Multi-use Stereo Microphone
by Griffin Technology
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Customers in the UK,
Buy this product at amazon.co.uk
for British Pounds
Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: Griffin TechnologyAudio: English (Original Language)
Format: CD
Model: 0404-LAP
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Multi-use Stereo Microphone
Customer Review: Ok, but a bit disappointing
Summary: 3 Stars
I bought this mic to use with the iTalk because there was so much popping and other noise when recording with the iTalk. I had read that there was internal noise from the disk drive in the iPod that was getting picked up, and that an external microphone would solve that. Well, first of all, the source of all that noise is NOT the internal disk drive or any other type of internal vibration or noise. The source of the noise is using the "Automatic Gain" option on the iTalk. If instead you use the "High Gain" option with your iTalk, all that noise disappears. So, it appears that Griffin's automatic sound level algorithm is garbage. Once it switched to high gain and off of automatic gain, all those noises disappeared! I tumbled to this fact when this external microphone also seemed to be picking up all kinds of clicking noises, just like the iTalk had been doing. In fact, it sounded worse with this microphone. Again, when I switched to "high gain", all the clicking noises just disappeared both with this microphone and with the iTalk's own microphone.
So, how do you switch from automatic gain to high gain? Press and hold the iTalk's button for 2 seconds and you will get a screen that allows you to select what type of gain you want. The default is "automatic". Press the button once and low gain will be selected. Press it again and high gain is selected. Then press and hold the button for 2 seconds again to save the option and return to the recording screen. I believe this option is reset to automatic everytime you insert the iTalk so be sure to check every time you use the iTalk to record.
So, once we solved the noise problem, how do the two microphones (this one and the iTalk built-in) compare? The iTalk built-in microphone sounds much better. The frequency response has more sound from the low end and your voice sounds much more natural. This microphone doesn't have the low end and everything sounds high and a bit tinny. So, I wouldn't buy or use this microphone unless you need to have a microphone on a cable away from the iPod, and if you are willing to sacrifice some sound quality.
Description of Multi-use Stereo Microphone
Lapel Mic offers high quality stereo or mono audio input for recording interviews, lectures and other events. Griffin Lapel Mic features quality stereo sound, a standard 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, and a swivel clip for ease of use.This multipurpose lapel microphone offers quality stereo audio input for recording interviews, lectures and other events. An iPod equipped with the Griffin iTalk voice recorder instantly becomes a mobile recording unit. The addition of a Lapel Mic adds flexibility and ease of use. Lapel Mic also works with the Griffin iMic and PowerWave for stereo recording and is ideal for voice-recognition software such as iListen.Lapel Mic is a great new accessory for iPod owners everywhere. For reporters, presenters, and students, Lapel Mic combines the versatility of the iPod with the comfort and ease of use of a high-quality microphone.Packaging: Retail PkgDigital Cameras & Photo Categories