Podcast Rig …
Here is a glimpse into my personal space. I’ll provide a list of components in a bit. I wanted to demonstrate how I have managed to integrate a select group of components creating a functional environment for audio and video production.
At the far right you will notice I have incorporated a Sony 13″ NTSC Production Monitor. In the past I’ve explained how I was able to acquire this from a film producer via eBay for almost nothing - in pristine condition. The purpose of this monitor is to help maintain accurate color correction and image framing. The cool thing about this particular model is that it has a selectable aspect ratio. For example, 16:9 project sequences can be monitored natively, as well as standard NTSC 4:3 and 3:2 formats.
Above the monitor is an AJA I/O. This device provides analog video I/O to the main system via firewire. It also supports four channels of balanced audio [input and output]. Finally on the video side, I have a Panasonic DV deck that alleviates using a camera for log and capture sessions and output to tape. Final Cut Pro recognizes both devices, and I simply select the required source.
On the audio side, I have my Shure SM7B on a Heil Boom. Recently I decided to store away my Mackie Onyx 1620 mixer and replace it with my original Mackie 1402 VLZ Pro. The Onyx mixer is fantastic, however it’s large and takes up lots of space. Some day I’d like to replace the Mackie with a small Broadcast Console.
The audio rack houses a Panasonic SV-3800 Broadcast DAT Recorder, two Telos One Digital Phone Hybrids, a Motu 896HD Firewire interface, and a Marantz PMD 570 CF Solid State Recorder.
Signal Processing Components:
• dbx 160a Compressor [single channel]
• Aphex 109 Parametric EQ [dual mono/stereo]
• Aphex Expressor Compressor [single channel]
• Aphex 622 Logic Assisted Expander/Gate [dual mono/stereo]
• Aphex 320a Compellor [dual mono/stereo]
• Aphex 720 Dominator II Peak Limiter [dual mono/stereo]
[The audio system and concept was heavily influenced by Doug Kaye, the Gandalf of gear junkies].
A final note: Notice my chair? Interesting story behind it. In fact, it is an old Wall Street relic. Back in my day’s at the Stock Exchange, we were often briefed in our office conference room prior to heading down to the floor of the Exchange. Nestled around the conference room table were these vintage Herman Miller Chairs. Our lot was 30+ years old, and in fine condition. The chair is still in production.
My interest in these chairs was obvious. In 2001 the firm sold out, and the office facility was dismantled. Our office manager asked if I would like to have one of these chairs before they were passed along to a collector…
Wow, I felt really good about my podcast rig until I saw yours
JB
http://www.philoking.com/2007/04/17/the-philocast-behind-the-scenes/
ps, where is a good place to get a scissor mic stand?
Thanks Jason.
Heil Boom
O.C. White Boom
-ptfigg.
I wondered how long it would be until you decided to make us all feel inadequate. Next you’ll want us to believe that you actually understand how to operate all that equipment!
Thanks for finally posting the pic.
Tim
You’re welcome Tim.
-ptfigg.
Wrong person sits in chair and turns around and will
wipe out about half the stuff in your rack, better watch it.
The space is off limits, and I have never experienced any close calls with the chair touching the gear.
-ptfigg.
What kind of monitors are those on your desk?
The prior version of these:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MA15DBK/
Nothing special, however they serve the purpose.
-ptfigg.
Is that an Apple Mouse box I spot there hidden away?
You really must learn to splash on some junk and rubbish. A space so clean would suggest that someone who is entirely too organized occupies that admittedly spiffy chair. Random post-its and candy wrappers… something!
The book underneath the PowerBook is a nice touch, though. I put away my Griffin iCurve and reverted back to styrofoam - much easier to work with now.
Cheers,
Niels
Hi Niels,
That is a Mighty Mouse box. It’s interesting that so many people trash this mouse. I happen to like it, and I have never experienced any problems with it.
And yes, I like to keep the workspace uncluttered. I will admit that during the course of a day, it’s common to have a few espresso cups and saucers scattered around my desk …
The real mess is located behind the gear rack. Lots of cables. In most cases I would use cable ties to keep things organized. In this particular situation, I’m constantly making changes to the connections and routing. This forces me to leave the cables hanging freely. The cables are tagged in order to maintain efficient access …
-ptfigg.