Comments on: Podcast Equipment http://PodcastAnswerMan.com Learn How To Podcast! A Podcast Consultant With Hundreds of Hours of Free Content! Tue, 22 May 2012 03:50:16 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 By: zafshrinkhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2903 zafshrink Mon, 14 May 2012 15:24:12 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2903 Cliff - I just wanted to thank you for all that you do. I came across your podcast flipping through iTunes and it has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me! Your information is just the best I have ever come across in the field of podcasting. You have NO IDEA how long I have looked for something like the JK Audio Broadcast Host! I have a website and weekly podcast called The Healthy Mind with Dr. Zafirides and while I am a stickler for audio quality, between my clinical practice (I am a psychiatrist) and family (2 kids and one due in a week!), I just haven't had the time to do the research to better my podcast. But your website and podcast has solved my problems! I am not kidding you when I say this: In the last 2 weeks, I have learned more about podcasting and how to improve thehealthymind.com from you than I have in the last YEAR on my own. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your knowledge base and the amount of precious time you have saved me. I love your commitment to serving others. It is so important that we all help each other. To that end, I will definitely be purchasing the Podcast Answer Man Equipment package and the JK Audio Broadcast Host from you. Congratulations on all of your success, Cliff. It makes me feel good to know good people like you are out there. You are very deserving of all the success you have achieved through your hard work! You have directly and positively impacted my life by providing all the information you provide. I really can't thank you enough for that. I look forward to supporting you with my purchases of your products and the promotion of your site through my network of friends. Thanks Cliff!!! -- Peter Zafirides, MD Cliff – I just wanted to thank you for all that you do. I came across your podcast flipping through iTunes and it has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me! Your information is just the best I have ever come across in the field of podcasting. You have NO IDEA how long I have looked for something like the JK Audio Broadcast Host! I have a website and weekly podcast called The Healthy Mind with Dr. Zafirides and while I am a stickler for audio quality, between my clinical practice (I am a psychiatrist) and family (2 kids and one due in a week!), I just haven’t had the time to do the research to better my podcast. But your website and podcast has solved my problems! I am not kidding you when I say this: In the last 2 weeks, I have learned more about podcasting and how to improve thehealthymind.com from you than I have in the last YEAR on my own. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your knowledge base and the amount of precious time you have saved me. I love your commitment to serving others. It is so important that we all help each other. To that end, I will definitely be purchasing the Podcast Answer Man Equipment package and the JK Audio Broadcast Host from you. Congratulations on all of your success, Cliff. It makes me feel good to know good people like you are out there. You are very deserving of all the success you have achieved through your hard work! You have directly and positively impacted my life by providing all the information you provide. I really can’t thank you enough for that. I look forward to supporting you with my purchases of your products and the promotion of your site through my network of friends. Thanks Cliff!!! — Peter Zafirides, MD

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2889 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 09 May 2012 13:13:02 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2889  @BenCurry I agree Ben... I've heard people argue that Balanced cables provide superior audio quality over unbalanced.  However, I've not been able to discern a difference.    @BenCurry I agree Ben… I’ve heard people argue that Balanced cables provide superior audio quality over unbalanced.  However, I’ve not been able to discern a difference.
 

]]> By: BenCurryhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2886 BenCurry Wed, 09 May 2012 08:40:08 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2886  @Cliff Ravenscraft Hi guys,  thanks for the replies.  I thought i had posted back already but it seems my comment didn't save.     I've had a play around with a few different cable types and none of them seem to make any difference to the sound coming out so i'll carry on doing what i'm doing.   Thanks again,   Ben.    @Cliff Ravenscraft Hi guys,  thanks for the replies.  I thought i had posted back already but it seems my comment didn’t save.  
 
I’ve had a play around with a few different cable types and none of them seem to make any difference to the sound coming out so i’ll carry on doing what i’m doing.
 
Thanks again,
 
Ben.
 

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2826 Cliff Ravenscraft Thu, 03 May 2012 00:03:46 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2826  @KoreyFerguson If your camera has an audio input, you can split the audio output of the mixer and send the audio both to your camera and your Roland recorder.  Shouldn't be any problem at all.  @KoreyFerguson If your camera has an audio input, you can split the audio output of the mixer and send the audio both to your camera and your Roland recorder.  Shouldn’t be any problem at all.

]]> By: KoreyFergusonhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2825 KoreyFerguson Wed, 02 May 2012 17:45:10 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2825 I have a Canon Vixia HF S20, I would like to get your $1599 Package for the Audio Quality. However I would also like to have a way to video the podcast as well as insert video during the podcast. Everything recorded live and not edited. I already have a show that I edit but I want a "as leo says" Micro Broadcast where I can film myself and a guest speaking on a subject, fade into a video clip about the subject, and then fade back to myself and guest commenting on the subject.Basically sort of like the SoundByte program except with video. I dont necessarily need live streaming at this point but would like to be able to add it if I wished in the future without having to change alot of things up. Can you comment on what I will need to do the video podcast this way? Audio is a no brainer after listening to your podcast, as long as this set up will integrate into the video. I'm assuming you plug it into the video camera while its recording or plug in the video and audio into a external video recorder for it to record simultaneously? Also if I did this can I still hook up the Roland that way I can have my podcast in both audio and video? I have a Canon Vixia HF S20, I would like to get your $1599 Package for the Audio Quality. However I would also like to have a way to video the podcast as well as insert video during the podcast. Everything recorded live and not edited. I already have a show that I edit but I want a “as leo says” Micro Broadcast where I can film myself and a guest speaking on a subject, fade into a video clip about the subject, and then fade back to myself and guest commenting on the subject.Basically sort of like the SoundByte program except with video. I dont necessarily need live streaming at this point but would like to be able to add it if I wished in the future without having to change alot of things up. Can you comment on what I will need to do the video podcast this way? Audio is a no brainer after listening to your podcast, as long as this set up will integrate into the video. I’m assuming you plug it into the video camera while its recording or plug in the video and audio into a external video recorder for it to record simultaneously? Also if I did this can I still hook up the Roland that way I can have my podcast in both audio and video?

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2794 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:29:40 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2794  @pdheart I'm now using the Canon Vixia HF G10.  It's Amazing!  Check it out at http://gspn.tv/hfg10.  I used this camera to do http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/leointerview  @pdheart I’m now using the Canon Vixia HF G10.  It’s Amazing!  Check it out at http://gspn.tv/hfg10.  I used this camera to do http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/leointerview

]]> By: pdhearthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2793 pdheart Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:19:50 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2793 Hi Cliff, What video camera do you use and recommend for video podcasts? Hi Cliff,
What video camera do you use and recommend for video podcasts?

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2781 Cliff Ravenscraft Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:37:11 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2781  @BenCurry Ben, I don't talk a great deal about cables due to the fact that what cables you would you would depend on the specifics of the exact gear you are hooking up.   TRS = Tip Ring Sleeve and TS = Tip Sleave.   With TRS, there's a whole 3rd wire in the cable. whereas TS only has two wires in the cable.   TRS could mean it's a stereo cable.   But it could also be used as a Balanced Cable A TS cable would certainly be a mono/unbalanced cable.   Just because it's a TRS cable, doesn't mean it's meant for a stereo signal.  Instead, it could be used as a balanced cable to carry a stronger mono signal.   Here's a deeper explanation of balanced v/s unbalanced cables: http://obiaudio.com/2010/07/11/balanced-vs-unbalanced-cables-whats-the-difference/   I hope this helps a little.   In answer to you question, I think @catholicworship answered that for you.  @BenCurry Ben, I don’t talk a great deal about cables due to the fact that what cables you would you would depend on the specifics of the exact gear you are hooking up.
 
TRS = Tip Ring Sleeve and TS = Tip Sleave.   With TRS, there’s a whole 3rd wire in the cable. whereas TS only has two wires in the cable.
 
TRS could mean it’s a stereo cable.   But it could also be used as a Balanced Cable
A TS cable would certainly be a mono/unbalanced cable.
 
Just because it’s a TRS cable, doesn’t mean it’s meant for a stereo signal.  Instead, it could be used as a balanced cable to carry a stronger mono signal.
 
Here’s a deeper explanation of balanced v/s unbalanced cables:
http://obiaudio.com/2010/07/11/balanced-vs-unbalanced-cables-whats-the-difference/
 
I hope this helps a little.
 
In answer to you question, I think @catholicworship answered that for you.

]]> By: lifelovehealthhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2774 lifelovehealth Wed, 18 Apr 2012 01:30:28 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2774  @BenCurry   Thanks again for your smart question;  however, it's important that I hear from you about your results, otherwise, how do I know I've been helpful?  @BenCurry   Thanks again for your smart question;  however, it’s important that I hear from you about your results, otherwise, how do I know I’ve been helpful?

]]> By: lifelovehealthhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2772 lifelovehealth Sun, 15 Apr 2012 20:07:49 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2772 Ben:   Q:  What i want to know is will I have a problem running a TRS (Stereo) Jack into the mono sockets on my mixer?   A:  The issue is application specific.  The first thing I'd recommend is that you go to the Mackie (mixer) site and download the user guide for, say, a 1202 mixer, then look specifically at the hook-up guide for a four channel recorder and how that relates to the channel inserts.  The explanation of how a TS vs. TRS plug works, in this application, is excellent.       Ben:
 
Q:  What i want to know is will I have a problem running a TRS (Stereo) Jack into the mono sockets on my mixer?
 
A:  The issue is application specific.  The first thing I’d recommend is that you go to the Mackie (mixer) site and download the user guide for, say, a 1202 mixer, then look specifically at the hook-up guide for a four channel recorder and how that relates to the channel inserts.  The explanation of how a TS vs. TRS plug works, in this application, is excellent.
 
 
 

]]> By: catholicworshiphttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2770 catholicworship Sun, 15 Apr 2012 12:28:38 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2770  @BenCurry Hey Ben, I can total relate to you in terms of the stages of the journey of a budding "sound guy".  I wouldn't call myself an "expert", but people certainly look at me that way b/c I know a lot more than the avg person who thinks I'm a robot when I start using letters to refer to cables.  Anyways, in terms of your question, it depends what you mean by "problem".  Will sound still come out?  YES, but you're cutting your signal in half....so that's not cool.  That's a very generic answer, but hopefully someone will elaborate as I head off to Church.  God bless!  @BenCurry Hey Ben, I can total relate to you in terms of the stages of the journey of a budding “sound guy”.  I wouldn’t call myself an “expert”, but people certainly look at me that way b/c I know a lot more than the avg person who thinks I’m a robot when I start using letters to refer to cables.  Anyways, in terms of your question, it depends what you mean by “problem”.  Will sound still come out?  YES, but you’re cutting your signal in half….so that’s not cool.  That’s a very generic answer, but hopefully someone will elaborate as I head off to Church.  God bless!

]]> By: BenCurryhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2769 BenCurry Sun, 15 Apr 2012 11:13:59 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2769 Hi Cliff,     I've been podcasting for a few years and have a been listening to your show for a few months now, between your show and your blog it feels like i've gone from knowing how to make a podcast work, to knowing why those things work and how to make them work better.   One thing I have a question about is cables.  You gloss over these a few times but i have not seen anywhere you talk about them in depth.  I have read a few places about the difference between a TS and a TRS jack.  What i want to know is will I have a problem running a TRS (Stereo) Jack into the mono sockets on my mixer?     Thanks, Ben Curry     Hi Cliff,  
 
I’ve been podcasting for a few years and have a been listening to your show for a few months now, between your show and your blog it feels like i’ve gone from knowing how to make a podcast work, to knowing why those things work and how to make them work better.
 
One thing I have a question about is cables.  You gloss over these a few times but i have not seen anywhere you talk about them in depth.  I have read a few places about the difference between a TS and a TRS jack.  What i want to know is will I have a problem running a TRS (Stereo) Jack into the mono sockets on my mixer?  
 
Thanks,
Ben Curry
 
 

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2657 Cliff Ravenscraft Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:58:44 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2657  @lifelovehealth Thanks for posting your feedback and questions.  I typically prefer questions in audio form to use as content for future episodes, but I'll very briefly respond here.   1) I have never bothered with transcripts personally.  However, I do have a lot of clients, students, and Podcast Mastermind Members who do make use of transcripts for their podcast.   I'm at a place, now, where if someone were to call in a question about Transcripts, I could easily do enough research to bring a valuable answer to the question in a future episode of Podcast Answer Man.   2) As for recording into a computer.  I'm not the only person who's had this bad experience.  As you can imagine, there have been a LOT of folks who have emailed me and even called in feedback to say that even after HUNDREDS of episodes, they've never lost an episode recording into their computer.     Would you believe that 100% of those people have since emailed me back or called in again to say that they should have listened to me?  That they no had their own tragic experience.   Yep!  Every single one of them.   My two track portable recording has worked effortlessly for nearly 3,000 podcast episodes now.  My same exact technique is currently working for hundreds of my one-on-one consulting/coaching clients and Podcasting A to Z students.   I have no doubt that there may be better solutions for those who want to record each audio source into a separate track.  I am not opposed to recording into software, as long as you have a hardware backup.     One of the things you may learn about my brand is that is mostly built upon me sharing "my experiences" with others.   The main reason that I don't go into a lot of software recording solutions and multi-track recording solutions is not because I don't believe they are good options, it's because I simply have not been able to speak to them "from my experience" with them at this point.   While I still don't have "personal" experience with transcripts, I have enough indirect experience with Transcripts that I can finally speak to that topic pretty well.   Most of those who listen to Podcast Answer Man want me to share something that I know, for a fact, and from my own personal experience, that will work to product the quality levels that I consistently put out.     I hope this helps you understand why I recommend what I recommend. ;)       @lifelovehealth Thanks for posting your feedback and questions.  I typically prefer questions in audio form to use as content for future episodes, but I’ll very briefly respond here.
 
1) I have never bothered with transcripts personally.  However, I do have a lot of clients, students, and Podcast Mastermind Members who do make use of transcripts for their podcast.   I’m at a place, now, where if someone were to call in a question about Transcripts, I could easily do enough research to bring a valuable answer to the question in a future episode of Podcast Answer Man.
 
2) As for recording into a computer.  I’m not the only person who’s had this bad experience.  As you can imagine, there have been a LOT of folks who have emailed me and even called in feedback to say that even after HUNDREDS of episodes, they’ve never lost an episode recording into their computer.  
 
Would you believe that 100% of those people have since emailed me back or called in again to say that they should have listened to me?  That they no had their own tragic experience.   Yep!  Every single one of them.
 
My two track portable recording has worked effortlessly for nearly 3,000 podcast episodes now.  My same exact technique is currently working for hundreds of my one-on-one consulting/coaching clients and Podcasting A to Z students.
 
I have no doubt that there may be better solutions for those who want to record each audio source into a separate track.  I am not opposed to recording into software, as long as you have a hardware backup.
 
 
One of the things you may learn about my brand is that is mostly built upon me sharing “my experiences” with others.   The main reason that I don’t go into a lot of software recording solutions and multi-track recording solutions is not because I don’t believe they are good options, it’s because I simply have not been able to speak to them “from my experience” with them at this point.
 
While I still don’t have “personal” experience with transcripts, I have enough indirect experience with Transcripts that I can finally speak to that topic pretty well.
 
Most of those who listen to Podcast Answer Man want me to share something that I know, for a fact, and from my own personal experience, that will work to product the quality levels that I consistently put out.  
 
I hope this helps you understand why I recommend what I recommend. ;)  
 
 

]]> By: lifelovehealthhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2652 lifelovehealth Sun, 25 Mar 2012 18:49:46 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2652 I found your fine work via the Telos release regarding the HX2, which is the same unit we use.  You do very nice work and offer a much-needed service.  You are absolutely right, too, about Leo Laporte and www.twit.tv - a brilliant concept executed flawlessly.   I have two questions and observations:   Have you discussed with your fans base/community the advantages, both aesthetic and economic, of posting a verbatim show transcript or an interactive transcript?    Secondly, I don't understand your continued reluctance to record on the computer with, say, ProTools.  I believe you are sending the wrong message to your audience.  Yes, you had a traumatic unfortunate experience or so:  "One of those three times literally brought me to tears when I lost a once in a lifetime interview. I’ll never go back to recording into a computer again!"    But your learning experience brought you to the wrong conclusion.  Yes, recording on a two-track portable recorder works wonderfully, as you can drag and drop the file into the computer for editing.  Another answer and perhaps a better solution for many people, is to connect the portable recorder, like a four-track Edirol R-44, to the Mackie or Digi mixer as a back-up.  (Besides, you should be doing a backup as a matter of course.  Always.)  For example, we often rent our studio for outside ISDN sessions for the BBC, CBC, NPR and VO studios.  We always run a backup at 44.1, 24-bit with the Edirol R-44, which we hold for ten days.  And, oh yes, we occasionally get calls after-the-fact from the folks in New York, London, Toronto, wherever studio,  and I always know what the question is.  Have you ever heard a transcontinental sigh of relief?  No tears.   Thanks for listening,   Christopher Springmann www.lifeloveandhealth.com       I found your fine work via the Telos release regarding the HX2, which is the same unit we use.  You do very nice work and offer a much-needed service.  You are absolutely right, too, about Leo Laporte and http://www.twit.tv – a brilliant concept executed flawlessly.
 
I have two questions and observations:
 
Have you discussed with your fans base/community the advantages, both aesthetic and economic, of posting a verbatim show transcript or an interactive transcript? 
 
Secondly, I don’t understand your continued reluctance to record on the computer with, say, ProTools.  I believe you are sending the wrong message to your audience.  Yes, you had a traumatic unfortunate experience or so:  “One of those three times literally brought me to tears when I lost a once in a lifetime interview. I’ll never go back to recording into a computer again!” 
 
But your learning experience brought you to the wrong conclusion.  Yes, recording on a two-track portable recorder works wonderfully, as you can drag and drop the file into the computer for editing.  Another answer and perhaps a better solution for many people, is to connect the portable recorder, like a four-track Edirol R-44, to the Mackie or Digi mixer as a back-up.  (Besides, you should be doing a backup as a matter of course.  Always.)  For example, we often rent our studio for outside ISDN sessions for the BBC, CBC, NPR and VO studios.  We always run a backup at 44.1, 24-bit with the Edirol R-44, which we hold for ten days.  And, oh yes, we occasionally get calls after-the-fact from the folks in New York, London, Toronto, wherever studio,  and I always know what the question is.  Have you ever heard a transcontinental sigh of relief?  No tears.
 
Thanks for listening,
 
Christopher Springmann
http://www.lifeloveandhealth.com
 
 
 

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2560 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 29 Feb 2012 21:17:15 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2560  @MattParker1 Absolutely NOT!!!!   If you are going for cheap, I would simply recommend a simple USB headset with mic like what you will see at http://gspn.tv/knj.  This should run you no more than $20 to $30.      To learn how I feel about the Blue Snowball, listen to my episode at: http://gspn.tv/m0z  @MattParker1 Absolutely NOT!!!!   If you are going for cheap, I would simply recommend a simple USB headset with mic like what you will see at http://gspn.tv/knj.  This should run you no more than $20 to $30.   
 
To learn how I feel about the Blue Snowball, listen to my episode at: http://gspn.tv/m0z

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2559 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 29 Feb 2012 21:08:39 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2559  @segovia  @catholicworship I know a bunch of people who link the H4N.  It's a decent recorder for sure.  @segovia  @catholicworship I know a bunch of people who link the H4N.  It’s a decent recorder for sure.

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2558 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 29 Feb 2012 21:08:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2558  @catholicworship The R-09HR is out of production.  However the R-05 is still available and I love it!  You can listen to me talk about it at http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/r05.  You can buy it on Amazon with my affilate link at http://gspn.tv/r05  @catholicworship The R-09HR is out of production.  However the R-05 is still available and I love it!  You can listen to me talk about it at http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/r05.  You can buy it on Amazon with my affilate link at http://gspn.tv/r05

]]> By: catholicworshiphttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2543 catholicworship Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:43:24 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2543 @segoviaWow! If TWiT uses it that's enough for me! Thanks segovia - I've been watching youtube videos for samples and it was definitely hit or miss. As with anything, I'm sure the equipment is only as good as the person working it, but if TWiT endorses it, than that's good news for me! (I'm more of a TNT, & Social Hour person myself so I don't hear Alex as often, but still love that network!) @segovia

Wow! If TWiT uses it that’s enough for me! Thanks segovia – I’ve been watching youtube videos for samples and it was definitely hit or miss. As with anything, I’m sure the equipment is only as good as the person working it, but if TWiT endorses it, than that’s good news for me! (I’m more of a TNT, & Social Hour person myself so I don’t hear Alex as often, but still love that network!)

]]> By: segoviahttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2542 segovia Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:06:09 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2542 @catholicworship Yes, the Zoom H4N is exactly what you need and if you follow TWIT, you'll know that Alex Lindsay swears by it. @catholicworship Yes, the Zoom H4N is exactly what you need and if you follow TWIT, you’ll know that Alex Lindsay swears by it.

]]> By: catholicworshiphttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2541 catholicworship Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:56:56 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2541 Hey Cliff, I'm looking into a recording device for in person interviews. I see the R-05 is out of production, any other suggestions? How about this one? Zoom H4N http://www.guitarcenter.com/Zoom-H4N-Handy-Recorder-106869043-i1712724.gc Hey Cliff, I’m looking into a recording device for in person interviews. I see the R-05 is out of production, any other suggestions? How about this one? Zoom H4N http://www.guitarcenter.com/Zoom-H4N-Handy-Recorder-106869043-i1712724.gc

]]> By: MattParker1http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2527 MattParker1 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:44:25 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2527 hey Cliff,I wanted to get a cheap mic just to record/skype with,i have a kind of loud computer fan.Would you reccomend a blue snowball mic for this?Thanks! hey Cliff,

I wanted to get a cheap mic just to record/skype with,i have a kind of loud computer fan.Would you reccomend a blue snowball mic for this?

Thanks!

]]> By: jaredakershttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2371 jaredakers Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:35:28 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2371 Always great info here. Been my home away the last few days as I'm gearing up for my wife and I's first podcast.Although I want to get 2 new mics for us both; I'm looking at sm57's with extra large windscreen's or the MXL 990 as our first mics. I have a couple really cheap mics and want to get something a littler better and the same for both of us going forward without spending 1K on equipment.I realize most suggest the pop filter (which I do have one) but was hoping the large foam windscreens with the sm57's would work better for us sitting across the table from each other so we can see each other better. Just a thought and would appreciate any comments or recommendations on this setup. Thanks!!The MXL 990's are dirt cheap and you get a shock mount with it but then I also hear they pickup more background noise around the room. I already have a mixer and the Roland R05 so I'm good to go there. Always great info here. Been my home away the last few days as I’m gearing up for my wife and I’s first podcast.

Although I want to get 2 new mics for us both; I’m looking at sm57′s with extra large windscreen’s or the MXL 990 as our first mics. I have a couple really cheap mics and want to get something a littler better and the same for both of us going forward without spending 1K on equipment.

I realize most suggest the pop filter (which I do have one) but was hoping the large foam windscreens with the sm57′s would work better for us sitting across the table from each other so we can see each other better. Just a thought and would appreciate any comments or recommendations on this setup. Thanks!!

The MXL 990′s are dirt cheap and you get a shock mount with it but then I also hear they pickup more background noise around the room. I already have a mixer and the Roland R05 so I’m good to go there.

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2317 Cliff Ravenscraft Mon, 02 Jan 2012 02:55:17 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2317 @kennethacha I have several folks who have purchased this package and use it to not only produce their own podcast but also to record content that they submit to radio stations. The Heil PR-40 is actually a "Broadcast Microphone." @kennethacha I have several folks who have purchased this package and use it to not only produce their own podcast but also to record content that they submit to radio stations. The Heil PR-40 is actually a “Broadcast Microphone.”

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2316 Cliff Ravenscraft Mon, 02 Jan 2012 02:53:53 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2316 @iTechMadness I recommend either http://MusicBakery.com or http://JewelBeat.com @iTechMadness I recommend either http://MusicBakery.com or http://JewelBeat.com

]]> By: kennethachahttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2314 kennethacha Sun, 01 Jan 2012 03:50:17 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2314 Hey Cliff,I'm interested in your equipment package. However, I intend to get on the radio in the next year or so and want to find out if that equipment will be great for radio as well...?Can you comment on that?Thanks Hey Cliff,

I’m interested in your equipment package. However, I intend to get on the radio in the next year or so and want to find out if that equipment will be great for radio as well…?Can you comment on that?

Thanks

]]> By: iTechMadnesshttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2312 iTechMadness Sat, 31 Dec 2011 22:46:28 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2312 Hey Cliff,One more question, where would you recommend that I get my jingles and stingers etc. from? I don't mind paying for decent ones. Did you create yours? Is there anywhere you can recommend to get royalty free jingles, intros and stingers?Thanks,Calum Hey Cliff,

One more question, where would you recommend that I get my jingles and stingers etc. from? I don’t mind paying for decent ones. Did you create yours? Is there anywhere you can recommend to get royalty free jingles, intros and stingers?

Thanks,

Calum

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2311 Cliff Ravenscraft Sat, 31 Dec 2011 21:14:40 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2311 @PoliticalAvenger There is only an end fire mic option when it comes to the Heil PR40 that I am aware of. @PoliticalAvenger There is only an end fire mic option when it comes to the Heil PR40 that I am aware of.

]]> By: PoliticalAvengerhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2310 PoliticalAvenger Sat, 31 Dec 2011 04:14:41 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2310 Hey Cliff,I am just getting started as a Podcaster and am very excited! Thank you so much for the inspiration. I actually found the Heil PR40 on sale and I did not know there was a side fire and top fire on them as far as where you speak. Which one do you recommend? The one that I got is top fire. It is really a nice mic! Thanks again! Hey Cliff,

I am just getting started as a Podcaster and am very excited! Thank you so much for the inspiration. I actually found the Heil PR40 on sale and I did not know there was a side fire and top fire on them as far as where you speak. Which one do you recommend? The one that I got is top fire. It is really a nice mic! Thanks again!

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2309 Cliff Ravenscraft Fri, 30 Dec 2011 22:33:56 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2309 @CalumTowers I encourage you to check out http://LearnHowToPodcast.com and watch video #6 and you will see my work flow from beginning to end. @CalumTowers I encourage you to check out http://LearnHowToPodcast.com and watch video #6 and you will see my work flow from beginning to end.

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2308 Cliff Ravenscraft Fri, 30 Dec 2011 22:32:27 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2308 @CalumTowers Plenty out there. None I would recommend. I'd recommend saving another $50 bucks and getting a Roland R-05 recorde.Though, if you want to cut corners, I have a review of the Tascam DR-07 at http://podcastanswerman.com/dr07/ @CalumTowers Plenty out there. None I would recommend. I’d recommend saving another $50 bucks and getting a Roland R-05 recorde.

Though, if you want to cut corners, I have a review of the Tascam DR-07 at http://podcastanswerman.com/dr07/

]]> By: CalumTowershttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2296 CalumTowers Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:55:35 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2296 @Cliff Ravenscraft I also managed to get my hands on a Heil PR40 from Guitar Center if that is useful to anyone. I have my mixer and everything running, but I cannot get the same level of sound as you do. How do you do it?Thanks,Calum @Cliff Ravenscraft I also managed to get my hands on a Heil PR40 from Guitar Center if that is useful to anyone. I have my mixer and everything running, but I cannot get the same level of sound as you do. How do you do it?

Thanks,

Calum

]]> By: CalumTowershttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2295 CalumTowers Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:43:48 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2295 @Cliff Ravenscraft No worries mate, wishing you and your family a brilliant year in 2012! By the way, is there any digital audio recorder you can recommend for under $150? @Cliff Ravenscraft No worries mate, wishing you and your family a brilliant year in 2012! By the way, is there any digital audio recorder you can recommend for under $150?

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2293 Cliff Ravenscraft Thu, 29 Dec 2011 03:18:43 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2293 @CalumTowers I am so thankful that you have found my content so helpful to you in your journey. Unfortunately, I don't sell equipment outside of the United States.I wish you the best of success in 2012! @CalumTowers I am so thankful that you have found my content so helpful to you in your journey. Unfortunately, I don’t sell equipment outside of the United States.

I wish you the best of success in 2012!

]]> By: CalumTowershttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2283 CalumTowers Tue, 27 Dec 2011 14:02:10 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2283 Hey Cliff,I am currently trying to find my feet in the podcasting world and am trying to get my own going. With your Podcasting 101, I have been able to submit the feed to iTunes and the lot! What I really want now is a great microphone, I have a mixer (Behringer Xynex X2442USB) and a Behringer compressor.I currently have an MXL 990 (I can tell you are cringing :) ) and have it on a mic stand on the floor with a pop filter. But as you said, I am getting so much background noise, it is un-beliveable. I sit right next to the heater in my make shift studio and no matter what I do, I am yet to find a mthod in Adobe Audition to get rid of the noise.Here is my question to you - I would love to get a Heil PR-40 from yourself after listening to Episode 40 and listening to about 40 other podcasts of yours. I do however live in the UK. Would you be willing to ship it that far out? If so, I am very intrested in your package.Many thanks a merry Christmas to you and your family,Calum Hey Cliff,

I am currently trying to find my feet in the podcasting world and am trying to get my own going. With your Podcasting 101, I have been able to submit the feed to iTunes and the lot! What I really want now is a great microphone, I have a mixer (Behringer Xynex X2442USB) and a Behringer compressor.

I currently have an MXL 990 (I can tell you are cringing :) ) and have it on a mic stand on the floor with a pop filter. But as you said, I am getting so much background noise, it is un-beliveable. I sit right next to the heater in my make shift studio and no matter what I do, I am yet to find a mthod in Adobe Audition to get rid of the noise.

Here is my question to you – I would love to get a Heil PR-40 from yourself after listening to Episode 40 and listening to about 40 other podcasts of yours. I do however live in the UK. Would you be willing to ship it that far out? If so, I am very intrested in your package.

Many thanks a merry Christmas to you and your family,

Calum

]]> By: adambagwellhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2247 adambagwell Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:44:46 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2247 Mack,If your router supports it, you can prioritize Skype traffic to improve call quality. In other words, if you have a houseful of computers/iPhones/xboxes/etc. all using the internet, some routers allow you to indicate that Skype traffic is more important than Call of Duty traffic coming from the Xbox. :)Adam Mack,

If your router supports it, you can prioritize Skype traffic to improve call quality. In other words, if you have a houseful of computers/iPhones/xboxes/etc. all using the internet, some routers allow you to indicate that Skype traffic is more important than Call of Duty traffic coming from the Xbox. :)

Adam

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2133 Cliff Ravenscraft Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:48:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2133 Tell you want Joey, My recommendation is that you listen to the podcast episode found at http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/pr40 That will help answer your question. Tell you want Joey, My recommendation is that you listen to the podcast episode found at http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/pr40 That will help answer your question.

]]> By: Joey Kissimmeehttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-2132 Joey Kissimmee Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:37:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-2132 I just recently got the Blue Yeti Pro mic. I'm having the same problem as you mentioned in your audio here. My Mic picks up anything and everything. My office is on the second floor and even with the doors closed, it still picks up sound from the first floor.My question is, will I have the same problem with the Heil PR 40?I'm seriously thinking of buying one of your packages but I don't wanna run into the same problem. Thanks. I just recently got the Blue Yeti Pro mic. I’m having the same problem as you mentioned in your audio here. My Mic picks up anything and everything. My office is on the second floor and even with the doors closed, it still picks up sound from the first floor.

My question is, will I have the same problem with the Heil PR 40?

I’m seriously thinking of buying one of your packages but I don’t wanna run into the same problem. Thanks.

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1984 Cliff Ravenscraft Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:50:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1984 I recommend that you go to http://LearnHowToPodcast.com and watch video #3 about Equipment Options. I share quite a bit about why I recommend a digital audio recorder there. I recommend that you go to http://LearnHowToPodcast.com and watch video #3 about Equipment Options. I share quite a bit about why I recommend a digital audio recorder there.

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1920 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:51:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1920 Yes, Mac, it is possible to use more than one USB sound card. What you are looking to do is 100% possible. I'm doing it on my Mac each week.So glad I changed your opinion of Skype. There are a lot of things that can lead to poor Skype audio quality. Most of the time it is either low Bandwidth on either end or poor equipment on either end.But yeah, all you need to do is check out http://BalancedLivingWeekly.com http://HelpIGotAMac.com, http://SocialMediaSerenity.com and others that I produce to hear my Skyped In Co-Hosts. :) Yes, Mac, it is possible to use more than one USB sound card. What you are looking to do is 100% possible. I’m doing it on my Mac each week.

So glad I changed your opinion of Skype. There are a lot of things that can lead to poor Skype audio quality. Most of the time it is either low Bandwidth on either end or poor equipment on either end.

But yeah, all you need to do is check out http://BalancedLivingWeekly.com http://HelpIGotAMac.com, http://SocialMediaSerenity.com and others that I produce to hear my Skyped In Co-Hosts. :)

]]> By: Mackhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1916 Mack Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:44:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1916 I assume (I hate that term) that it is possible to use two USB sound cards from one PC? One for Skype (you have changed my opinion about Skype after listening to your Skype quality) and one for Bumpers, Commericals etc.. ????? I assume (I hate that term) that it is possible to use two USB sound cards from one PC? One for Skype (you have changed my opinion about Skype after listening to your Skype quality) and one for Bumpers, Commericals etc.. ?????

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1736 Cliff Ravenscraft Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:30:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1736 If "NOTHING" else is plugged in, I would say you got a bad unit. That can happen with Behringer products from time to time. I hope where you got it from will offer a hassel free replacement. Most places will as long as you notify them within 30 days. If “NOTHING” else is plugged in, I would say you got a bad unit. That can happen with Behringer products from time to time. I hope where you got it from will offer a hassel free replacement. Most places will as long as you notify them within 30 days.

]]> By: Jjwolfehttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1733 Jjwolfe Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:21:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1733 I bought the HAA 4700, plugged it in and found that it has a 60 cycle hum sitting there all by itself, with or without anything plugged in.  There is no hum when I plug into the mixer. just the headphone bank. Some channels are worse than others. Any thoughts as to what is causing this or anything I can do besides return it? I bought the HAA 4700, plugged it in and found that it has a 60 cycle hum sitting there all by itself, with or without anything plugged in.  There is no hum when I plug into the mixer. just the headphone bank. Some channels are worse than others. Any thoughts as to what is causing this or anything I can do besides return it?

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1594 Cliff Ravenscraft Thu, 21 Apr 2011 03:33:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1594 Hey Jayden, glad you found the site! Thanks for the feedback. I've seen the Zoom Multi-Track recorders. I'm glad that it's working out for you. For me, any mixing console that I would use must have at least one Aux Out. Though I could see how this device could be useful for a portable recording setup. Hey Jayden, glad you found the site! Thanks for the feedback. I’ve seen the Zoom Multi-Track recorders. I’m glad that it’s working out for you. For me, any mixing console that I would use must have at least one Aux Out. Though I could see how this device could be useful for a portable recording setup.

]]> By: Jayden Princehttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1593 Jayden Prince Thu, 21 Apr 2011 03:22:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1593 You have some good content here glad I found the site... I prerecord a lot of my show and I too was recording to the PC and most of the time not having issues but many time as you have mentioned always when you can least afford it... So I opted for the Zoom R16 which gives you a ton of features at a very reasonable price... Recorder/Interface/DAW Controller with 16 tracks to play with, plus because it is not that large and can run on 6 AAA batteries you can take it on location with you quite easy. And the ability to record on up to 32GB SD cards means I can easily archive my recordings... If you haven't played around with an R16 or R24 I seriously would give either unit a look.~Jayden - KXRX.net You have some good content here glad I found the site… I prerecord a lot of my show and I too was recording to the PC and most of the time not having issues but many time as you have mentioned always when you can least afford it… So I opted for the Zoom R16 which gives you a ton of features at a very reasonable price… Recorder/Interface/DAW Controller with 16 tracks to play with, plus because it is not that large and can run on 6 AAA batteries you can take it on location with you quite easy. And the ability to record on up to 32GB SD cards means I can easily archive my recordings… If you haven’t played around with an R16 or R24 I seriously would give either unit a look.

~Jayden – KXRX.net

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1587 Cliff Ravenscraft Fri, 15 Apr 2011 15:36:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1587 Thanks so much Brent. Glad you are enjoying the top quality gear and the benefits such gear provides! Thanks so much Brent. Glad you are enjoying the top quality gear and the benefits such gear provides!

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1511 Cliff Ravenscraft Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:34:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1511 Thanks for the feedback Julie. Yes, a handheld recorder would get you started. If you have a walk-in closet, it would even help you to be free of the echo that would be common with recording into such a device.Best wishes on your entry into the podcasting world! Thanks for the feedback Julie. Yes, a handheld recorder would get you started. If you have a walk-in closet, it would even help you to be free of the echo that would be common with recording into such a device.

Best wishes on your entry into the podcasting world!

]]> By: Julie Tennishttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1508 Julie Tennis Mon, 14 Mar 2011 02:36:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1508 Thanks for this page!I came here from Pat Flynn's podcasts.Seeing the equipment packages you have above was pretty intimidating, but reading through your descriptions helped to reduce that anxiety. I think I can get started with what I want to produce with just the little hand-held recorder for now. I'll see how that goes, then think about moving into other equipment.Julie Thanks for this page!

I came here from Pat Flynn’s podcasts.

Seeing the equipment packages you have above was pretty intimidating, but reading through your descriptions helped to reduce that anxiety. I think I can get started with what I want to produce with just the little hand-held recorder for now. I’ll see how that goes, then think about moving into other equipment.

Julie

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1429 Cliff Ravenscraft Fri, 28 Jan 2011 20:45:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1429 Yep. It has 1 aux out allowing you to do one mixminus Yep. It has 1 aux out allowing you to do one mixminus

]]> By: JDhttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1426 JD Tue, 25 Jan 2011 04:31:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1426 I apologize if this question is too elementary, but can I do a mix-minus with my Behringer Xenyx 802 mixer? I apologize if this question is too elementary, but can I do a mix-minus with my Behringer Xenyx 802 mixer?

]]> By: Cliff Ravenscrafthttp://PodcastAnswerMan.com/equipment/comment-page-1/#comment-1423 Cliff Ravenscraft Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:21:00 +0000 http://cliffravenscraft.com/packages/#comment-1423 Mike, I am going to attempt to give you a full response to this question in Podcast Answer Man Episode 194. Should be out by Friday, January 28th 2011 Mike, I am going to attempt to give you a full response to this question in Podcast Answer Man Episode 194. Should be out by Friday, January 28th 2011

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