BSP-123: Resident Evil 2 Remake, Google Podcast App, and Apple Security

On episode 123 of the BSP, I cover Verizon having 3 unlimited data tiers, Sony announcing the Resident Evil 2 remake, Google launching a podcast app, Apple banning apps from selling user’s contact lists, China tracking citizen’s cars with RFID tags, and Apple blocking GreyKey iOS Hacking tool. I also talk about my signal chain and what I’m doing different this week.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:35 - Verizon Launching 3rd Unlimited Data Tier
01:51 - Resident Evil 2 Remake
* https://youtu.be/a-lEnz5QKuM
04:10 - Google Launching Podcast App
06:28 - Apple Banning Apps from Selling User Contact Lists
08:45 - China track citizen’s cars with RFID tags
11:57 - Apple Blocking GreyKey iOS Hacking Tool
14:15 - What I’ve Been Testing (Processing)
* API Vision Strip
* FabFilter DS
* 1176
* LA-2A
* Pultec Legacy EQ
16:53 - What You Had to Say (Subs Feed / X-Files Game)
20:12 - Ask Bandrew
20:26 - Email 1
20:47 - Did you change your room setup?
21:27 - Are you single?
22:03 - How do you deal with stress?
23:51 - How do you connect the iPad to the UA Arrow?
24:58 - Email 2
25:22 - Do you know of The Odd Dad Out
25:51 - Do you know about the Guatemala Volcano Eruption
26:34 - Do you know about the Chernobyl Disaster?
27:23 - Email 3
27:45 - What are your thoughts on Google WiFi Devices
30:14 - Outro 

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

Follow us on:
► Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bandrewsayspodcast
► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

TPR-137: Additional Content and Announcements

This Episode Logan announces the additional content coming to The Paper Robots Podcast as well as moving back to Arizona for his wedding with Cynthia Gerriets.

New Segments for the Podcast include the additional co-hosts Malcolm and Zach!

Follow:

LOGAN NAUGLE 

  • Twitter:  @thatlogan
  • Instagram: @thatlogan
  • Comics: thatlogan.com/comics

ZACHARY ROSS JACKSON

MALCOLM RUSSEL-NELSON

Follow us on:

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

TPR-136: Game Designer Ben Greenstein

Game Designer and programmer Ben Greenstein chats with me about his influences from comics, manga and anime to hippy town up bringing. Also we try to stay on topic about his origin into game design without going too off the rails and getting lost in X-Men territory.

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

Follow:

LOGAN NAUGLE

  • Twitter:  @thatlogan
  • Instagram: @thatlogan
  • Comics: thatlogan.com/comics

BEN GREENSTEIN

REFERENCED

  • Nausica
  • DBZ
  • Cowboy Bebop
  • The STanely Parbole
  • Portal
  • Unity
  • Flash Adobe
  • Bioware
  • Dues Ex
  • 'You are what you pretend to be"
  • Music Man
  • Monarail Simpsons

Sennheiser MK4 Mic Review

Today we're looking at the Sennheiser MK4 XLR Condenser Microphone, which is a great way to get into the Sennheiser / Neumann condenser mic ecosystem. 

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at 11:00. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $300.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Carrying/Storage Pouch

  2. Microphone

  3. Microphone Mount (5/8" & 3/8" threading)

  4. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~-32dB

  4. Self Noise: 10dBA

  5. Impedance: 50-ohms

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic is good. I'm legitimately running out of things to say about all these mics. Most of them have an all metal body and a metal grill. This mic is no different. It has no switches for a padding or high pass / low pass, but on the bottom you'll find an XLR port. 

The frequency response is listed as 20Hz - 20kHz. This has a minor roll off beginning at 150Hz, and a much more drastic roll off beginning at 50Hz. The low-mids are flat until you hit 1kHz and it boosts 1dB with the peak at 1.5kHz which then returns to flat at 2.5kHz where it begins it's presence/treble/air boost beginning at 2.75kHz and ranging all the way up to 10kHz, where it gradually rolls off the air, where it is neutral at ~14kHz.

The overall performance of this mic is great for the price. On electric guitar, this mic sounds a bit dull because it's not over boosted anywhere, but I think fo that as a good thing when recording. On acoustic it sounded stellar with a good body and plenty of shimmer on the top. For singing it had a nice and airy tone, and on spoken word it had plenty of clarity that could be offset beautifully while utilizing the proximity effect. Additionally the off axis coloration around 90-degrees is not unpleasant like many cheaper condensers, which will yield a much better sounding recording if you're in a reverberant room. 

Pros

  • Nice, fairly subtle coloration

  • Good off axis coloration

  • Pretty hot output signal

  • Decent job at background noise rejection

  • Respectable 10dBA self noise

  • Good built quality

Cons

  • I personally don't like the look of it.

freq.png
polar.png

Conclusion

This seems to be a great all purpose microphone as it worked well on everything I tested it on. I think where it really shines is on voice over. The thing I have loved about the Neumann condensers I have tested is the proximity effect. This microphone offers that buttery smooth low end that helps off set the boosts to the presence/treble/air, and it sounds stellar for that considering the price. 

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Sennheiser MK4
US: https://amzn.to/2Jz9ims
UK: https://amzn.to/2t0Iv7k
CA: https://amzn.to/2HGDuWL
DE: https://amzn.to/2HFmBMh

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV

BSP-122: YouTube Killing Subscriptions, WWDC Woes & More

On episode 122 of the BSP, I cover YouTube killing the subscription feed through algorithms, Patreon acquiring Kit, WWDC 2018 Announcements from Hardware to iOS to Mac OS, Facebook launching a gaming portal, Instagram launching 1 hour long videos, MyHeritage leaking 92 million people’s login information, and much much more.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:43 - YouTube Killing Subscription
07:15 - Patreon Acquired Kit
10:36 - WWDC 2018 Hardware Announcements
13:07 - iOS 12 Announcements
21:00 - OSX Mojave Announcements
25:01 - Watch OS Announcements
26:07 - Apple TV Announcements
27:00 - Facebook Launching Gaming Portal
29:27 - 1 Hour Long Instagram Videos
30:02 - MyHeritage Leaked 92 Million People’s Account Details
31:14 - Products That Should Exist
33:24 - What I’ve Been Testing
35:02 - What You Had to Say
36:40 - Ask Bandrew
36:51 - Email 1
37:14 - One Creator I’d Like to have on Creator Case Study
38:58 - What am I looking forward to?
39:35 - Email 2
40:45 - Will you review the Heil Fin?
41:19 - Will you make more why I don’t game videos?
42:30 - Do you have any other channels you want to launch?
44:07 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

Follow us on:
► Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bandrewsayspodcast
► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Shure SM57 vs SM58 vs SM7b Comparison (Versus Series)

SM57

Price: $100
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 40Hz - 15kHz
Sensitivity: -56dB
Impedance: 310-ohms

SM57

Price: $100
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 50Hz - 15kHz
Sensitivity: -54.5dB
Impedance: 300-ohms

SM7B

Price: $400
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 50Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -59dB
Impedance: 150-ohms

Today we're comparing three of the most popular microphones of all time, the Shure SM57, SM58, and SM7b. 

The build quality of all of these microphones is just insane. The SM57 and SM58 are legendary in this department as there are videos of them being run over by tour buses and still working. These two mics are a handheld design with all metal bodies. The SM57 has a plastic casing around the capsule and grills, but there's little to no pop filter. The SM58, has a ball pop filter which does offer a tiny bit of wind protection. The SM7b is significantly larger, and I believe to be more of a studio microphone. It also has an all metal construction with an preinstalled mounting system, and an exterior pop filter design. It also has a high pass filter, and a presence boost switch available. 

The frequency response of these mics vary pretty significantly. The SM57 is a brighter microphone with a roll off beginning at 200Hz, and a minor cut from 250-600Hz. At 2khz we see a gradual rise that peaks around 6kHz at +7dB. It then rolls off after that. The SM58 rolls off at around 120Hz, and a VERY minor cut from 300Hz to 1kHz followed by a gradual presence boost from 1kHz peaking at 5khz at +5dB. It then gradually rolls off again with a drastic cut around 7.5kHz. The SM7b has a more recessed low-end, with a less drastic roll off and a minor cut from 1kHz and below. From 1kHz to 4kHz it is flat at which point there are 1dB peaks and valeys up through 12-13kHz. 

As far as the overall performance of these microphones, they all have their benefit. The SM57 sounds awesome on instruments because of the additional boost to the treble which seems to breathe life into the recordings. The SM58 is great for live vocals because the presence boost cuts through the mix, but it doesn't have an over boosted treble frequency so it doesn't sound as harsh as the SM57. Then the SM7b just sounds awesome on spoken word and singing because it has a flatter and more neutral tone, with no exaggerated boosts, which makes it much warmer, and pleasant to listen to. 

SM57 Freq Resp

SM57 Freq Resp

SM58 Freq Resp

SM58 Freq Resp

SM7b Freq Resp

SM7b Freq Resp

With all that being said the WINNER of this versus series is the Shure SM7b. I chose this because this series requires I pick one, and I mainly use microphones for talking or singing. Because of that I prefer the flatter tone of the SM7b, especially the fact that it yields very few issues with sibilance or an overly boomy proximity effect. 

If you have any questions, or want to provide your input, please leave a comment on the youtube video.

Buy the Shure SM57
US: http://amzn.to/2xRwYHY 
UK: http://amzn.to/2ytVeEd 
CA: http://amzn.to/2xRWNHC 
DE: http://amzn.to/2l3OEPw

Buy the Shure SM58
US: http://amzn.to/2vUqSpr 
UK: http://amzn.to/2uS4rEG 
CA: http://amzn.to/2uuLnd3 
DE: http://amzn.to/2iN5yQX

Buy the Shure SM7B
US: http://amzn.to/2vNFre5 
UK: http://amzn.to/2iLW0pH 
CA: http://amzn.to/2emW6Pr 
DE: http://amzn.to/2vwlIUR

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) 
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2wVYnfL

 

TPR-135:

Hosted by Logan Naugle with guests Cynthia Gerriets (Toy Designer) and Dan Schkade (Comic Creator)

We get together and chat about the importance of creating an ending in what makes the ending in a story significant both as bands of storytelling and creators in our own stories what is an ending and what it means for us to make a compelling ending. Also it’s always fun having Dan return to the podcast and we get to make jokes have lively conversation and the three of us always like to entertain each other

Ending: an end or final part of something, especially a period of time, an activity, or a book or movie.

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

Follow:

CYNTHIA GERRIETS

DAN SCHKADE 

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

Follow us on:

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Beyerdynamic TG V50 Dynamic Mic Review / Test

Today we're looking at the Beyerdynamic TG V50, which I was super excited to test out because I loved the TG V70D so much.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at 2:00. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $80.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Carrying/Storage Pouch

  2. Microphone

  3. Microphone Mount (5/8" & 3/8" threading)

  4. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 50Hz - 17kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~-52.5dB

  4. Impedance: 600-ohms

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic is the same as almost all handheld dynamic microphones. It has an all metal construction with no features around the body and it has an XLR port on the bottom. There's really nothing more to say about it. 

The frequency response is listed as 50Hz - 17kHz. This has a fairly neutral mids, but it boost rather significantly up until 5kHz, followed by a minor cut, and then an even larger boost up until 9kHz.

The overall performance of this mic is pretty good. For singing, I think this thing really shined. It had great clarity and a nice presence boost to help cut through a mix. For spoken word I thought it worked pretty well but think the plosive and sibilance issue can be an issue. On electric and acoustic guitar, it was a pretty usable tone...it was very aggressive and non-muddy, which could be pretty rad, but it wouldn't be my first choice for that use. 

Pros

  • Plenty of clarity

  • Not much proximity effect

  • Really nice build quality

Cons

  • Didn't do a good job at rejecting plosives

  • Didn't do a good job at rejecting handling noise

  • The boost can be a bit

Conclusion

If you're looking for a live singing microphone, I think it's a great option there. The lack in proximity effect means the singer will not need to have great microphone technique to avoid boominess. However, the plosives will need to be remedied with a windscreen/pop filter, and you'll need to leave it on the stand. For electric and acoustic guitar, it would be fine in a bind, but it would not be my first choice, so I wouldn't buy it just for that. 

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Beyerdynamic TG V50
US: https://amzn.to/2sGi06X
UK: https://amzn.to/2Hkfdpf
CA: https://amzn.to/2JvjzPE
DE: https://amzn.to/2Jg9mD4

 

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV

BSP-121: Vermont Fights Data Brokers, Podcastage Updates & More

On episode 121 of the BSP, I talk about my new series called Creator Case Study, the plans I have for the Podcastage youtube channel, Vermont regulating data brokers, iOS 11.4 going live and what the features are, What to expect from WWDC ’18, as well as answering your questions.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:45 - Thoughts on Creator Case Study Series
02:51 - Changes to Podcastage Programming
05:53 - Why are you drinking Starbucks?
06:49 - Vermont Regulating Data Brokers
* https://legislature.vermont.gov/assets/Documents/2018/Docs/BILLS/H-0764/H-0764%20As%20Passed%20by%20Both%20House%20and%20Senate%20Unofficial.pdf
* https://techcrunch.com/2018/05/27/vermont-passes-first-first-law-to-crack-down-on-data-brokers/
12:15 - iOS 11.4 is live
13:58 - What to expect at WWDC ‘18
19:58 - What You Had to Ask Bandrew?
20:44 - Amazon Bugging Your Home or You Bugging Your Own Home?
21:42 - Would you recommend a shotgun mic for voice over?
24:08 - Should I buy a yeti or procaster for my new podcast?
27:18 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

Follow us on:
► Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bandrewsayspodcast
► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Heil PR-781 Dynamic Mic Review / Test

Today we look at an Amateur Radio microphone and see if it will work for any other applications. The microphone, is the Heil PR-781.

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at ~1:30 - 2:00. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $185.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone

  2. Microphone Mount

  3. 5/8 to 3/8" stand adapter

  4. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 50Hz - 16kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~-55dB

  4. Impedance: 600-ohms

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic is excellent. It is an all metal construction with a metal grill. It feels like it can take a beating or two, so I'd venture to say that this will last years in your Ham Shack.

The frequency response is listed as 50Hz - 16kHz, but no frequency response graph was provided. From listening to the mic it's abundantly clear that there is a drastic treble boost which gives this thing a large amount of clarity. It also over powers any low end of this microphone making it sounds harsh at times.

The overall performance of this mic is hard to judge. On everything I threw at this mic, I just kept thinking  "there's too much clarity". It was so bright and clear that it began to sound unnatural to my ears at times, and it also became shrill at other times. Being that I am not a Ham Radio operator, and know little of the topic, I cannot speak to the microphone requirements, but I believe that's what this microphone was actually designed for. 

Pros

  • Great build quality

  • Very very very very clear

Cons

  • The treble boost on this thing leads to shrill tone

Conclusion

I cannot recommend this microphone for the majority of applications due to the hyper-bright tone of it. I don't think it accomplished anything well on the electric guitar, acoustic guitar, singing vocals, or on HD vocals. I imagine the over bright tone is meant to assist in transmitting higher frequencies over Ham Radios. Being that digital audio captures all that sound without having to overcome the inherent shorter travel of higher frequencies, it just does not seem to translate well. 

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Heil PR781G
US: https://amzn.to/2slq2CS
UK: https://amzn.to/2J3THGR
CA: https://amzn.to/2kIwP5z
DE: https://amzn.to/2LKtAXj

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV

BSP-120: Apple Bend Gate, Amazon Big Brother State, and More

On episode 120 of the BSP, I talk about Apple lying about Bend Gate on the iPhone 6 and 6-plus, Facebook two factor authentication, Yubikey compatibility with the iPhone, Razer Core X, News outlets banning EU viewers, EU citizens downloading information from Apple, Amazon Facial Rekognition, Amazon Echo spying on you, TeenSafe leaking your passwords, Comcast Xfinity router passwords being leaked, Comcast launching new mesh wifi devices, Twitch streaming Doctor Who, and Amazon saving The Expanse. 

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:38 - Apple Lied About Bend Gate
05:31 - Facebook Doesn’t Want Your Phone # Anymore
07:20 - Yubikey NFC Capability on the iPhone 7 & Newer
09:15 - Razer Core X Announced
10:35 - News Outlets Ban EU Users
12:17 - EU Apple Users Can Download Their Data
13:12 - Amazon Facial Recognition (Big Brother State!!!)
17:14 - Amazon Echo Sends Private Conversation to Contact Book
20:37 - TeenSafe Leaks your Teens Passwords
22:50 - Comcast Xfinity Leaking Router Passwords
25:00 - Comcast Launching Mesh Wifi System
25:57 - Twitch Streaming Doctor Who for 7 Weeks
26:21 - Amazon Saves The Expanse
26:42 - What You Had To Say
29:07 - Ask Bandrew
29:20 - Email 1
31:05 - Email 2
32:39 - Email 3
35:05 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

Follow us on:
► Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bandrewsayspodcast
► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Shure SM7b vs. Electro Voice RE20 Comparison (Versus Series)

SM7B

Price: $400
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 50Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -59dB
Impedance: 150-ohms

RE20

Price: $450
Polar Ptrn: Cardioid
Freq Response: 45Hz - 18kHz
Sensitivity: -56.5dB
Impedance: 150-ohms

Today we're comparing two of the most popular microphones for radio and podcasts, the Shure SM7b and the Electro Voice RE20.

The build quality of both of these mics is outstanding. They both have sturdy metal construction, and feel like they have the ability to outlast you. The SM7b has an external windscreen, which can be replaced with a larger provided windscreen. The RE20 has an internal windscreen, and it cannot be replaced, you just need to add another windscreen or pop filter in addition. Both mics have provided mounts. The SM7b mount is all you're going to get because there are no replacements, while the RE20 has a shockmount for sale that costs an additional $100. 

The frequency response of these mics are quite different. The SM7b has a somewhat recessed lows & low mids section which provides a very clean low end. The RE20 is flatter in the bass frequencies which allows you to get a more authoritative tone. The SM7b has a flatter mid section while the RE20 cuts at a few points between 400 Hz and 5kHz causing the lows and highs to sound more pronounced. The air frequencies of the SM7b are cut off beginning at around 12kHz while the RE20 remains much more consistent up through 18kHz providing a much brighter tone with better clarity. 

As far as the overall performance of these microphones, the RE20 sounded scooped on the electric and acoustic guitar, the singing and spoken word had much better clarity than the SM7b, and the low end was much more dominant. The SM7b provided a more natural and accurate representation of the electric guitar and acoustic guitar in lieu of the missing air frequencies. On voice, it sounded warmer and smoother, with less harshness to it. 

Shure SM7b Frequency Response

Shure SM7b Frequency Response

Electro Voice RE20 Frequency Response

Electro Voice RE20 Frequency Response

 

With all that being said the WINNER of this versus series is the Shure SM7b. This mic was declared the winner due to the fact it is a more versatile microphone and it sounded more natural. It does lack a bit in the air frequencies, and it does pick up more ambient noise, but I think that's a small price to pay for a more natural sounding mic that can be used in more applications than just spoken word. I should note, that I still the RE20 is a great microphone, I just believe the SM7b to be more of an all purpose microphone.

If you have any questions, or want to provide your input, please leave a comment on the youtube video.

Buy the Shure SM7B
US: http://amzn.to/2vNFre5 
UK: http://amzn.to/2iLW0pH 
CA: http://amzn.to/2emW6Pr 
DE: http://amzn.to/2vwlIUR

Buy the Electro Voice RE-20
US: http://amzn.to/2AIXoC2 
UK: http://amzn.to/2yv4KTC 
CA: http://amzn.to/2AI2XR3 
DE: http://amzn.to/2jW1xb7

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) 
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2wVYnfL

TPR-134: Adventure Cartoonist Kerstin A La Cross

Talking to cartoonist and comic creator about getting started in comic which includes all the ups and downs it can have in personal lives as well as the triumphs of pushing to be better. We chat about the importance of stepping back and putting things into perspective when it comes to autobio works and memoirs.

Quick Bio

 Kerstin La Cross and I'm an Adventure Cartoonist! I make autobio comics about pretty much anything, but mostly backpacking. Please help me to make more comics! 

Follow:

Kerstin La Cross

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

Follow us on:

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone Review

Today we're looking at Shure's update to the classic Elvis microphone, the Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone. 

For this review, I have the mic connected directly to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd gen, with the gain set at ~3:00. I have done no post processing on the audio, it is all raw, but the audio was slightly boosted in final cut pro X to simply make the audio easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $250.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone

  2. Carrying Bag

  3. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 60Hz - 17kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Super-Cardioid

  3. Sensitivity: ~-53dB

  4. Impedance: 290-ohms

Performance / Features

The build quality of this mic is superb. It has an all metal construction that feels like it can really take the abuses of stage use. There is a small plastic badge with the branding for the mic, and the foam windscreen is bright blue. The sides and rear of the microphone have no additional features, and on the bottom you'll find a 5/8" threading for a standard mic stand, and an XLR port. 

The frequency response is listed as 60Hz - 17kHz. There is a cut that begins at 1kHz and ranges down to 150Hz, and then drastically drops off. At 1kHz a boost begins which remains consistent to about 2kHz where we see a gradual increase with a significant boost at 4.5kHz, peaking at 6kHz. We see a dip immediately after this followed by a peak from 8-10kHz, at which point the air is cut.

The polar pattern of this mic is super cardioid. At 90-degrees the level is almost non-existent, but what is there is mainly high mids and treble. At 180-degrees, the signal is slightly stronger, and is mainly focused in the low end. 

The overall performance of this mic is exactly what you should expect out of a live vocal microphone. The cut to the low-end helps tame the proximity effect, handling noise, and plosives. The presence boost helps your voice cut through and sit on top of the mix. And the super-cardioid polar pattern helps limit bleed from instruments on stage, as well as limiting feed from the PA. 

freq.png
polar.png

Pros

  • Super cardioid polar patten is very beneficial in a live environment

  • Does a great job with the proximity effect, handling noise, and plosives

  • Your voice will cut through a mix

  • You're gonna look really cool

Cons

  • Expensive

  • Very specific use case

Conclusion

I was not the biggest fan of this microphone for instruments or spoken word. The tone on instruments just was not too flattering, although in a bind, I think it is passable for that application. On spoken word, I think you're better off with a flatter microphone since you'll likely be recording in a studio and have better control over your environment and ambient noise. Live singing is where I think this microphone will really shine. It will allow the sound engineer to capture your voice as clearly as possible, and set it in front of the mix, even if you don't have good microphone technique.

If you're looking for a live singing microphone with an aesthetic that screams "I'm Elvis" or "I front a Rockabilly band", then I do not think you can go wrong with this microphone. If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Neewer NW-8
US: https://amzn.to/2Khy7jl
UK: https://amzn.to/2HsUMLD
CA: https://amzn.to/2r0CAz4
DE: https://amzn.to/2r5j03w

Buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
US: http://amzn.to/2vDFbzK 
UK: http://amzn.to/2w8O2f6 
CA: http://amzn.to/2wKGKfG 
DE: http://amzn.to/2hbtxsV

BSP-119: Google Kills YouTube Red...Sort of, Lil Tay Get's Mother Fired, and more

On episode 119 of the BSP, I talk about Google Killing / Rebranding YouTube Red to YouTube Premium, YouTube adding music credits in descriptions, Lil Tay getting her mother fired, YouTube adding Tastemade & The Young Turks to YouTubeTV, Facebook launching Youth guidelines, Facebook launching Voice posts and photo/video storage, more Facebook data exposed, and Call of Duty IIII release.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Clarification on Smart Phone Addiction
01:37 - Good Use Case for Google Duplex
02:50 - Google Kills YouTube Red, Sort of…
04:50 - YouTube Gives Musicians Proper Credit
07:08 - Lil Tay Gets Mom Fired
12:01 - YouTubeTV Brings in Tastemade & The Young Turks
14:26 - Facebook Loves the Youths
* https://www.facebook.com/safety/youth/peer-voices/principles
18:05 - Facebook Launching Voice Posts & Photo/Video Storage
20:43 - More Facebook Data Exposed via Personality Quizzes
* https://www.theverge.com/2018/5/14/17352900/facebook-data-exposed-personality-quiz
22:48 - Call of Duty IIII or IV Coming Soon
24:00 - What You Had to Say - Two Party Consent
26:00 - Ask Bandrew
26:25 - Email 1
26:58 - Opinions on Fortnite?
28:16 - Thoughts on the Royal Wedding?
28:47 - How do you get back into Podcasting?
29:55 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

Follow us on:
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► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

Steinberg UR-RT2 USB Audio Interface Review

If you're like me, and you've always drooled over Rupert Neve gear, but wasn't ever able to afford it, the Steinberg UR-RT2, may be the cheapest way for you to get your hands on some of that subtle Neve tone. 

During this review, I have the Rode NT1 connected directly to the Arrow, recording at 24-bit, 192kHz, with my gain set at 12:00. I have done no post processing to the audio, but it was boosted ~4dB in Final Cut Pro to make it easier to listen to.

If you are interested in this interface, it will set you back $350.00 on Amazon, and many other retailers.

What's In the Box

  1. Interface

  2. USB Cable

  3. DC Power Adapter

  4. Quick Start Guide

  5. Cubase AI / Cubase LE, and more

Specifications

  1. Bit Depth: 24-Bit

  2. Sample Rate: 44.1 - 192kHz

  3. Gain Range: 6 - 60dB

  4. Dynamic Range: 101dBA

  5. Input Impedance: 4K Ohms

  6. Phantom Power: +48v

Performance / Features

The build quality of this interface feels great, like other Steinberg interfaces I've tested. The dials all feel firmly attached, with minmal wobble. The XLR ports and other inputs are the same, they do have a minor amount of wiggle, but nothing out of the ordinary.

The overall performance of this interface is pretty good. If I'm not mistaken, this has the same D-Pre's as Steinbergs lower end models, but they still offer +60dB of gain. When I measured the noise floor, I was measuring around -100dB at 100%. The A/D converters are also perfectly fine, allowing you to record 24-bit, 192kHz. When at 192kHz, I was able to get down to 2.7ms output latency with an I/O buffer size of 64 samples.

The selling point of this interface though, are the 2 Neve Transformers, that you can route Channel 1 or Channel 2 through. I found the most noticeable area of improvement here was when plugging instruments in direct. Typically, those instruments sound somewhat sterile, and lifeless. By initializing the Neve transformers, it added a bit of natural compression and saturation which, to my ear, accentuated the overtones of my instrument and added some life and excitement back into the recording. 

Pros

  • Rupert Neve Transformers

  • 24-Bit 192kHz High Res A/D convertors

  • 3ms output latency at 192kHz

  • +60dB of gain

  • 2 additional line inputs on the rear

  • Great build quality

  • Offers full +48v phantom power

Cons

  • Expensive for 2 mic preamp interface

  • The DSPFX software seems outdated, and clucky

  • Not a big fan of the DC power requirement

  • Would have preferred USB3.0 or Thunderbolt 3.0

Conclusion

I think this is a fascinating interface. It sounds great, and it is the cheapest way to get some subtle Rupert Neve tone in your home studio mixes. Other than the Neve transformers, I think it's a perfectly fine interface, with a few minor drawbacks. With that being said, if you're a musician, and you find your mixes sounding sterile, this may be a good interface to help breathe a little bit of life back into your recordings. On the other hand, if you're a voice over artist, I don't think this offers much for you, so I'd save a few dollars, and consider picking up something like the Audient ID4 instead. 

If you have any additional questions about this interface, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Steinberg UR-RT2
US: https://amzn.to/2wM9fNU
UK: N/A
CA: N/A
DE: N/A

Buy the Rode NT1 Kit
US: http://amzn.to/2i1eWfO
UK: http://amzn.to/2i3uFh8
CA: http://amzn.to/2qzk3dz
DE: http://amzn.to/2FCzPsk

TRP-133: Ten Times A Tiger!

Cynthia Gerriets the amazing toy designer (Ten Times A Tiger) and my fiance returns to the podcast to talk about her latest art toys and catch up on the things that have happened in our lives recently.

Cynthia lets us know a little bit about the process of toy making and the kind of music she enjoys while creating. Spoilers its hip hop among many other styles and mix a little bit of wine in there and you got a combination for some amazing Designer Toys!

Send Your Questions to:

thepaperrobots@gmail.com

Follow:

CYNTHIA GERRIETS

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

BSP-118: Google Assistant Makes Calls, Phil Defranco Launches Video App, and More

On episode 118 of the BSP, I talk about Gmail composing your e-mails for you, Google’s camera allowing you to copy text from a photo, Google Assistant (Duplex) making phone calls for you, HDR playback on YouTube going live on iOS, YouTube rolling out a “Take a Break” feature, Philip DeFranco launching a stand alone video app, Hulu launching a channel guide, Apple removing apps that share location data, Apple selling streaming subscriptions, Apple launching a credit card, Apple disabling USB connections if your iOS device is locked for 7 days, Twitter rolling out encrypted direct messages, Rick & Morty renewed for 70 episodes, and Syfy not renewing the Expanse.

Discord Server (https://discord.gg/dXQUc7v)

00:00 - Intro
00:53 - Gmail Can Compose Your E-mails For You
02:23 - Google Lens Can Copy Text from Photos
03:45 - Google Assistant Making Phone Calls
08:37 - HDR YouTube Playback on iOS Available
08:58 - YouTube “Take a Break” Feature
11:47 - Philip DeFranco Launches Stand Alone Video App
14:46 - Hulu Launches a Channel Guide
15:50 - Apple Removing Apps That Share Location Data
17:34 - Apple Selling Streaming Subscriptions
18:32 - Apple Launching a Credit Card
20:07 - Apple Disabling USB Connections if Device is Locked for 7 Days
22:27 - Twitter May Be Working on Encrypted Direct Messages
23:55 - Rick And Morty Renewed for 70 More Episodes
25:09 - SyFy Does Not Renew The Expanse
25:57 - What You Had to Say!
28:00 - Ask Bandrew
28:18 - Email 1
28:55 - Thoughts on Google Digital Well Being Initiative?
30:23 - Email 2
30:42 - Rank RE20, SM7B, Procaster on 1-10 Scale
31:49 - Email 3
32:04 - What are your computer specs?
33:20 - Outro

Submit your questions to be answered on a future episode to AskBandrew@gmail.com

The Bandrew Says Podcast is available on:
►iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bandrew-says-podcast-audio/id1046423132?mt=2
►Google Play Music: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieua25h7tadlb2ti4p5nclqhjuu?t=The_Bandrew_Says_Podcast_Audio_Video__Tech
►RSS Feed: http://bandrewsays.libsyn.com

Follow us on:
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► Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bandrewsays
► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

TPR 132: Performer/Artist Cristina Florez

It was a blast talking to Cristina about choreography, music and art in general. Artist and Performer Cristina Florez calls in and we talk about the field of creativity and how it cant fit in just one box but all mediums intersect and blend together. We both have learned so much by studying and working in different types of mediums to be creative. 

Follow:

CRISTINA FLOREZ

LOGAN NAUGLE

REFERENCED

 

Follow us on:

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaperrobots

► Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paper_Robots

► Website: http://www.geeksrising.com

 

Razer Seiren Elite Dynamic USB Mic Review

Today we're looking at the brand new Dynamic USB Streaming Microphone from Razer, the Seiren Elite.

For the majority of this review, I was connected to my Mac, which did not have gain controls on my computer, but the gain on the microphone was set to 100%. On the windows machine, I set the computer gain to 77%, and the microphones gain to around 25%. The audio was then boosted in post, which is notated in the lower third on the video.

If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $200.00 on Amazon

What's In the Box

  1. Microphone

  2. Desktop Stand

  3. Windscreen

  4. 3m Braided Cable

  5. Documentation

Specifications

  1. Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz

  2. Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  3. Max SPL: 120dB

  4. Features: Analog/Digital Limiter

  5. Bit-Depth: 16-Bit

  6. Sample Rate: 48kHz

Performance / Features

The build quality of this microphone is good for the most part. It has a metal body coated in a rubbery paint, it has a metal grill, and the desktop stand is metal with a good amount of weight and a foam bottom to keep it from sliding around your desk. On the downside, the dials are a bit wobbly, and they have no markings to assist in determining your gain setting or headphone volume. 

The frequency response is listed as 20Hz - 20kHz. They do not provide a graph, but honestly, I don't think the graph would even help. The limiter is set so extreme that it sounds as though the audio is being overly compressed, which would affect the frequency response anyways. 

The polar pattern of this mic is standard cardioid, and did a surprisingly good job at side and rear rejection which is exactly what you want out of a microphone that will be used in a noisy environment like a gaming room. 

The overall performance of this device was a huge let down. First off, the noise floor on this thing was excessive, making all the audio sound dirty. The limiter also sounded as though the threshold was set too low, meaning it was activated too frequently, causing the recording to sound overly compressed. This mic also did not do a good job at rejecting shocks, so if you bump your desk at all, this mic picks it up, which is the last thing you'd want in a gaming microphone. Additionally, my unit had so much hiss in the headphone amp that it was almost deafening (I will be replacing this mic to determine if the headphone amp in another device is better). 

Pros

  • Plug and play

  • Good job at background noise rejection

  • Has zero latency monitoring

  • Offers a limiter

Cons

  • Expensive for what you're getting

  • Unable to turn off or adjust the limiter

  • Can't turn off or adjust the mix of the 0 latency monitoring

  • The noise floor on this thing is too loud

  • Little to no shock absorption

  • The headphone amp (in my unit) was insanely noisy

Conclusion

I do not recommend this microphone at all. On paper, it's a nearly perfect streaming microphone, but in practice or execution it did not meet any expectations. So although I do not think you should buy this, I will be keeping my eye on Razer for the next iteration of this microphone to see if they improve this.

If Razer is reading this, I will give some suggestions. Please add software functions to this device to allow people to adjust the limiter's settings or turn it off. Please allow users to shut off zero latency monitoring, or at least mix between computer playback and 0 latency monitoring. Please add some kind of internal shockmount for the capsule to assist in shock absorption. Please put in a better preamp so the noise floor is not so loud in this device. However, I think you're on the right track here. I can't wait for the next iteration.  

If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP. 

Buy the Razer Seiren Elite (but are you sure?)
US: https://amzn.to/2K33ld7
UK: https://amzn.to/2jEGXLV
CA: https://amzn.to/2wlTYmP
DE: https://amzn.to/2rxGKOn