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Tap tap. Can you hear me? 

That sounds like the beginning of many videos or podcasts in my time. How about you, ? The thing is, this typical scenario just stresses how integral your mic is as part of your content creator toolbox. 

But, as I point out in this video, a good mic doesn’t have to break the bank. One of my favs is the sturdy and dependable Samson Q2U, which is a perfect example and a great one to use for both audio content and videos. Still, before deciding on a mic that’s perfect for you, consider a few important factors:

1- What are you predominantly using your mic for? How you use your microphone impacts your best options and final selection. For instance, for heavy-duty uses, you may need a more robust microphone. Still, in a favorable price range, the Shure MV7 USB Mic is terrific for daily users and along with me has a huge fan base!

2- What are the conditions for doing your audio recordings? Having a stable studio or recording space makes a difference in what mic you select. The acoustics for your space, whether you record indoors or outdoors, or if and where you record LIVE audio are all factors. If you do in-person interviews, that makes a difference, too, in your selection.  Hint: I talk about the difference between dynamic and condenser microphones in the video.

3- What device are you using to record your audio work? Your mic choices will definitely vary by device as well as how portable you need to be and also depends on what’s comfortable for you to use. With a simple dongle I can plug my Samson Q2U into my iPhone 11 and it's good to go!

4- Budget constraints are understandable, but quality microphones are available at all price points now. You can always advance as you go and your needs or budgets change. Whatever the case, don’t let anything stop you! You can record directly to your phone if that’s all you have available. 

5- Believe it or not, voice and microphone compatibility is a factor. Test and experiment to find the perfect match where your unique voice and microphone bring out your highest-quality sound.

ICYMI our friends at Amazon are fussy about where we can post our Influencer links but don't worry, you'll find all the links and product information on my Go Shopping Page in the Content Creation and Podcasts Collection. I encourage you to check out the collection because now because even if you aren't in need of new equipment now, you might find something to add to your Amazon Wish List, which you can send to friends and family who are wondering what to buy you for the upcoming holiday!

Sound Enhancements

Remember there’s much more to quality audio and voice recording than the microphone itself. One of those things is adding a “windscreen” to your microphone, like the Shure RK345 Replacement Windscreen, for sound enhancement. Eliminating “popping” sounds from your audio is one helpful feature of using these physical filters. 

Plugable makes useful cable extension cords for multiple uses or to extend your mic’s operations. Jump ahead to the 27:42 time stamp in the video where I explain more.

Find a Microphone That Fits YOU! 

One more thing to think about for optimal audio production with your microphone of choice is how and where you position it when in use. To help you determine the sweet spot and set your mic, try a mic stand. Here are a couple of reputable “stands-of-choice” I discuss that you may want to use to complete your microphone setup, including stands from OnStage and Gator Frameworks!

Bonus Tip:

If you are looking for a good tripod, I've got two options to share with you in this quick video.

Great Gifts

All of the gear mentioned here give you the perfect gifts for yourself or your favorite co-creator or colleague before the holiday rush to buy for everyone else! Take advantage of a little something for yourself, and have a toast (whether a coffee or cocktail) to get your holiday mojo going. And don’t fret, it’s okay to start with you to kick off the season of giving!  

Be sure to reach out if you have any questions or need more info…

Stay beautiful,

~ Ms. Ileane

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NOTE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.