Welcome to "Getting Into Podcasting", my Podcasting page.

On these pages I have tried to list some of the things I have learned about Podcasting and all of the best links I could find for the beginning podcaster.

Along with links on podcasting equipment and information podcasts, there are links on Web design for your podcasting Web site.

Zoom H2 - (1)
The H2 provides brilliant stereo recording in an easy-to-use, ultra-portable device.. From seminars and conferences, to electronic news gathering (ENG) and podcasting, to musical performances, songwriting sessions and rehearsals, the H2 provides amazing recording quality. The H2 can effortlessly record it in high-quality stereo.

With 4 mic capsules in a W-X/Y configuration, the audio is decoded instantly, bringing these four signals together for unparalleled stereo imaging. For maximum flexibility, you can record from the front of the H2 in a 90° pickup pattern or the rear of the H2 in a 120° pickup pattern at up to 96 kHz/24-bit resolution as a WAV file, or as an MP3 file at bit rates up to 320 kbps. Additionally, you can record in a 360° pickup pattern at up to 48kHz/24-bit resolution which will allow you to convert your recordings to 5.1 Surround.

• W-XY mic patterns with 4 mic capsules and signal processing allows Front 90° cardioid, Rear 120° cardioid and 360° polar patterns
• Built-in USB 2.0 interface
• Records in WAV 96kHz/48kHz/44.1kHz at 16-bit or 24-bit, MP3 to 320kbps and Variable Bit Rate (VBR) data formats
• Time Stamp and Track Marker functions in Broadcast WAV Format (BWF)
• 512MB SD memory card included
• Accommodates up to 4GB SD memory cards
• Auto Gain Control (AGC) for pristine recordings
• Auto Start function means you're always ready to record
• Low-cut filter eliminates wind noise
• On-board chromatic Guitar/Bass tuner

AKG C 414-ULS, (1)
Main Studio Mic, Large diaphragm condenser microphone.
Features like switchable polar patterns (cardioid, hypercardioid, fig 8 or omni), pads and low frequency attenuation make it an ideal tool for difficult recording situations in the studio as well as on the road

The microphone meets the highest professional standards and will withstand normal rough handling in studio applications. The main features are as follows: A twin-diaphragm system enables the selection of different microphone polar patterns. The diaphragm is manufactured from a special gold-flashed plastic foil. The gold layer is deposited onto the diaphragm only on the outer side to prevent short circuiting to the main electrode when extremely high sound pressure levels are applied to the microphone.

Preattenuation has been incorporated to permit the increase of undistorted maximum sound pressure levels by 10 or 20 dB for close-up recordings. This technique inhibits distortion in the small transformers used in the microphone output or sound mixer inputs. The incorporated bass-cut circuitry reduces the risk of distortion at low frequencies. This feature is especially useful in combating wind noise and stage floor vibration. The slope of the bass-cut filter is more than 12 dB per octave, the cut-off frequency may be set to 75 Hz or 150 Hz.

The all-metal housing adds to the rejection of r.f. interference when the microphone is used in close proximity to transmitter stations or in conjunction with wireless microphones or other communication equipment. In addition to extremely wide-range low-distortion performance and temperature/humidity-resistant construction, this mic offers remarkable operational flexibility. 12 - 48V phantom power.

RE50/B - (2)
Handheld Interview Microphone
Omnidirectional dynamic microphone. Industry standard live interview microphone. "Mic-within-a-mic" concept reduces wind and P-popping noise. Features EV DynaDamp™ shock mount. Extremely low handling noise for superior sound. Dynamic omni-directional capsule with camera friendly matte black finish.
pro's trust the RE50 in the harshest conditions.

With an advancement in shock-mounting techniques, these mics were designed particularly for hand-held broadcast and sound reinforcement use. All handling noises, clothing noises and even cord shock have been isolated from the microphone element so that mechanically induced noise is greatly reduced. By use of a high-mass zinc internal acoustic chamber, shock-mounted within the machined aluminum outer casting, the RE50 and RE50/B offer a degree of isolation unprecedented in an omni-directional dynamic microphone.

Specifications:
Element Dynamic
Polar Pattern Omni
Impedance, Low-Z balanced, 150 Ohms
Connector Type 3-pin XLR
Finish Semi-Gloss Camera Black
Case Material Aluminum
Weight Net 269 g ( 9.49 oz )

Electro-Voice 635A-B
635B Live Interview Mic, Black finish - (1)
635A Live Interview Mic, Gray finish - (2)

Best known news gathering microphone in the world. Great sound, and incredible durability. Known as "The Buchanan Hammer" for its rugged durability Number one choice of newscasters. The E-V Model 635A is a dynamic omni-directional microphone designed for exacting professional applications, and is ideally suited for film production, recording, FM, AM, and TV broadcasting, and for the more demanding PA applications.

This microphone features the exclusive non-metallic Electro-Voice Acoustalloy diaphragm that permits a smooth response over a wide frequency range, and withstands high humidity and temperature extremes, corrosive effects of salt air, and severe mechanical shocks. It is practically indestructible with normal use.
A four-stage pop and dust filter insures completely pop-free performance and virtually eliminates the need for an external windscreen for outdoor use. An internal shock absorber effectively reduces pickup of cable and other noise generated by external contact.

D 3800 Dynamic - (1)
The D 3800 Dynamic offers a combination of unsurpassed performance and exclusive features unmatched by any other dynamic vocal microphones. Maximum Flux neodymium/iron-boron rare earth transducer. This high output element, coupled with a uniformly tight hypercardioid pickup pattern, provides exceptional gain-before-feedback right on top of high level stage monitors. Vocal contoured response rises gently starting at 2 kHz to pull vocals in the front of the mix, while a smooth low end boost adds fullness and body. Extremely high SPL levels are handled easily without harshness or boominess.

Patented MMS "Moving Magnet Suspension" system dramatically reduces unwanted mechanical/handling components while a hum suppression coil neutralizes electrically induced interference. PowerGrip housing nestles naturally in the palm, and road tough construction assures never-say-die reliability. Built-in windscreen and pop filter removes for cleaning with a twist of the locking bayonet-mount grille.

Shure SM89 Shotgun Mic - (1)
The Model SM89 is a highly directional condenser shotgun microphone with distant pickup characteristics suitable for on-location film and television production. The SM89 can also be used for theater sound reinforcement, spot news coverage, or wildlife recording. The SM89 discriminates at a distance in favor of desired dialogue or effects and against ambient noise -- even in noisy surroundings.

The on-axis frequency response of the SM89 is very smooth and extended. For clarity and speech intelligibility, a slight presence rise optimizes the high-frequency response to compensate for high-frequency losses. A low-frequency roll-off minimizes pickup of wind, mechanical vibration, ambient noise, and rumble without affecting voice frequencies. The off-axis response of the SM89 is virtually free of comb-filter effects. This is important when it is not possible to aim the microphone precisely or when it is desirable to pick up dialogue or sound from moving sources. SM89 - Includes carrying case and windscreen. Phantom power required Highly directional shotgun mic with superior off-axis rejection to eliminate undesired sound sources over long distances.

Sony ECM-670 - (1)
Electret condenser Super-cardioid microphone with minimum sensitivity to ambient noise

Sensitivity - 44 dB, Impedance - 200 Ohm, Audio Input Details - Super-directional 70 - 16000 Hz 42 dB/mW 200 Ohm, Noise level - 24 dB, Dynamic Range - 101 dB, Max Sound Pressure - 125 dB, Signal-To-Noise Ratio - 70 dB, Microphone Power Source Voltage (DC) - 1.5 V.

RCA Type 77 - (1)
The RCA Type 77-DX Poly-directional Microphone is a high-fidelity microphone of the ribbon type which may easily be adjusted to obtain a variety of directional patterns. Since the MI-4045-F microphone is primarily intended for broadcast use, it is finished in satin chrome and a low-gloss umber-gray enamel. The MI-11006-C microphone is intended for television use and is therefore completely finished in a low-gloss umber-gray enamel which eliminates glaring reflections usually seen on highly polished microphones.

Instead of being open on both sides as in the conventional velocity microphone, the ribbon element in this microphone is coupled to an acoustic labyrinth which forms the body portion of the microphone. The tube connecting the back of the ribbon to the labyrinth is slotted directly behind the ribbon and fitted with an adjustable shutter to secure various areas of opening. When the opening is completely closed, the microphone operates as a non-directional pressure microphone; at the wide-open position the microphone becomes bi-directional. With the proper size opening the pattern becomes a cardioid by virtue of the phase shift which occurs. Openings smaller or larger than this critical size produce directional patterns with various sized rear lobes. Different amounts of low-frequency attenuation are obtained by a reactor shunting the output. These microphones are intended primarily for indoor use and if used outdoors may require some additional protection against the wind.

Rare Electro-Voice 635 -Original Design - (1)
The father of today's 635 series microphones. The Standard of TV News Reporting in the 1960's

The Electro Voice 635 is a High/Low Impedance microphone. This mic works well for harp playing because of its shape and tone. It is a favorite of many harp players. Has a cool, utilitarian look. It has a standard size XlR connection with Dual Impedance switch.. This particular microphone is in good condition for its age. Great Electrovoice tone - deep and rich. Standard XLR connection.

639-type Altec Microphone - (1)
The 639-type Microphone is an excellent general purpose microphone for studio use in broadcasting and recording, and for remote broadcast pickups where it can be given reasonable care in handling. In addition, the several directional patterns will enhance operation of the microphone where audience or background noise must be controlled, and in public address pickups where acoustical feedback would ordinarily take place before a satisfactory reinforcement level could be reached. (Figure 1 shows the angle, in respect to 0°, of minimum pickup, and is useful for orienting the microphone to discriminate against unwanted acoustical feedback and reverberation.)

It is particularly suitable for multi-microphone pickups of a large orchestra group where a sense of realism and an apparent increase of volume level is desired. The general microphone will provide the necessary reverberation which is desirable for realism, and the accent microphones will permit the individual groups to be accented for special musical effects.

Designed by the Bell Telephone Laboratories and originally manufactured by the Western Electric Company, the Altec 639A and 639B Multi-Pattern Cardioid microphones have, for years, enjoyed an unprecedented acceptance by all phases of the audio industry. Indeed, it may be stated that the majority of all wide-range sound recording—from its initial appearance on motion picture soundtracks to the present achievement of magnetic tape—has employed one or more Altec 639 microphones in virtually all phases of production.

Electro-Voice Model 667A - (1)
The Electro-Voice Model 667A is a dynamic cardioid microphone designed for boom mounting in broadcasting and recording. Not simply an improvisation on existing equipment, the 667A has been created specifically to overcome the problems encountered in boom applications.

A specially designed shock mount provides effective isolation from mechanical noise, and the integral Acoustifoam™ windscreen virtually eliminates noise caused by motion of the microphone through the air. Unusually light in weight, the 667A is easily maneuverable. The shock isolation and windscreen systems are readily removable for service or replacement. Very low sensitivity to induced hum permits use close to lights, AC lines, etc.

Sennheiser HD201Pro ClosedBack Headphone - (1)
The HD201 has good attenuation of ambient noise and outstanding wearing comfort at an affordable price.

Transducer Principle: Dynamic
Frequency Response: 21 18,000 Hz
Nominal Impedance: 24 Ohm
Weight Without Cable: 165 g
Ear Coupling: Circumaural
Max Spl External Noise: (1 kHz, 1 Vrms) 108 dB
Distortion: < 0.7 %
Sennheiser HD201 Pro Closed Back Headphones.