your computer via USB. It needs no extra hardware, and being a plug and play device, needs no software either. A recording studio at your own desk – or wherever you like for that matter.

Unlike similar products available, the X2u boasts two key features – Zero Latency Monitoring and Monitor Mix Control.

The X2u has its own dedicated headphone output. By plugging your headphones straight into the X2u, you can hear the sound live, with Zero Latency.

Monitor Mix Control balances the live audio feed with the computer playback – much like a DJ’s cross fader – letting you choose exactly what comes through to your cans.

There are also two USB large diaphragm condenser microphone available – PG27-USB for instruments, and the PG42-USB for vocals. For more details, visit our Home Recording page.

Watch the video below to see how easy the X2u is to use.

Happy shopping…