Make Your Rode PodMic Sound Like a Shure SM7B for $20

Summary

In this detailed comparison, the Rode PodMic and Shure SM7B microphones are tested for audio quality and performance. The PodMic, priced at $100, is pitted against the legendary $400 SM7B. The video explores the use of a $20 windscreen to enhance the PodMic's performance, addressing plosive issues and achieving a balanced sound. The comparison also delves into equalization techniques to match the microphones for a harmonious sound in dual setups. The script provides practical insights for podcasters and streamers seeking the best audio experience within varying budgets.

Takeaways

• 🎤 The Rode PodMic is a newer microphone priced at around $100, whereas the Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone with a price tag of about $400.
• 🆚 A comparison video last year sparked a lot of opinions, and the creator has since found a solution to improve the PodMic's performance.
• 🔊 Both microphones were tested without any effects or special processing, only adjusting the gain levels to ensure an even level of sound.
• 📈 The PodMic's gain was set to +35, while the SM7B required +40 due to its higher gain needs.
• 🔊 It's suggested that using a cloud lifter or gain booster with these microphones could enhance their sound quality, but the creator prefers a direct connection to the mixer.
• 🎵 The creator has been satisfied with the PodMic's performance without additional equipment for over a year and a half.
• 🔍 Adobe Audition can be used to reduce background hiss by analyzing the noise floor, but it's not always necessary for the creator's needs.
• 🎚 The PodMic has a built-in pop filter, but it's not very effective, requiring users to adjust their mic technique to avoid plosive sounds.
• 🎙 The Shure SM7B, on the other hand, handles plosives better and has a fuller, richer, and smoother sound out of the box.
• 💰 A $20 windscreen for the PodMic, the WS2, significantly improves its performance by allowing direct speaking without plosives.
• 🎛 With basic equalization, it's possible to match the sound of the PodMic with the SM7B, making them suitable for use together in a podcast or streaming scenario.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to compare the Rode PodMic and the Shure SM7B microphones in terms of sound quality, features, and value for money.

What is the price difference between the Rode PodMic and the Shure SM7B?

The Rode PodMic is priced at about $100, whereas the Shure SM7B is typically sold for around $400.

What is the significance of the Rodecaster Pro in this comparison?

The Rodecaster Pro is used as the mixer for both microphones in the test, ensuring that the comparison is based solely on the microphones' performance without any additional processing or effects.

How does the video address the issue of plosives with the Rode PodMic?

The video suggests using a proper mic technique to avoid plosives, and also introduces the use of the Rode WS2 windscreen to reduce plosive sounds when speaking directly into the PodMic.

What is the difference in sound quality between the Rode PodMic and the Shure SM7B as described in the video?

The Rode PodMic tends to have more high-end sound and less bass, while the Shure SM7B has a fuller, richer, and smoother sound with more noticeable low end.

What is the role of Adobe Audition in the video?

Adobe Audition is mentioned as a tool for post-processing to reduce background hiss by creating a noise sample from silent parts of the recording and then using it to de-noise the audio.

What is the purpose of the Rode WS2 windscreen?

The Rode WS2 windscreen is used to improve the Rode PodMic's performance by reducing plosive sounds and slightly adjusting the microphone's frequency response.

How does the video suggest matching the sound of the Rode PodMic with the Shure SM7B?

The video suggests using equalization, specifically a bass boost for the Rode PodMic, to match the fuller sound of the Shure SM7B.

What is the significance of the windscreen that comes with the Shure SM7B?

The windscreen that comes with the Shure SM7B is a big, fluffy windscreen that helps to reduce plosives and requires minimal mic technique, allowing anyone to speak into it with good sound quality.

What additional item did the video creator receive from Rode, and how did they get it?

The video creator received an official Rode baseball hat as a consolation prize from Rode for participating in the 'My Podcast, My Rodecast Podcast Competition' without winning.

How does the video creator's wife, Heather, relate to the content of the video?

Heather is mentioned as the one who came up with the idea for a previous blindfolded microphone comparison video and has her own YouTube channel called 'Heather Just Create'.