If your audio input signal quality is poor, the subsequent recording will be poor, unless you spend a lot of time, energy and smart computing software cleaning it up. That is why it makes sense to use a high quality microphone for recording whenever possible and that's where this product comes in.
However, first, a grumble. You might think that with a name like Desktop Recording Kit and packaging which shows a photograph of a microphone, pair of headphones and a laptop displaying recording software, that you were getting quite a package, but what you get essentially is a high quality microphone, a couple of connecting cables, an adapter and a stand. Admittedly, the box does have a tiny sticker telling you audio software is not included, but you do feel a little short-changed when you open the box.
This is shame, because overall, this is a very good audio package for what it is designed to offer. It’s got a good quality cardioid condenser microphone (its frequency range is 30Hz to 20kHz), two sets of connecting cables, a tiny tripod stand and a cable adapter.
The microphone is large, well-built (it feels reassuringly solid) and is powered by a 9-volt battery (so no need for an external power supply and the battery is included). Being a cardioid microphone means that is most sensitive to sound coming directly from the front, rather than from the sides or rear.
A large sticker informs you that condenser microphones are sensitive to moisture and so anyone doing close vocal work (such as singing or narrating) is strongly advised to use a pop filter or wind screen to protect the microphone. It’s a shame that one of these wasn’t supplied with the package. However, you do get a very nice plastic protective carry case with foam inserts.
Setting up the microphone is simple – you just unscrew a couple of sections, insert the battery and then plug in one of the connecting cables. Also included is a useful guide to getting the best from your microphone, with advice for using it with a guitar (acoustic and electric), piano, drums and a vocalist.
The microphone is designed to be connected to a variety of devices including a PC, audio recorder/mixer and a portable audio recorder, such as a MiniDisc recorder or an iPod (using a special adapter). You can of course, record sounds or music in the field.
I used the microphone with a laptop PC and the results were excellent - the clarity you get from a good microphone is amazing. My only gripe was that the connecting cable is only around 44cm in length so you have to stay pretty close to the recording device. That said, if you’re looking for a versatile, good quality microphone, then this is highly recommended. Just don’t forget to bring your own PC and software.
MXL DRK Microphone and accessories kit
Price: £89 (inc VAT)
Yamaha 0870 445575
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