What Microphones do PodCasts Use?

[dubcanada]

Hello,

What microphones do DiggNation, Twit, etc use? I run a PodCast and I need a new microphone with better noise canceling features.

Any suggestions?

- Steve

[ArmpitOfDeath]

Noise cancelling isn't really a feature of the mics in use by semi-pro podcasters. That's more of a case of controlling the environment you podcast in.

However, how semi-pro mics can be hooked up -
a) eliminates pops from voices and
b) handling noise, environmental rumble, etc

If you look at Leo Laporte's setup, he uses mics on suspension stands which eliminates noise picked up from you moving around near the mic, etc. Pop filters decrease the 'pop' you can hear on some of the more amateur podcasts every time the announcer says something with an emphasis.

The Blue Snowball USB Mic (http://www.bluemic.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Products&file=index&prod_id=18) is an increasingly popular mic as it's directly USB connected, so no need for a pro soundcard. You can find pop filter and suspension stand here (http://www.bluemic.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Products&file=accessoires#).

Wearable mics? Try this (http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/item/SP-USB-LAPEL-1) for a start. Once again it plugs directly into a USB socket.

[alexsk8ca]

For the internet radio station I work at the mic we use most is a Plantronics USB headset, and it sounds great (I think it's the .audio 510). It's a great price, but the only problem is (and it can be a big problem) you can only use one usb mic at a time with one computer. I think there is some software that you can use multiple soundcards, and therefor multiple usb mics, but it isn't cheap.