Frayed Knots Episode 0: Getting Started

Frayed Knots Episode 0: Getting Started (click this link)

Ohhhh my goodness I'm tired!! 

I've been working night and day trying to learn how to put together and publish a GOOD podcast.  A good sounding podcast.  One that has professional sounding audio.  One that has pieces and parts that all sound the same and don't blow your ears out when they transition from one piece to another part.

There is a lot of learning to this task!  And a little bit of equipment.  And new software.  And headaches.  And loss of sleep........ which is why I'm soooooo darn tired.

With all of this research I have learned that it takes a while for iTunes to decide they like you and wanna put your stuff on their site.  I wanted to get a little practice recording up there quick quick so if it takes a week or so for them to publish my feed, it will be ready whenever we have our first official episode recorded and edited and ready to go!

We have had microphone drama drama DRAMA.  About a week or so ago I got a $20 microphone from Radio Shack.  One trial run with it and I KNEW I had to get a better mic.  So I went back to the one several other knitting podcasters had mentioned on Ravelry: the Blue Snowball mic.  I searched Craigslist and decided to get one that was a buy-it-now on eBay.  I was so excited for it to arrive!!!!!  It came on Monday of this week (Today is Wednesday).

 

I took the new Blue Snowball mic out of the box and plugged it into my computer - cause its a USB - how cool is that?!  Aaaaand it didn't work.  My computer recognized that it was there, but for some reason had a problem with the drivers.  I know because it TOLD me so.  Driver problem.

 

Fine.  I can get through that.  There's no computer problem I can't figure out, given enough time and the internet connection so I can consult my best friend, Google.

Long story short, this was a problem that even Dear Google couldn't help me with.  Google essentially confirmed that this microphone would not and could not work with Windows 7 because the serial number on my super duper awesomely CUTE and amazing sounding recording device, the Blue Snowball, was old.  I bought a used one.  Old.  Was probably being sold because it was outdated when the previous owner got a new computer!

So I phoned the Blue company to be absolutely certain there was nothing I could do with this microphone.  Yes, it would work on Windows XP and Mac, but not Vista or Windows 7.  All right.  And they'll sell me another one - a brand spanking NEW one for 40% less than regular retail price.

You're kidding me.

Old adorable Blue Snowball mic was then relisted on eBay with the serial number and disclaimer right in the description stating that it won't work with Windows 7.  It was bought in less than 24 hrs.  Thank goodness.

A new Snowball has been ordered and is being shipped today.  And it will be silver.  And it will work with Windows 7.  And I will take pictures of it because it will be so beautiful and will be one of the amazing tools that will make the audio quality GREAT on our new podcast!

In the mean time, humor me if you have a moment, and listen to the audio that I recorded this morning with my $20 microphone.  I'm looking forward to hearing the difference between this one and the super spectacular silver one that's on the way.  It might even replace Google as my best friend.  Maybe.

Frayed Knots Episode 0: Getting Started (click this link)

 

 

 

Comments

[Benny Bowden]

So, when I first opened this post, I went straight to the bottom to play the Episode so that I could listen to it while I read the post. When I heard the audio I was like WOW this Snowball Mic is not nearly as good as what I thought it would be. This thing is crap! But then I got to the last paragraph where you explained that this one was recorded with the $20 dollar mic. Honestly, I'm impressed with how well that one did! I mean it could work if you absolutely had no other option, but I'm excited to hear what you come up with once you get the new mic, and if I have any suggestions, I'll let you know. Love you Mom.
-Benny

[Laura]

Well thank you Benny! I'm so glad you listened! If the Snowball mic is an improvement over this I'll be very happy! The reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Love you too. :)

[Kelly]

YAY! I'm excited for this! Can't wait to see what you have lined up.
Now I can knit WITH you... its been a while :)

[Linda]

I liked listening to your frayed knots ipod. I was ready to hear more.