USB to XLR--opinions at DVinfo.net

Jeff Rhode · January 28th, 2007, 04:23 PM

We have a specific need to use a mic connected directlly to our Macs to collect audio for web content voice overs. Up until now we have been using the Samson C01U Cardioid USB Condenser Microphone. I recently came across this cable that converts USB to XLR, so we can use any mic we have, which will be higher quality than the Samson.
Any pros or cons that anyone can see ?

http://www.soundtech.com./lightsnake/xlr10.asp

Here are the specs :
Resolution: 16 bit 48/44.1Khz
THD + N (-3dBr): -76.1 dB
SNR: 83.1 dB
Dynamic Range: 81.6 dB
Input impedance: 1M Ohms
Frequency Response 48KHz: 20 - 19.2K Hz
Signal Input Range: 0 - 2.88 Vpp
Signal Boost Gain: +20 dB

Steve House · January 28th, 2007, 05:09 PM

Some pretty poor numbers there, especially the S/N ratio. Compare the listed rating of 83dB with even a Soundblaster Audigy at 108dB or good quality audio interfaces at between 110 to 118 dB.

Seth Bloombaum · January 28th, 2007, 06:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeff Rhode

...I recently came across this cable that converts USB to XLR, so we can use any mic we have, which will be higher quality than the Samson...

Well, not really "any mic you have". Near as I can figure out from the web site, the cable interface does not provide phantom power.

If you have a dynamic mic that sounds better than the Samson, then you're in business.

If you're wanting to use a better-quality condensor mic, I highly recommend the M-Audio MobilePre USB, which will function as an external sound card with great specs and phantom power, too. I use one for remote apps with a laptop, it's great. Street price about $150.

January 28th, 2007, 04:23 PM	#1
Jeff Rhode Regular Crew Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: NJ, USA Posts: 169	USB to XLR--opinions We have a specific need to use a mic connected directlly to our Macs to collect audio for web content voice overs. Up until now we have been using the Samson C01U Cardioid USB Condenser Microphone. I recently came across this cable that converts USB to XLR, so we can use any mic we have, which will be higher quality than the Samson. Any pros or cons that anyone can see ? http://www.soundtech.com./lightsnake/xlr10.asp Here are the specs : Resolution: 16 bit 48/44.1Khz THD + N (-3dBr): -76.1 dB SNR: 83.1 dB Dynamic Range: 81.6 dB Input impedance: 1M Ohms Frequency Response 48KHz: 20 - 19.2K Hz Signal Input Range: 0 - 2.88 Vpp Signal Boost Gain: +20 dB

January 28th, 2007, 05:09 PM	#2
Steve House Inner Circle Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Posts: 5,742	Some pretty poor numbers there, especially the S/N ratio. Compare the listed rating of 83dB with even a Soundblaster Audigy at 108dB or good quality audio interfaces at between 110 to 118 dB. __________________ Good news, Cousins! This week's chocolate ration is 15 grams!