3 Lies Guitar Center Told Me Today About Microphones
To get the most out of podcasting, I needed to replace the over-sensitive, low-quality mic built-in to my computer. I asked some friends, conducted a little research, knocked up a list of acceptable models, then hit town.
It took a while find somewhere which sold anything good: Guitar Center, in Robinson, a suburb of Pittsburgh. When I walked in, it was nice to finally see some options, unlike the garbage at Best Buy and Circuit City. But it was not nice to be bamboozled by the staffer there, who told me three fibs.
1. That all the mics on my list were dynamic microphones, not condenser models. This was the opening gambit, but I was sure my list included condenser mics. I felt the cold chill of my bullshit detector spinning up.
2. That I won’t get a good non-USB condenser mic for less than $200.
3. That I wouldn’t be able to find a decent mic at all for less than $100. Ciao, Guitar Center.
Bear in mind that I was forward with my requirements — basic, entry-level podcasting, and nothing fancy or close to top quality. Some of the models on the list were nothing special — like the Behringer C-1 Studio Condenser — but I’m not going on tour, guys. I just need to record a friggin’ podcast.
And it’s the only nearby music store in the ‘burg open on Sunday. I’m tempted to go back and just get one of the models I wanted to begin with, but why should I reward it for trying to swindle me? Bah.
My shortlist follows (Please feel free to offer improved suggestions.)
Behringer C-1 Studio Condenser
Stageworks CC12 (Condenser)
Samson C01U (Condenser)
Plantronics DSP 500 (Dynamic)
Shure SM-57 (Dynamic)
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