Testing USB Podcast Mics Under $150

Testing USB Podcast Mics Under $150

Author: Griffin Hammond & Nick Bodmer February 10, 2021 Duration: 44:34
Griffin tests four USB studio microphones, ranging from $60 to $150. The Blue Yeti, Movo UM800, Elgato Wave:1 and FIFINE K678.

Griffin Hammond and Nick Bodmer host Hey Indie Filmmakers, a conversation built from their distinct perspectives-one from the trenches of documentary filmmaking and the other from the intricate world of gear and tech. This isn't a lecture series; it's a practical, often irreverent, dialogue for anyone holding a camera with a story to tell but without a studio budget. You'll hear them dissect the real challenges of DIY production, from choosing accessible equipment and navigating new software to the creative problem-solving that happens when plans inevitably fall apart. The discussion naturally spans the artistic, technical, and logistical, reflecting the messy, rewarding process of bringing a vision to life. While this podcast stands on its own, their episodes also exist as video conversations for those who want to see the gear demos or the hosts' reactions in real time. Tune in for honest talk that demystifies the tools and celebrates the hustle, offering a sense of camaraderie and actionable insights for your next project.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Hey Indie Filmmakers
Podcast Episodes
The Secret Vignette Lighting Trick [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:52
At the end of each shoot, Griffin turns off his lights to capture a dark backplate for this vignette lighting effect. Plus, socially distanced interviews, the latest with Apple’s M1 processors, and Nick’s newest camera.
Projector + After Effects = Halloween House! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:15
Using a short-throw projector and After Effects, our friends Susie and Brett have mapped an impressive Halloween show onto the front of their house. Plus, Apple’s latest iPhone cameras, and Nick’s camera overheats during…
Filming with a 20-year-old Digital 8 camera [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:38
Filmed with a 20-year-old Sony Handycam, Griffin explains interlacing, pixel aspect ratios, IEEE 1394, and the quirks of shooting and editing in standard definition.
Recording voiceover audio in a closet [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:51
Griffin squeezes into a basement closet to record voiceover, while Nick maneuvers his lighting into a new position.
Racecar Driving in a VR Cockpit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:15
Nick is a virtual reality racecar driver, having set up an Oculus Rift and racing cockpit in his home office.
Now working, editing from home (with kids) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:28
Filmed on March 26—Griffin’s 13th day working from home in NYC. The podcast moves into our living rooms to capture the everyday noises we’re usually trying to hide from the audience.
Upgrading Nick’s Lighting Setup [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:17
Nick wanted better lighting for his home office, so he purchased a budget 2-light RGB LED kit. And Griffin arrives in Nevada to help him set it up!
How to Locate Free-to-Use Archival Footage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:22
Using tools like youtube-dl, and sources including presidential libraries and Archive.org, Nick and Griffin explain how to locate and download historical news footage for documentaries. It’s the workflow behind Griffin’s…