New Comparison
I bought two Instamic Pro Plus C devices and did a comp against my regular set up at Toy Factory Project’s recent show at the Cap. Two recordings below, neither have any EQ or mastering effects which I usually add (the EQ/mastered version is on archive as well, but not relevant for this comp).
One version has Schoeps CCM41 > Oade 248 > Zoom F6, and the other has an Instamic set to mono under each of the Schoeps L and R microphones.
Obviously difference in polar pattern with the Instamic being omni and Schopes being hyper/super, but they’re both low profile set ups people may want to consider.
Try not to peek at details if you want to do blind comp!
https://tinyurl.com/mn6x92znhttps://tinyurl.com/57erz9xxSet up details:
1. Location in front right of FOH mix - the usual taper section spot at The Capitol Theatre
2. Stand ~7 feet up
3. Mics spaced 57cm
4. Schoeps oriented 50 degrees, Instamics zero (both pointing at stage)
The Instamics were oriented with the button/LED facing the stage and MEMS pointed to ceiling. I noticed the posts about the MEMS being on-axis and should be pointed at sound source, I don’t think this should matter as an Omni, but will try that orientation next time.
A few thoughts on the Instamic:
First, this thing is so small and since it’s not connected to anything it’s easy to lose, which I did when I arrived at the show! After a bunch of searching I gave up, but one of the other tapers found it right before the show started and I was able to get it mounted and rolling (thank you Keith!).
Second, you may want to identify one of the mics with some kind of marking. I put a little “L” label on one of the mics so I know which is the left source when setting up and importing files to the DAW.
Third, I’m not sure if the internal time code was set properly, the light was on in the app, however when I try to sync in reaper it does not line up, so did my best to line up waveform. Is there a view that external time code is superior to Instamic internal?
Fourth, and this probably only applies if you’re using a stand or putting mic somewhere hard to access. I think you can only turn the Instamic off with the app, but need to physically push the button to turn it on. I was concerned about battery life so wanted to turn off between sets. Maybe this doesn’t need to be done if the battery use is minimal when not recording, anyone know?
Fifth, the firmware update only worked for one of the mics and only after several tries. I use a Mac for all my audio, so maybe this was the issue. I’ll try again, but def not a smooth experience.
Sixth, the mounts are versatile (they give you three variations), but the only way to connect to clothing or a hat is with the magnet. It would be great if there were a belt loop or spring clip of some type - maybe these are available aftermarket, but not included in the box.
Overall mics sound much better than I expected…
