Voice Over Microphones - Samples and Thoughts on Choosing One Which Fits Your Voice

[@JasmineGolphin]

I have to tell you, I hit subscribe within 5 minutes. This is the exact level of depth and research you always hope to find when you are looking to buy new equipment but rarely do.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jasmine!

[@chrushernator]

same here, i mean, late comment, but every video I've watched is perfectly in detail, fantasticlly edited and a great listen

[@1BabaSalam]

In the end it’s subjective. Personal preference prevails. I believe the psychology of attachment to some popular names and brands also influence on our choices.

[@curtisjudd]

Mostly subjective, but there is something to sibilance or other voice characteristics which push a particular frequency range causing the mic to saturate or even distort at those frequencies that is generally best avoided.

[@AnandaGarden]

The AKG C414 sounds most "likable" to me - the one I would rather listen to for an audio book, etc. BTW, am enjoying your complete audio course, such a pleasure to have all the pieces in one place, pleasantly presented. We're fortunate to have a C414 in our community studio where I don't have to pay to use it. :)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks runbei. Bonus on having access to the C414. Incredible how versatile that microphone is.

[@VRcation]

the XLII sounds even better on the human voice than the XLS that he is using here!

[@RustyTube]

I have been perfectly happy with my AT2020 (Audio Technica), which I have been using for years. In your samples, the AKG sounded the best to my ears.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@jimshaw899]

I've noticed that the voiceovers that instantly catch my admiration, especially from amateurs, show up to be from the AT2020 and variations. It may not make the speaker smart, but it makes them sound good. A nice, gentle prox. effect.

[@btensionfree]

yeah AT2020 is pretty good

[@ccr508]

The TechZone mics really sound good. Good "bang for the buck" microphones. Built very well. Great video Curtis. I always learn something when I watch. Keep up the good work,sir!

[@curtisjudd]

I agree, I’m impressed.

[@BasicFilmmaker]

They all sound the same to me...on my iPad. 😁 Great stuff. Just getting to this video in my notifications email from 6 days ago! Running as fast as I can!

[@curtisjudd]

Hahaha! Then you, my friend, can't go wrong with whichever you choose!

[@JimHancock]

@@curtisjudd and they will sound the same to 99.9% to the average Joe watching a film, LOL

[@AntPDC]

@@JimHancock Very true. It's the same with images made with costly DSLRs/mirrorless, and video uploaded at 4k, along with low-bitrate mp3 audio. Nobody seems to give a fig about quality anymore.

[@GR33NY]

@@AntPDC Subtlety, no matter how insignificant is very important when it comes to a creation

[@JimHancock]

@@AntPDC I've been behind one kind of lens or another for 34 years.. there is a LOT more to what makes an image look like it does then pixels... I will take a 2k full Frame all day long over an 8K (puleeeze) half frame... there is a point that it is just nonsense... you can take an APS sensor and slice it into a gazillion pixels and it's not improving the cinematic experience... I have no interest in seeing a hair in a mole...I don't watch TV with a loop..... even at 1080 I find myself throwing a grain on the film to give it a cinematic look... there is a point where sharpness is detrimental to a cinematic look..it starts to look soap opera-ish and sound is in post, the guy that mixes the surround etc.... that is what will improve the cinematic experience.. ... nobody gives a damn about the mic... go to a theater and I challenge anybody to tell me what mic's are used, what cameras are used.... cinematically speaking I can take a stab at the lens, focal length censor size, and things of that nature.. and half of that is knowing if it is a Hollywood film or an indy... . but all our lives we have watched film when we go to the theater... and since we started watching digital if we EVER saw 4k it was upscaled 2k.. and we're happy as punch... the reason it makes me crazy is the marketing folks are so good, they inconvenience filmmakers by putting us into a spot that we have to explain why shooting the film in 4k is a waste of time, money, hard drive space etc.. with the exception of a giant screen science fiction film or an Imax.... .

[@alexmiller6175]

I find the NT1A way too harsh compared to all the other mics. My personal favorite was the X2 Vintage on your voice. Thanks for the video!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@nicolocutorspanishvoicetal1336]

I like more AKG

[@curtisjudd]

@@nicolocutorspanishvoicetal1336 Fair choice - everyone hears differently and has different preferences.

[@SmartEnergyLab]

Thank you Curtis for educating and reviewing at the same time. I have learnt so much about audio from your channel. Keep up the great work. BTW, you have an extremely soporific voice... you should narate bedtime audio books for insomniacs :)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks - that makes my day! I'd like to take a nap right now!

[@StevieRichardsFitness]

What an amazing comparison video. You’re the man, Curtis. I still struggle to find that microphone which fits my voice characteristics. I have the LCT 440 PURE and it sounds amazing on my wife’s voice. People have complimented my voice as well, but my ears don’t hear the same thing lol. I’ve also gone back and forth between the SM7B and RE20. Thanks again for the awesome content.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Stevie. I hope you find the perfect microphone for your voice! 👍

[@bsp]

I couldn't help but giggle as the TZ mics just roll away. I don't know why, but it cracked me up.

[@curtisjudd]

Dear Bandrew - please add roll-ability tests to your microphone reviews. I suspect people do not realize how dangerous this can be. 🙃

[@ttian2]

@@curtisjudd bandrew should do the roll test and box throw simultaneously

[@curtisjudd]

@@ttian2 😀

[@jimshaw899]

If you set the filters to zero, will the mic not rolloff? [I know, I know. The lockdown made me say it.]

[@curtisjudd]

@@jimshaw899 Hahahaha!

[@zedamex]

Always fun to conduct and listen to these tests. The mics I have, and have had for maybe 5 years now are the SM7B, C414, MK50. Which is so overkill for someone who just wants to have fun experimenting with the world of sound recording. I find myself opting for the SM7B mostly due to its low sensitivity doing the best at cutting out background noise. Easy to use near a computer. On an interesting note, having moved to Japan one thing that became very apparent is how growing up in a different language can actually make it hard, if not impossible to hear certain sound nuances. For example many Japanese people I speak to can't hear the difference between V and B, or SHI and SI (which is kinda funny because one can imagine what they say instead of CITY or "you can sit here") Many also can say "why" perfectly but can't pronounce the W when saying "would". It comes out a very strong "OOD" The wav form for us would be: ,| (soft start, small pause and peak at the end for the D sound) where Japanese is ==,| ) hard start, very consistent volume, small pause and peak for D) The reason I bring this up is that these nuances that we like or dislike in the sound that microphones bring very much can be chalked down to how you grew up. What language you speak, what kind of music you often listen to. The sounds that you are constantly exposed to on a day by day basis trains your ears to look for and essentially like certain sounds. So this is another factor that you might not even think about in microphone sound signatures and who will likely like the sound it delivers.

[@curtisjudd]

Great points, thanks zedamex!

[@alexandercwil]

Sennheiser really sounds amazing here! Good video!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks and glad it was helpful.

[@ericspace8816]

The Sennheiser 416 is my favorite, sounds amazing on both voices.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@urfutureboyfriend]

Thank you for this in depth overview. This has been the most helpful video I have found covering microphone reviews. Including the actual sound samples was great!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Mike.

[@Zarabozo]

The C414 is wonderful and has been a studio reference for decades for a good reason. It sounds "dark" or "opaque" at first glance, but once you make it brighter with soft EQ, the highs are not harsh compared to other microphones that have that high frequency bump from start. The mids and the body are also exceptional. There's something about it that lets you EQ really well. It is simply and by far the best microphone you can buy under $1,000.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing, Francisco.

[@proverbsgal]

WOW this was thee most educational video on microphones for VO Ive found so far. So helpful and informative. Thank you!!! Subscribed!!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks MyTtime.

[@cdb3847]

Incredibly helpful as always. You're the man, Mr. Judd!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Cory!

[@hazonku]

Love your videos, always interesting new things to learn without any sort of "THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED" nonsense.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks hazonku.

[@dylanj8676]

The testing is pretty in depth too. I like the transient response tests on some of the small diaphragm condenser videos. Very few people do that.

[@curtisjudd]

@@dylanj8676 Thanks!

[@astralaudio101]

The Sennheiser has the most clarity for voice over for my ears.,

[@curtisjudd]

Definitely full of clarity, that 416.

[@Love-zh5ow]

Yess very true is very clear and smooth

[@Rolypopoly]

Very useful, thanks! On both voices, to me, the NT1-A is fizzy/harsh and sibilant and the AKG has a very "nasal congested"-like effect. The others lie somewhere between them along the spectrum. If find the X2 Vintage more pleasing than the standard X2 on both voices.

[@mrheng562]

Roly Osborne , I thought the same about the AKG. Very nasally.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Roly!

[@okay1904]

Curtis - the AKG 414 did such a good job of taming the natural sibilant aspect, in your voice, with a solid bottom end. IMHO.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@pml394]

Thanks for a stellar video - thats how it should be done ! very easy to compare microphones. Your experience, knowledge and not fanboy comments on different microphones is an example for others who makes content on you tube .

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks P ML!

[@Dracomies]

Great insight as always Curtis! I can't help but wonder whether the 414 would sound quite different without a foam ball and with a pop filter instead. The foam ball does tend to make some recordings sound a bit more muffled on some microphones. Then again- sometimes the foam ball can help a recording (if you put a foam ball on a Zoom H1 and use its attached microphone, the Zoom H1 sounds much better with a foam ball). I do agree that you sound great on the Stellar Vintage. I'm actually super intrigued about that mic. Podcastage sounds great on the Vintage as well. I personally found the X2 (not the Vintage) a bit bright for my voice - and your voice - but the Vintage sounds great.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Dracomies for the insights! I have found the same thing - foam covers can cut a bit of the higher frequencies. With my voice, that usually is helpful, possibly not so helpful for Dani's voice.

[@JoeMustang99]

Excellent video, Curtis, very helpful. I am learning slowly to notice the differences in the microphones. And I just got a wonderful pair of the latest hearing aids that help me a bunch on anything above 2khz, which is where I was hurting the most. The new ones use more metal parts in the sound path so there is less loss on the high end compared to the polymer parts in the older model. Some amazing technology in the latest hearing aids!

[@curtisjudd]

That's great news, Joe! 👍

[@AmadoWildlifeVideos]

Hurrah! I've been looking forward to this, I just listened through twice and now I think Sennheiser best for Danni, and the Stellar Vintage for you. Thanks for all the work, very informative and timely for me.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alan, appreciate the feedback!

[@DanielSRosehill]

Incredible information as always. Thanks, Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@diamondgeezertunes]

Brilliant content Curtis , well done ..

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@blaspayri7722]

outstanding review full of useful knowledge that comes from real life usage and from a discerning listening.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Blas!

[@honestlygio7830]

Great layout with very detailed descriptive text, gives audio samples of male and femal voices, and gives tip for best to do voice in closet.

[@curtisjudd]

👍 Thanks Honestly gio.

[@eybitheme]

Thanks you! This really helped me a lot in choosing which one to buy...

[@curtisjudd]

You're most welcome!

[@keithbrown454]

Very interesting video. I was expecting to see one Blue microphone in the mix. Lol! I must say I'm a recent subscriber and I find your videos highly informative and interesting to say the least. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Keith, there are so many mics we could have included in this category but the video would have been 20 hours long and I’d be out of money! 😂 thanks for watching!

[@tedleroy2778]

Great review and explanations on why large diaphragm condenser mics are a good choice for voice over work Curtis! Thanks for making it. It would be really nice if it said "Part 2" somewhere in the title and had a link back to "Part 1: Dynamic Microphones for Podcasting" to make navigation easier. You have a lot of videos to look through!

[@curtisjudd]

Added a link to the cards. Thanks Ted.

[@EmoEmu]

These videos are superb.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@blakebeard3076]

I bought the C414 for the same reason, I found that it’s my favorite microphone on an acoustic guitar. For VO it’s good on my voice just not the mic I grab. I personally grab the MKH 416 for VO or when I’m doing a talking head shot. Great reviews Curtis, love the measured approach to your reviews.

[@curtisjudd]

Makes sense. Thanks for sharing your experience! 👍

[@blakebeard3076]

Curtis Judd no problem, the only problem I have with your reviews is it makes me want more microphones! 😂. I have that bad GAS (gear acquisition syndrome)

[@curtisjudd]

@@blakebeard3076 Hahaha! Sorry about that!

[@DJaysParadise]

Fantastic Video Curtis, thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks DJay!

[@JessiTheBestiGaming]

Im very surprised more people in the comments aren't interested in the Lewitt LCT. I did over 35 hours of research, listening to audio samples, reading reviews, listening to those "microphone wars" whatever they're called.. and that's the microphone I settled on. I was originally going to go with the 416 but, it's just a bit too expensive for what I'll be using it for. The lewitt sounds a LOT like the 416 to me personally

[@curtisjudd]

It does, indeed, though a bit more bright, especially on voices with a lot of sibilance.

[@williamhamala2651]

TZ Audio Stellar X2 Vintage i think that a very pretty microphone Very Well Done Video btw. thank you

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks William

[@westinthewest]

Another factor to consider is how a voice sounds after listening to it for twenty minutes. Those mics with the most neutral sound could be more suitable for extended listening. I wonder if rich low end or sparkling highs might get tiring after a while.

[@enriquekahn9405]

I agree with this, as I wrote in my own comment you might want a really IN YOUR FACE sound if you were doing a commercial for a monster truck rally, while something else might be called for if you were reading an audiobook.

[@curtisjudd]

Definitely possible. Nothing extreme works well for long.

[@curtisjudd]

Agreed.

[@kc-ug6gu]

thank you so much i love this video so much

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks k c.

[@GaryStockton]

I really liked your perspectives Curtis, particularly your advice on treating the environment you record in. I’ve been thinking about doing voiceover work professionally.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Gary. You have a great voice for that. 👍

[@GaryStockton]

Curtis Judd wow thanks Curtis

[@mschmbu1963]

very clear and down to the point, very nice video indeed, thank you

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks so much!

[@TheAndrewforbes88]

I just got the Rode NT1 and I might change my mind as I become a more discerning listener, but I think it sounds wonderful on my voice.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Andrew - it is a great mic. I have no regrets on that purchase. Happy recording!

[@SilverWitch31]

Love this comparison of all the mics!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@btensionfree]

Sennheiser MK amazing, Rode both are good NT1A quite sharp, Lewit LCT is Just amazing.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@fbon]

I use a Rode NT1-A, but I purchased it near 15 years ago, love it, no noise at all, do you think that after 15 years it has suffered ? thank you for your stuff, so rich, and so truely well done... the AKG seems really powerful and juicy, a discovery

[@curtisjudd]

Hi François, I’ve had my NT1A for more than 10 years and it doesn’t seem to have suffered at all. Thanks for coming by!

[@fbon]

mine is 18 years old and as fresh as the 1st day ! I also have some Sennheiser 441 D (dynamics) built in 72-75 and they sound truly good too... thanks for your answer, it's good to know they are not as our phones or our laptops ! I was wondering if Rode had made them evolve during these years

[@curtisjudd]

@@fbon It is really good news that microphones are a good investment and can last a career. Same with the Sennheiser dynamic microphones - really impressive that they're still going!

[@Scott-dx7uc]

I can not agree more that not a microphone is perfect. Though, i have been go through the video many times. the Vintage fit you more.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@musabinho]

Thanks, Jud, I’ve e learned a lot from this video 🙏🙏

[@curtisjudd]

Glad it was helpful.

[@THELIGHTER]

I love the fact that we hear en perceive the best sounds differently..Both of you en wife have good voices 😁

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@edclevel402]

Have to say, to my ears, the C414 edged out the others for both voices. The TZ vintage sounded surprisingly good - nice upper mids.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@RobKristjansson]

Curtis, any chance you could throw the higher quality normalized audio track up in the cloud somewhere? (Just the two plus minute sample part - 00:00:59 to 00:03:21.) I'd love to bring it into my DAW so I could loop and listen to specific parts, change listening order, etc.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Rob, yes, here are all of the samples in their original wav format: drive.google.com/open?id=17OIjOga5-t-a5FbMnd6_y_ts_l0GCOjc

[@RobKristjansson]

@@curtisjudd You the man, man

[@TheWeekendTreat]

Sennheiser and Rode NT1 🔥🔥🔥🔥 by the I use Rode NT 1 for VO work, its a beast 🔥 Great reviews great comparisons 💚

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@enriquekahn9405]

I'm in no way a VO professional or microphone expert but my halfassed theory is that it's not just "the best mic for your voice" but "the best mic for your voice for given performance" that should be considered, ie if you're doing a commercial for a monster truck rally you might want to choose a different mic than if you were reading Walt Whitman, and yet different mics if you were reading a Mickey Spillane novel, A Brief History of Time or Pride and Prejudice. Not saying you need a thousand mics in your locker but a VO artist might want to have a selection to choose from depending on the job. Thanks for demonstrating these mics on different voices, most reviewers only use their own voice (for obvious reasons) and this helps illustrate that different mics fit different voices better.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the insights Enrique! Good point on having options.

[@jimshaw899]

Thanks. Brilliant evidentiary work. I was listening on my AKG's, and the differences were readily apparent. Also, I have noticed a solid difference in the blast filters (pop filters, etc.) used on or in front of mics. The foam devices tend to sound a little like talking through a blanket -- at least the ones I've listened to carefully. Is my perception general? Is there also a significant difference in the screen-type pop filters? There seem to be fabric ones, screen ones, double screen ones... I am suspicious that a serious part of the overall difference is due to pickup of the desk surface effects. Long ago, a very good engineer for The Cleveland Orchestra told me that "a huge portion of what you hear from an orchestra, even live, is what comes via the doggoned floor." This well shows how differently, different mics sound with different voices. Overt artifacts like boominess and sibilance might be fine for a ten-second spot, but soon become tiresome in a longer piece, wouldn'tyousay? I enjoy your stuff.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jim, thanks for the insights! I agree - foam covers do cut a bit of the higher frequencies and for my voice, that is usually a good thing but not necessarily for Dani's voice. And yes, the recording space makes a HUGE difference as does microphone placement. In these samples, we have sound blankets hanging around three sides of the microphone to minimize reflections and hopefully remove as much of that as possible. When you put these in a room with reflective surfaces, then things really change. And I also agree, little annoyances can have a cumulative grating effect for long-form content.

[@jimshaw899]

@@curtisjudd Right. Additionally, to my ears, the *foam* covers add a compression effect to vocal sound. I call it the "howard stern effect." Am I the only one who hears this?

[@curtisjudd]

@@jimshaw899 No, I get that sometimes, particularly with the dynamic mics. But I always assumed that was a feature of the dynamic design.

[@purevoicepowercoaching7602]

Thank you for this solid tutorial.

[@curtisjudd]

You're most welcome. Thanks for the feedback.

[@Mr.MikeTaylor]

Just wanted to comment to say that I appreciate all the info you’ve given to so many people. Your guidance has helped me choose thousands of dollars of equipment over the years, Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, Mike!

[@CreativeBlue]

In an ideal situation, the very SAME text delivery would be recorded by all mics at once (because even subtle changes in the reading delivery can make a difference on audio perception). In spite of that, I really find this comparison test interesting and valuable. (In my own personal tests, the Sennheiser M416 has been more forgiving on surrounding noise, it's extremely crisp and brighter (a bit more prone to sibilance in some cases?). My home studio noise floor definitely sounds better with it. My Rode NT1A mic isn't bad at all for that price but it tends to pick up more of the surrounding noise due to its large diaphragm.)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing!

[@behindtheaudition]

Love the channel! 🎧🎙💪

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Curt.

[@fourthlayer]

Great vid!!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@nickgoogle4525]

Large condensor has one advantage for voice over IMO. That is the wider polar pattern towards lower frequencies acts as sort of natural "compression" for movements of the speaker. When the speaker speaks in slightly different directions this will have less influence on a large condensor. BTW, I use an SDC Austrian Audio CC8 for "everything", including voice over. ;-)

[@curtisjudd]

😀🎙

[@guppyfisk]

Thank you Curtis for another excellent review, personally I love my Sennheiser MKH 416 and I agree 100% your description of it

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Guppyfisk. It is hard to go wrong with the 416!

[@Glen.Danielsen]

Thanks so much again, Curtis! So helpful! Wondering about a video on sound blanket use. 💛🙏🏼

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Glen. Your wish has come true regarding sound blanket video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vcdpSMjqieadU

[@Apatura123]

Awesome comparison! Do you think, the Rode NTG5 could work for something like Podcasting aswell?

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! Sure, I'd think so

In in-door situations where the room isn't acoustically treated, do you generally recommend cardioid mics (such as NT1) than to use shotgun microphones because shotgun microphones cancels the phase of sound recorded from mic's sides?

[@curtisjudd]

In untreated spaces, I generally recommend dynamic mics first, then cardioids like the NT1, yes.

[@prodigalus]

it's pretty cheap to make/buy a vocal shield.

[@prodigalus]

@René you are right. when i commented that, i was considering the option, but i'm not anymore. i realized later that a booth is best, but even if not that the main noise problems are A/C and computer fan. also there are great noise reduction plugins. and since, i got one of the quietest mics and some pretty quiet preamps. but then again, some neighborhoods are more noisy than mine. also, foam treatment is pretty cheap on amazon.

[@djtommykeys]

Thanks for the comparison. I still like my Rode NT1. The Sennheiser MKH 416 was superb as usual. The Stellar X2 sounded very good to me. I bought one on a lark and wow the X2 delivers on instruments and vocals. Not a fan of the X2 Vintage. The AKG C414 wasn't in the same game as the rest. The Lewitt again has something in it that irritates my ears. I've listened to many demonstrations with different voices and that harshness is always there. Just my opinion your mileage may vary.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Tommy, that lines up with my experience for the most part.

[@VertigoStardust]

In my humble opinion, the mic that sounded best for both voices was the Sennheiser MKH416. For the Female: the RODE NT1A microphone. For the Male: TZ Audio Stellar X2.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Vertigo Stardust!

[@welshsteve2009]

That was exactly my choice. I quite liked both the NT1A and the Stellar X2 for the female voice but definitely the X2 for Curtis's voice.

[@talktravel555]

Thanks for this video

[@curtisjudd]

You’re welcome

[@silversulu]

Thoughtful, useful review! I’m slightly more baritone than you, so mid bump articulation has always been pleasing for my ears. I did all my singing (rock/pop) on the 414 & U87 in the 90’s, but my 416 does better for my VO. To be fair, as you’ve often inferred or said directly, you can make all of these work with a relatively moderate to little amount of post effort (I use Izotope RX).

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@Cobinja]

I like the reference to Sherlock Holmes, not only because of the text sample, but also because of the choice of silhouette videography. But: Where's the hat and the pipe? 😉

[@curtisjudd]

That's a great idea! I need to source the right hat and pipe. 😀

[@Davinchielwxp]

Excelente video!

[@curtisjudd]

Gracias!

[@LuSantosMS]

thank You for the information. =)

[@curtisjudd]

You're most welcome. Happy recording!

[@Rod-Wheeler]

Great Review.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Rod!

[@MRDON]

I like the MKH416 sound because natural, next the c414. Thanks great video.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for your input!

[@Sharki_V]

Very helpful video. Now I must pick between the NT1 and the NT1-a xD

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! I bought both and I’d choose the NT1. Happy recording!

[@Sharki_V]

@@curtisjudd Sweet, thanks so much for that! I'll go ahead and get the NT1 ☺️

[@adobemastr]

To my ears, the AKG sounded the best on both voices.

[@curtisjudd]

Interesting, thanks Roy!

[@Jimmeyyyyy]

Maybe its because im so used to hearing it but the 416 is just such a natural clean sounding microphone, not overpowering on the low end, the se4400 is also very nice.

[@curtisjudd]

It is one that many people enjoy!

[@andrewmason8691]

A great video as always, Chris. I would have been curious to hear the difference against “normal” mics we might typically use such as the Rode Wireless Go or certain shotguns. This would then help determine whether we need to allocate our limited budgeted to a VO mic or whether we could make do with what we already have. Thanks for considering this suggestion.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the suggestion Andrew.

[@electronicbox6990]

For me was surprising. I was expecting different sound from 414. For me 416, Lewit and NT1a was the greatest 3 mics, at least for me, and that was valid for both voices.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@nuren_music]

00:00 Intro 00:59 RODE NT1 Female Voice 01:10 RODE NT1A Female Voice 01:22 Sennheiser MKH416 Female Voice 01:32 AKG C414 XLS Female Voice 01:43 Lewitt LCT 440 Pure Female Voice 01:53 TZ Audio Stellar X2 Female Voice 02:04 TZ Audio Stellar X2 Vintage Female Voice 02:14 RODE NT1 Male Voice 02:24 RODE NT1A Male Voice 02:33 Sennheiser MKH416 Male Voice 02:42 AKG C414 XLS Male Voice 02:52 Lewitt LCT 440 Pure Male Voice 03:01 TZ Audio Stellar X2 Male Voice 03:11 TZ Audio Stellar X2 Vintage Male Voice 03:20 This is Subjective 05:04 RODE NT1 Discussion 05:39 RODE NT1A Discussion 06:30 Sennheiser MKH416 Discussion 07:54 AKG C414 XLS Discussion 09:00 TZ Audio Stellar X2 Discussion 09:45 TZ Audio Stellar X2 Vintage Discussion 10:19 Lewitt LCT 440 Pure Discussion 11:11 Why Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones for VO? 15:50 Wrap-up

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@nuren_music]

@@curtisjudd copy paste 😅

[@curtisjudd]

@@nuren_music You copied and pasted? Because this video already has an index in the description.

[@AngloSaxon1]

I use the Rode NT1A simply because it suits my voice. I run the mic into a warm audio WA12, which then goes into a dbx 266xs which then goes into a Focusrite 2i2. It has taken me a long time to find the right combination to suit my voice.

[@curtisjudd]

Nice setup!

[@AngloSaxon1]

@@curtisjudd Thank you

[@mmike855]

Another phenomenal review. My wife and I plan on getting into VO, and I am looking especially at the Rode NT1 and Stellar X2. We've also been looking at USB mics like the Rode NT-USB. Would you recommend these XLR mics over USB offerings for VO?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Michael, I do prefer the sound of these two XLR microphones over the NT-USB Mini, though the Mini is a bit more convenient when traveling.

[@mmike855]

@@curtisjudd You're the best. Literally just read your comment aloud to my wife. You're a real inspiration, and I appreciate the reflective nature of your content. Wishing you and yours all the very best.

[@talktravel555]

I am going to buy one and you have made decision easy

[@curtisjudd]

Happy recording! 🎤

[@meimama1881]

Ohh~, very nice voice. Easy to listen.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@warrenoberholser]

Hi Curtis, this video really helped me narrow down what mic to purchase. I believe it will be the Rode NT1or NT1 A. I am thinking of using it for my voice-over work and use my Sure SM7B (positioned correctly) for video/podcasting. Your thoughts? Thanks again for another awesome video. Cheers!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Warren, the NT1 is a good all-around condenser microphone for voice over. As with any condenser microphone, you'll need to work in an acoustically treated space for best results.

[@burtnhony9891]

0:59 1:11 1:22 1:33 2:15 2:24 2:34 2:42

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks

[@pooyanmanoochehry2629]

I'm curious to know if you've ever used any of the MXL mics, Curtis. I have one and it sounds pretty good.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Pooyan, I used some for miking a piano and harp years ago for live sound and they worked nicely.

[@Torontodowntownn]

Thanks for the review, Curtis! What do you think about Rode M3 budget mic for recording both voice & instruments?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Nariman, I haven't used the M3 personally but it sounded pretty good in the samples I've heard.

[@annekedebruyn7797]

You should ask lewitt to send the 540 subzero. It has the detail of the 440 pure but the highs aren't as piercing. Even for those with a sibilant voice.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@mmmyeahh]

Hi great video, do you have a video describing how to set up one of these mics for use with a computer?

[@curtisjudd]

You could use an audio interface like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYSziKpuaqiFmbM

[@PaulMDiaz]

great job!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Paul!

[@Nick-mb7wc]

Thanks for the video. I am a new podcaster and am also starting voice over work. Your content has been incredibly helpful to me so I subscribed to the channel! I had a question regarding the NT1 for voice over work. Is the Rodecaster pro sufficient alone for use with the NT1? Wondering if Cloudlifter or something similar is also a necessity? I really like the NT1 with the kit so hoping the Rodecaster pro would be enough to provide the NT1 with everything it needs. Currently use the Podmic for podcasts. Really notice the difference with a condenser mic for voice over content so know it is important to get one. At £199 with the kit, the NT1 is justifiable, especially if no preamp is needed! If one is needed, would a fet head be enough at 1/3 the cost of a CL-1? Your opinion will be as gratefully received as your videos sir :) Thanks again...

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Nick, thanks! The RODECaster Pro can easily provide enough clean gain for the NT1, you will NOT need a cloud lifter or fethead. Best wishes and happy recording!

[@Nick-mb7wc]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for your response Curtis !!! Excited to finally get all the boxes ticked. Very grateful for your help in the process.

[@skyace888]

Great video! I do voiceovers and am looking to upgrade my setup. Been using a USB mic with pop filter in an untreated room. Planning on using my MixPre recorder with a new mic and either treat my room, record in the closet, or maybe even consider the VoxBox solution. Currently testing the TLM103 and Manley Reference Cardioid which I rented from a local store. Both cool mics! Have you reviewed any of those? May also consider other mics too including the SM7B if I can find a place to test/rent more from.

[@curtisjudd]

I have used the TLM103 and it is a great microphone but a horrible fit for my voice. I didn't have it long enough to make a review. But it is a staple microphone in the VO world. I think it comes down to finding what works with your particular voice and renting is a great way to do that. So best wishes to you in finding the right fit for your voice! I talk about dynamic microphones, including the SM7B, here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iImWnpqGZZ6Gqpo

[@skyace888]

@@curtisjudd Thanks. I’m considering a trip to B&H or Sweetwater to test the different mics. Wonder which store would be better. Any ideas?

[@curtisjudd]

@@skyace888 I'm not sure whether either of them have a studio set up to do that, but worth a call to each to see what they can offer.

[@RhettBrownatRetroWreck]

I own the RODE NT1A microphone but have been looking for a more plug and play option. I have seen your review of the RODE USB and USB Mini. I was wondering about the versatility of the Shure MV5 and the MV51 and how they compared to the RODE USB mics? Have you ever thought about reviewing the Shure MOTIV series of mics? Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Rhett, Thanks for the suggestion. I have reviewed the MV88 some time ago over at kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJi3o5eiq9ehbdU but haven't had a chance to look at the MV5 and MV51. They're on the list, just need to find the time. 🤓

[@RhettBrownatRetroWreck]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for the reply. I always love your video reviews and trust your opinion.

[@BushidoPhoto]

I highly recommend the LCT 441 FLEX I use it for KZbin and Music production. For the price and for the sounds it is amazing!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@denialhakimi3609]

Awesome

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@CerridwenVids]

I found that the AKG sounds a bit woolly and had a bit of distortion for both of your voices. It certainly wasn't one of my faves.

[@curtisjudd]

Agreed.

[@askjaytv3675]

Hello Curtis. Thanks for your videos. I am watching everyday to figure out choices.

[@curtisjudd]

Hey AskJay TV, thanks! I haven't used either of these myself so I can't speak from experience, but I believe that Bandrew at the Podcastage channel has reviewed the SSL 2 for sure and probably the Steinberg as well. Of the microphones, I definitely prefer the NT1 on most voices. Good luck!

[@askjaytv3675]

@@curtisjudd Thank you for replying, appreciate it alot.

[@hanglooserecluse]

I am using a ADK TC MK9, i like it.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@charliebell5073]

Curtis, This is a near-perfect lighting set-up for my needs (remote storytelling). No reflections on your glasses, yet good lighting (for 3D modeling) of your face. The microphone is nicely hidden in the shadows, so it distracts less than a mic on a desk in front of you. Do you mind saying what you used for your key light? Did you use any fill or hair light? If so, they're really subtle. Thank you. (I've seen a couple of your lighting videos, but I don't recall seeing one with lighting just like this.)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Charlie. I used a D&O 180W LED panel just above my computer screen which is to camera left. I also have a subtle hair light suspended from above and then just the background color/accent lighting.

[@charliebell5073]

@@curtisjudd Looks good. Thank you, and keep up the good work!

[@mrheng562]

From what you’re saying, it “sounds” like these mics are usually trying to go for that V shape response frequency? Just an FYI, FiFine sent me three USB mics to review. I actually in enjoy using their K670 model...until I bought the Rode VideoMic NTG. Now, the K670 is my backup mic. 🙂

[@curtisjudd]

Not all of them are V shaped in their response. The AKG and X2 Vintage actually seemed a bit mid-forward. But none of them are super accurate or linear. And yes - that VideoMic NTG is surprisingly good!

[@navneet_prakash]

Sennheiser mkh416 so much clarity

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, agreed.