> Hello,I have started out with a H4N recorder and have found the built in =
mics disappointing. =C2=A0I have been reading through posts re newbies buyi=
ng microphones and get the idea that it depends on budget and what you want=
to record. =C2=A0Ideally, I would like to spend no more than $200 (and am =
open to second hand deals) - could go to $300, if all the wind fluffies and=
shock mounts were included. =C2=A0
TJ,
This is a frequent question and there are many and various replies. First o=
f
all, do you want to go stereo? If so there are a bewildering number of
arrays and stereo more or less doubles the price for the same quality.
It's your decision whether to go for a stereo mic straight away or to start=
with a mono mic and add stereo afterwards, but that is often not as easy as=
it sounds. If you buy second hand, you can also sell second hand when you
upgrade.
Internal mic noise is an important parameter, and that is what you pay mone=
y
to minimise. However, good affordable mics are available, both mono and
stereo, and certainly look for second hand. You will find a lot of guff
about quality and mic frequency responses, but a low mic noise level is mor=
e
important - and more expensive. As soon as you put a mic inside a
windshield, its expensive frequency response is messed up anyway.
For any outdoor recording, a good windshield is essential and these can cos=
t
as much as a good "affordable" mic by itself, but it is possible to make on=
e
if you are adept with your hands. The "blimp" type will last for years and=
make or get one that can take both mono and stereo mics.
David Brinicombe
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