Using Your Own Microphone
In this article we are discussing the different types of mics that can be used with Dubler 2.
Dubler can be used with any microphone in any DAW (that takes MIDI Input) but there are certain factors that can alter a user's experience when selecting a mic.
Dubler can be used with any microphone in any DAW (that takes MIDI Input) but there are certain factors that can alter a user's experience when selecting a mic.
Dynamic vs Condenser microphones
The two most common mics are:
1. Dynamic microphones
2. Condenser microphones
Dynamic microphones are typically used for live performances. Most commonly, these mics do not need phantom power to be used so a simple USB or XLR cable will be a sufficient connection. These mics are popular in live performances because they have a focussed signal which has a low sensitivity and high gain threshold.
Condenser microphones come in two forms with either small and large diaphrams. These mics are generally used for recording purposes which is why they are often found in studios. They are very sensitive and can pick up extreme amounts of detail which is why they are generally used for recording the sonic nuances in vocals or instruments.
The sensitivity of the condenser mic affects Dublers output when recording MIDI into your DAW. For example, if using Dubler to record triggers or pitch information, any form of background noise or even small pop or plosives can be detected by the mic and affect the MIDI notes that are produced. This often leads to inaccurate MIDI data which means more time spent on editing post performance.
This isn’t to say that Dubler isn’t compatible with condenser microphones, it’s just that a little more work has to be done in setup and calibration to find the sweet spot. We’ve included some tips on how to get the best of condensers below.
1. Dynamic microphones
2. Condenser microphones
Dynamic microphones are typically used for live performances. Most commonly, these mics do not need phantom power to be used so a simple USB or XLR cable will be a sufficient connection. These mics are popular in live performances because they have a focussed signal which has a low sensitivity and high gain threshold.
Condenser microphones come in two forms with either small and large diaphrams. These mics are generally used for recording purposes which is why they are often found in studios. They are very sensitive and can pick up extreme amounts of detail which is why they are generally used for recording the sonic nuances in vocals or instruments.
The sensitivity of the condenser mic affects Dublers output when recording MIDI into your DAW. For example, if using Dubler to record triggers or pitch information, any form of background noise or even small pop or plosives can be detected by the mic and affect the MIDI notes that are produced. This often leads to inaccurate MIDI data which means more time spent on editing post performance.
This isn’t to say that Dubler isn’t compatible with condenser microphones, it’s just that a little more work has to be done in setup and calibration to find the sweet spot. We’ve included some tips on how to get the best of condensers below.
Tips when using a condenser mic
- Lower the Input Slider - Condenser mics are very sensitive so by reducing the input slider you can lower the gain of your voice
- Adjust the Stickiness Slider - the higher the Stickiness the more difficult it is to move between notes. If you are seeing that Dubler is moving about the note wheel to much adjust this parameter to your liking
- Re-Calibrate - Often when moving between projects you might adjust the input gain on your audio interface. This can effect the calibration of your microphone - recalibrate by clicking the input screen in the top right hand corner
- Low Cut Filter - some microphoens have parameters on the hardware themselves. This could be a gain wheel or a low cut filter - try adjusting these to see if it helps
Overall, there are so many dynamic mics out there that can be used to good effect. However, with regards to all budgets here are a few we recommend:
1. Shure SM58
2. Behringer SL 84C
3. Shure PGA48
4. Shure SM7B
5. Stagg SDM50
1. Shure SM58
2. Behringer SL 84C
3. Shure PGA48
4. Shure SM7B
5. Stagg SDM50