VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

LaughterHeals

I'm looking for a beginning studio setup.
Has anyone here (or via a reliable third party) evaluated the Studio Projects B3? Just wondering if it's a good choice for male voice and what attributes you experienced.

Here's their link to it.
http://studioprojects.com/b3.html

It's on the lower end of price range condenser with a 1" diaphram and able to switch between cardioid/Omni-directional/figure 8.

Also, if you've tried it, any recommendations on best possible low-mid price range amp-pre, etc. to mate with it?

Much Thanks!!!!

James
(yet another proud student of Scooter2)

allensco · Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 7:06 pm Post subject:

Can't speak for the C3...but Studio Projects makes a hell of preamp. Try their VTB-1 tube pre. I have/use one and couldn't be happier Smile

LaughterHeals · Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 10:06 pm Post subject: Studio Projects B3 ... and VTB-1

billelder · Guest

I own the SP B1 and C1. Love them both. The B1 is the B3 without the selectable pattern, pad and high pass filter. I bought the C1 just because I liked the sound of the B1 so much. If you can spend a few dollars more the C1 is a great mic.
Others are Rode, Audio Technica and AKG. Lots of options in the $200 range.
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Don G. · King's Row Joined: 11 Nov 2004 Posts: 1071 Location: MA

I've been using a SP B1 exclusively at home for the past several years. It's worked out perfectly for my purposes. In fact a couple of weeks ago my biggest client asked me what kind of mic I use at home because "whenever you send us pickups, they match great with what you've recorded here in our studio" (they use an AKG 414).

Every time I start thinking about upgrading, I smack myself upside the head and realize there are other things I can be spending money on. That's not to say I'll never get another mic, but it's not high on the list of priorities.

allensco

Bill Campbell · DC Joined: 09 Mar 2007 Posts: 621

Go with the B1, you don't need directional options of the B3 for VO.

You would be very happy with a CAD M177. American made and doesn't have the harsh sound of other cheaper condensor mics.

Right now, you can get an M177 with schockmount for an unbelievably low
79.99 from musicians friend dot com. This is normally and $180 to $200 package!! Great mic. I use it, and paid more than 79.99. Musicians Friend
must have a big stock, bcause everyone else is around $150 without a shockmount.
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dagoldenknight86 · Guest

I too use a SP B1 and it's a wonderful sounding mic. Totally recomend it

LaughterHeals · Posted: Mon May 14, 2007 2:08 pm Post subject:

bobsouer · Posted: Mon May 14, 2007 3:31 pm Post subject:

James,

Pad refers to a setting on the microphone that lowers the level coming from the mic if a particular mic signal is to hot (too powerful).

High Pass filter removes or filters out the very lowest pitches leaving everything else to "pass through." This is sometimes used by a talent with a VERY deep bass voice or to eliminate some sort of low rumble in the room where the recording is taking place.

The main reason for getting a microphone with a single pattern is that it's usually less expensive for the same basic sound. Why spend money buying the ability to do multiple patterns if you'll only ever use the cardiod pattern?

As far as a script for testing purposes, there isn't a standard piece of copy; but you've identified the elements you'll want to test. So, since you know what you need, write or google for copy that includes those elements. (At least, that's what I'd do.)

I hope these thoughts help.
_________________
Be well,
Bob Souer (just think of lemons)
The second nicest guy in voiceover.
+1-724-613-2749
Source Connect, phone patch, pony express

LaughterHeals · Posted: Tue May 15, 2007 9:30 pm Post subject:

Bob.

Thank you. Yes, it helps quite a bit!
Ahhh... clearity.
I've been reading Harlan Hogan's "The Voice Actor's Guide to Home Recording" but it makes no mention (that I found) of Highpass filters or pads, etc. Is there a book or other resource that you would recommend? Something mid to non-techy?

Again, Thanks.

James

bobsouer · Posted: Tue May 15, 2007 10:15 pm Post subject:

James,

You're welcome. I wish I knew of such a book. I don't. But, take some time to read the entire archives of the gear section here. That will be one of the best educations you can find on such subjects.
_________________
Be well,
Bob Souer (just think of lemons)
The second nicest guy in voiceover.
+1-724-613-2749
Source Connect, phone patch, pony express

billelder · Guest

James,

Don't ever worry about asking. I'd worry about you if you didn't!

When I bought the B1 it was $99. If you're on a budget, it's a great mic. I've also heard great things about the MXL 990.

You might try here to read some users reviews of the B1.
And here for user reviews on the MXL 990.

I've also read good things about the Audio Technica 2020. Keep in mind that most of these reviews are from musicians.

This is only the beginning. Smile

What you buy now doesn't have to be perfect or the last item. Good luck and let us know what you decide and what you think of your purchase!

Don G. · King's Row Joined: 11 Nov 2004 Posts: 1071 Location: MA

While this site isn't VO related per se, it does have quite a bit of information about all aspects of recording, including an interesting mic shootout. http://www.transom.org/tools/recording_interviewing/

LaughterHeals · Posted: Sat May 19, 2007 11:59 pm Post subject: