Topic: Pr 40

A new valve microphone featuring a seven-pin XLR connection and a brick-sized power supply is tested for the broadcast. The audio quality is compared against the standard Heil PR-40, noting the differences in directionality and proximity effect. Despite the limitations of Skype compression, the new hardware provides a noticeable improvement in vocal clarity.

The television show Alex Inc, starring Zach Braff, is criticized for its inaccurate portrayal of podcasting, specifically the use of the Heil PR 40 microphone. A demonstration shows that the actor speaks over the top of the microphone rather than into the end-fire capsule, which results in poor audio quality in reality. The show's depiction of the industry is labeled as unrealistic and pretentious.

Heil describes applying ham radio antenna theory and phasing to microphone design to achieve unprecedented rear rejection. He notes that the PR 40 has become a standard in the broadcast and podcasting industries, used by figures like Leo Laporte. Heil explains that by treating the microphone like a phased array antenna, he can eliminate unwanted stage wash and background noise.

The host and Heil discuss the best microphones for podcasters, specifically recommending the PR 40. Heil explains that even when audio is compressed through services like Skype, the harmonic richness of a high-quality microphone provides a superior signal. He emphasizes that the wide frequency response of the PR 40 benefits the listener through these underlying harmonics.

Bob Heil explains his philosophy of listening to artists to create custom solutions, such as the PR 31BW designed for Charlie Daniels' sound man, Bob Workman. He also reveals the story behind the PR 40 appearing on David Letterman's desk, noting it was originally placed there as a replacement for a stolen RCA 77 and remains largely as a prop.

The program experiences significant audio degradation, with one host's voice sounding distorted and "out of phase." Troubleshooting steps include switching from a Heil PR-40 to a Shure SM7B microphone and eventually rebooting Skype and USB interfaces. The hosts eventually resume the broadcast despite the unresolved audio quality issues.

The Heil PR 40 is praised for its condenser-like sound quality despite being a dynamic microphone. While it produces superior audio for podcasting, its large size makes it difficult to transport through airport security. The Countryman microphone is discussed as a lightweight alternative for travel that offers comparable sound quality without the bulk of traditional radio microphones.