Topic: In ear binaural microphones

[dreadiknight]

Does anyone have any experience using these mics? Are they worth purchasing?

Thank you.

[eric66]

I have experience with my OKM II 'R' omni/binaurals
I never used them in ear, I always used them in a trucker-cap with great results.
If you use them in ear it's like you're wearing headphones.

I've got a pair for sale in the Yard-section:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=161364.0

[dreadiknight]

Thanks for the input, eric66. I saw a pair of OKM IIs on eBay. A bit pricey. I was thinking of purchasing the ones from Sound Professionals.

  http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/category.cgi?item=MS-TFB-2&source=bing

[swordfish]

Thanks for the input, eric66. I saw a pair of OKM IIs on eBay. A bit pricey. I was thinking of purchasing the ones from Sound Professionals.

  http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/category.cgi?item=MS-TFB-2&source=bing

not pricey at all ..at least IMO....

[rjp]

I have Sound Professionals' earlier SP-TFB-2 mics - I've made some nice recordings with them, but I've found the (very much NOT in-ear) Naiant X-X does a much better job. That being said, the MS-TFB-2 uses a different capsule and has better specs than the SP-TFB-2.

[dmonkey]

I used the TFB-2 mics for a few shows. Really nice sound for the price. And easy to stealth with -- looks like you have a hearing aid, if anyone notices at all.

I have Sound Professionals' earlier SP-TFB-2 mics - I've made some nice recordings with them, but I've found the (very much NOT in-ear) Naiant X-X does a much better job. That being said, the MS-TFB-2 uses a different capsule and has better specs than the SP-TFB-2.

[rjp]

One other thing to keep in mind with in-ear mics: if you're recording something quiet, they will dutifully pick up the sound of your eardrums clicking if you swallow, or pop your ears to equalize pressure. Windscreens help mitigate the problem, but don't completely eliminate it.

[LikeASong]

One other thing to keep in mind with in-ear mics: if you're recording something quiet, they will dutifully pick up the sound of your eardrums clicking if you swallow, or pop your ears to equalize pressure. Windscreens help mitigate the problem, but don't completely eliminate it.

Really? Are they so sensitive?

[Bullet1979]

I have an old pair of the SP-TFB-2's and the sound image is great but I have had issues with it not handling high SPL's very well.

[rjp]

Really? Are they so sensitive?

Oh yes. I had to train myself to only swallow between movements or during applause when recording classical. Even then, there's always the potential of getting a tickle in your throat - never good.

In addition, you have to breathe quietly, avoid talking or coughing, and clap quietly or not all (and that goes for any headworn mics).

[fotoralf.be]

Really? Are they so sensitive?

Maybe the Nayants are. With my OKMs I've never had the slightest problem with breathing or swallowing noises. Not even when recording nature sounds in extremely quiet surroundings.

Ralf

[Len Moskowitz (Core Sound)]

The High End Binaurals (HEBs) using DPA 4060-series capsules can be mounted in-ear using custom silicone earmolds made by your local hearing aid professional for around $100. The HEBs are not inexpensive, but they are (in our opinion) the finest in-ear (or near-ear) binaural mics available.

[Gutbucket]

Len, can you post a photo of them in such earmolds?

[Len Moskowitz (Core Sound)]

You can see what the custom earmolds look like at H.E.A.R.'s web site, and buy them there (or at one of their affiliates) for only $75.

http://www.hearnet.com/
http://www.hearnet.com/shop/index.shtml

EAR Inc also does a good job at a reasonable price:

http://earinc.com/p2-specialty.php

[Gutbucket]

Thanks.  Are the mics permanently mounted into the molds or are they removable?