FetHead Phantom: Louder, Cleaner Audio for Condenser Microphones

[@cuisined]

Just bought 2x fetheds and 2x fethead phantom. They work as advised, very clean and accurate. I plugged it to my GH5 with my DMW-XLR1 using NTG3 and works wonderful. This needs to be in any serious soundman's kit bag.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@AllThingsFilm1]

You are definitely the Sound Master. I can always count on you for the latest and greatest tips and tools for sound recording. Cheers.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Todd!

[@MuwexTech]

This!

[@EzzenzDK]

Exactly!!

[@iancraig]

I’ve found the Fethead to be really useful with cheaper recorders where raising the gain even above 50% can introduce a small amount of noise. The Fethead keeps that gain down on the recorder. I’ve also found another use for it with lavalier microphones. I use a VXLR+ which uses phantom power to supply 5V to the lav. That seems to make a lot of them slightly more dynamic and noise slightly less. In order to make the VXLR+ work, I use a Saramonic battery preamp and a Fethead!!! So Saramonic - Feathead - VXLR+ - lavalier. The recorder gain is set at zero and the Saramonic does less amplification but merely supplies 48V for everything to work. The result is a very dynamic lav sound with the noise floor only really limited by the quality of the lav itself. I’ve found a lav quoted at -80dB called a Little Clippy which uses a Primo EM172 capsule and as it is, it’s really quiet but on the end of this set up, it’s a really lovely dynamic sounding microphone. Probably could have saved myself the bother though by buying a quieter recorder in the first place ..... Useful for people with cheaper, ‘consumer grade’ recorders though.

[@curtisjudd]

+Ian Craig thanks for the insights Ian!

[@hornblenda6]

Wow, I am really surprised to hear that 😮 I've just recently bought the rode vxlr+ converter, hoping to solve my computer desk problem with some of the mics I use being electret ones and audio interface not providing any 3,5mm trs socket neither a plug inpower of 5v. With vxlr+ I am able to connect any mic to my Focusrite scarlett 2i4 1st gen and that is awesome - such simplicity! However, I was sorry to find that vxlr+ intruduced a lot of noise to the chain! I really didnt expect that... I mean, it is not that bad as onboard soundcard mic input of my pc or other crappy soundcards, but this noise is clearly audible and annoying... :( I tried plugging it directly into the interface (with phantom power on, of course), tried plugging it via a long xlr cable... tried different electret 5v mics... (not the highest quality though, they were jus simple pc headset mics: Antlion ModMic and a V-moda boom mic), and in all scenarios the noise is still there... what made me state, that this is a vxlr+ matter, not the microphones' noise. Those same mics used with some external mobile recorder didnt have that noise, there was a noise either, but different, quieter... so it was a preamp noise of that recorder). I am really bugged by this because no one ever mentioned on the web that this vxlr+ generates so much noise... Bu to my surprise you state that achieved a really clean audio chain with your lav mics and vxlr+ and fethead... Hmm... does that fethead do something to reduce this noise? How? It is AFTER the vxlr+ in the chain so it should amplify all the signal from vxlr+, the voice and the noise as well... What is your experience with this vxlr+ that you dont get any noise? I mean, it is not the end of the world, it is not THAT loud and bad, but compared to any condenser mic plugged directly to the same interface (focusrite scarlett 2i4 1st gen), which is dead silent with the same gain level, it is a somewhat night and day difference...

[@MrSka7cis]

Thanks for the insight. Now I have to try that with a clipper mic

[@RobertLinthicum]

You introduced the Fethead into your chain at an interesting juncture, the camera XLR input. I like the Fethead Phantom but one aspect I do not like is the degree to which it torques the XLR port of either the camera, recorder, or microphone under normal use. I have never broken anything, but the form factor of the Fethead provides a nice, long lever for undue force.

[@curtisjudd]

That is a fine point, thanks for that. This is not something I would want to use on a regular basis, but good to have in the bag for when I'm in a pinch.

[@RedBearAK]

That's definitely something to be very careful about. A short 1.5ft or 3ft XLR patch cable can pretty much solve that potential problem, without introducing any measurable signal degradation between the FetHead and the camera or recorder.

[@curtisjudd]

Good idea.

[@RallenMan]

I use a 12 inch XLR to XLR cable between the mic and the Fethead to prevent your concern.

[@ArchitecturalVideos]

I bought this and paired it with a Samson CO2. I shoot a lot of construction site interviews every year and this has proved to be winner combo. Thanks for the video very helpful!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@kipling1957]

These are also really good for low output dynamics like the Shure SM7B as well as various ribbon mics.

[@curtisjudd]

Agreed. Warning for those using ribbon mics, be warned that you do NOT want the FetHead Phantom, in that case you need the original which does NOT pass the phantom power through to the mic (except for the few rare cases where the ribbon mic has an on-board preamp that needs phantom power which is somewhat rare.)

[@kipling1957]

Good point!

[@kipling1957]

@Greg B I know this question isn’t addressed to me, but had this exact problem when I started out and resolved it in a particular way. May or may not work for you. The first piece in the puzzle (and you may know this, so no offence intended) is to understand that there are two kinds of audio input: Balanced (professional) and unbalanced (consumer). I won’t go into the theory, but just state that the issue is not simply one of connector design, i.e., XLR vs. 3.5 mm TRS (tip-ring-sleeve). The signal itself is different. So, put simply, you need to turn your XLR balanced signal into an unbalanced 3.5mm TRS signal. There is a cheapo way to do this, which is to buy or construct (loads of KZbin DIY about this) an XLR to TRS connection. Doing it this way you throw away half of the signal, increasing the noise floor, and it is also prone to interference. A better way, which I used successfully, is to buy something called a DI box. This is something primarily used by musicians to turn their unbalanced instrument output into a balanced signal that can be fed into a soundboard. I started out with a prosumer Canon Vixia camcorder with a 3.5mm audio in. I connected this to a 3.5mm cable to the DI box, which has a 1/4 input jack, so you will need an adapter. On the other side of the box is the XLR balanced. These boxes can be used in either direction provided they are “passive,” meaning a transformer does the work, and there are no op-amps in the circuitry. It’s been so long since I did this that I can’t recommend a specific product, you will need to research that aspect. So yea, feed your balanced signal into the XLR of the DI and send the unbalanced output to the 3.5 mm input of your camera. Worked a treat for me at least. Good luck and I hope this helps.

[@BrianSchwartz]

Can confirm the original Fethead works nicely with the NGT2 on battery power(I also connected it to an H4N). The Fethead, in my experience, compares quite nicely with the CloudLifter and has a much better form factor.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Brian!

[@spritual_enlightenment]

You plugged this gadget to the camera body instead of mic. That was a problem solver. Good job, Curtis.

[@curtisjudd]

+Summer2015 haha, thanks.

[@KTHKUHNKK]

Curtis you sure do know your stuff. I have an h4n Zoom which I love and I know I have not scratched the surface and how to learn everything in it. I love watching your tutorials and learning about your knowledge of all these gadgets. Keep up the good work. Keith Kuhn

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Keith!

[@rfa2381]

One note: active ribbon microphones need +48V phantom power to work. An example the microphone se electronics voodoo vr2. So, the microphone preamp fethead phantom works for active ribbon microphones.

[@curtisjudd]

Thank you for the clarification.

[@beatsbyandrew]

I was looking into this exact item a while ago and came upon one additional concern - on many 2 channel recorders phantom is global so if you are using the second input for a wireless unit you will need to either a. Make sure its circuit design blocks phantom or b. Plug in a phantom blocking barrel which Triton also sells.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Andrew, good find!

[@lesterauguste]

Your audio quality throughout this video is so crisp and amazing 🤞🏼

[@31emxof]

Moments ago, I received a Fethead Phantom (FP). I excitedly opened the package and observed that the insignia had fallen off of the device. Unfortunate, but no big deal. So, I added it into the chain on my portable system, consisting of a Zoom H5 recorder, Mogami Gold cable, and Sennheiser MKH416 microphone. I attached the FP to the mic end of the chain, and turned on my H5. I could not hear any signal from the mic, but picked up other unknown sounds. I boosted the pre-amp and realized I was listening to a radio interview with Broadway actors from The Book of Mormon on 94.9FM radio. As an experiment, I switched the FP to the pre-amp end of the cable. This removed the radio signal, but I still received nothing from the microphone. Continuing to experiment, I switched out mics to a Shure SM58, which I'd been told should function the same with either Classic or Phantom Fetheads. With this configuration, I did receive a boosted mic signal, but it also introduced strange coloring and a humming tone. So, I guess I'll be emailing Triton Audio...and I was so excited. :(

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing you experience and I hope that Triton is able to get this resolved for you.

[@31emxof]

@@curtisjudd Hey, thanks for checking in! I hope so too, and I'll be sure to post a follow-up once it's resolved.

[@31emxof]

Finally received my new Fethead Phantom from B&H on the 16th (over a month after I sent the first one back!). It works great! I guess I just got a lemon, which is fine because I wouldn't have known what else to do, short of building a faraday cage around my recording space.

[@scaleofthought]

@@31emxof Thanks for the update. Good to know!

[@skakdosmer]

There's a third variant with a high pass filter, presumably to counteract the proximity effect of certain microphones. (no phantom power, 27db gain).

[@curtisjudd]

Good to know, thanks Lau.

[@skakdosmer]

The (standard) non-phantom version seems to work well with a battery powered NTG2 - I just saw a video about that.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@TechReflex]

Not interested in the product but you review them so well that I watched full 8 minutes of it anyways.

[@curtisjudd]

+TechReflex haha! Thanks for the support!

[@andygfrancis]

Nice Curtis. I use the H4n and NTG2. A few years ago I it was looking like I'd either need to upgrade my Mic or recorder to get a better combination for lower noise recordings then I came across the FetHead (non-phantom) and problem solved! A very unassuming piece of equipment but has made a HUGE difference for me.

[@curtisjudd]

👍So nice when a piece of gear solves a problem so directly!

[@EugeniaLoli]

Andy, does having the battery in the NTG-2 instead of the FetHead creates noise? Some people have reported that keeping the NTG-2 battery-free creates cleaner sound. I wish the NTG-2 worked with the Fethead phantom... :/

[@jw_film]

I've been using both the Fethead Phantom and a regular Fethead for years now both with my Zoom H4N and Canon C100 and they are a must, especially with my Zoom H4N. Cheers for posting, nice to see how much it does with for the Ursa Mini Pro.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks James! Agreed on the H4n.

[@Inrumpo]

You should plug it into the microphone-end, not into the interface-end. You don't want to amplify what's happening in the cable.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Joey. What about sending a load impedance of 3000 ohms over a cable like one does when connecting this to the microphone? There's some risk there as well. I tried both and they both sounded the same, fortunately. But I was using 25' cables so maybe it doesn't make a difference with a good cable of that length. I suppose the question could be answered by trying both options with much longer cables - maybe something in the 100' range.

[@leswright4108]

For some crazy reason I decided to get both--FetHead Phantom and FetHead original. Though the Phantom works with dynamic mics, the original is even better. The Phantom is rated to add 18 dB of gain, whereas the original adds 27dB. On my Tascam recorder with noisy preamps the difference is clear.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@taylormefford]

Love the Triton Audio Fethead. It's fantastic

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@skakdosmer]

The phantom version gives 18db amplification, but the non-phantom version gives 27db! So if you don't need the phantom power to reach the microphone, the non-phantom version seems to be much better.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, another bonus if your microphone doesn't need phantom power.

[@NewbArchitect]

@@curtisjudd hi have you tested the dynamic version of this and is it a true 27 gain and does tone change much? I'm planning to use this with my focusrite 2i2 with se electronics v7. Do you think this would be good clean gain? Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

@@NewbArchitect I have not tested the dynamic/non-phantom version of the FetHead, unfortunately.

[@NewbArchitect]

@@curtisjudd oh ok, thank you for your reply :)

[@thomasmetge6637]

Hi Curtis and everybody Another great review, thanks ! I've conducted similar tests (albeit rougher) and found comparable results, with an AT897 + tascam dr60dII with / without feathead Phantom... I was initially kind of disappointed with only 3 to 5 dB clean boost but : - in the end, it makes indeed a noticeable difference in the quality of the recording - but mostly, it makes a HUGE difference during the shooting itself : you can hear much better the take, without having to boost the preamplification... You can even step down the headphones levels... Finally, I kept this little thing and would buy it again without hesitation. Thanks Curtis, cheers Thomas

[@curtisjudd]

+Thomas Metge thanks for the great info Thomas! I agree. While the numbers don’t look huge, the audible difference is worthwhile.

[@NyoMurdi]

Great video, I might actually consider getting one of these, had a pretty hissy recording not too long ago and this could be better than buying a new shotgun mic. Good stuff as always Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jack and good luck!

[@EposVox]

Finally! Thanks for the review.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the feedback. Looks like I need to pick up the pace, maybe quit my day job. 😉

[@ZhurbaV]

I'm not sure that it's a good idea to put FetHead directly to camera's input socket. In this case low level signal goes through the long cable from mic to fethead. In another case, if we put the fethead directly to mic's output, the signal level in long cable will be much larger. It's better for noise to signal proportion.

[@curtisjudd]

Fair enough. Tradeoff is the higher load impedance through the long cable run. As long as you keep the cable short, either way works. Also, if I’m hand booming for film production, I’d rather not have the extra weight out at the end of a boom pole.

[@roadrunna.]

Thank you Curtis! I have a Tascam DR-60Dmkii and Rode NTG5 combo for outdoor dialogue and I am getting a Rode NT5S with the Omni capsule for indoor dialogue and I was considering this FetHead to reduce the noise while keeping the gain but wasn't sure if I would actually benefit from it and if there were any down sides. Found your video very helpful as usual, will definitely give it a try now.

[@curtisjudd]

Not sure it will make a big difference.

[@roadrunna.]

@@curtisjudd Understood..Thank you!!

[@EugeniaLoli]

I'd love to see a review of the regular FetHead used with the H4n and the NTG-2. That combination is so popular, that while the phantom version doesn't work, the Regular one might be the only thing that can fix the situation for us. More people need to know! Thx!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Eugenia.

[@boipelojoe]

So you also in music; now I know why you so good with sound equipment. I listened to the song on SoundCloud: Produced by Cary Judd and Conor Souhrada

[@curtisjudd]

My brother is the musician and taught me what he knows about sound. :)

[@jasonj7904]

Curtis, thank you for all of your excellent reviews and technical demos! Out of curiosity, have you tested the impact and pros/cons of using the Fethead on a wireless set up such as the Sennheiser SKP 300 G3 or AVX systems?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jason, I’ve found that the output level of the wireless systems are usually hot enough that they don’t need the help of something like this.

[@dickginkowski6071]

It would seem that a Fethead isn't needed for a condenser mic but I have used them quite successfully.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@Hugmir]

Much welcome level of informativeness.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@NickGranville]

I’d thought this was more for dynamic and ribbons mics. Hadn’t considered using it on condenser mic’s as they usually have lots of gain already so hadn’t realised there is a phantom version. Cheers

[@curtisjudd]

+Nick Granville 👍

[@rayafahreza]

Been curious about this for a while, thank you Curtis. Looks like this will be good for my run and gun gear kit.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Raya

[@leemski]

Extremely well-made review! Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@VapingBiker]

Looks like a useful piece of kit! Thanks for the video

[@curtisjudd]

You bet! 👍

[@thebusinessfirm9862]

Geez, you’re good! Thanks for making this video, mate. A curly question for you: in a room with outside traffic noise, is it possible to use a FetHead on a dynamic mic boomed overhead to capture dialogue, so to avoid environmental noises? Thanks in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, thanks! No, dynamic mics really need to be closer than that. Better to use a highly directional condenser mic or a lavalier.

[@insanejughead]

Curtis, thank you for continuing to use the Smic2! Do you often go on hikes or drives out in the beautiful countryside? I remember you tested some portable recorders once while on a walk, and I was curious if you could fit another one in with a small assortment of equipment?

[@curtisjudd]

I sure try to. But when I get into the pro equipment, that usually requires at least one assistant which I don't often have available. :( And I've got a lot of very beautiful countryside here. Maybe I'll find an assistant some day!

[@BaseballYakker]

Very helpful. I've seen other people on KZbin review this, but nobody I trust as much as Curtis. So, quick question: Where does the extra gain come from? Like, I know the Fethead is not just magically boosting my mic without some sort of source.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Caleb. The FetHead is simply a powered amplifier. It takes the phantom power from the XLR input to power the amp and takes the audio from the mic to apply som amplification before the signal gets to the camera or recorder’s preamp.

[@romari2706]

Great review and tips for the Fet Head and Fet Head Phantom.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Romeo!

[@skinnyTheCat]

Really Great Video! Thanks for this detailed review!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@carlopalese]

Hello, thanks for your videos. The benefits of Fethead Phantom are often questioned... More than the need of extra gain, the phantom version could help in reducing the noise floor in presence of not stellar preamps, better if with medium to low sensitivity condensers. Zoom H4n preamps are very noisy ( EIN more than 10 db's worst than H4n Pro and even more in comparison with the Ursa mini preamps) so the improvement is always noticeable. It would be very helpful to test the phantom fethead on a Zoom H5 or 6, which lots of people own over the older H4n, to check the actual improvement on S/N in recordings. Buying two of them for a stereo setup may represent a super portable solution; still not extra cheap, so knowing what results can be expected would be great. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Carlo. Alas, I have neither an H5 nor H6. My thinking was that the inferior H4n would be a way to show the improvement for one of the most ubiquitous recorders with relatively weak preamps.

[@carlopalese]

@@curtisjudd thanks for answering. I understand this... probably h5 or 6 with their EIN at -120 are in that “not great nor bad” range which may give unpredictable results with the fethead phantom....

[@MuwexTech]

Awesome to hear about this products, thanks for sharing it! Must keep this in mind if i need it! :)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@CryoftheProphet]

I swear this channel is my zen place..

[@curtisjudd]

Glad it’s helpful!

[@Gemylon]

Brilliant. He is so cool and clear.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@veggiefella]

Hi Curtis, thanks for enlightening the masses with regard to audio... I would love to see a comparison with the regular FetHead using the NTG2 vs the NTG4+ standalone for audio quality. Do they compare closely or is there a definite advantage going with the NTG4+. I would just like to see how effective the FetHead is in bring up the quality of the NTG2. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi veggiefella, I’d stick with the NTG2 personally. I find the NTG4+ to be too mid-range focused for most voices, at least the copy I have. Also, you’ll want to confirm with Triton Audio that the NTG2 will work with the original fethead. Best wishes!

[@veggiefella]

@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis, thanks for the insight... I have taken so much from your channel and I believe you are the audio authority on KZbin. It is very apparent with the consistent quality of sound that you produce on your videos. I am thankful that you have shared your knowledge and experience, it goes a long way for people who are just getting into video and need to tackle the requirement to have good sound on their productions. I have already confirmed the NTG2 works with the FetHead with good results. I have ordered 2 and will begin using with my set up. All the best!

[@StevenRayMorris]

Great video as always. How does this compare to the cloud lifter?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Steven, thanks. The Cloudlifter only works with dynamic and ribbon microphones as it does not pass on phantom power to the mic. The FetHead Phantom is designed specifically for condenser microphones which need phantom power.

[@andre-le-bone-aparte]

Question: How does this compare from using a Zoom H4N with FetHead Phantom....versus spending more for the the Zoom F4 Field Recorder with no FetHead?

[@curtisjudd]

I’d opt for the F4 if possible. The simpler the setup the better.

[@skakdosmer]

I've just received 6 of these. 2 Fethead, 2 Fethead Phantom, 2 Fethead Filter. Haven't tested them yet. The user guide recommends plugging directly into the microphone. By the way, the little Tritonaudio name plate had fallen off one of them, and the little ribbon around it, explaining that it's a Fethead Phantom, is loose at one end. Anyone experienced similar things?

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the update Lau. I hope they work well for you aside from the name plate that fell off (I assume that is just cosmetic).

[@MartinyAlonso13]

Great video, thanks! One question: do You know if the Phantom version of FetHead Will work also with a dynamic mic? (I'm using a Shure Smb7). But i one yo Buy ONLY ONE FetHead that i would be able to use with my dynamic and my condenser Microphones. I couldnt find any info about It. Thanks again!!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Martin, yes - tested it here and it worked well.

[@chrishewitt9721]

Thank you for the video, Curtis, very informative. One point, though...you say the Fethead is incompatible with the Rode NTG-2 shotgun mic. I have this mic and was looking at buying the Fethead. I read elsewhere that if you put an AA battery inside the NTG-2 while still supplying phantom power from the camera to the Fethead, this will work. I don't know how or why, but worth a mention if it does work. What do you think? Incidentally, I bought a budget Rode Videomic Go (not the Rode Videomic Pro) the other day and this $50 directional mic blows the NTG-2 out of the water. It shocked me!!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Chris, that might work. I don't have the NTG2 at this point - gave it to someone who needed it more than I do. So I can't test it, but that might work with a battery.

[@czarlez]

So should I just get the original Fethead since my Azden SGM250 takes in AA Battery?

[@curtisjudd]

That'll work and give you even more gain than the FetHead Phantom. The FetHead Phantom supplies a little bit less gain as condenser mics usually don't need quit as much additional amplification. You could go either way. About how much additional gain do you need?

[@czarlez]

I'm not really sure how much gain I need. My set up is the Azden SGM 250 and a Zoom H5. But I think an additional 18db of gain will help anyway. I'm definitely interested!

[@curtisjudd]

For that combo, the Phantom version would probably be a better bet. The non-phantom version adds 27dB of gain which is likely too much. You'd have to drop the H5 input level to the point where it was digitally attenuating the signal and you'd end up worse off than without a FetHead if I had to guess, having not tried that particular combination.

[@czarlez]

Oh ok that makes sense! I didn't know the non-phantom version add that much. Thank you Curtis!

[@waelshawkatezzat]

My friend Curtis Judd I own a RPDE NT1 microphone. I own a PreSonus STODIU 24c sound card. And I purchased a FetHead. Fithead phantom built-in microphone preamplifier from Triton Audio. I put it on the microphone and it didn't work. Please help me and thanks

[@chestacity10]

I got a Rode Podmic. Accidentally bought the Fethead Phantom. I should be okay to use it right?

[@BorchOka]

👍👍👍👍👍👍 thank you!!!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@MrMganzer]

Great job as always! Curtis, i have a zoom h6 and is enough for my videos. But i'm having troubles with interviews. In other videos you mention hardware limiters for preventing clipping with variable level sounds. I'm seeking for a solution. Can you analyse the ART Tube MP/C in this type of situation? Many Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Marcos, I don't think that I'll be able to get my hands on that but Sound On Sound did a piece on it a while back: www.soundonsound.com/reviews/art-tube-mpc From their review, it sounds like that particular unit is intended to impose "character" so it is not necessarily transparent sounding. But they did conclude that it sounded reasonably "classy" when the compressor was set with mild settings.

[@NevelBeats]

Hey Curtis,Can you try the fethead with the Samson c02, you can upload the audio comparisons no need for video, if possible thanks Curtis! Thanks again for your expertise and support for all other creators here!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Nevel, unfortunately I don’t have a C02 on hand-I borrowed that from B&H when I did the Samson review. Sorry about that. 🙁

[@NevelBeats]

Curtis Judd I was considering buy one for my C02, the purpose being an indoor dialogue mic. Possibly reduce S/N ratio...Any thoughts?

[@curtisjudd]

Possibly. What are you using as a preamp/recorder/camera?

[@NevelBeats]

Curtis Judd going to the zoom f4

[@curtisjudd]

Good call and I hope it works well for you!

[@FLOODOFSINS]

Hey Curtis, Would you mind doing a review on the zoom livetrak L-12? Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

I see that they just announced the L-20 today. I have the L-12 on my list. It has been hard to borrow but I'll keep trying.

[@ChrisKluepfel]

Hey Curtis, it seems you put it right after the amplifier of the recorder. Is this the way of using it? My thinking was, if it amplifies the signal, the long cable and the resistance that cable brings with it, wouldn't it be better to use the fethead before the microphone? As to amplify the weak signal a longer cable would introduce to the microphone?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, several people have suggested that. In my tests I didn’t notice a difference but it cannot hurt to put it on the mic end of the cable.

[@ChrisKluepfel]

@@curtisjudd maybe that's why it had problems with the NTG2? Ordered mine today and I'll check that out. Because it seemed like the rode mic had problems with your setup when there was no battery in the microphone which would fit the signal weakening through the longer cables sort of thing. I checked their website and they write, you can use cables up to 125meters in length. Though I don't know what recording device they tested this with 😉

[@curtisjudd]

The NTG2 is a separate issue. Triton Audio confirmed that the NTG2 has some sort of unusual characteristic so that it would not work with the fethead.

[@HalifaxStudios]

very cool!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@thewizardguy1337]

Did you notice any noise floor difference if the FetHead was hooked directly to the mic as opposed to in the Ursa or other recorder?

[@curtisjudd]

Good question, no, but I wasn't using extraordinarily long cables, just 25 foot.

[@seankim2202]

Great video! I use mkh 50 with scarlett 2i2 right now for voiceover, do you think this fethead phantom will help reducing background noise and possibly improve sound quality? Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

No, not at all. If you're going to spend money, I'd look at upgrading to the latest generation (I think it is 4th gen now) Scarlett 2i2 instead.

[@libraproducciones]

Would you recommend the Fethead Phantom for the Oktava Mk 012 and the BMPCC4K?? Nice video as allways ;)

[@curtisjudd]

I haven't specifically tested this combination, but it should work. Are you having trouble getting enough gain for the MK 012 with the P4K? Normally, not necessary for most condenser microphones.

[@libraproducciones]

@@curtisjudd Yeah thats exactly my problem, that I need to push the gain a lot to get a nice audio level, so I was wondering if this device could helps with that, but now I'm wondering if there is something wrong with my setup, or if I'm doing something wrong. So you say that the Oktava should work just fine with the BMPCC4K preamp?

[@photo-markus]

What is the Difference between fethead and fethead germanium? Is germanium same as fethead phantom?

[@curtisjudd]

It is made for dynamic and vintage ribbon mics and imparts a colored, vintage sound. Designed for music recording.

[@nyctiphaes]

Thank you for the video, Curtis. I have a pair of Samson CO2s for indoor recording, that you had reviewed in the past, and an H4n. The combo is to put it mildly, quite bad, gain is at 85-90 talking at 45 cm, so I ve refrained from using it at all. Should I save for a better recorder, or do you think the FetHead would help me enough to justify the purchase?I also plan on purchasing a NT4

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Dem Drys, the CO2 is a decent mic for the money but does require a preamp with enough clean gain to handle it. Not my first choice mic, but decent if the budget is super tight. Same with the H4n. I’d either save up for a recorder with more clean gain or add the FetHead Phantom to clean things up with that combination. Ideally, you’ll have an easier time of things with a better recorder.

[@nyctiphaes]

thank you very much for your input Curtis!

[@skakdosmer]

Other than the NTG2, are there any known compatibility issues that we should know about? And if there are, where can we find information about that? It would be rather frustrating to buy one, only to discover that it doesn't work with your microphone(s).

[@curtisjudd]

That is a great question that I do not know the answer to since I only have a handful of mics with which I could do my own testing here. Two thoughts: 1) If you're serious about potentially purchasing one of these, I would contact Triton Audio and ask. 2) Purchase from a reseller with a refund/exchange policy so that you can return it if it doesn't work out with your particular microphone. Good luck!

[@nictu-g7n]

Thanks for this review. I was thinking of getting the Fethead Phantom and then came across the SubZero SZ-MB1. This only costs £25 and has good reviews, has anybody tried one of these?

[@curtisjudd]

I haven't.

[@alexbuckmusic]

Hi Curtis, I have a Zoom H6 and a Rode NT4 stereo mic. The NT4 comes with the possibility of using a battery instead of the phantom. I’m interested in purchasing two (L | R) FetHead Phantom to lower the Zoom noise. Do you think this could be indeed a solution? Thank you in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

It could be, depending on whether most of the self-noise is coming from the H6 preamps at high gain or the microphone.

[@chasebethersonton5169]

This also works for Active Ribbon mics that are stupid quiet?? Thx.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@jeffwilliams1923]

I use the ursa 4.6 can you suggest which Fethead to use? Thankyou for your videos

[@curtisjudd]

The one we reviewed here: The Fethead Phantom (link in the description).

[@zurdyo]

Great review! How do you manage to have the breaths so much lower in dB than the voice? Is it an expander during ur live take or is it some plug-in in post? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

When I process my audio in post, I use the Izotope RX breath control plugin and attenuate the breaths by about 4dB

[@zurdyo]

@@curtisjudd Brilliant! I tried the same thing with RX 6, but it didn't work too well. I presume you're using RX 7 and the breath control feature is better. Thanks again!

[@curtisjudd]

@@zurdyo Yes, RX7 now, though I did the same with RX6 back when I had that. I think the secret is a light touch - just 4dB of attenuation or so - not too much or it becomes obvious and unnatural.

[@erkamau9629]

Ciao, thanks for your test ! I also have an active ribbon mike, Golden Age R1 MK3, it has a builtin preamp using the phantom voltage as its power suplly. Is it possible and zero risk to use this Triton model with this active ribbon ('cause its preamped output isn't so high..) to get a stronger and clearer output signal ? Thanks much, Ciao

[@curtisjudd]

In theory yes, but I haven’t tried it.

[@samasr1927]

Hello Curtis! Will the Fethead Phantom work with the Rode Podmic?

[@curtisjudd]

It should yes, but you could also just go with the Fethead (non-phantom).

[@str8tfromtexas]

Curtis, I own a H4N Pro that I recently purchased a Fethead inline preamp for. However I cannot get the Fethead to work with my H4N Pro. My H4N has plenty of battery power and Phantom Power +48 is on. What setting am I missing for this pair to work? Mic: Sennheiser e835. Note: The Fethead works properly with other interfaces and cameras with Phantom Power. The mic is a Sennheiser e835 which again works with other interfaces.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Carlos, Hmm, I'm not sure why that combination isn't working. Might need to contact support at Triton Audio: www.tritonaudio.com/support.html Best wishes!

[@baxbeast5044]

Hi. Will the phantom version work for dynamic microphones? I havent found any info. Thank you in advance

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, just tested that a few days ago on this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/foqse6aFnJ6Hhtk

[@leswright4108]

Well I just ordered one so I guess I am going to find out! Theoretically it should work fine with dynamic mics too, as when you pass phantom power nothing extra happens. Of course, as Curtis says, anything that passes on phantom power can fry ribbon mics, so the original FetHead should be used with those.

[@rustopholis]

@@leswright4108literally was just about to type this out.. trying to spend less money lol.

[@leswright4108]

I should clarify my reply of a few months ago as I have a few months experience with both the FetHead and FetHead Phantom. The Phantom version does indeed work with MOST modern dynamic mics, but NOT ALL. Most dynamics mics in common use today are so-called balanced mics. Applying phantom power to these mics does nothing. However, some dynamic mics are unbalanced. The application of phantom power to such mics does no harm, but it does distort the sound. I discovered this on acquiring a really good budget mic (the Fifine K8) that turns out to be unbalanced. That all said, the regular FetHead works with all dynamic mics and is the superior choice for them because it delivers 27dB of gain vs the FetHead Phantom's 18db. I don't regret for a bit splurging on both of them.

[@joebowbeer]

In the Zoom L8 review, I assumed a different FetHead (w/27dB) was being used. According to Shure, any "professional" dynamic microphone with a low impedance balanced output, like the SM58, is not affected by phantom power; and the FetHead Phantom will deliver up to 18dB gain.

[@mingangli8095]

Hi Curtis, can it be used for the Sony A7M4 and Sennheiser MKE600, they are connected by XLR-3.5mm (the Sennheiser KA 600) cable, the microphone is powered by a AA battery. Thank you

[@curtisjudd]

I wouldn't think it would be necessary.

[@future_Victoryofficial]

I have Neumann U 87 AI and zoom Tac 8 thunderbolt its working with condenser microphone?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, but shouldn’t be required for the U87.

Hi Curtiss Here is Ricardo Beccari from Brazil. I have 03 Shure SM7B in our studio, we use fethead plug direct on the the back of mic. Is this correct forme? Or I need use the device direct on the mixer? Can you help me? Thank you! Beccari

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, that's correct. Connect the Fethead to the microphone and then a cable from the fethead to the mixer.

[@AwesomeShotStudios]

Thanks for this review. Quick question, what happened to your lighting? It looks like you clipped the highs. What did you use for the key?

[@curtisjudd]

I had a bad day. Seriously. It has more to do with the camera and shooting in raw rather than the lighting.

[@kaisersoze9488]

Will the Edge Solo microphone form Antelope work with the phantom fethead? Let me below thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

I don't have the Edge Solo on hand to test it, but it should. Not sure why you would need it, however.

[@davidmultimedia2024]

Hi Curtis, thanks for this video! Here is my situation : I own a Rode NTG-3 shotgun mic (which i love) and the recorder i have is a Tascam DR-60D (1st gen). The NTG-3 already has a fairly hot signal, but I wanted to know if you think i would benefit from using a Fethead Phantom in between, to lower the preamp gain and get a cleaner signal. I know i may only get about 2 dB less noise, but since i have very well trained ears (mixing music for years), i’m a very picky guy in term of noise (that’s the main reason why i sold my Aputure Deity and got the NTG-3 instead). I know the DR-60D isn’t the noisiest recorder neither, but this is still noticeably noisier than a Zoom F4 or a SD MixPre. I notice the noise when i boom the mic further away in a wide shot, with the mic further away, because i have to use the Mid gain setting, and up to maximum on the gain knob. My question is : Considering i’m a very "picky” hobbyist (not doing this for a living), do you believe it would be a good alternative to buying a higher quality recorder like the Zoom F4 or SD MixPre3? I don’t really need all the pro features these recorders provide... i’m only interested in better, cleaner sound quality. Thanks for taking time to read all this! :)

[@curtisjudd]

Hi David, no, I'd save money long term for a better recorder. The NTG3 is solid. There will always be more ambient noise in wide shots boomed from more than 18 inches from the person speaking. Adding more gain won't reduce ambient noise, just the self-noise of the preamplifier. So I don't think this would solve the wide shot problem.

[@davidmultimedia2024]

Curtis Judd Thanks for the lightning fast reply! This is very appreciated! I know that the further away the mic is from the sound source, the more background noise i’ll get. I understand that the Fethead won’t solve that. I watched your video when you compare cheap recorders to high end recorders, listened very carefully using good studio headphones, and to me, it’s a night and day difference (hiss), and i assume you were fairly close to the mic, right? So i thought the Fethead Phantom would reduce that hiss considerably.

[@curtisjudd]

Understood. It is the NTG3 and DR-60D combination that I don’t think has a ton of self-noise/hiss. At least not that will be noticeable when booming the mic from more than 18 inches where ambient sound becomes the majority of the recorded clip. But it might, just guessing here since I have only used the NTG3 in the past but don’t have one on hand to test.

[@davidmultimedia2024]

Curtis Judd Thanks so much Curtis. I think i’ll swing by the store with my mic and recorder, to test it out and hear the difference, with and without. Thanks again for your help, much appreciated!

[@JoeBodego]

Hi chris a bit of topic here but you;ve always been a good responder, ok i want to record someone using their laptop by that i mean the laptop screen only, can you advise me on this setup?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Joe, do you mean you want to record audio with the laptop's microphone?

[@JoeBodego]

Curtis Judd no I want to record the laptop screen and the user using the program

[@curtisjudd]

On Mac, Screenflow: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4rOfYCJhrBob5I I'm not as familiar with PC, but Windows 10 has a built-in screen recorder. And if you want something more full-featured, I've used Camtasia with very good results.

[@markowens8255]

Curtis i think I have seen you using the Rode reporter microphone would it be safe to use this FetHead Phantom with that mic? Also you said you tested this with the Rode NTG4+ were you running 48volt to this microphone at the time our just using the on board battery in the microphone?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Mark, yes you can safely use this with the RODE Reporter since it is a dynamic microphone. I ran phantom power from the camera to the FetHead and microphone, I did not use the mic's battery for power.

[@arhauz9719]

hi sir - if you connect fethead phantom, do you still need to set up phantom power in your zoom unit?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@MahckMedia]

Hello. I have a Fuji XT-3 camera with a Deity S-Mic 2s mic - I want to be able to run that mic as a shotgun to my camera and use a xlr to 3.5mm jack adapter to plug into camera (if possible). Will this FetHead phantom be able supply power to the camera? The Deity microphone takes 24-48v. Thanks, Marco

[@curtisjudd]

No, it only passes power through, it does not supply power.

[@68cristian]

can you still use the fethead phantom preamp with a dynamic mic like the SM58?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@SusanClarkeatenterin]

Hi Curtis, I wish I had found this info before I bought the original fethead. I need it for a condenser mic and now understand it is only for dynamic. Is it ok to use the original, not the Phantom with my condenser mic (Boya BY 6060 shotgun). Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately, no, you'll need the Fethead phantom for a condenser mic. Sorry about that.

[@SusanClarkeatenterin]

@@curtisjudd Thank you, I’m glad to have this info. I do have Shure SM48 so I’m not at a total loss. I’m so glad I watched this video, so appreciate your channel! Blessings to you

[@JoeBodego]

thanks, i was thinking that there was some sort of trick via SDi, i do know about camtasia. I have made a decision to get the sony Z90, i mainly shoot corporate, small interviews and weddings, what do you think of that choice?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Joe, I don't know the pro camcorder world as I shoot on hybrid mirrorless and cinema cameras. Sony seems to make great cameras. If it is possible to try or rent one before you buy, that's probably the best advice I have to offer. Also, camcorders are often easier to shoot with but have a different, more "video-ish" look due to their smaller sensor size. I'm assuming you already knew that but just wanted to confirm. Best wishes!

[@indopacificfilms4257]

great video. would I be able to use the fathead phantom with a sanken CSM1 and a xlr to 3.5mm adaptor? What would be the smallest divide to use a sanken CSM1 with a camera that does not provide phantom power? Thanks 🙏

[@curtisjudd]

No, the device you connect to must supply +48V phantom power. I’d look for a portable phantom supply. I’m not familiar with any.

[@indopacificfilms2354]

@@curtisjudd thank you

[@DadoSimicStudiostriver]

Can i use FetHead Phantom with condenser Rode M5`s? My preamp in my RME UCX soundcard is just too much noisy and create audible hiss.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, should be able to.

[@muzweli13]

I’m using a Shure KSM9 condenser mic, 20ft cable, going to my Schertler Roy X, with onboard phantom 48. When trying to get a decent signal, I have to ramp up the gain on the Schertler to around 4 o’clock. It’s this way on all Schertler amps, why…, I don’t know - anyway. Would the Fethead Phantom boost the gain at the Schertler, to where I would have to ramp up the amp gain so high? Warm Regards Jim

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jim, most likely, yes. Happy recording!

[@kuttychattan1]

Hello..can any body tell me how to connect a se DM-1 Dynamite to a wireless mic.

[@curtisjudd]

Why would you want to do that?

[@XH4N_]

does make it a difference at sound quality, if you put the fethead on the camera/ interface or directly on the mic?

[@curtisjudd]

Not that I noticed.

[@obeliskavp2945]

Ha Curtis would these adapters the phantom and standard work on the mini jack channel of the Bmpcc4K with a mini jack to xlr-adapter on the camera?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, should work.

[@obeliskavp2945]

@@curtisjudd Thanks, I was looking for a good solution for the mini jack channel of the Bmpcc4K. The mini Xlr Channel is fine using a cable to normal xls.

[@williamguzman6005]

Does the fethead work on any mic, dynamic or condenser?

[@curtisjudd]

Most mics, yes, but note that it passes through the power so do not use it on ribbon mics which cannot take power.

[@B0SHEK]

Hello Curtis, I wonder if it is possible to use the Phantom with the NTG-1 instead. Thanks in advance!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi BOSHEK, I don’t have an NTG1 on hand to confirm. Probably best to contact Triton Audio support to confirm. Best wishes!

[@stefanweichand3157]

@@curtisjudd Hey Curtis, thank you for your time and keep going with your awesome content!

[@ahpormyth1]

Hı, thanks for video, ı have zoom h1 and akg c411 and ı want to use them together, with fethead phantom can ı do this ?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, no. Better off saving up for a recorder with XLR inputs.

[@garyking4032]

Curtis - would you say most camera preamps would benefit from this (including C100ii and upcoming BMPCC4k which I assume has similar preamps to your UMP)?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Gary, yes, it seems that cinema cameras generally have mediocre preamps in terms of their ability to produce a significant amount of clean gain and thus this is useful in cases where you don't or can't have a proper sound mixer.

[@garyking4032]

Thanks Curtis as always for sharing your knowledge. It's appreciated.

[@truthseeker502]

How is the fethead "broadcast" unit for condenser mics? (i.e. AT4033a)

[@curtisjudd]

Generally not necessary, I've found.

[@truthseeker502]

@@curtisjudd thank you

[@stucooke3983]

Do you happen to know if you can use a fethead with an NTG4+ when it’s operating on battery power? Will the fethead take power from the mic battery? Trying to figure out a good solution to solve low gain from the mic to utilize with my rode wireless pro for wireless boom operation.

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t believe that will work.

[@stucooke3983]

@@curtisjudd Ok - I guess the power from the mic's battery would only travel to the mic itself which makes sense. In this case, if I wish to boost the gain of the mic, I would need to have a source of phantom power down the chain? So I would need a device to both adapt the signal from the XLR mic to make it compatible for the 3.5mm input on my recorder, and provide phantom power? Do you have any recommendations?

[@curtisjudd]

@@stucooke3983 Honestly, I'd look at something like a ZOOM F3 recorder.

[@stucooke3983]

@@curtisjudd understood thank you I’ll take a look

[@siskoDE]

Do i need the the Fethead with a Rode NTG4+ and Beachtek DXA-Micro Pro+ Preamp? What's your opinion?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi David, I haven't tried that combination, but I'd try it without the fathead first and see how it goes.

[@siskoDE]

@@curtisjudd that's what i will do ;-)