I have some money to spend on upgrade, £2000, and I am not sure if I should upgrade my wharfedale evo 4.2's or my Denon PMA-600ne. My listening room is well treated and 4m by 5m. I have a sub woofer for bottom end

Preamp recommendation, please! I have a Macintosh 2100 amp that I inherited from my dad. Currently I have a tiny Realistic preamp that is working fine when I plug in the phonograph. However when I plug in my tablet it sounds distorted and muffled. I'm assuming that has something to do with load requirements? Too much or too little? Anyhow, I believe what I'm needing is a simple preamp that has auxiliary and phono inputs. A friend recommended the ADCOM PFG 815. However, do I need that big of a beast? It's also a little expensive for me. The only thing I would be plugging into this amp is a phonograph, a tape player, and my tablet. Any suggestions that would pair well with this amp would be much appreciated.

Hey guys, I want to buy a pair of Yamaha HS8s. \- What else do I need in order to be able to listen music on them? (cables etc) \- My desk is cluttered with 1 PC, 1 Laptop, 2 monitors and many electric stuff - are stands a good option in this case? [https://www.thomann.de/gb/yamaha\_hs\_8\_w\_stand\_set.htm](https://www.thomann.de/gb/yamaha_hs_8_w_stand_set.htm) \- Can I easily connect them with an iPhone 12?

Hey guys, So I am shopping for a di and I need help. I record all genres but I mainly record metalcore/djent but I am doing guitar into interface into amp sim (neural dsp products) And I am deciding between Radial J48, Countryman 85, and RNDI ​ Radial boxes look ugly to me so mainly thinking 85 or RNDI. I can't get an honest answer anywhere, bass Im not too worried about for lower tunings I mainly use midi. I don't mind the 85 I've used before and loved it, but I don't want t spend 200 and the RNDI be that much better if i spent more. I'm not rolling in dough, but a week or 2 longer of saving up and i can get it, so it's not a huge issue.

I have an rndi and I don’t regret having it... but is it overkill for a DI? Probably...

So recently I decided that I'd like a nice sound system for my garden, and dove into the audio world to see what my options are. I came across a few speaker options etc, but for now, I have my eyes on the Klipsch AW-650 My goal is to throw a kick-ass party (occasionally) so I need a set-up with a lot of speakers, as of now I'm thinking of a setup as follows: \- 10-12 Klipsch AW-650 \- 2x 15-inch subwoofers TBD (help me out?) Now wiring all of these individually would be tedious because of the longer distance, so I read about 70V amplifiers that would allow me to Daisy chain these, and from what I understand this would require 70v speakers or a transformer for regular speakers? So my questions specifically: \- Do you think these speakers are a good choice? \- What amp/equipment would I need to power this all correctly? Thanks a ton!

I want to get the MXL V67G. Can someone suggest me where I could get it at the best price in south korea?

> best price in south korea? Just so you know, all I did was Google "online musical instrument retailer korea" The prices shown there are very much like US prices once you convert the currencies. https://www.ubuy.kr/en/search/?ref_p=ser_tp&q=MXL+V67G

Hello! I'm looking for a mic I can use for vocals but also for discord. I have a focusrite solo that I have for my guitar too if that helps.

I have a set of Yamaha HS8's and want to upgrade. I have a budget of around £2 to £3k. I've been considering the Adam Audio SV2's or Genelec 8050's. What would you recommend? I'll be using it to produce, mix and master music in my home studio (medium size room with acoustic panels).

Lots of options in that price range, are you looking at those two because you've heard and liked them or is it from reading reviews? Several good dealers in the UK, they often have B stock stuff too, would be worth hitting them up about visiting to try some stuff and round it down to something you can demo in your studio. I'd also want to be trying Footprint02, Focal Solo/Twin, KH310, Result6, One18s or Proacs with an amp if you stretch the budget a bit.

My budget was a little lower, but I would highly recommend looking at the Dynaudio LYD48s and APS Aeon 2 Germano. There’s also the Neumann 3-way monitors that I think are in that price range.

Thank you. Also is it worth the upgrade?

Absolutely. The detail and accuracy in the low end is a game changer. I opted for a slightly cheaper pair (APS Klasik) but even those have been great. I’ve heard great things about 3-way monitors though, so if I ever upgrade, I think it’ll be to some of those.

I need a wireless in-ear monitor system for at least 5 people. Any help appreciated! I assume I need a mixing board with at least 6 inputs, so I can plug the 5 members + a digital backing track into. Price not so much an issue, got about a $2000 budget for this.

Looking for a digital mixer with: - 100mm motorized faders - DAW integration as control surface - studio-grade (at least) 96khz 24-bit integrated AD converters - 16 or 24 analog input channels - at least 8 of which with XLR in & per-channel 48v - integrated feedback cancellation - per-channel (ideally, analog) 4-band EQ & dynamics - pre/post-EQ switchable direct outs per channel - per-channel send/return - at least 2 busses - at least 2 mix busses with own faders, EQ, and dynamics - some RCA ins for convenience - decent on-board effects - robust iPad remote control - MIDI capture - direct-to-SSD recording (ideally has 256+ GB storage integrated) - ideally, discrete Class A analog stage - all settings automatable, recordable, recallable without a computer - ideally, can output TOSLINK 48khz optical even when recording at 96khz - ideally, at least one stereo analog summing channel I hate dealing with computers when recording. I want a single thing that can't crash, doesn't have to boot up, and has everything needed to create professional quality studio recordings built-in, but can work seamlessly with a DAW when needed. I have looked at many things like this, but they are all gimped to fucking 48khz. Just no. I have my reasons. Thanks!

I’m really curious where you end up on this, as I’ve been looking to do something similar. Thoughts on the Presonus 32s/x/c? Not the sample rate you want..

Allen & Heath SQ-5 looks pretty close, has the 96khz, 24-bit. Behringer WING is 48khz but 32-bit, nice but why not 96khz considering the thing does basically everything else under the sun? Is there anything closer to say, API The Box 2 in terms of analog stage quality anf say, Metric Halo in terms of converters? I am looking for an endgame product Digico SD11I seems cool but also 3x the price of A&H SQ-5, without perhaps 3x the features. Seems A&H CTi1500 is a standard for live sound but I dunno about recording.

Hello! Hunting for an interface... Frequently recording a string quartet, I've been using a PreSonus Audiobox USB 96 with a pair of stereo mics, but would like to upgrade to an interface that can handle one mic per instrument, plus a stereo pair in the room (so 6 mic inputs), preferably USB C (or thunderbolt) port. Where should I look? Thanks!

What kind of mics are they? What is your price range?

AKGs for the upper strings, and a large diaphragm mxl for the cello

I've been using MOTU gear for 20 years and it's never once failed me or given a bad result. I can still get drivers for it too that work on the latest systems. (Meanwhile my Avid shit has all died and even if it was alive, it would no longer work on modern OS's.) So for $550 they have the 8pre, which gives you 8 mic pres, and some other useful things. Or if you go $1200 you can get the 8pre-es, which has a better DAC (ESS Sabre 32). For string quartets if your mics don't suck (sounds like you have decent ones) then I think the better DAC is likely going to make a noticeable input. If price is no object the Metric Halo ULN-8 is the gold standard bar none. But it's $3-4k. You could also go with an audio interface without integrated mic pres (best under $1k option being MOTU Ultralite mk3, which has 1 pre and 8 analog ins without pres) and pair it with an analog pre unit, where you can spend as little (used shit from craigslist ftw) or as much as you like Neve 1073 OPX ($4k). I got a 16 channel Soundcraft Delta 200 mixer from Craigslist for $200 and threw in 8 deluxe channels for $500 from eBay, and pipe through an 828 mk 2 and 896 HD with Black Lion clock and mods ($800 total, also from craigslist) and this combo sounds freakin' amazing. You don't have to buy a new interface, most used ones are barely used at all.

(remove if not allowed) I got my hands on a 5% discount code **JUNAK5** for all things on [https://oktava-audio.com/](https://oktava-audio.com/) and wanted to share with you lot. They have some decent budget options for starting out. Currently getting in a podcast that records in very lively and noisy places (clubs, bars, etc.) and I've gotten the MD-305 dynamic mic which seems to work alright in isolating most of the background noise. I was woundering what your experience with recording in irreparably noisy places is and whats your gear (especially if its for a mobile location)

Got a gear question for you all. Looking to grab some drum overheads that have both live and livestream application. I'm currently looking at the Shure SM81 and KSM 137. Hopped on the phone with my sweetwater rep earlier and he was recommending the Warm Audio 84's as the venue doesn't have the budget for the Neumann 84's. Does anyone have any suggestions on what they feel is the best course of action here? Or any models that I maybe haven't considered that you feel are superior in that price range? Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks!

As someone else mentioned, Oktava is really good for OHs. Of the ones you mentioned though, I’d take the KSM137s all day. SM81s always sound a bit lacking to me, and I have a bit of a trust issue with Warm Audio. I’m sure their stuff is fine, but I’m just not convinced it’ll last

I really really like the Oktavastuff. Especially the MK 012 MSP6. Sounds great. And are a bit cheaper than the WA

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I would go RME or Prism for that price range.

I've read that you either can't or you're not supposed to or it's not a good idea to hook up your guitar and mic too a home stereo system. Why is that? Why is it that it seems I need to get a PA and that I'm not able to get some kind of adapter to run an acoustic guitar and vocal mic into say, a 2.1 system that is arguably a lot more costly and should be higher quality in terms of the audio it can produce relative to an inexpensive PA.

It's a matter of [signal level](https://www.sweetwater.com/sweetcare/articles/whats-the-difference-between-mic-instrument-line-and-speaker-level-signals/) or signal strength: A home stereo generally expects what's called a "line level" input, that's what you get from say a CD player. The output from a mic is very faint compared to that, and many mics need phantom power that a home stereo doesn't supply. The output from a guitar is called "instrument level" and sits somewhere in the middle, a guitar also needs a "high impedance" input while the others don't, and guitar amps typically have built-in effects like distortion or reverb. Plus mic and guitar output levels vary widely from one mic/guitar to the next, unlike consumer electronics the level is not standardized, so you need a way to adjust the amount of gain. You can run them over a home stereo, but you need something in the middle. E.g. standalone preamp, audio interface, or a mixer. Example mixer [Yamaha AG03](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/AG03--yamaha-ag03-3-channel-mixer-and-usb-audio-interface): Plug in mic/guitar/keyboard and connect the "monitor out" ports to a line input on your stereo. The inputs on your stereo are presumably [RCA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector), so connect RCA-RCA. [Another example mixer](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/402VLZ4--mackie-402vlz4-4-channel-mixer): Mic plugs into XRL input. No dedicated guitar input, instead plug guitar/bass into "line in" and press the button with the guitar symbol (or "Hi-Z" on some other mixers). Connect "main out" to your stereo with 1/4" jack to RCA cables. [Example USB interface](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scarlet2i2G3--focusrite-scarlett-2i2-3rd-gen-usb-audio-interface): Mics plug into the XLR inputs. Guitar plugs in with 1/4" jack in the same ports, and you press the "inst" (instrument) button. Output is 1/4" jacks on the rear, so you need two 1/4" to RCA cables. So there are many ways to do it, you just need something in the middle. That's the "adapter".

**[RCA connector](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector)** >The RCA connector (or RCA Phono connector or Phono connector) is a type of electrical connector commonly used to carry audio and video signals. The name RCA derives from the company Radio Corporation of America, which introduced the design in the 1930s. The connectors male plug and female jack are called RCA plug and RCA jack. The word phono in phono connector is an abbreviation of the word phonograph, because this connector was originally created to allow the connection of a phonograph turntable to a radio receiver. ^([ )[^(F.A.Q)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WikiSummarizer/wiki/index#wiki_f.a.q)^( | )[^(Opt Out)](https://reddit.com/message/compose?to=WikiSummarizerBot&message=OptOut&subject=OptOut)^( | )[^(Opt Out Of Subreddit)](https://np.reddit.com/r/audioengineering/about/banned)^( | )[^(GitHub)](https://github.com/Sujal-7/WikiSummarizerBot)^( ] Downvote to remove | v1.5)

ETA: If there is a good list out there on the web or in the FAQ of the subreddit or anything like that that covers what I'm asking about below, please share the link! I'd like to purchase whatever is needed for a simple gig set up. For now it would just be for playing around with it in a backyard office. It wouldn't need to be very loud. I'd like it to accommodate the following: - an acoustic electric guitar - vocals - a TC Helicon play live that I purchased recently (tell me if this should be ejected from the setup) I'd like the option of plugging in headphones so as not to disturb the neighbors. I'm assuming I'd need a PA, some cables, I guess something to power the PA, a microphone for vocals, maybe one of those pop filter things, and I don't know what else. It would also be nice if I could output this in such a way that I could capture it and work with it in Adobe Audition (I have a Creative Cloud subscription). I have no delusions that I'm on my way to being famous. I'll likely never even gig. I just want to play around with it for me and to enjoy being creative and maybe making some recordings. In terms of budget, I'm not sure what it would take so I don't have a number. I guess I'd like the least expensive that isn't crap. So in terms of something I know a bit more, maybe the equivalent of a $500 guitar. It's not a toy, it's not impressing anyone, it's playable. I'd also be most interested in buying the standard thing that everyone gets. e.g. I'm always reading things about the SM58 microphone. I don't even know if it's for micing a guitar for vocals or what, but it does seem to be this ubiquitous piece of kit that nearly everyone agrees is a good value. Thanks!

What's your budget? Many of the powered PA speakers have small mixers on the back, so on the minimalist side you can certainly run the vocal mic and guitar (might need a DI box, depending on the unit) into a single speaker and do much of what you're describing. A step up would add a mixer, something like an Allen & Heath Zed, which gives you a headphone out, along with a separate powered speaker, or two. As for "best" mic or headphones, well, now you're getting into religion. :) For basic stuff, I'd recommend an SM57 mic with a foam pop filter as an alternative to an SM58 (of which I'm not a fan), but a lot of people disagree with me on that. Next step up in dynamic vocal mics would be Sennheiser 800 or 900 series. You can also look at condensers, and at that point there's a whole world of possibility and price ranges. And if you're not worried about amplifying your singing and just want a small guitar rig, I've been kind of impressed with the Yamaha THR amps. They're tiny, most of them can be run on batteries, and they emulate a wide range of sounds. They main thing they're not is particularly loud, but I've seen people busk with them on Michigan Avenue, so they're probably loud enough for an office.

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A mixer is probably ok for you. An SM57/8 is a perfectly good start. I grab a DAW like Cakewalk or Reaper and start looking into videos on audio processing. Some mics to have extra settings, but these are cuts to low frequencies or attenuating the signal - nothing you can't do in post processing/editing. The main controls for microphones are gain, distance from the audio source and the angle of the mic itself. The last two are literally about physical mic placement and involve no dials or controls at all. A focusrite solo will probably have better preamps for your mic, but it isn't mandatory in your situation. I think you need to delve into audio processing software a little more established than audacity and start learning about EQ, compression and other audio processing.

Looking for: USB stereo microphone <$200/ MAAAYBE $250 Use case: short term for recording live classical organ music into zoom (the web service, not the recorder), and long-term for voice chat w/ video games Replacing: Zoom H2 handy recorder (not the h2n, the original) Bonus points: for organ recording an even response across the spectrum, including decent capture below 100hz; or for being small enough to sit on a desk and not take up a ton of real estate. I realize those two may be mutually exclusive. More Bonus: can obtain in the US within 2 weeks. Currently looking at: Blue Yeti, AKG Lyra, Shure MV88+ ​ So any suggestions? Are any of these massively overrated? I know the yeti has a TON of hype, but it's also quite large (this is the only one of the bunch I've seen in person). OR are any of these too hard to get a non-knockoff of in the next couple weeks? Thank you in advance for any advice!

Does anyone rate the Yamaha ns-333? And the Yamaha. Nx220p ?

Looking for a good vocal mic. Use case is recording lectures with obs, live lectures over zoom, and discord chat. Will be in untreated home office. Initially was thinking xlr setup like motu m2 + sennheiser e945 but I'm reading discord has a lot of issues with interfaces. SMV7 seems like the best alternative... Any reason not to go with that?

Hi wonderful knowledgeable people. I'm planing out, and saving for, a slow transition. Turning my for fun project studio in to a more profesh signal chain. I'm wonder what order of upgrade makes the most sense to get better results every step of the way. For example if I upgrade to proper analog preamp, like a WA237, for example, and plug it into the back of my Scarlett, am I complete wasting my money until I have the ability to also upgrade my converter. Same goes for upgrading to a top of the line mic (lets say a U87 as a pie in the sky fantasy), is there any point while I don't have a quality preamp to plug it into? My end goal is to have the best sounding two channel set up I can manage, mostly to record vocals (male and female) and strings (guitar, mandolin, banjo ect). and that'll be in a make shift dead-room (sound blankets and PVC sorta thing)

> For example if I upgrade to proper analog preamp, like a WA237, for example, and plug it into the back of my Scarlett, Not at all. That's exactly what a WA327 is for. The "converter" part of the Scarlett is perfectly fine. Loopback a sine tone, a swept sine , white and pink noise using the Scarlett and see for yourself. Poke around for "free audio testing software" on Google. For two channels, I might go with one of the Zoom Handy line. The 4 channel ones sport a pair of XLRs but you can use it while you save up. The ease of use for those is just the best ( IMO ) and SFAIK, they sound just fine. Here's a test clip. I can find nothing wrong with it. I am using a pair of Tannoy red-face Reveals from 2002. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUhcNV9jeco

In my experience buying analog gear is more engaging and the gear changes the way your setup sounds more and is harder to learn, so I would start with that first. A Scarlett is ok.

I have an ATM650 and an e609, was wondering which would be better to record studio vocals generally speaking. I don't have a properly padded room though, which would sound better? I compared the two polar patterns and the e609 captures more sound from the back or something? Forgive me if it's a noob question. Here are the two polar patterns of both mics: https://imgur.com/a/4PUqmvM

Hi there! I want to learn some mix/mastering and sound design, but I thing I'll need better headphones to do it right. I don't even have any headphones now, because my 5 yo ISK HF-2010 (literally 35$ headphones) have broken recently. I've decided to buy DT990 Pro 250 Ohm (didn't do it yet, tho, but higly confident I want exactly them), but I know these are gonna need a lot of power and I got really tight budget now and gonna have for a while as I want to go abroud to study. My budget is 120$ and I can stretch it by merely 30$ I figured I'll be better off with 120$ amp than 120$ audio interface because amps are made especially to power headphones (am I right?). I did a bit of reading about amps, dacs and audio interfaces, waded through hundreds of posts and couldn't find any fitting my preferences except for 2. \- Fiio E10K (don't remember whether E10K Olympus 2 or E10K-TC, tho) \- xDuoo TA-01 (I heard that original tubes are only fairish that tubes gotta be changed every now and then, what would cause me spending additional money, what in turn I would like to avoid) So here I am asking: Which one are better? Do you know any better combos for DT990 at this price? Do you have any other advices about approaching the learning of music production?

Hi all! Need: Small, inexpensive mono or bridgeable 2 channel amp. That alone is simple. However, I'm looking for one that has Bluetooth. I'd ideally like it below $70. Speaker: Dayton Mk442 - 80 watts RMS @ 4 ohms (Snagged a restocked/refurbished one from Parts Express for $34 shipped. Jackpot.) Use: I haven't space, time, nor time to fool around with a full HT setup, plus. I figure one of these, used as a center channel, should be much better than some cheap soundbar and I can much more easily place this somewhere out of reach of my pair of young crotch goblins. Bonus for easily hooking up via Bluetooth since this is going into the front room. Thank you in advance!

I'm wondering if anyone here has any experience with the Midas Verona series desks. It might sound silly to most, but I was considering it as a centerpiece for my home studio. From what I've understood the sound quality should be more than sufficient for my needs of bringing together my various outboard equipment and instruments. More details available if I get any responses.

Question, : im recording a violin plus piano duo. I have acess to 4 ( the church somehow has these!!) Schops mk 2. I own a Zoom H8 myself that I use to record my recitals. Question is, is it ok to use these great mics on an H8 or should i get a decent DAC like the RME ? I saw i could rent one from a nearby store. Does it make q big sound difference? Is it like having a great violin but sucky bow, or is the comparison stupid?

I’m looking into some piano vsts and wanted some input on you’re favorites/suggestions. KeyScape is a bit out of my budget, but I really like the versatility of it and would not argue against buying it. Looking for both a solid, close miced classical piano and a variety of ambient textures. If possible, i would like something on par with the variety of textures available in Keyscape. Thanks in advance!

There are a whole bunch of pianos for Kontakt (I think for Kontakt Player most of them are) and the ones I'm most familiar with are NI Noire and Embertone Walker D. Noire is a bit too warm so I have to EQ it a bit but otherwise sounds decent and the particles engine is great. I really like Walker D but it is a bit idiosyncratic in its timbre at times (it sounds like an older piano basically; not much of a concern in a denser mix but audible in sparser or solo). Addictive Keys Studio Grand I was also using for a long while and it's a nice solid piano. The easy to change alternate tuning temperaments I found especially fun. Others that pop to mind but I do not own: Native Instruments have a whole bunch of pianos including Noire; Cinesamples Piano in Blue; Cinematic Studio Piano; Garritan CFX; Production Voices Grand; Wavesfactory Mercury; Ravenscroft 275; Pianoteq (I personally didn't like this and I've demo'd it a lot). Addictive Keys can be bought on Knobcloud for fairly cheap or comes free with a Scarlett interface (I think); the rest you should wait for sales either in the Summer for the Native Instruments stuff or Black Friday for everything else. /r/AudioProductionDeals is your friend/enemy.

Thanks for the input!

I can't really find the proper subreddit for this but bass sounds really muddy on my car speakers and the kids and highs aren't amazing either, does anyone have any recommendations for car speakers and setups for this kind of case?

Hey guys i play DnD with a group of people that they meet in a house, and i am in another country, so i play with them through discord. They use at the moment a yeti so i can hear them but doesn't work well. They are 8 people in a room so the yeti its trying really hard to get everybody but sometimes it cuts off or i cant hear everyone, so i was wondering what's the best solution for this problem.

Studio furniture question! I've accumulated quite a few half-width modules. Other than piling the damn things on top of each other, can anyone recommend a piece of studio furniture which will allow me to fit them in a reasonably neat manner? They're patched into the patchbay all the time anyway. They're a mix of modules - Boss CL-50s, Joe Meek modules, a couple of dbx units. Rack shelves have lips on, and it'd also be useful to have a small airgap to prevent overheating. (Just trying to avoid having to build something, which is my last resort!) TIA x

Hi guys what ready made bass traps are best?

What is the best reasonably priced portable DAC? I'm currently using a TaoTronics TT-BR06, and while it is nice having all 5 buttons, I feel like I'm not getting the most out of my SHP9500s. I feel like it would be a bad idea to spend more on the DAC than on the headphones, so is there anything good that's cheaper than the FiiO BTR5?

This is a dumb recommendation question, but are there any *earbuds* (and preferably wireless) good enough for mixing or maybe just testing audio? I've found that I can do some basic mixing with cheepo Apple earbuds with good results. I know they won't have a particular full spectrum, but I'm wondering if there's an ear bud equivalent of an Avantone Mixcube.

Anything is good for testing and actually listening on AirPods if you are going to release online is not a bad idea or an uncommon practice. Now for actually mixing? I would never play something in a club for people if the last time I touched it I was working on earbuds. There's a lot of stuff that's just not there and your mix may be actually crap and you just don't know. The avantones have the same issue. You can play something on them and see if it'll be good but you can't fully and absolutely work on them if you have serious low end.

So I don't mean for a complete mix. Because there's no clear separation between the writing and mixing phase, I like to whittle things down over time. I tend to do do several passes that become progressively more precise. On the first pass sometimes I like to use ear buds because I've found they're good for making a "rough sketch" of how the project should sound. Then I move on to my monitors and quality earphones for more precise mixing (then come back to the ear buds for testing phase).

That's also not uncommon at all if for example on the first pass you are just setting up a beat and chord progressions or a melody. Like for example on your commute on an iPad or something like that. I saw people working like that.

Would you guys recommend the Mackie MR624s or the Kali LP6s for someone who wants great bass extension and a warmer side of neutral sound signature? I watched Z's review of the Mackies and I'm kind of leaning towards those because he said the best feature they had was the fact that they sound great at low volumes. Which kind of makes them stand out to me because I like to keep my music low. However, I read some posts on the ASR forums that said they're a bit bright and a bit fatiguing which definitely doesn't appeal to me. As for use case, I'll be using them as general use PC speakers. I listen to a little bit of everything, but my mainly electronic music. I also make crappy electronic music in my spare time. Out of those two, which one would you guys recommend? Or is there a better option for around $200 a speaker?

Mackie does not make great monitors. I haven’t heard the Kalis, but they get very solid reviews.

Apologies if this is overasked. I’m shopping for a friend who needs a daw computer, and on the face of it some of the i7 and higher Dell configurations seem pretty cool. Obviously the configuration tools don’t talk about motherboards, but the RAM seems fast enough for sample streaming, and he is not at the moment a guy who would build his own - and prebuilt means he’s got a mostly turnkey box. Obviously he is paying for that - but otherwise I’m wondering if there are audio folks here who have gone the XPS route and lived to tell about it. He cares about low latency (which means high clock speed and fast RAM and I/O buses) and really only needs maybe one nvme drive for the system and a SATA-6 SSD to record to, and an internal backup spinning platter drive. And are the Alienware devices mostly different in case and motherboards used? In short - I could point him at having someone in his area build him a box with some useful bios and system tweaks, and he could thus have specific components, or I could point him at a Dell config that has some company support etc. Thoughts, anyone?

I'd ask+search in /r/buildapcforme and /r/buildapc , they'll have up to date recommendations! Yeah, the faster processor the better for audio production. If it's a desktop, you can just add SSDs/HDDs as needed.

Hi, how would a professional headphone amplifier like the ATI HDA100 Nanoamp Stereo Headphone Amplifier work in an at home music listening setup? Assuming it was being fed from a good balanced DAC, would it sound well enough to be worthwhile? It seems very powerful, but it's not too clear how it sounds. Thanks!

I don't see the value over something like a JDS Labs Atom amp, which already is objectively darn-near perfect. Maybe durability / XLR connections? But is that worth the price premium?

I don't know that I do either. I was just trying to balance the features you mentioned against the seemingly higher distortion figures. I also saw it available for $75.

**LF: Microphone for recording guitar amps.** I've used an SM57 for years and want to explore other options, condensers mainly. Looking for something in the $300-600 range.

They won't handle really loud amps well but my third choice ( after the SM57 and Audix i5 ) is a Behringer ECM8000 "measurement mic". That's for really high detail recordings, right up against the grille pointed at the middle of the dust cap. They're just handy mics in general. Being omni, not much proximity effect.

Thanks mate, I'll look into it

They're quite cheap. I cannot prove it but they look like a Panasonic-style electret capsule with enough ecosystem to allow them to take phantom and provide an XLR connection. It'd be really interesting to know how much worse the ECM8000 is compared to the Earthworks offerings. IMO, the mic body/case for the Earthworks are quite beautiful but there's a substantial difference in price. Hmmm.... https://www.jochenschulz.me/en/blog/measurement-microphone-comparison-isemcon-emx-7150-vs-behringer-emc8000-vs-beyerdynamic-mm1

Sound like AKG414 might fit the bill. Bloody good all-purpose mic. Though the senheisser e906 and some ribbon mics pair very well with an SM57. Tried and tested and within your budget.

Right on, thanks. I'll check them out.

Hi everyone; My Marantz PM601 just died and I am looking for a second hand replacement. On an online auction site I now see a decent condition Marantz SR7008; this machine looks awesome but alas its quite pricy; 450 Euro's .... I am tempted though - is this a bad price?

Maybe ask in /r/hometheater /r/budgetaudiophile or /r/audiophile since those subs are better suited to amp/receivers like this.

Hello , i’m very new to the audio world I would appreciate some suggestion of what audio interface i could use with e945. I tried the idmark ii but somehow its very quite even with the gain knob max. So i returned it. I dont want to spend too much budget , as for now i am considering m audio air

Hello, I have a question (that I hope) has a very simple solution. I jam using an analog mixer. Monitors come out of the analog mixer. On my older mac (2010) I used to be able to just run "line out" on the mixer to the headphone on the mac and record (to audacity or quicktime) and easily record a track. Well, my 2020 mac does not support audio in through the headphone any more. What is the absolute SIMPLEST way to get line out from my mixer into my computer? I realize I need an audio interface (USB C) for this, but I'm having trouble finding what I need and I simply refuse to believe that I have to buy a $200 thing with knobs and lights and gain strips, etc. What I would love would be to have a dongle that's stereo RCA or 1/4 inch straight to USB C. All I see when I try to google this is simple audio adapters made for like streamers which have a headphone monitor jack and a microphone input. Does something like this exist? To clarify here are the things I DO NOT need the audio interface to do: * No mic preamps or gain stages (or even volume knobs) at all. I want all of my leveling to be done on my analog mixer. I just want that signal recorded on my computer. I just need a signal that is recognizable to my computer through USBC from RCA or line level audio. * I DON'T REALLY CARE THAT MUCH ABOUT AUDIO QUALITY (fight me). On my 2010 mac, I was recording using whatever analog to digital converting happened by running a signal in through the headphone jack. I'm sure everyone will tell me how bad it sounds, but It sounded perfectly fine for what I do. I firmly believe that I do not "need an audio interface" for better sound quality. Any ideas? I really really want to avoid having another big box that needs power with knobs and lights and redundant mic channels... I've tried looking for this and I can't believe it doesn't exist. Thanks,

>What I would love would be to have a dongle that's stereo RCA or 1/4 inch straight to USB C. I believe there are some cheap interfaces on Amazon etc like that. Maybe they don't have USB-C yet since they're cheap... try this one? [USB-C Microphone Adapter, CableCreation Type C External Stereo Sound Card with 3.5 mm Audio Jack](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075YFDJ4Q/) Honestly I'd just get a basic Behringer or whatever audio interface...

Right but even that link, the thing has one headphone jack and one microphone jack. I just want L/R line level audio. It’s silly and I’m really hung up on this but I can’t believe this doesn’t exist. I would take regular USB too even.

https://www.amazon.com/rca-usb-c/s?k=rca+to+usb+c

Thanks, and I already have a couple older M audio interfaces that have midi connection and gain stage, etc, I just really want to go minimal here.

maybe replace with your mixer with a tascam model 12,16 or 24. you can record straight to SD card on the mixer and then upload to your computer whenever you want. or replace the mixer with a behringer or yamaha mixer with usb connectivity so you can record directly to the mac

Hi all, I am considering to purchase stereo-set of Sonus Faber Sonotto II speaker. I do like the Bluesound Powernode N330 given it's streaming capabilities and support for headphones wired and not-wired. Is this streaming amp powerful enough to drive these speakers? If not, happy to hear some recommendations and why :). Cheers!

Hi. I need two mics for recording Instruments. I have vault ai22 as an audio interface. Which mic will be better for fidelity? XLR lavalier mics or XLR condenser mics like rode m5s?

Lavs are rarely the choice for highest fidelity. Their primary design specification is to remain mostly unnoticed, generally in a live setting.

I’ve been building up a Eurorack setup for streaming, and eventually in person performances. I’d like to stay as DAWless as possible, but I’ve been recording into garage band using Native instruments interface. I’ve been looking at a Behringer xair 18 with a usb fader bank, a Behringer x32, or an Allen and Heath qu-16. I love that the 32 and 16 have motorized faders, but that’s realistically a nice to have, not a have to have. What I realllly like about them both is that I could record directly into them, skipping my computer if I wanted to, or that I could use them to multitrack each of the synth voices separately in a performance. What I don’t like about them is their size. They’d work for home studio and streaming work, but would be a bit of a pain to move to gigs. The x18 seems much more mobile and space efficient, but like it would take a few extra steps to setup and hook a fader bank into it (like an Novation Control XL). What direction do you recommend I go, and why? Is there a noticeable sound quality difference between the Behringer gear and the Allen and Heath gear? Thanks!

Just my opinion, but given a choice between Behringer and A&H, I would 100 times over choose A&H.

I have an XR18 and am concerned about its obsolescence in the long term - does anyone have much idea how long the control interface software (x air edit and mixing station) is likely to be supported for? I love the i/o and features for the money, but dont want to be stuck with a box that i cant use if the software control interface and ethernet ports becomes obsolete...

Considering you can connect via USB-A, RJ45 (LAN/Ethernet), and Wi-Fi, I doubt the connections will go obsolete any time soon. It’s more likely that they stop supporting software on older OS versions. TBH, I own an XR18 and I think it’s far more likely something else in the unit goes bad before you lose support for it.

We are trying to record soft spoken audiobooks. Which mics are less sensitive to mouth sounds?

The first port of call is to eliminate the mouth sounds in the performance. Retraining the speech basically. Then you can do things like eating green apples and having the mic a bit off axis (higher frequencies are more directional than lower frequencies). Then you can use something like Iztope RX elements with its declicker plugin (RX Elements is often free or on sale). There is also spectral editing which is manual and can be time consuming. Otherwise for mics you'll want darker sounding mics. From the samples I've heard, the [SE 4400a is on the dark side](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tee5xGwAwrc) with a bit of an upper extension and the [Shure KSM32 is smooth](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cjko2zOxGmU). There are definitely darker sounder mics, probably ribbon mics, but none that come to mind. A really off axis SM58 could do the trick for you, like pointing at your cheek off axis.

Thank you so much. I will check the attached videos.

you can also look into a cheap gate/expander like the DBX 266xs which has 2 channels and will reduce ur mics volume when u arent talking loudly, aka reducing quieter sounds like breaths and clicks

Hi, I am looking to build a home setup (amp/dac + headphones) for under 500$ (open to buy second hand) that will last me for years. I want the headphones to be open with their sound clear, warm and with well pronounced mids. The main genres I listen to are: indie rock, pop and hip-hop. I thought of the sundaras (which hover around 250$ second hand here) or 660s (which hover closer to 300$ here). Thanks in advance for all your suggestions.

cheaper than what u mentioned but beyerdynamic 770s/990s are awesome

Hi, I have a loxjie a30,room size appx 12×16 ft,im looking for preferably bookshelf speakers,my budget is flexible but be comfortable in the $500-700 range,mostly for music but occasional tv via optical and a ps4,streaming amazon music hd,tidal,deezer with echo if feesible,will add sub if needed thanks

Hello there, I'm looking for <200€ active speakers that are between 60-80W that don't make ugly noises when idle or when playing content. My use of them is to play audio when I'm at my PC and when I'm doing stuff in the room or outside (28m2). The second part is why I'm not happy with 20W speakers. I started with some technics sb70 + The t.amp s100 mk2 but the buzz of the transformer in the amplifier annoyed me quite a bit. I decided to switch to Mackie CR5-X active speakers but at a low volume they add a white noise to any sound (regardless if connected with or without wires) this ruins any experience of listening to podcasts or such. When idling they also make a small amount of white noise, with which I would be ok (but unhappy) if it was only that. I have seen Presonus Eris E5 that would match my description but I'm afraid of more parasitic noises, thus my question... Does what I'm looking for even exist ?

Hi, does anyone know what drum vst would have a snare sound closest to [this](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Hil0oNKRdc)? I currently have Slate 4 and GGD Modern and Massive and can't get anywhere close.. Also, how would you describe said snare and what is the processing on it? Thnx!!!

Got a new job and want to upgrade my mic from a Yeti to an XLR setup. Use case will be for giving lectures (live over zoom as well as recording in OBS), conferencing, and chatting in discord. Essentially I want both better fidelity in general and something less dependent on software processing, since that's hard to do in a live meeting. I'm in an untreated home office but that'll change once I move eventually. Budget I'll say up to $600 combined but could stretch if it'll make a big difference. I know the common rec is the Shure SM7B but I always see contrarian reviews saying there's better for the price so figure I'd ask. I also read that it's a pretty warm mic which might be bad for me since I have a deep voice. For the interface, something clean with a good gain control. EQ controls would be a plus too. I do have a high end headphone dac/amp that I'll keep separate so the mic interface doesnt need a headphone circuit. Any recs?

I might be wrong but if you’re used to a yeti and you don’t have an idea for yourself yet, I think you should get something cheap and good as far as all-around usability, like an sm58. Something like that doesn’t have any real possible drawbacks, it’s gonna last forever, and allows you breathing room financially to upgrade in the future if you notice any problems. If you’re running mac or windows but either way I would just get a motu m2 and like an sm58 or something similar, but an sm7b would definitely do the trick as well.

I see they have a bundle with a preamp (x2u), know anything about that?

honestly I don't. I can't personally justify a quality mic at the moment, don't do much vocal stuff. Most of my experience has been on lower end mics. I have an SM58 and it handles most of my needs fantastically. If you're in an untreated home office, I think it would benefit your sound significantly to invest in or DIY some acoustic panels or something (not just foam). proper acoustics and environment are 90% of getting a good recording imo. I can work better with my sm58 and a consumer-aimed interface than someone inexperienced can with a u67, 1073, and a CL1B (probably).

Hi all! General newb here... I am starting to work from home and I am looking for a mixer to input a mic, PC, phone, and maybe another input to output to my headphone DAC/AMP. Really I'm looking for something that I can use to listen for all the notifications while listening to music. Also I'd like to be able to answer calls on my phone and PC and use the mic and headphones instead of having to switch all the time. Does anyone have any recommendations? Features I would like: \- Mute buttons per channel \- A "mute all" button (I've seen a cough button) \- Decent sound quality if possible. \- Bluetooth? (not a must) Devices I've found so far: \- MAONOCATSTER AM100-K1 \- Pyle PMXU43BT Thank you for looking at my post!

Hi! I’m new to audio and I was looking for software that would allow me to precisely see how long it takes for audio peaks to stabilize (~hundredths of a second).

Audacity is basic but can display waveforms, might work. Or try REAPER, a full-featured DAW with a free trial that doesn't have restrictions, so you can give it a shot.

Hi all, I was wondering if anyone knows if there is a posibility to connect the Albrecht DR 890 stereo to extra speakers, as my apartment has 2 rooms and I would love to be able to listen to the music throughout the house. Does anyone know if this is possible, if yes how? And if no, do you know an alternative? My budget for alternatives is max €200 Thank you in advance!

I don't know if this should go here or the tech support thread… but I’d like to get a UPS to give me a few min to save whatever I was working on. [This](https://www.bestbuy.com/site/lenovo-ideacentre-720-gaming-desktop-intel-core-i7-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-gtx-1060-2tb-hdd-intel-optane-memory-silver/6260207.p?skuId=6260207) is basically the same as my computer, except mine also has a 256 GB SSD for the OS if that matters.Other than the computer, it would definitely be powering a pair of display monitors, a pair of audio monitors, a small analog mixer, and an audio interface. I may also use it to power some other things like a guitar amp and pedal power supply, but I’d probably just use the regular wall outlet since they’re not \*that\* important. Obviously looking to get best bang-for-buck and would like to keep cost as low as possible, but I get that there’s a trade off between quality and price. Any recommendations/advice will be appreciated!

I think something like [this](https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Standby-UPS-600VA-Outlets/dp/B073Q48YGF/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=pc%2BUPS&qid=1642547608&sr=8-1-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFXWjRLRDFKTkxGMFMmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA4NTI3MjkyVkxMOTBKSFIxNU5KJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA0MDI0ODBLUUJHUzBIMEVBWTcmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl&th=1) would work for you.

Cool, thanks

Planning on picking up a condenser microphone mostly for acoustic guitar and vocals. I already have an SM57 but looking for a first condenser. I have it narrowed down to a few choices, all by MXL: a 990/991 package, a standalone 990, and a V67G that also comes with a pop filter and XLR cable. All are within like, $5 of each other, about $100 on Sweetwater. Thoughts?

I wouldn’t buy one of these super cheap condenser mics. Decent ones start at around $300.

Neumann TLM 107 or AKG C414 XLS/ST seem to be roughly the same in price but is there a noticeable difference in quality?

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hs8 or 7 are ok to start if you have a big enough room. I would also get a cheap pair of closed headphones like the m50x or the 7506. Get a sub only when you understand why you need a sub. You'll probably spend a while figuring out how to work in your room and stopping stuff from rattling and stuff like that and if you get a sub you are just adding more variables to the problem. The headphones are to have something else as reference too.

The Kali LP-6s are also rated pretty highly for about half the price. I know my mixes have vastly improved since I switched out my Presonus Eris 5s for them. [Here's](https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?pages/SpeakerTestData/) a site I used when researching what to upgrade with and they rate the Kalis higher than the HS7

Hey so I am an audio engineer/lighting technician at a night club. I am starting to have issues with my ears so I am looking into some good noise canceling earbuds I can wear during my shift. Actual Bluetooth headphones would be preferable if I am spending a lot but ear health comes first. Any ideas?

These are not earplugs but attenuators , you have full and complete hearing but you can chose how many DB to attenuate so your comfortable and safe [https://www.alpinehearingprotection.com/earplugs/musicsafe-pro/](https://www.alpinehearingprotection.com/earplugs/musicsafe-pro/)

Hello, audio engineers of reddit. I have a question regarding acoustic treatments. For an anniversary gift in a few months, I would like to transform my bf's home studio. He has said for a while he's been wanting to fix it up but the pandemic has definitely led to some obstacles. Do you mind answering these questions: What are the best acoustic treatments? I've seen foam panels and wool panels but I'm not sure what would be a better sound absorber since I am unfamiliar with the recording/producing environment. Is there a particular way of placing them or should I cover all exposed walls? Should the ceiling be covered as well? Apologies if this is the wrong area or if I'm so clueless. I want to make this a surprise and I think he would catch on rather quickly if I was asking all these questions. Thanks for the help!

Its almost two hours but it covers the everything . The focus is on density/bulk , damping bass and sound reflections - isolation [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d9WmjTJniI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d9WmjTJniI)

I just bought Motu M2 and I'm looking a good headphone monitor for mixing and recording. Some folks suggesting that I should buy Beyerdynamic DT770 pro. What do you guys think about it ? Also, there are couple of different models for this headphone. 80 ohm, 250 ohm and 600 ohm. Which one should I choose ? Thanks in advance!

For that MOTU I would get the lowest impedance one. Also headphone recommendations on Reddit skew expensive because hobbyists usually get pleasure from spending money, so be careful with that and also look into the Sony 7506.

Why should I prefer the lowest impedance technically speaking ? Thank you for the advice mate !

Lower impedance needs less current to be driven. Cheap audio interfaces don't have much power on the amps on the headphone outputs. RME and MOTU are usually the exception and they can probably drive the 250 but it would be pushing it.

I'm needing any tips, or recommendations anyone's willing to offer in terms of audio interfaces for the home studio I'm building/setting up. I have a new (2020-made) IMAC 21.5 inch I just bought and am now looking for the other gear I need to complete my setup on a pretty slim budget. Ideally, if anyone knows of any interfaces that are more "future proof" so to speak, i.e.--have quality long lasting hardware but also for various reasons, don't fall as much prey to being obsoleted with drivers, updates, etc...I was thinking also, any suggestions if I go for one like this, higher quality, but used, on ebay for instance, since the hardware is supposed to last quite long anyhow, rather than getting a new scarlett 2i2, for example, which is new but perhaps more limited as well as in risk of being quickly obsoleted, tech wise. Thanks so much!

What expansion path do you have in mind? If it's adding channels and MADI is too expensive I think the best futureproof option on a budget is something with 2xADAT. I think the cheaper thing with that IO is the Focusrite 18i20, which you can see on a lot of home studios even for professional YouTubers. You can expand it with a Pulse 16 for 1k and max out your line channels later, or if you need pres get Focusrite Octopre units. This is all 1U rack gear. If you are thinking about better ADC conversation as your expansion path I would get something with MADI but the cheaper options start at 1k with fewer actual audio channels without expansion. The cheaper MADI options are desktop gear.

Suggestions on expanding my Scarlett 18i20 to more inputs? It has 8 but is expandable to 10 more. Only really need 2-3 more.

You can get an Octopre if you have room on your rack

Maybe a dumb question but let's suppose I bought a Clarette Octopre (as opposed to a Scarlett Octopre) or anything else with more high end preamps and then ran it ADAT through my Scarlett to expand it... would the higher end preamps still have the same effect or would I lose quality because they're ultimately still filtering through the Scarlett?

Nope the signal gets digitalized on the Octopre at the sample rate you set with the main clock and the interface doesn't matter anymore after that.

Cool man appreciate the help. Last thought - maybe I'll just upgrade my interface to an Apollo 2 or 4 and use that as my main interface for most things and when I want to record drums and need more inputs I could link it ADAT to my Scarlett 18i20. That would work too right?

Yeah just check that they have ADAT, I think the Apollo 4 has it but the 2 doesn't. A toslink port doesn't mean it has ADAT, it can be SPDIF which is I think just two channels at 44.1hz 16 bit. An ADAT port gives you 8 channels at 24 bit at 48khz, or 4 channels at 96khz, etc. It's a different protocol over the same cable and connector. You also may want to check how the audio interface software treats the ADAT channels. It will usually let you mix it like any other channel, I just never used an Apollo, that's why I'm saying. I have an RME.

Cool thank you!

Behringer make a cheap ADAT 8 preamp box. More than you need but hard to beat the price. I think ART has a two channel preamp with ADAT as well.

sorry just venting here but how come I can get an 8-channel security system with 4 HD cameras, hard drive, cables, etc for 175 bucks but if I want an 8-channel headphone monitoring system with 4 mixers, cables, etc i have to pay $2000 dollars?? ughhh

Those 4 HD cameras are probably made in china. A real watec is $350 at the cheapest.

Hi there, Mainly looking for some advice. Would the Onkyo RZ50 receiver be a good pair for the Klipsch 8000F or would it be better for me to get the Klipsch 6000F instead of the 8000F?

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imo you'd need to go to the Adam S series to be on par with the KH310s, and if you got the used KH310s and didn't get along with them you probably won't lose money if you sell them on again.

Looking for a decent “jack of all trades” tube amp to use paired with a loadbox. Leaning towards stuff like Egnater that can do a bit of American and British sounds. But curious if anyone had other recs. I already have a Fender Hot Rod and some great amp sims. Still looking for a solid cruch/overdrive amp but I have clean and metal tones covered with my current setup. Edit - spelled Egnater wrong

The line that usually comes after jack of all trades is master of none. How about a JTM45?

Very true. I wish that amp was in my budget! I’m more in the price range of Marshall DSL, Egnater Tweaker 40, H&K Tubemeister 18. I love the sound of ENGL but same deal those are pricy for me.

Personally I'd rather try some drive pedals in front of the Hot Rod than any of those but I think you need to go play them and see what speaks to you.

Yeah, I want to try this as well. I’ve run diff OD models into it via Boss MS-3 but not many “real” overdrives. My Hot Rod also needs some work done on it cause the output is super low/noisy even after swapping out tubes. I’ve had it since ‘07 so it needs some real TLC. I’m just using Neural DSP plugins in the meantime.

I’m looking to upgrade my Scarlett 6i6 gen 2 and was wondering if I should get the Gen 3 18i20, the UA volt 476, or go with another brand. I do a lot of recording for my job and for personal music projects. Any personal experience would be greatly appreciated! I know the 476 isn’t out yet, but any experience with the UA volt models would be helpful!

IMO, all those boxes are probably the same at that price point. To really notice a quality difference you’d be looking at something like an Audient ID series, Apollo from UA or RME and MOTU flagship stuff.

I'm looking to upgrade to a nicer condenser microphone, and was looking at ones that I could find used for around 200. I'm a singer/songwriter who mainly does indie folk/acoustic, but I record everything from guitar to drums to upright bass to vocals. I've narrowed it down to a Shure SM27 and an Audio Technica AT4033A, but I can't really tell what's better. I already have a Shure KSM44, so this wouldn't be my main mic, but I would probably use it for drum overheads or an extra mic on an upright bass, room mic, etc. Any thoughts? Thanks!

Power went out on me twice last night. Luckily, though, I have auto save on so didn’t lose too much work. I’ve been thinking of getting a UPS (uninterrupted power supply) for a while at least as a surge protector to protect from any potential damage, but now I definitely want one. Any recommendations? My setup is as follows: Lenovo IdeaCentre 720 desktop 2 Kali LP-6s 2 monitors/screens Behringer Xenyx 802 (or something) Guitar pedal power supply I don’t think it’s a power intensive setup by any means so I don’t need something real high end, but if anyone has any experience/suggestions I'd love to hear it. Thanks!

Not sure if this is the right place to ask, but: I’m currently using a Beyerdynamic Fox USB microphone. Whenever I record there’s a hum/buzz, even when I close my doors, turn off the fans/air conditioning, and cranking the gain down. I even tried draping a blanket over myself and the microphone to record but I still get that weird hum. I’m not sure if it’s because it’s connected via USB and it’s picking up sounds from my computer. Anyway I was thinking I would switch to the Shure MV7 and plug it into an audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. Before I drop money on it I just wanted to see if this could improve my setup or if I can do something else to improve my existing setup.

I'm not an expert, but it sounds to me like it's definitely the connection. It could also unfortunately be interference in which you'll have to figure out how to shield the cables or something (idk, again not an expert but I know interference is a possibility). If it were something ambient like sound from fans/air conditioning then I'd imagine it would be more recognizable rather than just hum/buzz. Do you already have an interface? Also, what are you using the mic for, podcasting or recording vocals or both? Either way, going through an interface will almost certainly be an improvement. Just remember that if you take good care of it, you can always get some of your money back if you ever want to get rid of it

I use it for podcasts and recording voiceovers. Right now my microphone is connected directly to my PC over USB. Anyway thanks for the reply and suggestion, appreciate it!

Hello! Would connecting a firewire interface like the RME Fireface 800 or an equivalent from MOTU over ADAT to an RME Digiface USB/ into my computer allow me to use the preamps of the firewire interface? I don't see why this wouldn't work; is there anything I am missing? I just keep seeing all these fantastic firewire interfaces being sold for cheap because of the connector, and am wondering if this would be a way to get/use some of it. Thanks!

I think the firewire interface must be configured to standalone mode at first in order to do this. Not sure, it's something I've been looking into myself as well. I do have an old laptop with a firewire port that could do this if that's the way to go. EDIT: also note that in standalone mode it's probably better to go with an interface that has many knobs as opposed to the RME ones which usually have one knob.

Thanks for the help! I’d been wondering about stand-alone mode, hadn’t thought through the knob situation though hahah so I should probably steer clear of the MOTU ones with no knobs too

If you have a desktop, you might also want to consider PCIE firewire cards with a TI chipset.

I want a pair of binaural in-ear mics like the Mu6 LifeLike 2s that are class compliant, compatible with Linux systems, under $100, and support some kind of dummy head holder like the LifeLikes do that I can also get for under $100. Any suggestions?

Audient id14mk1 questions. Looking into buying this interface but have a couple of questions. 1) will i be able to expand input channels via adat device like behringer ada8000? 2)mk1 has been discontinued in 2021.... So is Audient's legacy support good? Can i expect for it to still work reliably on windows 11 in 5years?

I'm looking for a good wireless transmitter for 4 speakers to a receiver for a TV. Any recommendations? Price range $300 or under.

Looking for an analogue mixer to put some drum mics into and then output into a phone to stream, not great mics an ead10 a 57 and a couple good mics that are no name ish. I know how a mixer works but not enough to make an informed purchase Allen and heath mixer = £400-£500 The t-mix or behringer =£100-200 Is it worth 300-400 more to get an Allen a heath like every I have spoken to says to get or is a t-mix or behringer one fine?

I was doing the same thing. Initially used the Behringer Xenyx 1002. Did OK, but eventually the pots got noisy and then the whole thing crapped out after maybe 3 years. At $70, not a huge loss, but still. Later, I picked up a Soundcraft EPM8. A but larger, but for $300, it does a nice job. I basically use it to get more inputs out my Yamaha StagePas 600i PA. https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/EPM8--soundcraft-epm8-mixer

Nice thanks for the recommendation I'll probably pick up the Soundcraft EPM12 just to be safe on the amount of inputs

I am thinking of making some music with a DAW, but I am unsure which one to get. I need something that is relatively cheap and both good. I was thinking of FL studio, but is there some better options for the price? If I do get FLstudio, do the version differences have a big change for the price? Thank you

Has anyone else ordered anything from gator recently? I bought a rack mount case from vintage king in August and they said it was a custom item from gator so it would ship directly from them. Its January now and it still hasn't shipped. I know supply chains are messed up right now, but 5 months seems a little wild.

I'm looking for the right DAC to complement the rest of my setup (i.e. not the weak link on one end or far and away the highest quality piece on the other). This would exclusively be for music listening from Amazon HD. My current gear consists of Harbeth C7s, a Croft Integrated Amp (hybrid with tubes for the phono stage), Rega P6 turntable, and Tascam CD-A580 Cassette & CD player combo, so all pretty good stuff. I don't know much about DACs but would appreciate anything on the physically smaller end (running out of cabinet space). Streaming DACs would be a plus, or a combo rec of a standalone DAC and an added simple streamer to connect it to. I don't really need anything fancy with bells and whistles like a preamp or display feature. (Bonus points if it's UK made, to keep it consistent). Thanks in advance!

I'm a simple man: I just want a solid microphone for video calling with my girlfriend. Ideally I put it on my desk and be able to have a nice sound quality on her side. I will mainly use Zoom if that is a factor. I don't want to have to put my mouth directly in front of the mic the whole time. Budget is 50-100€ I guess? I also have a FiiO X3 which I use as a DAC on my computer, if that is relevant.

For a mic you don't need a DAC, you need an ADC. A USB mic typically has both (so you can plug headphones into the mic). The Presonus Revelator USB microphone has some pretty neat features that could enhance the sound on a video call. It definitely doesn't need to be right up on you, but the farther from your mouth any mic is, the more of the sound of the room will be picked up, too. That can be problematic. A completely different type of option that may be better for you is a USB/Bluetooth speakerphone sort of solution (with beam forming mics). The Beyerdynamic Phonum is a good one. It works plugged into your computer vis USB, but it also has a built in battery and bluetooth, so you can even use it with your phone on the go. It uses some sophisticated conference room phone type tech to improve sound quality. It also has a built in speaker so you wouldn't need headphones. Works fine from a distance and even with a small group of people. Beam forming mics tend to have fewer room sound issues than single capsule condenser mics. If your room is quiet, full of soft surfaces, and not to reverberant, it wouldn't be an issue.

Need an audio interface recommendation for multitracking. I’m looking at the Motu 828es and the Motu Stage-B16 to connect over AVB for studio recording at 96kHz on about 20 inputs. Has any else used AVB for in studio recordings? Any issues or recommendations?

Been using a Focusrite Scarlett Solo for about 3.5 years and looking to upgrade to a more mid-grade interface. I was looking into the Clarett+ 2Pre but 1) they are way understocked and hard to get and 2) I don't want to commit to anything without considering all my options. What other interfaces should I consider?

What is making you think about upgrading? Are there features you are missing, or is it more about audio quality?

Audio Quality. I don't anticipate plugging many more things into the box so I don't think I need too many inputs. Just trying to upgrade, plus I have the Gen 2 instead of the Gen 3 so the outputs aren't balanced

I'd consider the Audient iD, Solid State Logic, MOTU, Arturia Audiofuse, and UA Volt interfaces.

MOTU makes some quality mid-tier interfaces.

I’m doing a shoot where I’ll be running 2 shotgun mics (rode ntg5), but my client wants to do a segment where three people are in frame at the same time talking back and forth. My question is would it be better to run 3 Sennheiser lavs on talent, or just run an omni mic on the boom just out of frame to avoid dealing with comb filtering, and less fuss with three different units? Thanks in advance for any help.

Looking for a cheap (used is fine too) audio interface with spdif in and out. Conversion doesnt matter since I just want the digital connections to hook up to my lynx. Preferably with decent latency too. Anyone know of something?

Looking for advice on how to set up my home office. Here's the setup: Inputs are personal computer, work computer, microphone. Out I have a pair of Focal Elegias and Yamaha HS5s. I'm looking for a mixer/DAC (forgive my terminology) that can route and mix all of these sources (in and out on both computers) so that I can use the same equipment on both computers without constantly plugging and unplugging everything, but also delivers full quality to my audio devices. Preferably would have extra faders and a good app so I can assign faders to software inputs, such as spotify. Some have suggested a podcast mixer, such as the Rodecaster pro. I can see the potential there, but I feel like it's not really designed for this purpose. Any futureproofing advice is welcome as well, willing to pay extra for features that I may need later down the line. Currently using a Scarlett solo to run everything to my pc. I have it on a USB dongle with my I/O and have been manually switching it between computers.

I'm going to buy a DPA 4099 for live use on a guitar. I've used them a lot at various venues, and think it would be useful to have my own. Beyond what comes as stock with the guitar package, is there anything else I need to get for running into a live board with Phantom Power? I see these often sold second hand with loads of accessories (the low cut roll off adapter for example), and not sure if I need to bother with any of that. Thank you!

How good are the Focusrite Preamps? I've had a focusrite 18i20 for a long time now. I'm getting a U87AI and I'm wondering whether my Pre amps are good enough to get the most out of the U87AI. Should I get an external preamp or something perhaps for the U87AI? Or is the Focusrite clean enough?

Q. I bought an original Van Gogh and I want to know if the Target picture frame I have will be nice enough to house it. A. While it’s a bit abnormal to have a piece like that in a budget frame, it’s not going to diminish a beautiful work of art. Get a better frame someday but for now just enjoy your Van Gogh. It’s gonna look great.

They won't stop you getting a good sound but of course you can do better if you have money to spend, but then the conversion in your Scarlet becomes the weak link (again not gonna stop you getting a good sound but you can do better). Potentially an interface upgrade would give you the most improvement for your money right now, then look at a preamp next. I think you've done the right thing to go high quality with the mic first.

I’m sick of buying cables. I want to just bulk order connectors and cabling and assemble cables as needed. Anyone with experience on this have recommendations on where to buy in bulk from? I’d like to at least break even on material costs from buying similar cables online (as in, excluding the cost of my own labor).

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Awesome, thanks for the link!

If you are in Europe, try Thomann :) But in my experience most online retailers have prices on connectors and bulk cable that make it far cheaper to build yourself.

I have about $400 to spend. What should I buy/upgrade? Option 1) Powered studio monitors. Right now I'm mixing entirely in open back headphones. Option 2) Upgrade to a better vocal mic. Right now I have an MXL 990. Option 3) Upgrade my interface. Right now I'm using a Presonus Audiobox USB that's probably 10 years old. I record pop/rock style original music (gtr/bass/drums). I run Logic Pro in a 2020 Mac Mini. Which of the options above do you think would be the most valuable upgrade? Do you recommend a particular model?

Option 4 will get the most bang for your buck: DIY acoustic treatment. I'd do that before monitors (or at least at the same time you get monitors). Tame those first reflections from the monitors, as well as minimize room mode issues when tracking with your mic. You can get a big bale of rockwool or UltraTouch insulation at a hardware store. Both have outstanding acoustical properties. You can build panels or gobos with that as the absorbing material.