Topic: Heil Pr40

A new podcasting setup in the Texas Hill Country is experiencing significant audio hum and static caused by household light dimmers. Testing reveals that the interference is being picked up directly by the microphone hardware, acting as an antenna for electrical noise. Potential solutions include sourcing vintage RE20 microphones manufactured before 1995 or replacing every dimmer switch in the residence to eliminate the RF noise.

A technical breakdown of current studio gear reveals a preference for the Heil PR40 and Electro-Voice RE320 microphones. Both hosts use the Sony MDR-7506 professional headphones as their primary reference, citing their durability and flat response. They discuss the importance of using standardized gear to ensure consistent audio quality across different recording environments.

Dvorak explains his unconventional preference for not using headphones during broadcasts, which previously caused audio feedback issues. The hosts discuss their current hardware, including M-Audio breakout boxes and specific microphones like the Heil PR40 and the Rode Procaster. They detail the technical requirements of their setups, such as the need for 48-volt phantom power for certain units.

The hosts discuss technical audio issues, specifically the need for an internal pop screen for the Heil PR40 microphone. They joke about Leo Laporte receiving a gold-colored microphone from Bob Heil, similar to the one used by Rush Limbaugh, and express their own desire for "platinum" equipment.

The hosts discuss the technical audio quality of the podcast, specifically the equalization and the impact of the Skype connection. One host suggests adding more low-end frequencies to the mix to improve the vocal presence. They compare the sound quality of different microphones, including the Heil PR40, and the use of headphones during recording.

Adam Curry describes a "cockamamie" microphone setup involving a Lectrosonics lavalier clipped to a windscreen in front of a Heil PR40. The hosts discuss the use of notch filters to remove "mud" or unwanted frequencies between 200 and 400 Hertz to improve vocal clarity in recordings.

Technical difficulties during the broadcast lead to a discussion about portable audio setups and radio frequency interference. The current rig involves a Heil PR40 dynamic microphone and an M-Audio Fast Track interface, which is criticized for poor shielding. The potential of Countryman MEMS microphones is explored as a high-quality, ultra-portable alternative for field recording.