Got Clean Preamps? Do You Need An Inline Amp? Sound Speeds

Many people have talked about whether or not you need microphone inline amplifiers like the Cloudlifter CL-1, The sE Electronics "Dynamite" DM-1 and the Triton Audio Fethead but few have run the tests to see if they really are necessary. In this video, I do just that.
I use various devices and plugins to determine this. From tone generators to the Waves Loudness Meter VST, you'll see me record samples and analyze results over and over again until we determine once and for all if they are really necessary.
It should be noted that if you were to apply an 80Hz roll off to the MixPre-6, Cloudlifter or Fethead recording then you'll likely see a noise floor similar to that of the sE Electronics DM-1.
To Purchase Products Featured:
Cloudlifter CL-1: geni.us/CloudlifterCL1
sE Electronics "Dynamite" DM-1: geni.us/SEDM1
Triton Audio Fethead: geni.us/Fethead
Shure SM7b: geni.us/SM7B
Behringer CT-100: geni.us/CT100
To Get The Waves Loudness Meter VST:
bit.ly/3gSYc7J
To Download Voxengo Span:
www.voxengo.com
To Watch My Cloudlifter CL-1 Review:
• Cloudlifter CL-1 and C...
To Watch My Video On Equivalent Input Noise:
• Equivalent Input Noise...
To Learn How To Easily Measure EIN:
• How To Measure EIN (Ma...
To Watch Me Test Ribbon Mics In Ways You Shouldn't:
• What You're Not Suppos...
Gear Commonly Used In My Videos:
Panasonic Lumix FZ-80: geni.us/SoundSpeedsLumixFZ80
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7: geni.us/SoundSpeedsLumixDMCG7
Aputure Amaran AL-MX LED Video Light: geni.us/AputureLight
Tascam DR-40: geni.us/TascamDR40
Sound Devices MixPre-6:
www.sounddevices.com/products...
Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links and if you purchase something using one of these links, you'll pay the same price that you'd find on Amazon if you looked it up yourself but Amazon will pay me a small referral fee for sending you there to make a purchase.
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[@lovefirst6157]

omgosh the amount of hard work that was in this video. Thank you very much.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you for noticing. Yeah, this video took a while.

[@nickr5213]

Very interesting test! I’ve never seen anyone test these devices so thoroughly. Useful results!!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks for watching Nick!

[@aussernllc]

There is a ton of information, which I love and am greatful for. Have to rewatch to catch the details, more than once.

[@SoundSpeeds]

That's the goal. Give you as much info as you can take and then upon rewatching, hopefully you'll catch additional info.

[@andrewp1513]

Thanks so much. Feeling very lucky to get such experienced and personal advice. Have a great week mate.

[@SoundSpeeds]

You too. Thanks for watching!

[@iReadBooks]

Thank you for doing this test and your very detailed explanations, Allen! Very useful and very informative!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you and thank you for watching!

[@WesHampson]

I'm really pleased with how thorough this video is. Thank you!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Absolutely. Thank you for watching!

[@irpacynot]

Fantastic video. Thank you for all of your hard work. One of the most informative audio-related videos I've seen in quite some time.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Awesome. Thanks for watching.

[@BandrewScott]

GREAT Video Allen. Really enjoyed it and extremely informative! Well done man!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you sir.

[@indieclosetstudios1126]

Awesome video, thanks! I love your pacing too, I didn't need to speed up the audio :D

[@SoundSpeeds]

Most of the time I receive complaints that I talk too fast. What a pleasant change. Thanks for watching!

[@TheBeeOBee]

I appreciate the measurements and analysis! Subscribed.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you. Welcome aboard Bobby!

[@DansplainingVideo]

Thanks again ... exactly what I needed to know (and I really appreciate not having to speed it up to stay awake 😀)

[@SoundSpeeds]

LOL. Yeah, if you speed this video up then you're probably on something. ;-)

[@aussernllc]

Impressive. A ton of information. Wish manufacturers would include this information with their gear.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Likewise. Thanks for watching!

[@Mechaneer]

This is so thorough and interesting!

[@SoundSpeeds]

That was my goal. Thank you.

[@totallyfrozen]

You do the best audio reviews, explanation, and education on KZbin. It’s almost like you have years of professional experience and actually know what you’re talking about. Too bad KZbin is littered with channels of “influencers” who regurgitate the same wrong info that they get from each other.

[@SoundSpeeds]

There's one thing I can say to that. When I was a new channel, some of those channels saw mine and started to regurgitate what I was saying and slowly "some" info got better. Some of the things I said 6 years ago are finally making it out there now.

[@cuisined]

I was planning to put one of these on my A10 but after seeing your video I guess I won't! 😎 very nice video Allen, much enjoyed.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you and yeah, don't do that to an A10.

[@fiercesound2138]

Fantastic video. Well done.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you and thank you for watching

[@00solman]

GREAT DEEP DIVE! I've never not used a J-fet thing on my large diaphragm mics but i'm going to give it a try just to see what happens now. #inspired Thanks so much for the knowledge! You truly the mad scientist of sound!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you Jon. As always... thanks for watching.

[@ayor3asxn149]

The best I’ve seen on KZbin.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you and thanks for trying one of my videos.

[@personalbase]

awesome Review and explanation! Big thanks for this massive work you put in! This confirms my guess :-)

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks for watching.

[@thestingyham1188]

Am very happy with my second DM1. I had another but sold it when I no longer needed it. Ended up buying a used one a year later. Both seemed quite good. I see they now offer a DM3 model for instruments and ribbon mics with switches to control different things.

[@SoundSpeeds]

👍

[@santinosings]

Dang, you are incredibly thorough

[@SoundSpeeds]

I aim to please. :-)

[@mrdollard3859]

Thank you so much for this - fantastic video. I drove myself nuts trying to figure out if my noise floor was higher than it should be on my SM7B, couldn’t find any detailed tests to compare to. Sending the signal through my GAP 73 at 45db gain and into my babyface pro at 10db gain I get peak levels well over -12db with a noise floor of -73db. Funny how we can convince ourselves something is bad when we’ve nothing to compare to!!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Very true. Thanks for watching.

[@SmarkDepper]

Very complete. Everything is way clearer right now. Thanks for taking the time for all the test, really. Very well done video and comparison.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you Smark. Thanks for watching too.

[@AlexJohn2us]

" Excellent Work: Mr Fuchs ! "

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks

[@rominic7385]

Thank you! I just saved money just using my real good interface. Very informative!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Glad to help! Thanks for watching.

[@cleanairideasin9491]

Great job!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you

[@marcushawkinsmusic]

Very helpful!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you sir

[@tradezone55]

This really helps in my decision!

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'm glad you found this useful Herman. Thanks for watching.

[@Yahoodee1]

Outstanding!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you and thank you for watching.

[@michaelhotten752]

i have been struggling with a cl-1 into focusrite clarett usb. when i turn on the clarett's air mode, the signal drops by a couple db. focusrite explained it this way the Air feature on the Clarett range (which is all analog, unlike the Scarlett ranges digital emulation) will affect the impedance of the preamp: AIR off: 6.2K ohm, AIR on: 2.2K ohm So by engaging Air, you're lowering the impedance on the Clarett which in turn is creating the drop in level with the CloudLifter. i also noticed that a dynamic mic like the heil pr40 going through the same cloudlifter and into the same clarett gets way too much high end gain. so yeah, it seems good mic pres don't need the help and sometimes the audio can get degraded by cloudlifters or similar devices.

[@SoundSpeeds]

👍 Well said.

[@LearnWithTheBest]

Great video brother. I am a complete newb to good audio. I do voiceovers on my channel. I am going to get the RE20 dynamic and wanna ask you what interface should I go with? Should I get the zoom h5 or h6 along with the cloudlifter? Or would the cloudlifter not even be necessary for the zooms, or are the zooms not very good interfaces? Maybe go with the dbx 286s, then would i need the cloudlifter with it? or maybe the Audient iD14?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Something like the Motu M2 or SSL 2+ would be a great investment for you as an interface and you wouldn't need an inline amp. I use a 286S without a Cloudlifter or anything because I find it clean enough for most uses. When I want cleanest audio, I go directly into the Sound Devices MixPre-6. I don't consider the H5 or H6 to be very clean personally and an activator would be recommended if you use one of those.

[@crazyhoarse]

Very helpful, thank you

[@SoundSpeeds]

Sure thing. Thanks for watching

[@demon-ll9eg]

hey sound speed i appreciate ur hard work, just a question if u have 1 option to pick between fethead -se dm1 -cloudlidter cl1 which one u will go for

[@SoundSpeeds]

That's a tough one but probably the Cloudlifter.

[@kuyaboo5007]

well that's being thorough. i have both the Fethead & SE DM-1. i tend to use the DM1 on the Procaster more when connected to the rodecaster. i wonder how it'll do with the Audient EVO 4 though

[@SoundSpeeds]

That's a good question. I'd guess the Audient is clean enough to not make it necessary but that's just a guess.

[@MichaelW.1980]

I always had the feeling my Fethead colored the sound ever so slightly. I have resorted to use a dummy plug instead of an actual microphone. They’re cheaper since I don’t own a sound blanket. Granted my plug is 120 ohms instead of 150 ohm , as usually found in dynamic microphones. But the difference should not be too high. I presume 1-2 dB(A)

[@SoundSpeeds]

Not much at all and nothing you'd ever notice if there was any audio signal behind it. I cover that in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZWrn2eCZrl6mtU

[@omnionmedia]

Hi question, when having a high impedance condenser contact mic (ie. Lom Geofón 3500 ohm ) with a portable recorder the preamp impedance should be 15k to 35k when applying the rule of thumb for preamps. My Zoom F6 is only 4.5k ohm. Do you know for any portable variable impedance lifters for condenser mics? I thought of the Cloudlifter Z but it does not pass on the phantom as you stated... Any thoughts? ty

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've never heard of such a high independence mic before. A hydrophone... I'd write the manufacturer and ask what they recommend because I'd think the F6 would be great for anything but geez... 3.5k! That's insane.

[@redairgaming1]

THANK YOU!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yes indeed. Thanks for watching

[@biteme263]

Nice job and I appreciate the honesty about if they are worth it. Everyone seems to think these things are some kind of magic bullet. Basically all they do is add a fixed amount of gain. And they are relatively simple devices most likely with a ton of mark up compared to what it costs to make them. I highly doubt they have 150 bucks worth of components and RD into them lol. I can't imagine why anyone would want to take a 400 dollar or more microphone and a 2 or 3 hundred dollar or lord forbid 800 to 1000 dollar pre amp and throw a 150 dollar device and extra cable into the mix. Or expect it to really sound better. What you can expect is more gain, nothing more quite honestly. And is more gain always better? Well not if all you are doing is amplifying more noise it isn't. Or if it changes the tonal quality of your expensive devices. If you are feeding it into a computer for editing or whatever you might as well just boost it in the software. And if you are working live feeding it into an amp you would probably be better off just cranking up the amp.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I still believe these devices have their place. I couldn't help but question if spending the money on a better interface with clean enough preamps negated any benefit from these devices so I was pleased with the results of my findings. Some people are on a budget and for those people that need to build up over time, or in multiple locations, these devices are invaluable.

[@harrij.9542]

Hi Sound Speeds, Should I use a SDC microphone (AT 4053b) for indoor dialogue in "normal" untreated apartment livigin space, over a shotgun mic? (Rode NTG3) Will it be a signifying difference in end result? Best regards,

[@SoundSpeeds]

If you have a bunch of reflective surfaces then I'd try the 4053b first. A hypercardioid will sound full and not pick up reflections like a shotgun. That's as a rule. Your situation could he an exception though

[@rsgulledge]

I'll admit my confirmation bias here because I purchased the DM-1 based on its specs (and price/value). I applied it to an AKG D-320B ventage mic (about -57 dBV). Even so, the DM-1 allowed me to run my dbx 286s preamp at a much lower level (20 points lower on its scale) which drove the preamp less hard. The DM-1 is an excellent piece of hardware. Thanks for an excellent, detailed analysis of this tech!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks for watching Roger!

[@TRNFloyd]

Awesome vid, Allen! Currently waiting for my DM-1 to come in the mail. "Should" be here by the 10th, but we will see how the postal service does things.. When Allen mentioned the bit about 60 dB of gain I had to go look mine up. 62dB.. xD Quite new to a lot of this shit still, but getting more and more into it as I learn more about it. Definitely need it though.. need to lower the pretty massive noise floor on my interface. Hoping to blast that floor into smithereens with the dynamite. lol

[@SoundSpeeds]

What is your microphone setup? If it's a dynamic mic, it should help at least some but if a condenser, not a bit.

[@WyattOShea]

Was quite interesting to see the DM-1 be quite a bit more quiet.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I imagine that if you do an 80Hz roll off on all the other devices you'd have similar results.

[@Matthew_Raymond]

@@SoundSpeeds The question, though, is whether or not the 80Hz roll off is a clever innovation or a flaw in the design of the inline preamp. Probably has a lot to do with the kind of recording you're doing, I would assume.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Very likely. I don't know if it's a design flaw or by design but it is puzzling how it works in comparison to the others.

[@sparketech]

By the way awesome detailed testing. Doing all that work would drive me up the wall... Did you do the testing because you curious? or was it just a question someone asked? or both?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I did it to answer numerous questions I've seen asked online. I can be thorough and not compromise on testing.

[@rr88821]

i use SM7B -> Dbx 286s -> Scarlett 4i4 3rd gen, but seem the pre-amp have a huge amount of noise when i crank the output volume a bit, any advise?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Enabling the noise gate will help provided you're recording in a quiet room. The noise gate on the 286S is very effective.

[@totallyfrozen]

I have a question that I can’t seem to find an answer for in any videos or sites so far. I have an sE Electronics DM2 TNT mic preamp. I’m running it into a Behringer Uphoria UMC-204HD. It allows either 15dB or 30dB gain. Even on the 15dB setting, it’s adding a low frequency hum around 50Hz or so. I thought it was building noise, but when I remove the preamp and just run a mic into the Behringer, the hum goes away even if I have the gain maxed out on the interface. I’ve tried different cables, I’ve tried moving things to keep the laptop away from the preamp and the interface, but no matter what mic I put on it, I get the hum. The volume of the hum is controlled by the interface’s mic gain pot. So as I turn up the pot, the low hum increases too. Do I just have a defective TNT preamp? Or should I look elsewhere?

[@SoundSpeeds]

It certainly sounds defective to me

[@stringstorm]

Not sure if you've seen it but there's this Dynamic mic preamp called 'Klark Teknik CM-1' that's only $30. Imho blows the cloudlifter out of the water.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've heard of it but not played with it. What makes it so good? The Cloudlifter is solid on performance.

[@stringstorm]

@@SoundSpeeds Its pretty much just a cloudlifter but with a massively reduced price tag. Some guy did a controlled test on it and found it only 1db noisier than the cloudlifter but considering that its only $30, I'd grab it in a heartbeat over the cloudlifter.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Doesn't sound like it blows the Cloudlifter out of the water but it's a budget solution. Thanks for the heads up

[@LeBeautiful]

Wth how did I NOT know about the CM-1!? thanks String! any cheaper preamps too!?

[@SoundSpeeds]

There are many like it but I'm not aware of the discount versions.

[@jerald_fm]

hi) I have Shure sm7b but I don't like noise that it gives, what preamp should I buy? please help me, thank u

[@SoundSpeeds]

Take your pick based on what you hear and what I say.

[@shirtlesslager]

Sound advice (and great haircut).

[@SoundSpeeds]

Ha! Thanks.

[@TevfikFikretBakan]

Houston! I have a problem.. Can I use this kind of XLR attenuator adapter between the connection of my Zoom F6 line out to Sony A6400 Camera Mic-in? (Decreasing dB for canceling Zoom F6 popular hiss issue). There some cheap attenuator cables in the market but not enough in my case. Thanks+++

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've never thought about it. Very odd question. I can't think of a reason it wouldn't work but I'm not sure it would help the hiss. I'm not aware of the F6 line out hiss issue though. If there's hiss on the line out and you attenuate it then amplify it again, it'll still be there. Perhaps I'm not understanding...

[@bekirstkgurcan]

Thanks for the video. I have Apollo Twin x and sm7b. I usually use 55-60db gain for vocal recordings. Sometimes I live streaming and I struggle with noise floor issue. Should I buy one of these products? Will it solve my problems? Finally, will using one of these affect the Apollo's preamp quality?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I wouldn't buy one, you don't need it. Yes it would affect your preamp

[@bekirstkgurcan]

@@SoundSpeeds Thank you so much :)

[@SoundSpeeds]

Sure thing. That info was in the video.

[@95TurboSol]

This is a great video. I have a question, I have a Scarlett 2i2 and an SM57 to record an acoustic guitar but the level of the mic is way to low to record and the scarlett can't boost it enough even at full input gain, would you recommend one of these to fix the issue? Or is there better interfaces for a reasonable price that could also be a preamp? Thanks

[@SoundSpeeds]

First check your audio level input on your computer. It may just be low.

[@95TurboSol]

@@SoundSpeeds Thanks, you mean in the DAW? Yeah I checked that and it was still too low even cranking that up, this little SM57 is gain hungry!

[@SoundSpeeds]

No, I mean in the OS.

[@95TurboSol]

@@SoundSpeeds Oh ok, yeah it says 100%

[@SoundSpeeds]

Then yes, any of these may help you.

[@sayfatjai]

may I ask , if I use shure mv7 and I want to make the sound more clearly, which preamps do you recommend? DM-1 / FETHEAD?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Personal preference is for the Fethead personally but neither will improve mic clarity. Or do you mean noise floor?

[@ryanmossa2464]

Hi I have a Focusrite Scarlett 4i4. Specs say 56DB of gain. I am about to purchase the SM7B. you mentioned if the interface does not have more that 60DB of gain an inline preamp is a good idea. Is that about right in your opinion?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I would consider it a wise investment unless you're fine with a higher noise floor.

[@StrandeN_]

I have shure sm7b and GoXlr preamp. Im hear little noises when I record after I speak, its like “hssss hhssss” static noice. (Hard to explain) how do i get rid of that? Can the fethead help me to take way gain “hsss” sound without make the quality lower? Im not so technical of me but I tried my beat to explain. Thanks

[@SoundSpeeds]

It really depends on the kind of hiss. SM7b hiss, no. GoXLR hiss, maybe.

[@davelongenecker649]

9:44 REALLY good point!!!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you for catching that Dave. It's seldom considered so worth mentioning.

[@rimaladhom]

Ok a bit too technical for me. Question. Uad apollo twin x with sm58 mic. Will any of the equipment above help?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Totally not necessary. The Apollo Twin X is great on it's own

[@ChristianMercadoAcevedo]

A+ content

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks. :-) Thanks for watching.

[@EnigmaticOrbits]

thanks , can I ask , I have id22 nice preamp but with dynamic beta58a do I need one?thanks

[@SoundSpeeds]

No unless you whisper a lot into your mic from a foot or more away.

[@purpleheart69420]

Amazing video bro, honestly deserved my sub, youre a true capeless hero! Im convinced now that my initial theory that Im better off with a sufficient interface first and then a dynamic mic... So yeah the SM7B is gonna have to wait... Btw do you know any good interface that would drive a SM7B?

[@SoundSpeeds]

You'll spend more money for something like an SSL 2/2+ or something of the like. I always look for at least a few dB of gain higher on the preamps than you need to drive your mic. For the SM7b it would be 69+. This means you'll spend more for the interface but it'll be better for longer and you won't need extra devices like those tested in this video. Thanks for subbing. Welcome aboard.

[@purpleheart69420]

@@SoundSpeeds yeah thats my line of thought too, however do you know on the top of your head any great interface for the mic? like any model? I cant seem to find anything on reddit or gearslutz etc :/

[@SoundSpeeds]

I usually recommend the SSL 2+. Clean and a lot of gain.

[@NickThomasVocals]

I’m kind of lost lol which one would be best for an Sm7b connected to a focusrite scarlet?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Take your pick. They are all effective.

[@Design475]

Do you any thoughts on Klark Teknik Mic Booster CT 1? Do you think this budget product can stand up to the competition?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've never even heard of it before. There are many similar products and most of them function similarly.

[@iamleek]

Many Thanks for the great inSight. it is really useful. I am using Zoom F6 with Rode NT SF1 VR mic, I ordered 4 of Fethead to be used with the recorder. There is a upcoming event that will have a lot of lot firecrackers going off. Do you advise using this setup? Thank you very much.

[@SoundSpeeds]

The Fetheads aren't necessary at all with F-series recorders. You should be fine otherwise, from what I can tell, as long as you have enough inputs

[@iamleek]

@@SoundSpeeds Thank you very much 🙂

[@SoundSpeeds]

👍

[@kuttychattan1]

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

[@SoundSpeeds]

Why would you want to? If you have a cube transmitter with 48V supplying XLR connector, just connect it directly to the TX and a dynamic on the other end.

[@HotCarTrack]

Fantastic, I've just purchased a EV RE20 and looking at one of these or a better preamp unit.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Great! Hopefully this video helped you out.

[@HotCarTrack]

@@SoundSpeeds Yes it has, thanks mate.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Awesome. Thanks for watching!

[@IsraelSuperguide]

wowo i just out about these devices few days ago, i am new into audio, i got my self already my Presonus Audiobox for my xlr mic, do i need one of these little devices, cheese these prices on these stuff keep gettingup:-) thanks for the help

[@SoundSpeeds]

If using a condenser microphone, you don't but if using a dynamic, you will.

[@jann.s3442]

Could you use it on a condenser Microphone with a build in Battery, like the MKE 600 or some rode shotguns ?

[@SoundSpeeds]

You should be able to provided the power to the mic is on. The big question is... Why? Condensers should be plenty hot enough to have background noise not be an issue.

[@TechWeLove]

Do you have any videos covering sound quality of interfaces ? I own the scarlet solo and use a XLR Dynamic Mic with a cloudlifter . Is there an audio improvement in the current by getting a more expensive one ? Edit I'm a bit tired, but I'll watch the rest of the video when I wake up. Maybe you cover that topic in this video. Cheers. ❤️

[@SoundSpeeds]

It's always best to get a quality interface if you can afford it. I'm not a fan of patching an issue but do believe in being prepared. If you do guest appearances and use dynamic mics then carry an inline amp with you just in case but if not, spend a little.extra money and get yourself a good interface.

[@TechWeLove]

@Sound Speeds Is the interface you use in this video, superior in sound quality, compared to scarlett solo ? Are there any technical specs that tell you whether an interface has a bigger range, or better sound quality ? Which interface would you recommend, that would be a good interface ? 😀

[@SoundSpeeds]

Would you mind if I answered that question in Saturday's first Sound Support Podcast?

[@TechWeLove]

@Sound Speeds Not at all. I look forward to your podcast. ❤️ I have bits of information in my head from what you've told me in the past, but it's difficult putting the end game together. I use the Shure SM 58, Cloud-lifter z, 6 feet Mogami gold xlr cables, Scarlet solo interface, etc. I know I need a more expensive mic, for a fuller range of frequencies, but I decided to tighten my budget some for the time being. I eventually want to buy a super big range of frequencies dynamic mic, and whatever interface produces the best sound. I am not interested in instrumentals, nor tons of mic inputs, but if it comes with 2-3, I don't mind. I just don't want my interface ruining the sound that my SM 58, and cloud-lifter z are trying to produce. I do use some filters on obs for sound, like noise suppression, which does a better job than RTX Voice. We've had many light discussions on it, and I've come to the conclusion that OBS filters are still superior to RTX Voice.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yes indeed. I'll mention a couple of options instead when I answer the question then.

[@cubroadcast3828]

Well tested and thorough. But I was curious about something not tested here....how do these affect the proximity effect? I have heard they allow for good sound with less "mic-eating" and provide a more even and balanced sound when people move their head and have varying directionality and distance from the mic. A good preamp and quiet space means a decent noise floor with or without, but this proximity affect might make these still worthwhile.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Proximity effect isn't related to gain so it's unaffected. If people are reporting that head turns and such are sounding different, it may be because their levels are hitting a limiter.

[@cubroadcast3828]

@@SoundSpeeds Their own promotional material, so always suspect....but this is something they claim. I stumbled my way here looking for a independent 2nd opinion. Their vid: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKDahouFmdepn8U

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'll have to watch that video and see. I haven't run into that in my own projects though. I may have to examine it in a video. I'll make a note.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Following up... I watched the video and have my doubts but we shall see. The way these units work is that it detects voltage and increases the voltage when it detects it but doesn't when the voltage isn't there. That voltage is the audio signal. So as opposed to a fixed level set by preamp gain, it's possible that if you use a Cloudlifter, it will give you an audio boost and because it actively adjust the gain according to the input voltage, it very well may be leveling the gain just a bit. Sounds like a test to me.

[@JasonRaneses]

Thanks!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Sure thing. Thanks for watching.

[@84nomas]

dude that was awesome! Can you recomend good audio interfaces ?

[@SoundSpeeds]

SSL 2 and 2+ are probably my favorite right now.

[@LEFTYSMOKER]

thanks as always super neat info. it's a new setup ? i don't remember this one from you're old videos

[@SoundSpeeds]

You mean my background? I did a studio upgrade months ago. There's a couple of videos about it on my channel. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZOplKOpp7WSd68 and kzbin.info/www/bejne/ol7XlGShaLCpZ7M

[@LEFTYSMOKER]

@@SoundSpeeds yup will check it out ! ty

[@SoundSpeeds]

Sure thing

[@zogun]

Will it works to reduce noise using SDC mic like Rode NT5 or sE7 connected to Zoom H5?

[@SoundSpeeds]

It's not for a condenser mic and won't work so no

[@JWS1968]

Is there a similar device that does not require Phantom Power 'or' at least I can put a battery in?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Not that I know of

[@DrMTechnik]

The impedance of the CT-100 doesn't sound right at all - way too high for it to output any audio at all. My best guess is that there is a highpass on the output. You measured the impedance at DC with your multimeter, so you would basically just measure the resistor of an RC highpass. The impedance probably drops off quite a bit when you get to higher frequencies. Still a very good video! My takeaway is that I wouldn't use one of these devices unless I run into trouble in a specific situation. Good preamps should do the trick (and most preamps are reasonably good today).

[@SoundSpeeds]

Unless you have a long cable run and then one of these can help you if you add it on the mic end. Yeah, the extremely high impedance didn't sound right to me either which is why I said "if that's accurate". I did get repeatable results when I tested with two different meters and with + and - reversed. Very odd.

[@DrMTechnik]

@@SoundSpeeds The impedance changes with the frequency, just like the frequency response does. You can see this best on plots for the impedance of speakers, they usually have a pretty high spike around their resonance frequency. For generators like the the CT-100 those plots are not that common. Measuring Resistance with a multimeter gives you the impedance at 0 Hz, so it's not surpirising to me that you got repeatable results - the impedance at 0 Hz may really be that high. Unfortunately that doesn't tell us anything about the impedance at, say, 1 kHz. Measuring the impedance at a higher frequency is not as simple as using a multimeter, but can still be done with an audio interface and a resistor: www.roomeqwizard.com/help/help_en-GB/html/impedancemeasurement.html My guess is that the impedance of the generator at its operating frequency is much lower than the one of the microphone. That would explain why it didn't benefit from the inline preamps - the signal would be already strong enough and not affected by the cables or the input impedance of your interface.

[@SoundSpeeds]

If you notice in the picture I did meter the 1k tone at -50dB. When I say the results were repeatable, it wasn't a load test so the readings did start a bit higher and then come down but it was always the same range.

[@Pantojandi]

Hello I have the audient interface, which gives me a decent gain to talk or sing (as long as it is close to the microphone) if I move more than 10 centimeters away it is no longer heard high and begins to filter with background noise, but if I stay in that range the interface is very clean and amplifies the sound well, Do you recommend me to buy a pre amplifier anyway? I've heard that apart from moving away from the noise floor, these devices will also help to have better response in some frequencies, besides that I could move further away from the microphone and not generate proximity effect since in my case I use it more to sing, thanks friend.

[@SoundSpeeds]

An Audient should be plenty clean enough. Your level will fall off as you get farther away. That's normal. What isn't normal about your setup?

[@Pantojandi]

@@SoundSpeeds I feel that there is a big accumulation of low frequencies (I have a shure sm7b) I think that part of that accumulation is due to how close I have to sing from it, added to possible background noises that are added with the compression that make everything more blurred (the knob of the audient id4 I have to put it to the maximum). and i feel ( it's just personal perception) that having the background floor farther away and being able to sing a little farther from the microphone, will give me a more balanced and therefore clearer sound. but i don't know if i'm wrong in that assumption. Regards.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Trust your ears. If you get close to the mic you will hear proximity effect which is increased bass. Don't be afraid to back off the mic a bit if it sounds better.

[@Zarabozo]

Thank you for making this video. Can you please clarify what you meant when you said to expect to have an 80Hz rolloff with the DM1? Thank you!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks for watching. That comment was because if you look at the frequency response of sound going thru the DM-1 versus the mic by itself or with any of the other activators, it shows that lower frequencies don't pass the same way. The lower frequencies drop off which is why the noise floor is lower (a lot of a noise floor is often low frequencies).

[@sparketech]

@@SoundSpeeds Interesting about that DM-1. Scarlett 2i2 the in line ports out are bright but the headphone out has a deeper compressed sound similar to that of the MV7 mic with Shure plus MOTIV software set to medium which I like. I am left wonder if the deeper compressed tone I have would change much? With the MV7 I am pushing the pre amps into having hiss but don't want to change the sound much, I do not have a deep voice but I do end my videos doing a somewhat deeper voice than I normally speak with.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Interesting about the preamps and line sounding different. I only tested the mic preamps in this video. Although interfaces with 60dB of gain are fine for most mics, I prefer having more gain. Interface EIN is tested at maximum gain for optimal signal to noise ratio but if you don't need maximum gain and can drop it a bit while maintaining proper signal, the noise level drops.

[@sparketech]

@@SoundSpeeds For testing the Scarlett with the different ports the testing I show on my smaller channel Not Bios Studio. I can't wait for the Elgato Wave XLR to arrive, not because I'm excited but to do a detailed head to head with the Scarlett BUT I have a feeling the headphone out jack isn't so hot (pun only partly intended) I hate hyped stuff so I purchased it to bring people back to reality (heard it has lots of gain to the PC). I like to use the aux jack out to have quality camera audio but requires lots of clean gain to turn down the camera pre amps hence the need for something like a DM-1. I have recently started editing the audio and adding back in post once I've edited using RX8 to reduce annoyances like breath sounds.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Very good. You have an adventure ahead of you. Good luck.

[@RobinSchnider]

Hi there, great video and testing! I am using a shure sm7b and a goXLR mini and noticed I need a preamp, would you rather recommend a dm1 or a fethead in this case? (and do you think it would be worth it going for the cloudlifter instead for spoken word?) thanks for your time!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Depends on the interface you get. If you buy one that can drive the SM7b with enough gain, you're probably better off not getting anything but if you buy an interface with not enough gain, is a mixer or discount interface you may need on. As I say in this video though, spend the extra money on a premium interface and save the money unless you need to travel to various locations with your mic and you plan to take a mic activator with you to make the interfaces wherever you go cooperate.

[@RobinSchnider]

@@SoundSpeeds thank you for your quick answer! unfortunately I am already stuck with the interface and now left with the question with which of these three amplifiers might be best. I am leaning towards the cloudlifter because it is supposed to deliver a "cleaner" sound than the other two? audio is hard ;O

[@SoundSpeeds]

The CL-1 will make you happy. Just remember that you need an extra cable with it.

[@RobinSchnider]

@@SoundSpeeds Will try, thank you!

[@SoundSpeeds]

👍

[@sparketech]

If google search is to be believed "voiced speech of a typical adult male will have a fundamental frequency from 85 to 180 Hz" so the 80Hz roll off might just miss the speech unless someone has a deep voice in which case the Dynamite DM-1 would make their voice either more silent and /or brighter I'd figure looking at your testing results.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Also consider that technically a roll off frequency is the frequency at which the level has dropped 3dB. If it's a slight 1st order roll off, it'll start rolling off and cutting 0-3dB higher than than that but if a steeper roll off like a 3rd or 4th order, it'll be closer to the frequency.

[@Aledan98]

I just got the SM7B and Go XLR Mini (which provides up to +72 dB of gain, so it's more than enough), but buying one of those preamps, can I reduce the noise floor? If I'm not wrong, you said to not get any if you have enough gain, am I right? Thanks for the eventual answer 😄

[@SoundSpeeds]

That is my advice, yes. If you have a clean interface and a preamp with a lot of gain, your noise floor will be better if you don't use one. I have a video called Equivalent Input Noise made easy and another on how to measure EIN. You might watch both of those but in this comment, I'm going to share with you a non-public video. When we measure EIN we turn the preamp up all the way to get the best signal to noise ratio. As you turn the level down, the noise goes down too, right? That's why I recommend interfaces with a lot of gain. For example, an EIN of -128 at +72 dB of gain will be quieter than an interface with an EIN of -128 at +55dB of gain if you set the preamp to apply +54dB of gain. Make sense? That is what I tested in this unlisted video. My Sound Devices MixPre-6 (+76dB of gain and an EIN of -130dB) at lower -59dB of gain is quieter than an inline activator and the preamp noise is cleaner. kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKTLpH13rdiMh7M

[@Aledan98]

@@SoundSpeeds Oh alright, thanks so much 😀

[@SoundSpeeds]

Sure thing. Glad to help.

[@SoundSpeeding]

I really should get a Behringer CT100 for myself. But then again, I've got a spare Sound Devices 552 if I simply just want to have a tone generator....

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'll trade you a CT100 for your 552. It's a lot smaller and tests cables too. What a deal!

[@SoundSpeeding]

@@SoundSpeeds haha, sorry, you won't tempt me with that swap offer! Plus anyway, I already got tempted into buying a secondhand CT100 on eBay. (although, I bet the shipping to NZ will end up costing more than the item itself!)

[@SoundSpeeds]

It would be on me to ship to you though. What if I covered shipping both ways and got you a brand new one?

[@SoundSpeeding]

@@SoundSpeeds ha! Nooooo, the 552 was half of my first ever "serious" kit (let's not count the likes of the Zoom H1 etc recorder I had in film school!). Think I'll never ever want to sell that.

[@SoundSpeeds]

You wouldn't be selling it. You'd be trading it. Duh!

[@AudioScription]

So, if I buy the MixPre 6, and use that as my audio interface for Pro Tools, I would be negating it's pre amp quality to an equivalent of a ~$150 pre amp, if I used one of the preamps from the video with it? And if I buy a Shure SM7B, would I be better off not bothering to buy a cloud lifter if I buy a MixPre 6? (I plan on buying a MixPre 6 for filming anyway.) And finally, how would my Mbox3 Pro interface, by itself, compare to using a cloud lifter with it, or an MixPre 6 by itself, for recording directly to Pro Tools in my Windows desktop, using a Shure SM7B?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Do not buy a Cloudlifter if you get a MixPre-6. Totally not necessary and will give you lower performance than the MixPre-6. I haven't found any EIN specs for the MBox3 Pro but would think it's worth testing before you add anything else to the line. I will say that the MixPre should outperform it though.

[@AudioScription]

@@SoundSpeeds Glad to know. Thank you for your quick reply, and all the videos you do for us. 😊

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks for watching them!

[@HersheyBar]

I have been curious, though funding doesn't necessarily let me test this theory out. Though, would it help a sev7 to add the dm1 going into a Yamaha mg10xu, as you were speaking about the information at the end of the video, the Yamaha does have quiet preamps, but I find myself barely hitting 24 or 20 and distance is always the issue so just was wondering or was curious about that this namely happens on the windows and, I think I have hidden 18 to 24 coming in from a cell phone using USB off the mixer before which is interesting., But as that states the ability of this microphone, not sure what it would do or if it's worth having around in the setup mentioned above.

[@SoundSpeeds]

The mg10su only has 15dB of gain which is very low. Honestly, don't use that in your signal chain. It's not going to be clean. Instead spend your money on a USB audio interface and you'll be much better off.

[@HersheyBar]

The only reason I am using the Yamaha MG10 XU, is that it has knobs versus sliders on a interface. Meaning that, accessibility-wise the knobs are much easier to handle whereas, the sliders on something like the Evo 4 that I used to have tends to be inaccessible with the interface on let's say, Windows. Currently the V7 is mainly the microphone I have, the other one being the Q2U, but of course it's not going to give out good audio with the queue to you. So currently this is why I have this set up. I do like the idea of having a mixed pre-6 or mixed pre-3 with noisesist to help loud fan noises and such and still give good audio. Though, with no true meaningful reason to get the mixed pre-three or six with that high price tag, is kind of being more hopeful if there becomes work that requires something like that. Currently, I am just part of a panel on office hours.global and I do Android work as far as Android inside show, which I normally like to just have good audio, and video isn't issued there.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I understand but there are other ways to mix with knobs like... on an audio interface. 15dB won't get you very far even with condenser microphones and you're using a dynamic so the noise floor has got to be crazy high.

[@HersheyBar]

@@SoundSpeeds hi, It's funny that I came back to this video, even though I have been going through all your newer stuff too. As you have mentioned here with the Yamaha having its issues. What would be your recommendation perhaps for a USB interface perhaps, or something that is a little bit more tactile. I really enjoy all the videos and information and always find myself letting others know to come see your stuff. Thank you so much for spending the time to create and helping us learn from your content Shirley, there is the flow 8, which is reasonably priced. Though, my favorite I guess device would be the mix 3 or 6 with noises. Though, I guess cedar also does something similar as I hear with Apollo and other vendors I believe. Noise assist is a nice touch. Of course, different applications may call for different measures.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I personally really like the SSL2+ and if I were to buy an interface, that would be the one. I have heard others liking the Motu M2 and Audient ID4.

[@IStaySocial]

Ok.. I need help man, I have a shure mic, but I have to like throat the mic so it will pick up my voice. If I get the ol cloud cl1 will that help it pick me up from further then a half inch away?

[@SoundSpeeds]

If your issue is gain on your audio interface and you have 48V phantom power that you can engage, it should help. Any other scenario and I'd need to know more details.

[@IStaySocial]

@@SoundSpeeds Didn’t have a activator, ended up snagging that and a Crimson.

[@SoundSpeeds]

So you're set. Excellent.

[@yourforeignlocal]

Is the Shure RPM626 in the same league as these activators?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've never used one personally but it looks like an activator for different kinds of microphones than dynamics. I only spent 1 minute looking it up though and there's not many details about it online that I saw.

[@JatinderKumar-hs9zr]

Coda stealth or sE DM_1 which is best to add much gain

[@SoundSpeeds]

Take your pick

[@AntiEmociya]

i have shure sm7b and focusrite 2i4(2nd). need a preamp. thinking about fethead vs se dynamite. what would you recommend ?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Between those two I'd get the Fethead. In my testing it better represents the low end.

[@AntiEmociya]

​@@SoundSpeeds thanks. wish you all the best

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you. Likewise. Thanks for watching.

[@ahfimiwonawun]

Would engaging a 80 hz low cut filter on the mixpre lower its noise floor as well?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yes. I have a note about that in the description.

[@ahfimiwonawun]

Sound Speeds, thank you. I was doing some voice recordings a couple of days ago and because I’m in a noisy environment, I experimented with the low cut filter settings on my microphone(OC818). The way that I record is by turning the gain up on the mixpre right up until I see the meters peeking out from the left just from whatever sounds are in the environment. No noise from me. Then, I turn the gain down by one or two decibels so that the meters can’t be seen. Does that make sense or no? Anyway, when I was experimenting the other day with the low cut filter on the OC818, I noticed that every time I engaged it more, I could add more gain without seeing the meters peeking out from the left. Without any low cut at all, in my noisy environment, I started seeing the meters at around 37/ 38 dbs of gain. So, I turned it down to 36 dbs. Meters gone. When I engaged the LCF for 40 hz, I could then turn it up to 39 dbs without the meters peeking/ poking out from the left. With 80 hz, I could turn the gain up to 43 with the same results and with 160, I could go up to 48 dbs. I imagine I could go further in a quiet environment. I did wonder exactly what this was that I was doing. I understand a little better now. Thanks again.

[@SoundSpeeds]

LOL. Yeah, the more lower frequencies you cut the lower the noise will go, for certain but you'll start cutting into vocal frequencies if you take it above 80Hz so don't do that. ;-)

[@offlinemode92]

Wow, this vid is great, i have one question does this setup works please tell me............ Shure sm7b + DM1 Dynamite + Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 USB Audio Interface connected to macbook pro into logic..... please tell me.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Everything sounds good up to the Macbook. I've never used Prologic or a Mac as a DAW but it sounds legit to me

[@offlinemode92]

@@SoundSpeeds Thank you very much for answering , that too very quickly, much appreciated sir, you gained a subscriber and a fan too ♥

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you for both. Welcome aboard!

[@therichardnogginproject9012]

Is this necessary for hardware? I have a tascam neo2488

[@SoundSpeeds]

You're probably benefit from any of these. I don't see an EIN for the 2488 but I imagine at $400 for a 24 channel mixer with specs like I'm seeing, the EIN probably isn't low.

[@thestingyham1188]

Also noticed that the Fethead dropped to about $53 on Ama....

[@SoundSpeeds]

That's good.

[@tomzero9342]

I am using SSL2 and SM7B. Do I still need this?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Not at all

[@TonyBabarino]

I’m lost. If I use a Zoom H6 with a Behringer XM8500 dynamic mic, which of those 3 things is best to use for podcast audio/video???

[@SoundSpeeds]

Take your pick. They are all effective with the H6.

[@orangecountyrealestatepodcast]

@@SoundSpeeds Which would technically be the better of the bunch if cost were not a factor (just quality)?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'd opt for the Fethead personally if using with mics only. It doesn't require an extra cable and applies more than a Cloudlifter.

[@orangecountyrealestatepodcast]

Sound Speeds Use with my Zoom H6 and mic, the FetHead is beat option for my use?

[@orangecountyrealestatepodcast]

Sound Speeds Note: your Amazon link to FetHead shows it’s for condenser mic, not dynamic mic. Negative reviews there. You sure you recommend this for dynamic mic over cloudlifter?

[@frankjohnson7204]

The output impedance of your Ct100 cannot be simply measured by measuring its DC resistance using an Ohm-meter. It will certainly NOT be 2Meg.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yeah, unloaded. I realized after I set the video to release and was on set. Either way, that number wasn't critical to the accuracy of the information so I let it slide

[@etnies777]

So is the DM1 good? Im just getting started in this thing and im getting confused. Thanks!

[@SoundSpeeds]

It's good if you need one, yes

[@cleanairideasin9491]

@@SoundSpeeds I mentioned this in another comment, but (and maybe this is an idea for you for another video test) there are a few reports of the DM1 getting noise in from outside sources (reports both in English and Spanish, if that adds some proof) on Amazon reviews.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Good to know. Thanks.

[@CalvinTheII]

Thanks so much! i recently got the Sm7b and quickly realized Ive been spoiled from the low noise floor of my TechZone Stellar X2. I’m taking it to my friends studio to double check, but i didn’t notice a considerable difference in noise floor with the SE DM-1 added (I’m recording into a Apogee Duet USB btw). I’m going to compare the noise floor of my SM7b to my friends to make sure I’m not mistaken, it’s not extremely high by ANY means, but so far the SE DM1 didn’t really seem to make an audio le difference. Any thoughts? I’d love your suggestions. Thanks so much for this video!

[@SoundSpeeds]

It won't always. On my MixPre-6 it makes the noise performance worse and the preamp less clean. That's because the MixPre is extremely clean. The important thing is to listen and make the determination for yourself. This video serves to assure you that you don't always need one just because. They can help but not always.

[@CalvinTheII]

@@SoundSpeeds thanks! good to know that!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks for watching

[@lorenzomenale2761]

Could I have a summary for those who don't understand English? Which is better? thankuuuu

[@SoundSpeeds]

Take your pick or get an audio interface then has at least 70dB of gain.

[@seanwebb605]

I followed most of that. What happened to me? I thought I was mostly a virology nerd not a sound nerd. Okay so I have a MixPre3 and a Shure SM7b which doesn't seem to need the Cloudlifter. If anything it adds something in my chain that might cause more problems than it solves. However, I also have a Zoom H6 which has noisier pre amps and I could probably use the Cloudlifter with that. So maybe I didn't waste $120 Canadian.

[@SoundSpeeds]

You're right. :-)

[@DeeNelsonDee_nels_on_duty]

how can i have your m50x earpad replacement?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Right here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/opumga1sjt18rLs

[@aegmnr]

i don't speak english can someone tell me which one is better?

[@SoundSpeeds]

It's personal preference.

[@Moxhmedz]

Hi, thanks for the amazing video. I have Goxlr and RE20. What do you recommended me if i am going to get one? DM1 or CL-1 ?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Any should be fine. Just remember the DM-1 has a bit of a natural roll of