Sound deadening on the ceiling of your shop to help kill echo will do you more good at this point from my perspective. It will help take some of the harshness out of the power tool noise also.
The second mic that doesn't automatically adjust is because it's not designed for an iPhone specifically. XLR cables can't transfer data like the cheaper mic that's more geared towards recording on a phone or tablet. The other mic you have with the xlr output would be better suited with a dslr with good video capability or video camera. Or record audio separately from the camera altogether if you really want to up the quality of the sound. If the iPhone allows you to adjust audio settings manually and aren't just preset settings, you might be able to make the black mic work better. Otherwise you fall into the trapping of having a superior mic that's not geared towards the iPhone only video maker.
You gotta learn about a low pass filter to pull the annoying high pitches out. Nothing gets me to skip to the next video as fast as dental drill frequencies. Just use the filter and pull them out.
Yep some sound control where possible in his shop in addition to the LPF would be the fastest and simplest way to get the production quality increase he is after.
A lot of your sound issues (other than general mic quality) come from the amount of background noise in your shop. Air conditioners, compressors, machinery spinning down, or fridges all contribute to that hum. As you've seen trying to hook an XLR mic into a USB-C port, there's a lot of compatibility issues when porting good audio into phones. There's a couple of routes you could go that could get you better audio - You've got a shotgun mic already, but the longer it is the more it isolates sound. - A lightweight mirrorless camera with a 3.5mm input jack would let you plug the shotgun mic directly into the camera, letting you shoot sync audio really easily. It would also bump up your video quality let you use adjustable lenses to get some nice zoom shots. Check out something like the Panasonic Lumix GH line or the Sony a7 line. You can get a used / older camera much cheaper, while not losing out on that much. - You can also check out wireless lavelier microphones -- which I know sounds weird! but lavs like the Rode Wireless Go II or the DJI Mic 2 will let you -- Plug the receiver directly into your phone via usb-c to usb-c, instead of 3.5mm to usb-c -- Record copies of the audio on the receivers, letting you have backups and more pristine audio copies, which most video editors can automatically sync up now -- Plug in any 3.5mm mic mentioned earlier, and -- Generally come with two transmitters, so one can stick on your phone with a shotgun mic, and the other can stick on you with a lav! From the filmmaking world I've heard it time and time again that good audio is the most important technical aspect. Generally people will put up with slightly out of focus shots that aren't framed up well, dark shots, or low resolutions, especially in more documentary style videos like this, but will tune out if the audio is bad enough. That being said, your camera work is really good!! I know this was long, but I hope it helps some! A lot of other commenters have some great ideas too! The dust collector, low-pass filter, DaVinci Resolve, etc.
You are generally correct. The history of tv is such that picture quality can suffer but with good audio, people stick around. With only a few seconds of bad audio, viewers leave. I’ve been in 3 letter premium television for about 20 years now
Hate point out the 600 lbs gorilla in the video, but the dust collector is the value killer not the mike. If you muffle the sound or move it out the videos and your hearing would be way better.
I’ve been in wood shops for decades, sounds aren’t important to me in the videos I watch. I’ve heard most sounds and have the damaged hearing to prove it. Extreme close-ups don’t do much for me either. I watch to see your methods and to marvel at your ingenuity. I’ve been out of the shop for a long time and am getting back in. It’s amazing what you can forget over a few years.
That zoom was amazing. Most TH-camrs don’t share the audio in the shop. They actually turn off compressors and what not to not interfere. Some even use stock music instead
More expensive / professional microphones often require a pre-amp to get a usable signal. Dedicated audio recorders will have this built in, but your iPhone audio cable won't. There probably exist preamps intended for use with iphones. Personally, I'd consider switching to a dedicated multi channel audio recorder. This will let you do things like having stereo signals record at two different gain levels. That way you have a backup at much lower gain when the primary one peaks. You can also use a wireless lav mic to better pick up your talking without as much of the room reverb. Plus they usually have built in preamps. Zoom makes some good options between $100-300. The only complication this adds to production is you'll need to remember to record on both and sync the audio in post. This is best done by clapping somewhere in frame.
Is it posable to put the extractor outside the workshop or if not then make a room for it and line it with soundproofing This might be a good starting place Love what you do even so and you make up with great talk over too
I work as an AC, not a sound guy but xlr to usb-c sounds wrong. I believe u need a pre amp in between? Definitely look at what setting u need your mic at. The bent line symbol is an option how sound is picked up. Also maybe get a c-stand on wheels, it takes up less space. Yes it’s not meant as a cam tripod, but it might work better for you, especially shooting from an iPhone or small camera. U can mount so much more on a baby pin adapted to 3/8” and 1/4” mounting plate. Photo camera ball heads attach via 3/8” too I believe.
For me personally... audio is very important. I generally have a youtube video running in a corner when I'm working, if it's interesting (like many of your videos are) I'll actively watch, if it's just some resawing or whatever, it will just play in the background. But...I don't mind shop noises that much as long as I can clearly hear what you're saying, and it helps if the sounds aren't ear-piercing ;) Having that said, I've analysed the videos you've made over the last few years with the help of some custom tools and these are my conclusions (take them with a grain of salt, I'm no expert): 1. Build videos regularly do pretty good. Both tools that you design and builds like the desk usually seem to perform well. But I'm not sure your new pattern of titles is effective (i.e. "Bosch, your saw has problems" versus "Drill guide design and build") 2. Titles... The real clickbaity titles seem to perform well, like: "You Won't Believe What This Does!". But I personally hate those with a vengeance and you would lose at least me as a subscriber. I do think there's more to be done with the titles, any title that has numbers in it ($5000 Shelves!, ... took 3 years, seem to do better as well. 3. I think recency helps too. I.e. most videos with "new ..." in the title seemed to perform well. Not sure if it helps, just friendly advise :)
The micro camera was fine but even if you had a working one, I think you’d want to use it sparingly, so not having a new one is fine. Agree the new mic is only marginally better. As others have said, your “studio” is your problem way more than your mic. Dust collector, and lack of sound dampening are brutal. I’m sure there are many you tube woodworking/fabricating collaborators who you’d be able to reach out to for advice who would be happy to help. David Pacciuto at Make Something has high quality in shop audio, Neil Pask as well and they both run pretty small operations.
I agree that audio is important. As others have said, some sound absorbing materials is good value for the time. Can be as simple as eggshell foam in a frame with fabric on the front.
Absolutely both So definitely more sound, Maybe some sounds are to much When the vise handle slides down sharp metal scraping like nails on a chalkboard Personal irritating sound is that when videos switch to background music and it is louder than the video sound had been, I have to turn sound down and then back up when talking starts when it get to be to much switching then I unsubscribe. I have always enjoyed your videos The microscope view was good been really cool in slow motion For viewers not sure but for other makers it can really turn the lights on seeing it thank you
I think the zoom-ins do help. And I think the latest Røde VideoMic is a good first step for capturing the audio. IMO, the key is once you’ve captured the audio, you don’t want it to blast out your audience, so it will need to be appropriately reduced in volume (a.k.a., “ducked”). Clean but ducked audio is what you want when it comes to things like saws, etc…. I think Adam Savage has some thoughts that he has shared with regards to the audio and video product setup they use when he’s doing a one-man “One Day Build”, and you might want to review his videos on that subject. Or maybe just talk to him.
Now, there are $1k Sennheiser shotgun mics that you can get, and they will provide better quality audio than the Røde VideoMic. But as you’ve observed, they will need a bit more audio setup beyond just plugging the USB-C cable into your phone.
I like the microscope view, but i think it'd look better if you had a vacuum just out of view to keep the sawdust out of the shot. I did not notice a difference between the phone and mic audio. Certainly not enough of a difference to justify the mic setup time. Hope this helps.
FWIW I come for your commentary and inventiveness - and don't particularly mind iffy picture/sound quality (to a point) and do not like over produced videos. The close up is sort of interesting for a short it - but I would not miss it. (Personal opinions)
It's both. You need a balance of detail shots and big picture moments as well as keeping talking heads shots to a minimum and doing voice over descriptive bits to explain the stuff you just did. The right balance is what makes a video watchable and professional.
I think your test of the audio difference is a great example of how to improve the listening experience. The sound needs to be more isolated not better, in the clip you want the sound of the saw and only the saw, not the sound of the lever rumbling in the vise. Some of it can be edited out, but here with the vise I would suggest putting a thin plastic shim to stop the metal on metal sound. It would be easier in the edit if you put the mic closer.
Price of the mic is mostly irrelevant. It's the distance from the audio source that reduces echoing. Bigger picture, if you want to attract new followers, do low production shorts, consistently and don't become overdependent on any one social network.
Price to quality ratio isn't. The biggest issue is using a mic with XLR output to a device that uses a usb cable. XLR cables can't transfer data and thus the phone can't make the adjustments based off the audio like it can with a mic designed for phone and tablet use. If he was able to record the second mic correctly, it is going to sound better hands down.
IMHO, I don't see many zoom in's, so I'd like to see more. Frequently, makers talk about some tricky fitting or alignment which they can see but won't show up with a normal lens. I wish I could see what they can. There are occasions when I just have to magically figure out what they mean because they can't show something on camera like the texture of a surface etc.
What about using audio clips from other sources? A lot of movies and other high production stuff does that. Get one good sounding clip of a saw start up and a clean cut... Although I suppose this might be more effort than you'd like to put into editing?
Well... To be honest I don't have what to complain of, Andrew... But whatever you decide... It's good for me! 😊 Anyway, stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
I might be the minority but sound quality and cool shots are not what I pay attention too, I just like watching you make really cool stuff because you are a really cool maker
I’ll agree. If the content is garbage, it doesn’t matter how flashy it is. Microscope cameras and superior audio and such are just lipstick. I watch Andrew Klein because I like watching smart, talented people work through problems
video and audio are both super important but for me audio is way more important if we speak of quality. If you record slightly off focus or wobbly or whatever its fine. If it sounds like shit, the video is hard to watch
to me the zoom was a nice too see once ... but I guess it could bore me after the third time. The sound was a smitch better, but it would help more to keep the noise and annoying frequencys down. But anyway, thx for the video
zoom ins add a huge value! personally I love them. one of the channels I have recently discovered is outdoors55, and he does some amazing shots with his microscope. a lot of the stuff he presents using those microscope shots are *cutting edge*, that you can't find anywhere else.
I am impressed at your ability to design and build your specialty jigs. You show the build process well, but in my opinion cut the design process short. I would like to better understand your design process and decisions. Thank you.
For me personally, video lighting is the most important, not necessarily video quality/resolution. Audio is also important, but you don’t need multichannel fancy cardioid mics to convey a verbal message and hear machines whirring. Most of us watch these videos on our iPhones anyway so we’re limited by shitty speakers as it is.
I have little concern about audio quality as long as it’s decent. I’m more interested in great storytelling, something inspiring, or great filming/editing. If all three, it’s a home run.
Yes, I 100% agree, audio is one of the best upgrades you can make to video! I can't tell you how many videos I left in the first 15 seconds due to complete garbage audio. Glad to see this improvement and I can't wait for more video's to come out.
Only because you've asked, so no offense intended... People watch TH-cam videos to both learn and relax. If you can mix both, then you are a winner. Best examples at the moment are 'my mechanics', 'Foureyes Furniture' and 'Blacktail Studio'. What do they have in common? Background noises and high pitch tool sounds are all eliminated. There is nothing more annoying than 'dental drill frequencies' as someone else already mentioned here. Your videos are very informative and show your genius innovative mind, but sometimes they are jarring to the ears, for example at 2:50 and, yes, at the ubiquitous 6:16 (most terrifying outro of all YT channels, that I always pause) or when your compressor / dust extractor is running. This is a common problem, that John Heisz and Celal Ünal channels face as well. Another issue is the 'shaky camera syndrome'. For example at 2:21 - 2:35: why wasn't your camera on a tripod to capture that shot? See Alexander Chappel's "3d Printing a $10,000 Camera Arm" episode for inspiration.
I think you need to leave the iphone and upgrade your channel to a real camera with audio input. Then I recommend Davinci Resolve to edit your videos. You can get started with used hardware for very cheap.
I generally watch your videos muted with captions on. Hearing power tools better isn’t really important for me. I’d much prefer the microscope shots as I’ve never seen them on any of the maker channels I watch.
You are absolutely correct that audio quality is more important than video quality. I think it's importance to think of it as a tolerance thing, people will tolerate poor video more than poor audio. The shotgun style mics are a good choice as they will help isolate echo from the room, but you might find it helpful to build a few sound baffles that you can move around the workspace to help improve that quality. The line lock might not be the best choice for the mic arm. My suspicion is that it will move too much and that might add noise tot he recording. I'd consider getting a magic arm or a grip stand with a grip arm. The "better" of the two mics is an XLR mic and I doubt that will know how to convert the audio into a USB format. It probably needs a DAC (digital audio converter) but audio is not my strong suit so others will probably know better than me. The microscope shot is cool, but not nearly as important as a medium wide shot. In fact if you get another microscope I'd consider cutting between that and a medium to keep the action a little more interesting. For reference I have about 30 years experience working in film and TV across various disciplines. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have, I love the channel and thing you have really cool ideas in how to tackle various things.
Meh… I think the audio was fine on both for me. Didn’t make any change for me. I think the videos are just a touch on the informative side instead of being a little more on the entertainment side. Like watching your videos feels more like an instructional video. Where as John Meleki (however it’s spelled) is more entertainment. You have really excellent design and invention ideas…. But they’re portrayed in a slightly robotic way. It’s definitely unique and I’m not saying it’s bad. But I think if you want to make better videos…. I’d just look at adding some entertainment flourishes to your videos.
Audio is surprisingly important. One thing I'll ask: are you using a video editing software that has audio filters? This may be an additional layer of complexity you aren't willing to go into, but there are some filters in Premier (I assume Davinci Resolve had them, top) where you can take a baseline (fans, dust collection on) and they do a great job of reducing them in the output audio.
I actually don’t care for shop sounds. Let me give you an example.. we all love Cremona videos, I’m certain - but if he would just take his video through an audio processor that lowers the shop sounds I’d be so much happier. I don’t appreciate loud buzzing sounds and I have to constantly play with volume during speaking vs work parts. As for your videos, to best honest, all your videos are fine, but I rarely click the thumbnail cause it doesn’t grab me. Even though I know you will do something cool.
Andrew, regarding the mic you can't get to work...the switch is thus: The circle or all the way down is OFF, meaning the mic is turned off. The middle position "-" or dash is ON and with a flat EQ response, meaning the mic is ON and no frequencies(i.e. highs, mids or lows) are being cut or boosted. The upper most position on the switch in, the mic ON AND a LOW CUT(150 HZ and below...think kick drum) is being applied to the audio the mic is "hearing" and in turn NOT being recorded. From a "listening on phone speakers" perspective it's advisable to just use the mic with the switch in the upper most posistion, i.e. all the way up. Think of it like this, down is OFF, up is ON.
love how you break down the problems you are trying to solve! Video quality is top notch, zoom in shots and more angles making more interesting, the audio of your voice is the most important, but additionally the ASMR of other sounds curated so not to loud are nice to. No one wants to hear a table saw at full blast. I tend to drop the audio down when I have he louder power tools going, but for something like a chisel through wood, well I would want to make this stand out.
For VO videos, audio quality has less importance because of the level reduction. Plus its another element to mess up during capture and insert into your edit.
Gain was a bit higher. Could hear the hum in the background. Better but marginally. By the way, I’ve always wondered why you go with grizzly for a table saw and not the TH-cam-mandatory sawstop. Not a hater, love to see the “every man” table saws.
Some microphones use more power than what a phone or computer by itself can provide. Some big ones requiere additional power source (phantom power) to work. That should be on the product spec sheet. Edited from ghost to phantom. Technical accuracy matters here.
My opinion, for what it’s worth, is that you’re already 95% there. As a consumer of TH-cam videos, what I look for is (1) fairly decent video production quality, meaning good lighting, good editing, the images show what you intend to show and I want to see; (2) fairly decent audio quality, meaning I can understand what you’re saying (if there’s background noise), and your commentary is relevant to what you’re showing. Nobody is perfect, so the occasional poorly lighted video r difficult to understand audio is forgivable, especially when we understand that most creators are *not* staffed with professional production crews and equipment. What many creators don’t understand is the absolute necessity to define what they want to present, plan the production, script the production, and follow the plan and script without missing important points or adding too much. Plan the work and work the plan, as the saying goes.
Hey man. Classically trained audio engineer. I dont mess with USB microphones, but if you want to look at some legit audio equipment/setups let me know and we can chat
I'm going to talk about clarification while simultaneously dig myself into a muddle. Love your videos, and if you understand one thing that I'm saying then my muddle is worth it. You are in the maker's space and explaining how to do / make things is of primary importance. So your decisions should be IMO, does this help clarify what I'm doing to the viewer? You can and should ask, is this entertaining? It just shouldn't be the primary question. Or another way to look at it is that clarification IS entertaining. Or it should be. Should you do super close ups? If it helps viewers to better understand what you are explaining or demonstrating then yes. As for sound, the mic gave a more growling sound which was an enhancement because perhaps on a subconscious level it demonstrated that you were grrrrinding away at a large piece of wood - as opposed to easing your way through a job, if you know what I'm trying to say. I'm a musician so I'm pretty big on sound but I don't beat it to death. I'd rather move on to the next job and let the small things be whatever they become. Lastly, I've never cut too much out of a video. Never. The more I cut the better it becomes. But even there it's not the cutting that makes it better. It's the stripping of things that seem important to me but bore my viewer.
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Sound deadening on the ceiling of your shop to help kill echo will do you more good at this point from my perspective. It will help take some of the harshness out of the power tool noise also.
I agree with you, the zoom ins look pretty darn cool.
The second mic that doesn't automatically adjust is because it's not designed for an iPhone specifically. XLR cables can't transfer data like the cheaper mic that's more geared towards recording on a phone or tablet. The other mic you have with the xlr output would be better suited with a dslr with good video capability or video camera. Or record audio separately from the camera altogether if you really want to up the quality of the sound. If the iPhone allows you to adjust audio settings manually and aren't just preset settings, you might be able to make the black mic work better. Otherwise you fall into the trapping of having a superior mic that's not geared towards the iPhone only video maker.
You gotta learn about a low pass filter to pull the annoying high pitches out. Nothing gets me to skip to the next video as fast as dental drill frequencies.
Just use the filter and pull them out.
Yep some sound control where possible in his shop in addition to the LPF would be the fastest and simplest way to get the production quality increase he is after.
A lot of your sound issues (other than general mic quality) come from the amount of background noise in your shop. Air conditioners, compressors, machinery spinning down, or fridges all contribute to that hum. As you've seen trying to hook an XLR mic into a USB-C port, there's a lot of compatibility issues when porting good audio into phones. There's a couple of routes you could go that could get you better audio
- You've got a shotgun mic already, but the longer it is the more it isolates sound.
- A lightweight mirrorless camera with a 3.5mm input jack would let you plug the shotgun mic directly into the camera, letting you shoot sync audio really easily. It would also bump up your video quality let you use adjustable lenses to get some nice zoom shots. Check out something like the Panasonic Lumix GH line or the Sony a7 line. You can get a used / older camera much cheaper, while not losing out on that much.
- You can also check out wireless lavelier microphones -- which I know sounds weird! but lavs like the Rode Wireless Go II or the DJI Mic 2 will let you
-- Plug the receiver directly into your phone via usb-c to usb-c, instead of 3.5mm to usb-c
-- Record copies of the audio on the receivers, letting you have backups and more pristine audio copies, which most video editors can automatically sync up now
-- Plug in any 3.5mm mic mentioned earlier, and
-- Generally come with two transmitters, so one can stick on your phone with a shotgun mic, and the other can stick on you with a lav!
From the filmmaking world I've heard it time and time again that good audio is the most important technical aspect. Generally people will put up with slightly out of focus shots that aren't framed up well, dark shots, or low resolutions, especially in more documentary style videos like this, but will tune out if the audio is bad enough. That being said, your camera work is really good!!
I know this was long, but I hope it helps some! A lot of other commenters have some great ideas too! The dust collector, low-pass filter, DaVinci Resolve, etc.
You are generally correct. The history of tv is such that picture quality can suffer but with good audio, people stick around. With only a few seconds of bad audio, viewers leave. I’ve been in 3 letter premium television for about 20 years now
Hate point out the 600 lbs gorilla in the video, but the dust collector is the value killer not the mike. If you muffle the sound or move it out the videos and your hearing would be way better.
Honestly, I don't think I'd miss the zoom-ins. If you had asked me if I'd seen them, I don't think I would specifically remember them.
I’ve been in wood shops for decades, sounds aren’t important to me in the videos I watch. I’ve heard most sounds and have the damaged hearing to prove it. Extreme close-ups don’t do much for me either. I watch to see your methods and to marvel at your ingenuity. I’ve been out of the shop for a long time and am getting back in. It’s amazing what you can forget over a few years.
That zoom was amazing. Most TH-camrs don’t share the audio in the shop. They actually turn off compressors and what not to not interfere. Some even use stock music instead
More expensive / professional microphones often require a pre-amp to get a usable signal. Dedicated audio recorders will have this built in, but your iPhone audio cable won't. There probably exist preamps intended for use with iphones.
Personally, I'd consider switching to a dedicated multi channel audio recorder. This will let you do things like having stereo signals record at two different gain levels. That way you have a backup at much lower gain when the primary one peaks. You can also use a wireless lav mic to better pick up your talking without as much of the room reverb. Plus they usually have built in preamps. Zoom makes some good options between $100-300.
The only complication this adds to production is you'll need to remember to record on both and sync the audio in post. This is best done by clapping somewhere in frame.
Is it posable to put the extractor outside the workshop or if not then make a room for it and line it with soundproofing
This might be a good starting place
Love what you do even so and you make up with great talk over too
Andrew your attention to detail is just amazing….. thanks for sharing your ideas.
Audio tells the story. Always. Pictures are icing.
I work as an AC, not a sound guy but xlr to usb-c sounds wrong. I believe u need a pre amp in between?
Definitely look at what setting u need your mic at. The bent line symbol is an option how sound is picked up.
Also maybe get a c-stand on wheels, it takes up less space. Yes it’s not meant as a cam tripod, but it might work better for you, especially shooting from an iPhone or small camera. U can mount so much more on a baby pin adapted to 3/8” and 1/4” mounting plate. Photo camera ball heads attach via 3/8” too I believe.
For me personally... audio is very important. I generally have a youtube video running in a corner when I'm working, if it's interesting (like many of your videos are) I'll actively watch, if it's just some resawing or whatever, it will just play in the background. But...I don't mind shop noises that much as long as I can clearly hear what you're saying, and it helps if the sounds aren't ear-piercing ;)
Having that said, I've analysed the videos you've made over the last few years with the help of some custom tools and these are my conclusions (take them with a grain of salt, I'm no expert):
1. Build videos regularly do pretty good. Both tools that you design and builds like the desk usually seem to perform well. But I'm not sure your new pattern of titles is effective (i.e. "Bosch, your saw has problems" versus "Drill guide design and build")
2. Titles... The real clickbaity titles seem to perform well, like: "You Won't Believe What This Does!". But I personally hate those with a vengeance and you would lose at least me as a subscriber. I do think there's more to be done with the titles, any title that has numbers in it ($5000 Shelves!, ... took 3 years, seem to do better as well.
3. I think recency helps too. I.e. most videos with "new ..." in the title seemed to perform well.
Not sure if it helps, just friendly advise :)
The micro camera was fine but even if you had a working one, I think you’d want to use it sparingly, so not having a new one is fine. Agree the new mic is only marginally better. As others have said, your “studio” is your problem way more than your mic. Dust collector, and lack of sound dampening are brutal. I’m sure there are many you tube woodworking/fabricating collaborators who you’d be able to reach out to for advice who would be happy to help. David Pacciuto at Make Something has high quality in shop audio, Neil Pask as well and they both run pretty small operations.
I agree that audio is important. As others have said, some sound absorbing materials is good value for the time. Can be as simple as eggshell foam in a frame with fabric on the front.
Absolutely both
So definitely more sound,
Maybe some sounds are to much
When the vise handle slides down sharp metal scraping like nails on a chalkboard
Personal irritating sound is that when videos switch to background music and it is louder than the video sound had been, I have to turn sound down and then back up when talking starts when it get to be to much switching then I unsubscribe.
I have always enjoyed your videos
The microscope view was good been really cool in slow motion
For viewers not sure but for other makers it can really turn the lights on seeing it thank you
I think the zoom-ins do help. And I think the latest Røde VideoMic is a good first step for capturing the audio. IMO, the key is once you’ve captured the audio, you don’t want it to blast out your audience, so it will need to be appropriately reduced in volume (a.k.a., “ducked”). Clean but ducked audio is what you want when it comes to things like saws, etc….
I think Adam Savage has some thoughts that he has shared with regards to the audio and video product setup they use when he’s doing a one-man “One Day Build”, and you might want to review his videos on that subject. Or maybe just talk to him.
Now, there are $1k Sennheiser shotgun mics that you can get, and they will provide better quality audio than the Røde VideoMic. But as you’ve observed, they will need a bit more audio setup beyond just plugging the USB-C cable into your phone.
I like the microscope view, but i think it'd look better if you had a vacuum just out of view to keep the sawdust out of the shot. I did not notice a difference between the phone and mic audio. Certainly not enough of a difference to justify the mic setup time. Hope this helps.
Love the zoom in shots.
FWIW I come for your commentary and inventiveness - and don't particularly mind iffy picture/sound quality (to a point) and do not like over produced videos.
The close up is sort of interesting for a short it - but I would not miss it. (Personal opinions)
It's both. You need a balance of detail shots and big picture moments as well as keeping talking heads shots to a minimum and doing voice over descriptive bits to explain the stuff you just did. The right balance is what makes a video watchable and professional.
I think your test of the audio difference is a great example of how to improve the listening experience. The sound needs to be more isolated not better, in the clip you want the sound of the saw and only the saw, not the sound of the lever rumbling in the vise. Some of it can be edited out, but here with the vise I would suggest putting a thin plastic shim to stop the metal on metal sound. It would be easier in the edit if you put the mic closer.
Maybe a nice warm panel light on a tripod to make an appealing directional light. The light in your shop is enough but very flat and a little cool.
Price of the mic is mostly irrelevant. It's the distance from the audio source that reduces echoing. Bigger picture, if you want to attract new followers, do low production shorts, consistently and don't become overdependent on any one social network.
Price to quality ratio isn't. The biggest issue is using a mic with XLR output to a device that uses a usb cable. XLR cables can't transfer data and thus the phone can't make the adjustments based off the audio like it can with a mic designed for phone and tablet use. If he was able to record the second mic correctly, it is going to sound better hands down.
IMHO, I don't see many zoom in's, so I'd like to see more. Frequently, makers talk about some tricky fitting or alignment which they can see but won't show up with a normal lens. I wish I could see what they can. There are occasions when I just have to magically figure out what they mean because they can't show something on camera like the texture of a surface etc.
Good video and sound are important. 7-8/10 on the super zoomed in shots. Mic audio much better. Love your videos!
What about using audio clips from other sources? A lot of movies and other high production stuff does that. Get one good sounding clip of a saw start up and a clean cut... Although I suppose this might be more effort than you'd like to put into editing?
Well... To be honest I don't have what to complain of, Andrew... But whatever you decide... It's good for me! 😊
Anyway, stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
I might be the minority but sound quality and cool shots are not what I pay attention too, I just like watching you make really cool stuff because you are a really cool maker
I’ll agree. If the content is garbage, it doesn’t matter how flashy it is. Microscope cameras and superior audio and such are just lipstick. I watch Andrew Klein because I like watching smart, talented people work through problems
video and audio are both super important but for me audio is way more important if we speak of quality. If you record slightly off focus or wobbly or whatever its fine. If it sounds like shit, the video is hard to watch
to me the zoom was a nice too see once ... but I guess it could bore me after the third time. The sound was a smitch better, but it would help more to keep the noise and annoying frequencys down. But anyway, thx for the video
zoom ins add a huge value! personally I love them.
one of the channels I have recently discovered is outdoors55, and he does some amazing shots with his microscope.
a lot of the stuff he presents using those microscope shots are *cutting edge*, that you can't find anywhere else.
I like the zoom in shots! Please replace that broken camera! :))
I am impressed at your ability to design and build your specialty jigs. You show the build process well, but in my opinion cut the design process short. I would like to better understand your design process and decisions. Thank you.
The microphone is an improvement, but most of the time I watch your videos with the sound off. Look forward to your next video.
For me personally, video lighting is the most important, not necessarily video quality/resolution. Audio is also important, but you don’t need multichannel fancy cardioid mics to convey a verbal message and hear machines whirring. Most of us watch these videos on our iPhones anyway so we’re limited by shitty speakers as it is.
I have little concern about audio quality as long as it’s decent. I’m more interested in great storytelling, something inspiring, or great filming/editing. If all three, it’s a home run.
How about a microphone isolation box / shield?
I feel I can hear some of the more subtle sounds
Yes, I 100% agree, audio is one of the best upgrades you can make to video!
I can't tell you how many videos I left in the first 15 seconds due to complete garbage audio. Glad to see this improvement and I can't wait for more video's to come out.
Video and audio is fine.
4:16 no 3d printer??
The microphone audio is better. The real close ups have a "specialist' appeal to technical content.
Mic audio all the way. Small Rig cage for iPhone, usbc hub and Anker brick
iPhones use a 25 year old USB 2.0 interface. The USB port on the iPhones may not be able to support the mic.
Only because you've asked, so no offense intended... People watch TH-cam videos to both learn and relax. If you can mix both, then you are a winner. Best examples at the moment are 'my mechanics', 'Foureyes Furniture' and 'Blacktail Studio'. What do they have in common? Background noises and high pitch tool sounds are all eliminated. There is nothing more annoying than 'dental drill frequencies' as someone else already mentioned here. Your videos are very informative and show your genius innovative mind, but sometimes they are jarring to the ears, for example at 2:50 and, yes, at the ubiquitous 6:16 (most terrifying outro of all YT channels, that I always pause) or when your compressor / dust extractor is running. This is a common problem, that John Heisz and Celal Ünal channels face as well. Another issue is the 'shaky camera syndrome'. For example at 2:21 - 2:35: why wasn't your camera on a tripod to capture that shot? See Alexander Chappel's "3d Printing a $10,000 Camera Arm" episode for inspiration.
zoom + slow motion might make for more cinematic bewilderment.
I think you need to leave the iphone and upgrade your channel to a real camera with audio input. Then I recommend Davinci Resolve to edit your videos. You can get started with used hardware for very cheap.
I generally watch your videos muted with captions on. Hearing power tools better isn’t really important for me. I’d much prefer the microscope shots as I’ve never seen them on any of the maker channels I watch.
You are absolutely correct that audio quality is more important than video quality. I think it's importance to think of it as a tolerance thing, people will tolerate poor video more than poor audio.
The shotgun style mics are a good choice as they will help isolate echo from the room, but you might find it helpful to build a few sound baffles that you can move around the workspace to help improve that quality. The line lock might not be the best choice for the mic arm. My suspicion is that it will move too much and that might add noise tot he recording. I'd consider getting a magic arm or a grip stand with a grip arm. The "better" of the two mics is an XLR mic and I doubt that will know how to convert the audio into a USB format. It probably needs a DAC (digital audio converter) but audio is not my strong suit so others will probably know better than me.
The microscope shot is cool, but not nearly as important as a medium wide shot. In fact if you get another microscope I'd consider cutting between that and a medium to keep the action a little more interesting.
For reference I have about 30 years experience working in film and TV across various disciplines. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have, I love the channel and thing you have really cool ideas in how to tackle various things.
I will leave a good video if the sound is bad. And I don’t mind overdubs at all.
For me video is often all I get, as I watch a lot with sound off.
Meh… I think the audio was fine on both for me. Didn’t make any change for me.
I think the videos are just a touch on the informative side instead of being a little more on the entertainment side. Like watching your videos feels more like an instructional video. Where as John Meleki (however it’s spelled) is more entertainment.
You have really excellent design and invention ideas…. But they’re portrayed in a slightly robotic way.
It’s definitely unique and I’m not saying it’s bad. But I think if you want to make better videos…. I’d just look at adding some entertainment flourishes to your videos.
Audio is surprisingly important. One thing I'll ask: are you using a video editing software that has audio filters? This may be an additional layer of complexity you aren't willing to go into, but there are some filters in Premier (I assume Davinci Resolve had them, top) where you can take a baseline (fans, dust collection on) and they do a great job of reducing them in the output audio.
Maybe a microscope will come along during Christmas. 🎄🎁🎅🔬
Zoom ins are nice, but aren't necessary to demonstrate techniques.
I actually don’t care for shop sounds. Let me give you an example.. we all love Cremona videos, I’m certain - but if he would just take his video through an audio processor that lowers the shop sounds I’d be so much happier. I don’t appreciate loud buzzing sounds and I have to constantly play with volume during speaking vs work parts. As for your videos, to best honest, all your videos are fine, but I rarely click the thumbnail cause it doesn’t grab me. Even though I know you will do something cool.
Haha, well any thumbnail advice would be great! What does grab you?
Never once have I ever thought to stop watching your content due to either audio or visual quality. Keep doing what you do. Thank you.
Andrew, regarding the mic you can't get to work...the switch is thus: The circle or all the way down is OFF, meaning the mic is turned off. The middle position "-" or dash is ON and with a flat EQ response, meaning the mic is ON and no frequencies(i.e. highs, mids or lows) are being cut or boosted. The upper most position on the switch in, the mic ON AND a LOW CUT(150 HZ and below...think kick drum) is being applied to the audio the mic is "hearing" and in turn NOT being recorded.
From a "listening on phone speakers" perspective it's advisable to just use the mic with the switch in the upper most posistion, i.e. all the way up.
Think of it like this, down is OFF, up is ON.
The zoom ins might make good shorts?
love how you break down the problems you are trying to solve!
Video quality is top notch, zoom in shots and more angles making more interesting, the audio of your voice is the most important, but additionally the ASMR of other sounds curated so not to loud are nice to. No one wants to hear a table saw at full blast. I tend to drop the audio down when I have he louder power tools going, but for something like a chisel through wood, well I would want to make this stand out.
Video
For VO videos, audio quality has less importance because of the level reduction. Plus its another element to mess up during capture and insert into your edit.
that ultra close-up macro shot was awesome :)
Gain was a bit higher. Could hear the hum in the background. Better but marginally.
By the way, I’ve always wondered why you go with grizzly for a table saw and not the TH-cam-mandatory sawstop. Not a hater, love to see the “every man” table saws.
One thing that would go a long way would be to get rid of the horrendous reverb on your voiceover…
Some microphones use more power than what a phone or computer by itself can provide. Some big ones requiere additional power source (phantom power) to work.
That should be on the product spec sheet.
Edited from ghost to phantom. Technical accuracy matters here.
Bahahaha you mean phantom power?
PHANTOM power. If There are batteries in the mic, phantom power from the mixer/phone/camera isn't required.
@@chrisjaustin88 correct.
Sorry, english not my first language and I just remembered from a project I did like 5 years ago.
@@sergiogsr well now I feel bad, I apologize.
@@chrisjaustin88 don't. I was wrong and possibly the term I used made the solution harder to find.
tbh in case of makers vids i don't mind average sound as long as it's not recorded with potato
Your workbench is shaky AF fix that thing!!
My opinion, for what it’s worth, is that you’re already 95% there. As a consumer of TH-cam videos, what I look for is (1) fairly decent video production quality, meaning good lighting, good editing, the images show what you intend to show and I want to see; (2) fairly decent audio quality, meaning I can understand what you’re saying (if there’s background noise), and your commentary is relevant to what you’re showing. Nobody is perfect, so the occasional poorly lighted video r difficult to understand audio is forgivable, especially when we understand that most creators are *not* staffed with professional production crews and equipment. What many creators don’t understand is the absolute necessity to define what they want to present, plan the production, script the production, and follow the plan and script without missing important points or adding too much. Plan the work and work the plan, as the saying goes.
Hey man. Classically trained audio engineer. I dont mess with USB microphones, but if you want to look at some legit audio equipment/setups let me know and we can chat
Will you have any suggestions that won't slow me down?
I'm going to talk about clarification while simultaneously dig myself into a muddle. Love your videos, and if you understand one thing that I'm saying then my muddle is worth it.
You are in the maker's space and explaining how to do / make things is of primary importance. So your decisions should be IMO, does this help clarify what I'm doing to the viewer? You can and should ask, is this entertaining? It just shouldn't be the primary question. Or another way to look at it is that clarification IS entertaining. Or it should be. Should you do super close ups? If it helps viewers to better understand what you are explaining or demonstrating then yes. As for sound, the mic gave a more growling sound which was an enhancement because perhaps on a subconscious level it demonstrated that you were grrrrinding away at a large piece of wood - as opposed to easing your way through a job, if you know what I'm trying to say. I'm a musician so I'm pretty big on sound but I don't beat it to death. I'd rather move on to the next job and let the small things be whatever they become. Lastly, I've never cut too much out of a video. Never. The more I cut the better it becomes. But even there it's not the cutting that makes it better. It's the stripping of things that seem important to me but bore my viewer.