Headphone Microphone Combo
Headphone Microphone Combo
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 Azden 325ULH Dual Channel Portable Wireless Microphone System NEW  US $769.97
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 AVID M AUDIO VOCAL STUDIO V2 USB MICROPHONEPRO TOOLS SOFTWARE RECORDING PACKAGE US $96.51
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 Sennheiser EW112P G3 Wireless Lav Camera System G Band Zoom H4n Recorder US $699.00
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 Focusrite Liquid Channel PROAUDIOSTAR US $1,599.00
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 Blue Microphones Yeti USB Condenser Microphone The Pop Universal Filter Kit US $149.99
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 SHURE PSM 200 IN EAR MONITORS FOR FOUR BAND MEMBERS COMPLETE PACKAGE GREAT PRICE US $1,586.00
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 Galaxy Audio GALAXY AS900K1 WIRELESS IN EAR MON SYS FIX US $49.00
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 Sennheiser EW122P G3 EW122 P Wireless Lav Mic G Band w Zoom H4n US $699.00
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 Samson Airline Micro Wireless Camera Lav Mic SystemN6 Band Zoom H4n Recorder US $449.00
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 Blue Microphones Yeti USB Microphone Bundle w Boom Microphone Stand Pop Filter US $149.99
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 Focusrite Octopre Dynamic MK2 MKII PROAUDIOSTAR US $519.99
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 Blue Microphones Snowball Plug Play USB Black KIT NEW US $99.99
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 Sennheiser EW 112P EW112P G3 Wireless Lav Mic G Band w Tascam DR 40 US $659.00
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 CAD Recording Studio Dual Microphone and Headphone Package GXL2200SP NEW US $179.99
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 Sennheiser MKH 416 Short Shotgun Interference Tube Mic w Zoom H4n XLR Cable US $999.95
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 Blue Microphones Yeti USB Condenser Plug Play KIT NEW US $149.99
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 Sennheiser EW100ENG G3 Camera Wireless Mic Kit A Band w Zoom H4n Recorder US $899.00
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 EV Electro Voice RE20 Dynamic Micrphone US $429.00
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 Audio Technica ATR2500 USB Side Address Studio Condenser Microphone With Usb US $65.18
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 Audio Technica AT2020 Condenser Microphone w Blue Icicle USB Mic Preamp US $115.00
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 Gemini VHF1001HL VHF Headset Lav Wireless System New US $49.99
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 Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL 1 Single Channel Mic Activator CL1 PROAUDIOSTAR US $149.00
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 New Shure PG14 PG30 Wireless Headset Microphone System US $299.00
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 Audix DP7 DP 7 Piece FREE EXPRESS SHIPPING Drum Microphone Kit Mic i5 D2 D4 D6 US $899.00
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 CAD U1 USB Recording Microphone Bundle US $49.99
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 Gemini UHF 216M Dual Handheld Wireless Mic System New US $149.99
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 Audix DP7 Drum Microphone KIt Dynamic Mic DP 7 Extended Warranty US $899.00
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 On Stage MPCOMBO75 75Ft Pwrd Speaker Connect Cable Specialty Cable New US $159.59
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 On Stage MPCOMBO100 100Ft Pwr Speaker Connect Cbl Specialty Cable New US $179.99
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 On Stage MPCOMBO25 25Ft Pwrd Speaker Connect Cable Specialty Cable New US $64.99
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 Neve 1073 Classic Reissue Mic Preamp Module USED Scott US $3,300.00
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 CAD U9 Microphone 50 Hz to 18 kHz Plug in Detachable USB Mini phone US $33.10
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 Audio Technica ATR2100 USB Microphone 50 Hz to 15 kHz Wired Dynamic US $53.06
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 Audix FP QUAD Fusion Drum Mic Package F6 F5 F9 Pair Extended Warranty US $399.00
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 Samson SW7AVSCE N4 AL77 Wireless Headset Mic System With Qe Channel 4 US $310.00
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 Telex AEF3 AEF 3 Ear Loop clip Wireless microphone lavalier Sennheiser Shure US $9.00
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 AKG C 414 C414 XLII ST Condenser Microphones Stereo Set w Zoom H4n XLR Cables US $2,199.00
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 Sennheiser EW122P G3 EW122 P Wireless Lav Mic G Band w Roland R 26 Recorder US $999.00
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 Sennheiser EW122P G3 EW122 P Wireless Lav Mic B Band w Roland R 26 Recorder US $999.00
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 Audix DPQuad Mic Drum Microphone Set Headphones Cables Extended Warranty US $599.00
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 Sennheiser EW122P G3 EW122 P Wireless Lav Mic A Band w Roland R 26 Recorder US $999.00
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 Shure PSM200 Wireless In Ear Monitor w SE115 CL Earphones PSM P2TR 115CL US $599.00
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 Shure UR14S Bodypack Wireless Instrument System US $2,679.00
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 Shure UR14D Wireless Dual Channel Receiver with Two US $4,419.00
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 Audio Technica AT4041 Cardioid Condenser Microphone US $299.01
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 RØDE K2 US $699.00
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 Shure PG188 PG185 Dual Lavalier Wireless System US $549.00
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 Pyle Speaker and Mic System Package US $174.38
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 Audix DP7 Drum Mic Package 7 piece Road Case US $899.00
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 DBX 286s Mic Preamp Processor Channel Strip New US $199.95
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Blue Bluebird Microphone & Dt770 Headphone Pack $499.99 Includes a Blue Bluebird large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone and Beyerdynamic Pro-80 headphones.Like its namesake, the Bluebird really sings. This multipurpose condenser mic is great for vocals, guitars, and close-miking drums and acoustic instruments. A perfect match for Blue's high-quality sound, DT770 headphones are like strapping a pair of expensive studio monitors around your head, only way more comfortable. Their closed design virtually eliminates headphone-bleed into the mic. Plus their excellent sound reproduction and noise rejection lets you easily hear the minute changes in sound quality as you position your Bluebird mic for best effect. Bluebird Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Designed to deliver the same high-quality audio that mic users have come to expect from Blue. Boasting a unique look and highly versatile performance, this pressure gradient cardioid microphone uses Blue's renowned mic technology and a Class-A discrete amplifier circuit. The Bluebird microphone can be used in any number of applications, from vocals to guitars, close-miking of drums or drum overheads, percussion, piano, horns, strings, or anywhere else where crystal-clear sound is the top concern. DT 770 Pro-80 Closed Studio HeadphonesClosed back, diffuse-field headphones featuring bass reflex technology for improved bass response and clinically accurate high and mid-range reproduction. Rugged headband construction. Single-sided cable.Bluebird Cardioid MicrophoneFrequency response: 20Hz - 20kHzSensitivity: 27mV/Pa138dB max. SPLLow self-noise specification (>7.5dB)High output level (+12cBV)Class A discrete amplifier circuitTonal character makes it ideal for recording almost any instrument or vocalsDT 770 Pro-80Closed-back, diffuse field designBass reflex technology for extended bass responseAccurate high and mid-range reproductionRugged headband constructionSingle-sided cable |
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Traynor K1 Keyboard Combo Amp $529 The Traynor K1 keyboard amplifier offers comprehensive features and crystal clear acoustic reproduction in an ultra-compact combo amp. Built for maximum versatility, the 120-watt K1 amp can be used upright for projecting across a stage, on a typical speaker stand when used as a single speaker micro PA, or as a personal wedge monitor. The Traynor K1 Amp tucks easily under a keyboard rig on even the most crowded stage. The simple yet effective input section of the K1 combo amp provides one stereo input with EQ, a second full function mono channel with an XLR combi-jack microphone jack and EQ, a third mono channel with 1/4-inch TRS balanced input, and an additional pair of RCA auxiliary inputs ideal for CD or MP3 players. The Traynor K1 Keyboard Amp uses a single, 10" low-frequency woofer and a 4.75-inch high-frequency driver in the 120W mono combo. A Link jack in the master section allows two K1 amps to be connected, combining the full mixing functions of both units when creating a true stereo 240W system. Classic Traynor K Series features such as a balanced line output, speaker-canceling headphone jack, all metal bar handles, and speaker stand mount adaptor are also included. The Traynor K1 Keyboard Amplifier is built in North America using solid, marine-grade cabinet construction and an all-metal punched grill to protect the amp's high quality speaker components.Ultra-compact 120W wedge-format keyboard amplifier Full mixer features on input Stereo link function Integrated standmount adaptor Rubber feet on bottom and sides for convenient, compact storage Full punched metal grille Headphone and 1/4" balanced post-EQ, Pre-master line outs Solid plywood cabinet construction Two-year warranty |
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Presonus Hp60 6-Channel Headphone Amplifier $299.95 The PreSonus HP60 is among the most flexible and advanced headphone amplifier systems available for professional and project recording studios as well as live sound in-ear monitoring systems. Loaded with six independent, loud and clear headphone amplifiers, the rackmountable HP60 features dual stereo inputs as well as external input, for each channel allowing you to mix between three stereo audio streams (mix A, mix B, and external input). Stereo output is also available on each channel to send line level headphone channel mixes to additional headphone amplifiers or monitor systems.Each channel features headphone level, mix control between A and B inputs, external input volume, mute and mono. The HP60 also features talkback via external XLR microphone input.A common set up for the Presonus HP60 Headphone Amplifier in a recording session is to send the main control room mix to input A. Send the click track to input B. Send each band member the direct output of their recording channel from the DAW to the external input of their headphone channel in the HP60 (more me). This will allow each band member to create a mix between the main mix, the click track, and themselves.Six independent ultra low noise, high output headphone amplifiers (150 mW per channel)Two sets of stereo inputs (A and B) with balanced TRS connectorsStereo external input point on each channel for "more me" with trim controlMix control between inputs A and BTalkback with external XLR microphone with controlDirect stereo line output on each channel |
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Blue Yeti USB Microphone $149 The Blue Yeti USB mic combines 3 capsules and 4 different pattern settings, making it an ideal USB microphone for creating amazing recordings directly to your computer. THX Certified for exceptional sound and performance, the Blue Yeti microphone captures any sound with a clarity and ease previously unheard of in a USB microphone. The Yeti mic is equipped with Blue's innovative triple capsule array, allowing for recording in stereo or your choice of 3 polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional, giving you recording capabilities usually requiring multiple microphones. The Blue Yeti uses a high-quality analog-to-digital converter to send incredible audio fidelity directly into your computer. A built-in headphone amplifier offers zero-latency monitoring. Simple controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain located directly on the microphone make the Blue Yeti as easy to use as it is versatile and exceptional in sound quality. The Yeti microphone's exceptional performance and fidelity have earned it the distinction of being the first THX Certified Microphone, a validation of the Blue microphone's incredibly low distortion, high fidelity, and balanced frequency response. There are no drivers to install—simply plug the Blue Yeti microphone into your PC or Mac's USB port, load up your favorite recording software, and record something amazing. |
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Peavey Nano Vypyr 7W 1X8 Guitar Combo Amp $169.99 The Peavey Nano Vypyr guitar combo amp packs 11 amp models and 36 effects combinations into one tiny package. The Nano Vypyr brings the tones and technology on the award-winning Vypyr Series to a portable modeling guitar amp that can be powered by an AC adapter or batteries.The Nano Vypyr features 11 exclusive analog amp models. It also features global bass, mid, treble and gain controls to adjust the tones of each model. The preamp section is based on Peaveys patented analog TransTube technology, while the power section is lightweight class D.The Peavey Nano Vypyr also has a built-in DSP section that includes chorus, wah, compression, compression/chorus, flanger, octave, tremolo, rotary speaker, reverb and delay with tap tempo, with 36 possible combinations. An effects control knob adjusts multiple parameters for each effect at once, while the optional expression pedal gives users real-time parameters control over the effects. Additional features include a microphone input with level, chromatic tuner, auxiliary input and headphone output.7W8 speaker in a 10 tilt-back enclosure11 amp models: two clean models, two overdrive models, two rock models, two metal models, two lead models and one acoustic model36 effects combinations: chorus, wah, compression, compression/chorus, flanger, octaver, tremolo or rotary speaker, plus delay and/or reverb on any effectTap tempo for delayParameter control on all effectsTransTube analog preampClass D power ampMaster volumeGain controlThree-band EQBattery (four D-cell) or AC poweredBuilt-in chromatic tuner1/8 auxiliary input1/8 recording/headphone out1/4 microphone input with level control |
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Cad U2 Usb Headset With Microphone $39.99 The CAD U2 USB Headset with Microphone offers you a comfortable headband and soft ear pads, and a gooseneck microphone with boom. It's lightweight and durable, Windows and Macintosh compatible.VoIP compatible: Call friends and relatives over the internetPowerful headphone amplifier for full listening fidelityCardioid microphone pickup pattern for minimal background noiseFlexible gooseneck for easy microphone placement10' USB cable for more freedom |
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Blue Yeti Usb Microphone $149 The Blue Yeti USB mic combines 3 capsules and 4 different pattern settings, making it an ideal USB microphone for creating amazing recordings directly to your computer. THX Certified for exceptional sound and performance, the Blue Yeti microphone captures any sound with a clarity and ease previously unheard of in a USB microphone. The Yeti mic is equipped with Blue's innovative triple capsule array, allowing for recording in stereo or your choice of 3 polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional, giving you recording capabilities usually requiring multiple microphones. The Blue Yeti uses a high-quality analog-to-digital converter to send incredible audio fidelity directly into your computer. A built-in headphone amplifier offers zero-latency monitoring. Simple controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain located directly on the microphone make the Blue Yeti as easy to use as it is versatile and exceptional in sound quality. The Yeti microphone's exceptional performance and fidelity have earned it the distinction of being the first THX Certified Microphone, a validation of the Blue microphone's incredibly low distortion, high fidelity, and balanced frequency response. There are no drivers to install - simply plug the Blue Yeti microphone into your PC or Mac's USB port, load up your favorite recording software, and record something amazing.4 settings: bidirectional, omnidirectional, cardioid, stereo Master volume Mute button Proprietary tri-capsule array Mic gain control Zero-latency headphone output with amplifier & volume control USB mini jack Standard threaded mic stand mount Custom base with cable management |
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Aer Alpha 40W 1X8 Acoustic Guitar Combo Amp Black $899 The AER Alpha is a compact combo amp for acoustic instruments. It has one channel with 2 individual inputs that allow parallel use of instrument and microphone, even though the instrument is the main focus. Inputs each have their own gain knob. Birch plywood cabinet provides great tone projection and is road tough. Dynamic controlled 40 Watts RMS and the 8" twin-cone speaker system give perfect performance at all sound pressure levels. Onboard reverb, external effects loop and headphone out.The Alpha amplifier defines the starting point of serious acoustic amplification at AER. Based on the success and the experience with the Compact 60 they have developed an even smaller, lightweight model that has no difficulties living up to the rigors of the road. Amazingly reduced, without losing what is essential for superb performance - the Alpha is a full size member of the AER product family. Open sounding and quick in response, this guitar amp masters different ranges and is not afraid of bigger instruments.EffectsThe AER Alpha has an integrated (internal) digital reverb effect on board. The return control determines the intensity of the effect (as far to the left as possible means no effect). Furthermore, a supplementary effect device can be connected (external effect). For this purpose, use the sockets send and return at the rear of Alpha to connect the external device (send to the input, return from the output of the external effect). The intensity will then be set by the controls of external effect device. A standard double foot switch can be connected to the footswitch socket on the rear of the amp with a stereo cable. This switch can be used to turn the internal and external effects on and off.Front panelCombination XLR male and 1/4" inch input with individual gain knobLine/mic preamp mode selector switch line: sources with line level, instruments with active preamplifiers and magnetic sound pick-ups, mic: symmetrical microphone input with 24V phantom source1/4" input 2 line level with individual gain knobPad switch to adjust input sensitivity up position: standard line level down position: reduction by 10 db/VLED Clip overload indicator for both channelsColor mid-range contour filter, only active for input 2Bass, middle, treble, effect return and master levels for both inputsOn LEDOutputsPhones: headphone outputLine-out: preamplifier output post-master controlDI-out: XLR output pre master control effect loop mono, parallel send: output, to input of an external deviceReturn: input, from output of an external device or from another signal source, e.g. CD playerFootswitch: connection to a double foot switch-to-switch internal and external effect on and offPower: combined mains switch with a mains socket and a fuse holder (1 a slow-blow)Accessory: 3/8" microphone stand adapterCarrying bag |
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Blue Bluebird Mic & DT770 Headphone Pack $499.99 Includes a Blue Bluebird large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone and Beyerdynamic Pro-80 headphones.Like its namesake, the Bluebird really sings. This multipurpose condenser mic is great for vocals, guitars, and close-miking drums and acoustic instruments. A perfect match for Blue's high-quality sound, DT770 headphones are like strapping a pair of expensive studio monitors around your head, only way more comfortable. Their closed design virtually eliminates headphone-bleed into the mic. Plus their excellent sound reproduction and noise rejection lets you easily hear the minute changes in sound quality as you position your Bluebird mic for best effect. Bluebird Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Designed to deliver the same high-quality audio that mic users have come to expect from Blue. Boasting a unique look and highly versatile performance, this pressure gradient cardioid microphone uses Blue's renowned mic technology and a Class-A discrete amplifier circuit. The Bluebird microphone can be used in any number of applications, from vocals to guitars, close-miking of drums or drum overheads, percussion, piano, horns, strings, or anywhere else where crystal-clear sound is the top concern. DT 770 Pro-80 Closed Studio HeadphonesClosed back, diffuse-field headphones featuring bass reflex technology for improved bass response and clinically accurate high and mid-range reproduction. Rugged headband construction. Single-sided cable. |
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Blue Yeti USB Microphone 886830132971 $74.5 The Blue Yeti USB mic combines 3 capsules and 4 different pattern settings, making it an ideal USB microphone for creating amazing recordings directly to your computer. THX Certified for exceptional sound and performance, the Blue Yeti microphone captures any sound with a clarity and ease previously unheard of in a USB microphone. The Yeti mic is equipped with Blue's innovative triple capsule array, allowing for recording in stereo or your choice of 3 polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional, giving you recording capabilities usually requiring multiple microphones. The Blue Yeti uses a high-quality analog-to-digital converter to send incredible audio fidelity directly into your computer. A built-in headphone amplifier offers zero-latency monitoring. Simple controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain located directly on the microphone make the Blue Yeti as easy to use as it is versatile and exceptional in sound quality. The Yeti microphone's exceptional performance and fidelity have earned it the distinction of being the first THX Certified Microphone, a validation of the Blue microphone's incredibly low distortion, high fidelity, and balanced frequency response. There are no drivers to install—simply plug the Blue Yeti microphone into your PC or Mac's USB port, load up your favorite recording software, and record something amazing. |
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Used Shure 512 Headset Microphone $109.19 The Shure 512 headset microphone consists of the popular SM10A microphone element mounted on a lightweight headband with a single earphone. The Model 512 mic combines an efficient "open-air" headphone with a close-talking dynamic microphone. The unit is unobtrusive, durable, comfortable, and provides a wide frequency range.The 512 microphone was designed for sports and news announcing, intercommunications systems, and special events remote broadcasting. It offers convenient handsfree operation, and a lightweight frame to reduce user fatigue. The mic's unidirectional pickup pattern reduces unwanted background noise, permitting its use in noisy environments. The microphone characteristics are tightly controlled resulting in consistent response and output, and the headphone response is tailored to enhance voice intelligibility.The headband easily adjusts to fit a variety of head sizes and hairstyles, and the microphone boom can be adjusted to accurately place the microphone cartridge at the corner of the user's mouth. This hands-free Shure microphone is supplied with a foam windscreen to reduce explosive "popping" sounds, and a cable clip to secure the cable to clothing.Close-talking dynamic microphone with a single earpiece and attached 7 ft. cableIdeal for voice recognition or communication in production environmentsCardioid dynamicFrequency response of 50 to 15,000 HzIncludes foam windscreen and cable clip |
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Headset Buddy:(01-PC35-PH35) PC Headset to 3.5mm Smartphone Adapter: Convert Dual 3.5mm to 3.5mm, PC Computer Headset to iPhone, Blackberry, Droid, Palm, Samsung, LG, HTC List Price: $14.95 Sale Price: $12.95  |
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If you already have a nice PC Headset, why buy another headset for your smartphone, tablet, or netbook? Just buy the PC Headset Buddy Adapter and save yourself money, clutter, and time! Just plug in the PC Headset Buddy for Smartphones and use your existing PC computer headset with 3... |
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Cyber AcousticsStereo Headset/Microphone, Ambidextrous design AC-201 List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $7.69 Used From: $7.61 |
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Cyber AcousticsStereo Headset/Microphone, Ambidextrous design AC-201 |
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Frisby Super Bass Computer Headphone Microphone Combo with In-line Volume Control Sale Price: $12.85 |
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Looking for a single headset for both listening to music and communicating via your PC with a strong bass? FRISBY MSK-814VR got it all, leather ear pads , in line volume control, rope wire instead of metal wire so no wire cut or disconnection problem and attached microphone gives you the flexibility to do it all... |
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Belkin F8V234-WHT-APL Headphone Splitter List Price: $9.98 Sale Price: $1.49 |
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The Belkin Headphone Splitter lets you connect two stereo headphones into a single mini-stereo jack on your iPod, MP3 player, or any device with a 3.5-mm audio jack. With the splitter, you and your friend can listen to music at the same time... |
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iMicro SP-IM942 Headset with Microphone List Price: $22.99 Sale Price: $4.45 Used From: $5.41 |
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If you need a decent headset mic/headphone combo, this is an ultra-affordable option from iMicro. Use this comfortable headset to listen to your favorite music on your PC, for audio or video conferencing, for practicing with language software, or anything else requiring a mic and headphones... |
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Logitech Stereo Headset H250 - Graphite (981-000353) List Price: $29.99 Sale Price: $21.97 Used From: $9.99 |
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Logitech Stereo Headset H250. Chat and listen in comfort. Enjoy clear calls and rich stereo sound from this all-purpose headset with an adjustable padded headband and in-line audio controls. |
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Headset Buddy Adapter 01-PH25-PC35 Phone Headset to PC Adapter List Price: $16.99 Sale Price: $9.95 Used From: $9.97 |
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Why buy and carry around another headset for your PC? Use your existing 2.5mm phone headset with your PC computer that has 3.5mm plugs! A big productivity enhancer for home businesses, sales people, road warriors, or anyone who is on the phone all the time, but doesn't want to carry two headsets, one for the computer, and one for the phone... |
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Logitech Stereo Headset H230 List Price: $24.99 Sale Price: $9.70 Used From: $4.90 |
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This sleek analog headset gives you four different looks. Just swap out the color faceplates to match your personal style and start enjoying your Internet calls, music, movies and games in clear, full stereo sound... |
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Blue Microphones Yeti USB Condenser Plug-and-Play Microphone with Studio Headphones and Microphone Pop Filter Sale Price: $149.95 |
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Create unparalleled recordings and send them directly to your computer with Blue Microphone's Yeti USB Microphone. As the world's first THX-Certified microphone, the Yeti uses Blue Microphone's proprietary tri-capsule technology to produce pristine, studio-quality recordings... |
Mac Mini Review
First impressions
What sets the Mac mini apart from every other computers, including Mac computers, is its size. At just 5 cm (2 inches) high, and 16.5 cm (6.5 inches) square, its dimensions are remarkable. When compared to the bulky horizontal cases and towers of so many similarly priced machines, the Mac Mini is in a class of its own.
This isn’t the full story, of course, but on size alone, the Mac mini offers a space-saving opportunity for PC owners to switch to a Mac and retain their existing monitor, keyboard, mouse and other peripherals. It’s even possible, thanks to a Belkin KVM switch, to retain your PC, put a Mac mini nearby, and change from one to the other as you wish without rearranging your desk.
Technical specs and performance
On the technical side, the latest Mac mini models are also well worth a look. They now have Intel Core 2 Duo processors of either 1.83GHz or 2GHz. These processors are from Intel’s 65 nanometre family with 64 bit architecture. To complement them, Apple has added 2MB of L2 cache for the 1.83GHz Mac mini and 4MB for the 2GHz model, together with a 128 bit SSE3 vector engine on both.
The result of this technology is interesting, to say the least: the new Mac mini is up to 39% faster than the previous model. This jump in speed varies according to your application - the 39% figure refers to Apple’s iPhoto ’08 - but there are many examples of improvements with other software. For example, overall speeds using Apple’s web browser, Safari, are up by 26%; and compressing a film with the 2.0GHz Mac mini has accelerated by 35% compared to the old equivalent machine.
For memory, the 1.83GHz and 2GHz Mac minis have 1GB of 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM on two SO-DIMMs as standard. 1GB of RAM is certainly a respectable amount; but if you want more capacity, you can double it if you wish.
Standard storage for the 1.83GHz Mac mini is an 80GB 5,400 rpm Serial ATA hard disc drive. The 2GHz version has a more spacious 120GB. Apple does give you the chance to improve on both of these with a 120GB drive for the 1.83GHz Mac mini, and 160GB for the 2GHz.
As for graphics, the Mac mini has an integrated processor so you’ve no choice but accept it. This needn’t be a problem, however, because the processor is the Intel GMA 950, a unit that can handle the latest 3D games.
Hardware
A useful piece of hardware that accompanies the Mac mini is the Apple Remote. This is handy when you use Apple’s Front Row media application. You can sit back and control at a distance the music and films you play through the computer.
Ideally, of course, you want a good quality monitor to take full advantage of Front Row. The Mac mini has a DVI video output port that supports digital resolutions up to 1,920 x 1,200 pixels. This means you can connect and enjoy a 20 inch Apple Cinema Display or a 23 inch Apple Cinema HD Display. If you don’t have such a monitor, however, and you’re thinking of buying one, consider the total cost. An iMac, with its better spec, can make a more attractive financial alternative to a Mac mini/Apple Cinema Display combo.
For analogue monitor connections, the Mac mini has a DVI to VGA adaptor. You can also buy an Apple DVI to Video Adaptor to give you S video and composite video out connections to a projector or TV.
Other ports on the back of the Mac mini include a combined optical digital audio input/audio line in minijack, and a combined optical digital audio output/headphone out minijack. You can use these for your digital audio equipment, headphones, a microphone or external speakers. Incidentally, despites its compactness, the Mac mini does have a built-in speaker.
The remaining ports are a FireWire 400 and four USB 2.0s. Four USBs may seem generous but don’t forget that you have to connect a keyboard and a mouse before you start. You could, though, opt for wireless versions.
Wireless technology is Apple’s built-in 54 Mbps AirPort Extreme wireless networking plus built-in Bluetooth® 2.0 + EDR. These two are just what you need for wireless activity. There’s also a 10/100/1000 Ethernet port for those who prefer cable connection to the Internet or a network.
At the front of the Mac mini is a slot-loading optical drive. Here there’s a distinct difference between the two models with the 1.83GHz coming with a Combo drive, and the 2GHz with the more versatile SuperDrive, which allows you to burn DVDs as well as CDs.
Software
As ever with Macs, the software that accompanies the Mac OS X v10.5 Leopard operating system is comprehensive. Between them Leopard, iLife ’08, and Front Row give you pretty much everything you need for a full multimedia experience.
With iLife ’08, for instance, you receive iPhoto for enhancing and organising your photographs; iMovie to help you create and share your films; GarageBand, which lets you play with a virtual band as well as create music and podcasts; iWeb for making websites that contain photos and films as well as text; and iDVD, an application that enables you to transform your home movies into professional-looking films.
Other Mac mini applications include iChat for video calls, and Safari, the fastest web browser around. A further bonus is the chance to try out iWork, which contains Pages ’08 for word processing; Numbers ’08 for spreadsheets; and Keynote ’08 for presentations. If you’re more familiar with Microsoft Office, this is a good opportunity to see what iWork can offer instead. You can also make a direct comparison because the Mac mini has trial software of Microsoft Office for Mac.
Conclusion Pros
- A small neat package with high quality specs
- Ideal for making the change from PC to Mac
- Much faster than previous model
- Remote control included
- Contains all the usual Apple software plus iLife ’08
- Great value if you already have a monitor, keyboard and mouse
Cons
- If you intend to buy a top quality monitor, keyboard and mouse for the Mac mini, you might want to check out the iMac
About the Author
Ben T Wilson writes about Mac computers.