Q re: Audio-Technica Moc

[Cheeky Monkey]

Hi all,

First, I'm new to home recording. I realize I have to do my homework on setting up a room in my house dedicated to recording (my oldest son recently moved out). I also realize that I need to upgrade my PC (and may return to a Mac). I've read the Mic FAQs here at Homerecording.com and plan to research a lot more, but my question at this time is, I'm wondering if my 12 y/o (approx.) Audio-Technica AT813 unidirectional electret condenser mic would be considered a good mic. I'll upgrade if it's not, and I realixze different mics serve different purposes, but I have no way of knowing if mine is considered good enough. Being that the mic is that old, it's probably hard to say, but if someone knows, I'd appreciate the feedback.

Many thanks.

Cheeky

 

[Richard Monroe]

It's a cheap, battery powered, bright condenser. Is it useless? No. Is it an all purpose mic to build your studio around? No. It's your basic $50 condenser mic. There are many, many more options, some of them very affordable. Stick around, we'll help you out. Replace the battery in that mic if you haven't done it lately. They can leak and fry the poor thing.-Richie

 

[Cheeky Monkey]

Thanks for the feedback, Richard. That's sort of what I thought about this mic, but had no way of knowing for sure. Thanks for confirming. As I said, I've had it for quite a long time, but barely ever used it for anything. I'm really just beginning down this path to multitrack and build a home studio from the ground-up. I'll be using this mic for a little while mainly to get familiar with my recording software. I'll continue researching the info here and upgrade as soon as possible. Thanks again.