Hardware Archives - DJ Chimney Sparrow

Things to Know When Buying a Microphone

Previously, I wrote an article talking about the preliminary research I conducted before purchasing my first mic, the Rode N1-USB.

Since then, I’ve done a LOT more research, trying to understand all the different parts of mics, how they work together, and – most usefully – what manufacturers mean when talking about terms like impedance, sound pressure levels, transient responses, and so on.

If you’re just wanting to know the basics, like the most common types of microphones and their polar patterns (read: how they pick up the sound around them), check that article above. But if you’re ready to take a deep dive into the nuts ‘n bolts of studio microphones, strap yourselves in!

Beginner’s Guide to Purchasing Hardware/Software

A couple days ago, my Solitude XCS2 headphones broke. I was lying sideways on my bed, listening to some music, when the sideways pressure snapped the plastic connector for the right earpiece.

I quickly applied my masterful MacGyver skills and reattached the piece with some handy strips of cardboard and duct tape.

broken headphones — It’s like you can’t even tell!!

For SOME reason though, the headphones just weren’t as comfortable (or noise-canceling) as they were before. After some research, I settled on a snazzy pair of Shure SRH840 Professional Monitoring Headphones as a replacement.

Mid-research however, it occurred to me that others might benefit from my method of seeking and purchasing equipment that I’m relatively unfamiliar with.

The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Studio Microphones

So, I recently added this sexy number to my collection:

This is my first microphone, so a considerable amount of research went into what distinguishes a good microphone from a less-good one.

I thought I’d share what I learned with you. Sound good? Then here we go.

New Studio Monitors! (And some other stuff)

It’s hard not to feel obligated to write about what I think others want to hear. I have the same issue when I teach dance, concerned with how I come across to others and if they doubt my abilities. I want to produce something more honest, and this blog – and the potential career path it represents – is my stab at that.

Sorry, there’s going to be a lot of insecurity here. But that’s part of my Truth.

I picked up a pair of KRK Rokit G4 Speaker Monitors on Monday. In case you are interested, here’s their stats: