Presonus Audiobox w/ condenser mic users?

  • Thread starter Thread starter wmalan
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wmalan

wmalan

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Looking at a condenser mic... But, before I buy anything... I currently own an Audiobox USB interface. Anyone here using a condenser mic for vocals with this unit? I'm reading horror stories of noise with phantom power. Also just like my direct in guitar, I will need a pad (mic choice may provide that) as it tuns WAY hot to clipping. Any info would help.
 
I have an AudioBox 1818 VSL and have never had an issue with noise. I also have a PreSonus Studio Channel that has been modified. I use the 1818 with various mics to record drums and will use the Studio Channel with the 1818 to record DI Bass and Vox (with Rode, and Shure condenser mics). Once again, no noise. Maybe there is a ground issue? I know it sounds silly, but it could be that easy.
 
I've heard about the noise on phantom power with the Audiobox but it was a faulty construction batch and any reputable dealers were accepting returns and swapping for good ones. I don't know how old your Audiobox is but, at least if still under warranty, you should be okay. Failing that, can you borrow a condenser from somebody--even the shop where you're thinking of buying your mic--and just try it?

As for the guitar, you must have a hell of an output. The spec of the instrument inputs accepts almost up to line level, well above most guitars.
 
Thanks for the replies,

The AB is a couple years old now. Been using an SM58 with no problems. The "hot" direct in is a well known issue (Strat with only single coils here). Previously, I was using an amp with a line out to the AB that worked great. I since started going direct in (Guitar Rig plugin) where I found the issue with direct inputs. My fix is a direct box with a 10db pad.

Instead of borrowing a condenser, I'm thinking I'll bring the AB with me to the store when I try mics. Come to think of it, I'll go to the same store I bought the Audiobox so if there's issues, I can use the sob story about I can't afford a new mic because the interface is not right... Worth a try. After reading about sensitivity of a condenser (and all the 3rd party preamps), I don't want to get a mic until I know what I'm dealing with on the signal in.
 
Sounds like a plan.

As I say, the phantom noise was a known manufacturing problem and Presonus (back when) were replacing them without question. A good "I've never had to try phantom until now" story might do the trick (or, since it was one batch, you could easily have a good one anyhow).
 
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