Hey Andrew, there's just something I would like to share. I'm not sure if you already know this but I bet you do because you literally have the word Masters in your name. However, I learnt this from a seasoned studio professional who records for some of the biggest artist in the industry. Typically, we would think that a mic sounds the best as close as possible to the mic. However, before recording, you might want to test how the mic sounds when the singer is at different distance from the mic (boom operators do this alot and they even do different angles to see what sounds best). Here's a tip, just set the pop filter like 5-6 inches away from the mic, and ask the singer to sing close to the pop filter or right on the pop filter. This way you will get consistency and you get a far better/different sound for some reason. Try it, you'll be surprised. Edit: Ariana probably preferred the gator with the double pantyhose because the pop filter it's thicker than the other pop filters. Hence, a further distance.
@@Slipsch generally speaking this does work, but definitely depends. Some artist actual don't need a pop filter, which I was surprise to find out, they control plosions and the s's very well. Or for certain sounds captured (like what Billie Ellis does) might need to be closer. 16 years ago I learned the same thing you are mentioning, but within that 16 years I found out it's not the Gospel truth but a good guidelines. Thank you for sharing! 🙌🏾
Thanks for including us, Andrew! Ariana's voice sounded awesome all around! We typically discourage metal pop filter use because they don't stop spit. Spit + dust = degraded capsule sonics over time. The most surprising thing was how much each affected the sound. If you do a PT2 with more filters (one pop to rule them all), it would be cool to hear a take without a pop to A/B the original vs. the filtered takes 😃
Working at a studio, I was told that some engineers don’t like the metal pop filters because it can create moisture to hit the microphone and cause damage. Sometimes, depending on the vocalist and genre, I don’t even use a pop filter. I slightly tilt the microphone down, off axis, and have the vocalist move back a bit more.
It's interesting how the Isovox sounded the "cleanest" to me, especially dealing with plosives, but had such a viscerally negative reaction from Ariana! Good reminder that something can be "better" from an engineer's perspective but the artist themselves might not connect and deliver as good a performance from it.
ah so refreshing to see reviewers give their opinions on which product they like best. 90% of sound reviewers reviewing microphones and related stuff will ask us what we think sound best and refrain from giving their opinions, which is totally ridiculous. How the hell do we know what their original voice sounds like before it goes to the mic ? only when you have a clear idea of the reference voice, then you'll know which is a more true to life mic. Also after going through youtube, what we're hearing is not the actual sound the mic is producing. So thank you for giving us your opinion.
The stedman is directional and it pushes the air downwards, it is not meant to be angled sideways. However, metal filters create a weird noise regardless.
We've gone through lots and lots of pop filters over the years. We only use Hakan P110's now. They genuinely let through less pops and they sound phenomenal.
Its interesting to me that the best sounding pop filter was the one where the material was the most like panty hose material. I read a book written by producer Peter McIan (Men at Work, Pat Benetar, among others) some 30ish years ago called "the Musicians Guide to Home Recording" where he talked about using panty hose stretched across a wire coat hanger bent to shape as a pop filter. He also mentioned how well simply taping a No 2 pencil to the front of the microphone can be very effective in removing plosives for a vocal. I've used both techniques for years and though Ive tried a few different pop filters over the years, I still come back to these techniques from time to time depending on the singers voice.
I share the same idea. The Iso and Gator Mesh ones definitely stuck out to me the most in terms of sibilance control. I also liked how there were some timbral differences in the vocals as well based on what filter was being used. Her vocals sounded a little bit warmer when using the mesh vs metal, which I prefer. Great video! This came in at a great time because I need to pick up a few!!
Just for the size factor alone, my wife chooses the Isovox over any other pop filter. Those bigger filters restrict her vision and make her feel claustrophobic. Sound wise, the Isovox and the big gator filter sounded the best imo, but the smaller size and sturdiness of the Isovox (and getting 2 filters with it) makes it worth the price jump over the cheaper ones. Cool vid man! Never thought to do a pop filter shootout.
Literally, didn't know Ariana had that amazing voice! She sounds more than amazing on all of the takes, bring her back on a song even! That'd be dope for sure! Great video Andrew!
Seriously! I had never heard her sing before and man was I blown away; when I chose to watch this video, it was about pop filters and now all of a sudden it's about Ariana's voice!
Ariana's sounds amazing, I did not expect such a big powerful projecting voice from someone so petit. A tip for anyone who doesn't already know this, a good fix for a weak pop filter that won't stay in place is to use a separate second mic stand just for mounting the pop filter. Thanks for the comparison video!
I see a problem with all of them and it's user error. The filter is too close to the mic. And the metal filters are directional because of how the wind is deflected and its works best if it's placed at least 3" from the mic. Should've tried the Aston mic filter. That one sounds the best to me.
Damn, learn something new everyday. I've cut vocals on some big ass records the wrong way I guess haha. No joke, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Beiber, and many more (not a flex, but interesting). Usually just use my ear on voice proximity in relation to the song, but I will intentionally try to have the vocalist/pop filter further from the body and see how it goes. Do you pull out measuring tape when putting on the pop filter?
@AndrewMasters I don't measure but, I've done a lot of trial and error with my vocals over the past 25+ years of making music. But what do I know?! 🤷🏾♂️ I also stay teachable no matter how much experience I have. There's always someone that has tried something new and interesting that I haven't. That's why I watch channels like yours. Also, that was a flex. 💪
@@AndrewMasters I don't use tape. But I use my fist in a ball from pinky to thumb - think of giving a thumbs up, but turned on it's side with the thumb being pointed at the pop filter. Usually works well...if I want more proximity, I pull the thumb in.
This is a real service. You are probably not going to get a huge number of views on this video (at least at first), but we need information on these unsexy, low-level utility devices. I need to buy a few pop filters, but have no criteria on which to make my decision. I'm just throwing a dart. This is helpful, so thank you for this video.
So...the traditional objective for a pop filter is to control the plosives (like P and B sounds) that push a big wave of air at the mic. The Gator pop filter was easily the most successful in providing that ability. (I know people probably have already made that observation, so consider this as merely a preference vote. ;-) ) As far as sibilance, I agree with Andrew.
The Aspen Pittman Designs pop filter has a specially designed screen to channel puffs away from the mic. It's a great little magnetic mount so it's usually very convenient with no goose neck to hassle with.
the sibilance is slightly less on the non-metal filters.. BUT the vocal is muffled to an uacceptable degree. I will continue using the metal grill (Using a sE filter) and control sibilance with a plugin.
I own 3 filters and I love my Hankan(which is similar to the isovox but I think that the hankan has a more so transparent sound than the isovox) more than all of them. It's more transparent as well. the mesh ones kinda allow your highs to come through a little more which is probably why she didn't like the isovox because to my knowledge and from my experince the mesh ones alter your voice.
I got a metal one during covid, because I could just disinfect it really easily. One time I had my regulard old mesh one up and just put the metal one in front of it and it the combination had the best pop and sibilance controll I had ever heared from just pop filters. I've been it like that ever since.
didn't know I would have wanted to watch this video, but then I watched it and really enjoyed the comparison. It's nice to know that even in this field (pop filters) the most expensive is not always the best
That Gator wins. The pop on the B sound in beg and borrow is almost silent. The ISOVox is great too, but a little too filtered, therefore less natural. It's that double mesh/air gap combo. Metal looks better, but who cares. Take the head off the Gator, but it on a better gooseneck - best of both worlds.
All the other ones change the sound of the mic not in a good way, kind of adds an uncomfortable shine or muffles the sound. THE NYLON ONE SOUNDS VERY GOOD! 4 was the BEST for me as well!
I was immediately impressed by the Isomax and then when I heard the Gator - knowing it was $100 cheaper - I was _very_ impressed. Insofar as mitigating sibilance and "P"-pops I felt it stood shoulder to shoulder with the Isomax and so long as it attachment mechanism isn't outright junk, is a no brainer for anyone doing vocal recording. Now, I felt the Isomax added a level of consistency and _control_ to the vocal that I liked right off the bat. Like Andrew mentioned, I may or may not like that as much _in the mix_ but my initial instincts are that I will. I'm a bit neurotic about control of the lead vocal. The more consistency and control (in regard to dynamics, sibilance, P-pops etc) I can get on the "raw," non or minimally processed vocal, the happier I am as a recordist. (Yes, I refer to myself as a "recordist" because I'm far too much of a technical neophyte to feel comfortable calling myself an engineer, lol).
It was interesting to me when you mentioned you hadn't seen the nylon mesh one before. When I started working in studios back in the mid- to late 90's, all we had were the nylon mesh ones. AND I remember several people telling me if you didn't have a pop filter, you could get a pair of pantyhose and stretch them over a wire coat-hanger in a pinch.
Those filters were all positioned very close to the microphone. With some filters (specifically metal ones), you need more distance between the filter and the mic b/c they don't stop air, they redirect it.
Maybe it's the speakers I'm listening on, but the IsoVox sounded like it had a bit of a vintage, maybe leaning toward ribbon mic sound. Sure it colors the sound, but it might be usable as a deliberate tool to do so. Like a passive EQ device, heh.
My favorite for pop filter was like you, between the Gator and the ISOVOX. As far as usage, I would change out filters depending on the vocalist, the purpose, and the color I am looking for. I've used a double nylon pop filter for years. I've also recently have used a Blue metal pop filter which lets in more sibilance.
I agree with those saying the Isovox sounded best--it's no wonder it costs twice as much as the average (metal) pop screen at Guitar Center. On my laptop speakers I could tell instantly that the sibilance was greatly reduced compared to the others. It was kind of ironic when she said her vocals sounded muffled on that one when singing live. Perhaps it sounded that way because it wasn't what she was used to in general. In any case, I recently changed from mesh to metal thinking it would be better but I seem to be having more issues with sibilance than I ever have before, even as the SM58 mic I also recently bought captures my voice better than any other mics I've tried. I guess I'll have to go back and see if using the mesh is better after all.
Great test, thank you! I’d be really curious to see your thoughts on the Aspen Pittman pop filter, they use it on The First Take and those recordings are astounding, not sure how much the pop filter affects those but I’ve been really curious about that pop filter
stating the obvious here, but besides talking about the effect these pop filters have on sibilance only the isovox one is doing enough on plosives, the others like completely fail in that regard. I've great results with the aspen Pittman pfm+, the hakan p110 and the jz mic pop filter.
First of all, what a stellar voice and performance, I love those robust lows and overall, wonderful tone! Anyway, as far as the filters, I agree with your (Andrew) choices, in regards to the two that did the best job of controlling the sibilance. Having said that, and perhaps this is a moot point, but as far as what was the most pleasurable to listen to, well, that would be the other two that you didn't pick. I just felt that, sibilance aside, those other two retained a consistent level of clarity, especially on the top end throughout the entire performance/take. Whereas the two you picked sounded slightly rolled off (just on certain notes) and as Ariana mentioned, as if she was wearing a mask, even though one of the ones she referred to as being muffled was one of the ones I thought sounded more open. haha.. Nothing severe but still, enough to bother me. And as far as their ability to control sibilance, well yeah, perhaps they didn't achieve that in the slightest, almost as if you weren't using one at all. I guess if it were me, I might choose the first two, simply because I'd rather track something sounding wide open and clear as possible and then try to remedy the harshness and/or sibilance issues whilst mixing via eq. If the problem was extreme, then I'd probably opt for the filter. Anyway, just my two cents! Excellent video and content as always! Take care.. Dave..
Cool video, great quick test! I noticed some slight differences, but I guess I'll have to take a second listen (and on the speakers instead of my mobile phone) as my focus was more on the visuals this time. 😁 😉🥰 On more serious note, aren't pop-filters suppose to filter out the pops? And possibly leave the rest as it is? 🤔
Yeah but the metal ones like the Stedman let the true sound of the mic through. The other ones to me have some sort of filtering that is very obvious in the high end that is simply not truly recoverable. You can boost it, but it's not the same. Like who cares about more Sss I can lower them with melodyne, soothe and de-esser super easily without affecting the tone like the other ones do.
@Andrewmasters dope video! I’ve been following you for a while now, and love the in-site you give and have given. I personally wanted to say that I favored both the isovox and the gator. The build quality of both brought out noticeable characteristics that could be used differently. Isovox is more controlled, the gator not so much. But I would use both in different scenarios.
I knew you'd pick 1 and 4.. the other two were letting the plosives through big time... which defeats the purpose of a pop filter. I agree the iso was more consistent though that might have been in the delivery of the vocal.. hard to tell on such a short clip
I can’t seem to find it now, but I seem to remember a picture of Paul McCartney singing into a mic with a Union Jack sock over it as a pop filter. (Probably from first solo album…)
You're still getting those plosives and sibilance issues as the pop filter is still too close to the capsule. What happens is the pressure wave from the plosive is causing the webbing to flex which is in turn flicking a small amount of air (and sometimes moisture) onto the capsule. The air between the filter and the capsule needs distance so the air in between will lose its energy and dissipate. You can test this with one of those photography lens blowers/puffers. It'll tell you the minimum distance each type of filter needs... To test the EQ curve of each filter you need to rely on the same performance. Something that is physically impossible with an actual singer. You need to put a speaker in place of the singer and do a sine sweep to determine if any frequencies are actually changed. 1-2db is not going to be noticeable by anyone. 10db over a wide band would be. Without testing these things as in depth its really still subjective, even if you have thrown options out there. It just makes those options meaningless.
I watched a video with a UK microphone manufacturer and he said you want the pop filter 7-8" away from mic otherwise it isn't preventing sibilance at all. I didn't know that. He held out his hand thumb to pinky was what he said is effective.
Man, you really need to try the JZ PF pop filter. I used to use the ISOVOX, and then I tried the JZ - PF pop filter and it changed my music, IT CHANGED MY SOUND
The metal ones are more plosive... That is my opinion. And my fav is the same! in term of sibilance, the pop filter should not interfere with the mic response, altho I feel like metal ones are also more sibilant.
The ISO is the best sounding, Ariana's voice just cuts thru "The Best" with this one, but the Gator is not bad at all. If you got the funds get the ISO, if your on a budget the Gator will work fine too. I fell the ISO is just a good step above for a clear vocal recording.
As heard in this video, pop filters definitely make a difference and some do a better job than others. I appreciate the intent of this video, but I would have liked to see some industry standard pop filters included in the comparison such as the Shure PS-6 Popper Stopper and the Hakan P110. I feel like the Stedman, though popular, is more of a home studio standard than an industry standard. I think that's because they're the "best" or most expensive pop filter available at national retail chains that are locally accessible to most. However, there are definitely better options. Personally, I've never been a fan of the metal screens. I find they give more of a metallic, bright sound that can end up bringing out the esses. I think people like them because of their bright sound but, we shouldn't be getting that from our pop filter, we should be getting that from our microphone and preamp selections.
I wish the jz pop filter was featured, they have a metal pop filter with a metal pin in the middle that is designed to battle sibilance. I was just curious how it would stack up in a "sibilance" battle.
When doing shoot-outs it's always better to rank than to guess. The goal is to find the best one, not guess which is which. It can dramatically throw off the results. Also, it would have been better to create 3 categories 1) best at handling plosives. 2) best at handling es's 3) best overall. It's also worth considering build quality and ease of cleaning. This could have been a much better video. Just my $0.02
Great video! It took me a while to figure how much those affect sound! Also great choice of mics, I love Lauten... Build quality, sound quality are second to none and they have an amazing service! Highly recommend.
Thanks for doing this; looked like fun! To me, the Gator was best at dampening the S's. It took the brightness out of them, even though they remained clear. It is possible that the larger diameter between the two contributed to the effect as well.
This is crazy because to me, it sounds not far from the equivalent to a different mic. I had no idea pop filters had that much effect on a recording. As a side note, Ariana has an incredible voice! Well done.
You don't necessarily need a pop filter but if you're going to use one, use it correctly.....which you're not doing in this video. The pop filter has to be at least 5 inches away from the microphone (approximately a sideways fist) to give plosives time to dissipate through the filter. if you have it almost right up to the mic the pop filter isn't doing much of anything. You need to redo this test using the pop filters the way they're meant to be used, not close to or right up against the mic. I bet you the sound would be different for each one if you redo it using the filters the right way (and yes, there is a right way).
Maybe I passed out in the middle of the video but I heard absolutely no mention of the fact that the metal pop filters didn't actually work as pop filters. There were very obvious plosives passing through the metal pop filters. The GATOR was absolutely the best balance of acoustic transparency, plosive rejection and price.
At least you folks understand that pop filters are a goodtool to haveon hand. Not like that other guy on another channel who hates pop filters. Remember Sir George Martin made pop filters that he had the Beatles use when recording.
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@@eranddroory9987 No
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Hey Andrew, there's just something I would like to share. I'm not sure if you already know this but I bet you do because you literally have the word Masters in your name. However, I learnt this from a seasoned studio professional who records for some of the biggest artist in the industry. Typically, we would think that a mic sounds the best as close as possible to the mic. However, before recording, you might want to test how the mic sounds when the singer is at different distance from the mic (boom operators do this alot and they even do different angles to see what sounds best). Here's a tip, just set the pop filter like 5-6 inches away from the mic, and ask the singer to sing close to the pop filter or right on the pop filter. This way you will get consistency and you get a far better/different sound for some reason. Try it, you'll be surprised.
Edit: Ariana probably preferred the gator with the double pantyhose because the pop filter it's thicker than the other pop filters. Hence, a further distance.
@@Slipsch generally speaking this does work, but definitely depends. Some artist actual don't need a pop filter, which I was surprise to find out, they control plosions and the s's very well. Or for certain sounds captured (like what Billie Ellis does) might need to be closer.
16 years ago I learned the same thing you are mentioning, but within that 16 years I found out it's not the Gospel truth but a good guidelines.
Thank you for sharing! 🙌🏾
Thanks for including us, Andrew! Ariana's voice sounded awesome all around! We typically discourage metal pop filter use because they don't stop spit. Spit + dust = degraded capsule sonics over time. The most surprising thing was how much each affected the sound. If you do a PT2 with more filters (one pop to rule them all), it would be cool to hear a take without a pop to A/B the original vs. the filtered takes 😃
That's a good idea! We should do another take without a filter.
@@arianamastersofficial I thought of that as well. A take without any filter.
Never thought my addiction to gear would lead me to watching a pop filter shootout, but here we are...
🤣🤣
same rofl
Working at a studio, I was told that some engineers don’t like the metal pop filters because it can create moisture to hit the microphone and cause damage. Sometimes, depending on the vocalist and genre, I don’t even use a pop filter. I slightly tilt the microphone down, off axis, and have the vocalist move back a bit more.
It's interesting how the Isovox sounded the "cleanest" to me, especially dealing with plosives, but had such a viscerally negative reaction from Ariana! Good reminder that something can be "better" from an engineer's perspective but the artist themselves might not connect and deliver as good a performance from it.
Becourse she knows nothing about sound resonances and positioning.
BTW she can't sing too
ah so refreshing to see reviewers give their opinions on which product they like best. 90% of sound reviewers reviewing microphones and related stuff will ask us what we think sound best and refrain from giving their opinions, which is totally ridiculous. How the hell do we know what their original voice sounds like before it goes to the mic ? only when you have a clear idea of the reference voice, then you'll know which is a more true to life mic. Also after going through youtube, what we're hearing is not the actual sound the mic is producing. So thank you for giving us your opinion.
The stedman is directional and it pushes the air downwards, it is not meant to be angled sideways. However, metal filters create a weird noise regardless.
We've gone through lots and lots of pop filters over the years. We only use Hakan P110's now. They genuinely let through less pops and they sound phenomenal.
Aren't the Hakan and the IsoPop pretty much the same?
Its interesting to me that the best sounding pop filter was the one where the material was the most like panty hose material. I read a book written by producer Peter McIan (Men at Work, Pat Benetar, among others) some 30ish years ago called "the Musicians Guide to Home Recording" where he talked about using panty hose stretched across a wire coat hanger bent to shape as a pop filter. He also mentioned how well simply taping a No 2 pencil to the front of the microphone can be very effective in removing plosives for a vocal. I've used both techniques for years and though Ive tried a few different pop filters over the years, I still come back to these techniques from time to time depending on the singers voice.
I share the same idea. The Iso and Gator Mesh ones definitely stuck out to me the most in terms of sibilance control. I also liked how there were some timbral differences in the vocals as well based on what filter was being used. Her vocals sounded a little bit warmer when using the mesh vs metal, which I prefer. Great video! This came in at a great time because I need to pick up a few!!
I have an isovox and it sounds better than any other pop filters for sure! :) Gator sounded good also. Less plosives!
Just for the size factor alone, my wife chooses the Isovox over any other pop filter. Those bigger filters restrict her vision and make her feel claustrophobic. Sound wise, the Isovox and the big gator filter sounded the best imo, but the smaller size and sturdiness of the Isovox (and getting 2 filters with it) makes it worth the price jump over the cheaper ones.
Cool vid man! Never thought to do a pop filter shootout.
Literally, didn't know Ariana had that amazing voice!
She sounds more than amazing on all of the takes, bring her back on a song even! That'd be dope for sure!
Great video Andrew!
Seriously! I had never heard her sing before and man was I blown away; when I chose to watch this video, it was about pop filters and now all of a sudden it's about Ariana's voice!
Ariana's sounds amazing, I did not expect such a big powerful projecting voice from someone so petit. A tip for anyone who doesn't already know this, a good fix for a weak pop filter that won't stay in place is to use a separate second mic stand just for mounting the pop filter. Thanks for the comparison video!
Hey thank you for the compliment! I appreciate that. Also, great idea on the second mic stand!
The Eden sounds great!
Wow.... Ariana's voice sounds absolutly incredible!! 🔥🔥
Thank you so much :)
@@arianamastersofficial Thank you! Any plan's on y'all putting out an album? Is something out there??
I see a problem with all of them and it's user error. The filter is too close to the mic. And the metal filters are directional because of how the wind is deflected and its works best if it's placed at least 3" from the mic. Should've tried the Aston mic filter. That one sounds the best to me.
Damn, learn something new everyday. I've cut vocals on some big ass records the wrong way I guess haha. No joke, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Beiber, and many more (not a flex, but interesting). Usually just use my ear on voice proximity in relation to the song, but I will intentionally try to have the vocalist/pop filter further from the body and see how it goes. Do you pull out measuring tape when putting on the pop filter?
@AndrewMasters I don't measure but, I've done a lot of trial and error with my vocals over the past 25+ years of making music. But what do I know?! 🤷🏾♂️ I also stay teachable no matter how much experience I have. There's always someone that has tried something new and interesting that I haven't. That's why I watch channels like yours. Also, that was a flex. 💪
@@politicallyopinionated haha I mean it makes sense, thanks for the comment.
@@AndrewMasters thank you for the great content.
@@AndrewMasters I don't use tape. But I use my fist in a ball from pinky to thumb - think of giving a thumbs up, but turned on it's side with the thumb being pointed at the pop filter. Usually works well...if I want more proximity, I pull the thumb in.
This is a real service. You are probably not going to get a huge number of views on this video (at least at first), but we need information on these unsexy, low-level utility devices. I need to buy a few pop filters, but have no criteria on which to make my decision. I'm just throwing a dart. This is helpful, so thank you for this video.
I appreciate it! I have high hopes it'll be useful over the long run!
Ariana’s voice sounds FANTASTIC on all of them!!!!!
Thank you!!!
@@arianamastersofficial I started paving before I could even finish the video!
I feel like the isovox and gator mesh did better with getting rid of the plosives.
I still hear tons of plosive on all of them.
in my headphones, the isovox sounded more in the room, more close, which i preferred. it would be interesting to hear them all in a mix too.
I'm seeing alot of Lauten Edens out there lately. I was gifted one years ago and I'm trilled people have caught on! Amazing customer service too.
So...the traditional objective for a pop filter is to control the plosives (like P and B sounds) that push a big wave of air at the mic. The Gator pop filter was easily the most successful in providing that ability. (I know people probably have already made that observation, so consider this as merely a preference vote. ;-) ) As far as sibilance, I agree with Andrew.
The Aspen Pittman Designs pop filter has a specially designed screen to channel puffs away from the mic. It's a great little magnetic mount so it's usually very convenient with no goose neck to hassle with.
What a great voice, more pls.
Thank you :)
the sibilance is slightly less on the non-metal filters.. BUT the vocal is muffled to an uacceptable degree. I will continue using the metal grill (Using a sE filter) and control sibilance with a plugin.
I own 3 filters and I love my Hankan(which is similar to the isovox but I think that the hankan has a more so transparent sound than the isovox) more than all of them. It's more transparent as well. the mesh ones kinda allow your highs to come through a little more which is probably why she didn't like the isovox because to my knowledge and from my experince the mesh ones alter your voice.
Nice comparison.
I wonder if it wouldn't be better to move the plop shields a little further from the microphone?
Greetings.
I got a metal one during covid, because I could just disinfect it really easily. One time I had my regulard old mesh one up and just put the metal one in front of it and it the combination had the best pop and sibilance controll I had ever heared from just pop filters. I've been it like that ever since.
My metal pop filters are amazing! I also have a stedman and blue mic pop filter! The metal pop filter is by groove tubes and it’s my favorite!
didn't know I would have wanted to watch this video, but then I watched it and really enjoyed the comparison. It's nice to know that even in this field (pop filters) the most expensive is not always the best
That Gator wins. The pop on the B sound in beg and borrow is almost silent. The ISOVox is great too, but a little too filtered, therefore less natural. It's that double mesh/air gap combo. Metal looks better, but who cares. Take the head off the Gator, but it on a better gooseneck - best of both worlds.
All the other ones change the sound of the mic not in a good way, kind of adds an uncomfortable shine or muffles the sound. THE NYLON ONE SOUNDS VERY GOOD! 4 was the BEST for me as well!
I was immediately impressed by the Isomax and then when I heard the Gator - knowing it was $100 cheaper - I was _very_ impressed. Insofar as mitigating sibilance and "P"-pops I felt it stood shoulder to shoulder with the Isomax and so long as it attachment mechanism isn't outright junk, is a no brainer for anyone doing vocal recording. Now, I felt the Isomax added a level of consistency and _control_ to the vocal that I liked right off the bat. Like Andrew mentioned, I may or may not like that as much _in the mix_ but my initial instincts are that I will. I'm a bit neurotic about control of the lead vocal. The more consistency and control (in regard to dynamics, sibilance, P-pops etc) I can get on the "raw," non or minimally processed vocal, the happier I am as a recordist. (Yes, I refer to myself as a "recordist" because I'm far too much of a technical neophyte to feel comfortable calling myself an engineer, lol).
Wow, Ariana's voice is fantastic! So soulful, loved it. 💖😊🎙🎤
It was interesting to me when you mentioned you hadn't seen the nylon mesh one before. When I started working in studios back in the mid- to late 90's, all we had were the nylon mesh ones. AND I remember several people telling me if you didn't have a pop filter, you could get a pair of pantyhose and stretch them over a wire coat-hanger in a pinch.
I was saying I hadn't seen one with two layers of it with an air gap in the middle. We've used the nylon mesh for a loooong time.
I've had the best results from the dual layer pop filters for maybe 10+ years now. Amazon usually has a few on sale for $15 from time to time.
I loved the Iso coz it did control more plosives imo. Great video Andy ❤️🇲🇼
Wow.. What a voice..
Thank you!!!
Those filters were all positioned very close to the microphone. With some filters (specifically metal ones), you need more distance between the filter and the mic b/c they don't stop air, they redirect it.
Maybe it's the speakers I'm listening on, but the IsoVox sounded like it had a bit of a vintage, maybe leaning toward ribbon mic sound. Sure it colors the sound, but it might be usable as a deliberate tool to do so. Like a passive EQ device, heh.
My favorite for pop filter was like you, between the Gator and the ISOVOX. As far as usage, I would change out filters depending on the vocalist, the purpose, and the color I am looking for. I've used a double nylon pop filter for years. I've also recently have used a Blue metal pop filter which lets in more sibilance.
I love my "JZ Microphones" pop filter. Quality piece. Would love to see your thoughts on that pop filter, Andrew!
I agree with those saying the Isovox sounded best--it's no wonder it costs twice as much as the average (metal) pop screen at Guitar Center. On my laptop speakers I could tell instantly that the sibilance was greatly reduced compared to the others. It was kind of ironic when she said her vocals sounded muffled on that one when singing live. Perhaps it sounded that way because it wasn't what she was used to in general. In any case, I recently changed from mesh to metal thinking it would be better but I seem to be having more issues with sibilance than I ever have before, even as the SM58 mic I also recently bought captures my voice better than any other mics I've tried. I guess I'll have to go back and see if using the mesh is better after all.
Wow. Great vocals and science. Another element of things is where to put filter- closer to mic or close to facemouth..
Great test, thank you! I’d be really curious to see your thoughts on the Aspen Pittman pop filter, they use it on The First Take and those recordings are astounding, not sure how much the pop filter affects those but I’ve been really curious about that pop filter
stating the obvious here, but besides talking about the effect these pop filters have on sibilance only the isovox one is doing enough on plosives, the others like completely fail in that regard.
I've great results with the aspen Pittman pfm+, the hakan p110 and the jz mic pop filter.
I didn’t know your wife had such a great voice that’s awesome!
Thank you so much!
Awesome content!
First of all, what a stellar voice and performance, I love those robust lows and overall, wonderful tone! Anyway, as far as the filters, I agree with your (Andrew) choices, in regards to the two that did the best job of controlling the sibilance. Having said that, and perhaps this is a moot point, but as far as what was the most pleasurable to listen to, well, that would be the other two that you didn't pick.
I just felt that, sibilance aside, those other two retained a consistent level of clarity, especially on the top end throughout the entire performance/take. Whereas the two you picked sounded slightly rolled off (just on certain notes) and as Ariana mentioned, as if she was wearing a mask, even though one of the ones she referred to as being muffled was one of the ones I thought sounded more open. haha.. Nothing severe but still, enough to bother me. And as far as their ability to control sibilance, well yeah, perhaps they didn't achieve that in the slightest, almost as if you weren't using one at all.
I guess if it were me, I might choose the first two, simply because I'd rather track something sounding wide open and clear as possible and then try to remedy the harshness and/or sibilance issues whilst mixing via eq. If the problem was extreme, then I'd probably opt for the filter.
Anyway, just my two cents! Excellent video and content as always! Take care.. Dave..
I got the Gater one 25 bucks and if you keep it 8 inches away it is brilliant.
Cool video, great quick test! I noticed some slight differences, but I guess I'll have to take a second listen (and on the speakers instead of my mobile phone) as my focus was more on the visuals this time. 😁 😉🥰
On more serious note, aren't pop-filters suppose to filter out the pops? And possibly leave the rest as it is? 🤔
There are differences to be sure, but are they enough to really matter? I'm not so sure.
The gator mesh sounded the best to me!
Yeah but the metal ones like the Stedman let the true sound of the mic through. The other ones to me have some sort of filtering that is very obvious in the high end that is simply not truly recoverable. You can boost it, but it's not the same. Like who cares about more Sss I can lower them with melodyne, soothe and de-esser super easily without affecting the tone like the other ones do.
@Andrewmasters dope video! I’ve been following you for a while now, and love the in-site you give and have given. I personally wanted to say that I favored both the isovox and the gator. The build quality of both brought out noticeable characteristics that could be used differently. Isovox is more controlled, the gator not so much. But I would use both in different scenarios.
I knew you'd pick 1 and 4.. the other two were letting the plosives through big time... which defeats the purpose of a pop filter.
I agree the iso was more consistent though that might have been in the delivery of the vocal.. hard to tell on such a short clip
I can’t seem to find it now, but I seem to remember a picture of Paul McCartney singing into a mic with a Union Jack sock over it as a pop filter. (Probably from first solo album…)
relationship goals
You're still getting those plosives and sibilance issues as the pop filter is still too close to the capsule. What happens is the pressure wave from the plosive is causing the webbing to flex which is in turn flicking a small amount of air (and sometimes moisture) onto the capsule. The air between the filter and the capsule needs distance so the air in between will lose its energy and dissipate. You can test this with one of those photography lens blowers/puffers. It'll tell you the minimum distance each type of filter needs...
To test the EQ curve of each filter you need to rely on the same performance. Something that is physically impossible with an actual singer. You need to put a speaker in place of the singer and do a sine sweep to determine if any frequencies are actually changed. 1-2db is not going to be noticeable by anyone. 10db over a wide band would be.
Without testing these things as in depth its really still subjective, even if you have thrown options out there. It just makes those options meaningless.
I watched a video with a UK microphone manufacturer and he said you want the pop filter 7-8" away from mic otherwise it isn't preventing sibilance at all. I didn't know that. He held out his hand thumb to pinky was what he said is effective.
Thanks for the test. You should try Håkan P110 pop killer. It is supposed to be the most transparent of them all.
Man, you really need to try the JZ PF pop filter. I used to use the ISOVOX, and then I tried the JZ - PF pop filter and it changed my music, IT CHANGED MY SOUND
The metal ones are more plosive... That is my opinion. And my fav is the same! in term of sibilance, the pop filter should not interfere with the mic response, altho I feel like metal ones are also more sibilant.
Great voice.... Work with the things you have.... I like the isovox.
I think Gator sounds the best. Least amount of plosives and sibalence. The expensive one sounds muffled.
I had a dual metal pop filter, it did create an annoying spike in the high mids, the nylon one I have didn't. I only use that one now
The ISO is the best sounding, Ariana's voice just cuts thru "The Best" with this one, but the Gator is not bad at all. If you got the funds get the ISO, if your on a budget the Gator will work fine too. I fell the ISO is just a good step above for a clear vocal recording.
As heard in this video, pop filters definitely make a difference and some do a better job than others. I appreciate the intent of this video, but I would have liked to see some industry standard pop filters included in the comparison such as the Shure PS-6 Popper Stopper and the Hakan P110. I feel like the Stedman, though popular, is more of a home studio standard than an industry standard. I think that's because they're the "best" or most expensive pop filter available at national retail chains that are locally accessible to most. However, there are definitely better options. Personally, I've never been a fan of the metal screens. I find they give more of a metallic, bright sound that can end up bringing out the esses. I think people like them because of their bright sound but, we shouldn't be getting that from our pop filter, we should be getting that from our microphone and preamp selections.
Interesting! The Shure is the same as the gator, it's nylon mesh with a fat blue shure logo on it. Definitely a fun test though!
I agree with your choice ... Arian's gifted voice sounds good on all of them...
THANK YOU!
Call me crazy,but wouldn't a dual metal pop filter work best? If theetal gaps were offset,it would stop all moisture AND eliminate plosives,right?
The ISOVOX (listening on a laptop, not in the studio)
Very interesting video. God is in the details. I really enjoyed hearing Ariana sing... beautiful voice :)
Thank you!!!
The double pop filter takes away from the highs. I have one and deffinetly noticed it here too. I just ordered a stedman.
I wish the jz pop filter was featured, they have a metal pop filter with a metal pin in the middle that is designed to battle sibilance. I was just curious how it would stack up in a "sibilance" battle.
reminds me of the EV625a mic
635 .. typo
sorry for the interruption dude but i wish to now the db out than was recorded the vocal
When doing shoot-outs it's always better to rank than to guess. The goal is to find the best one, not guess which is which. It can dramatically throw off the results. Also, it would have been better to create 3 categories 1) best at handling plosives. 2) best at handling es's 3) best overall. It's also worth considering build quality and ease of cleaning. This could have been a much better video. Just my $0.02
Very interesting
Great video! It took me a while to figure how much those affect sound! Also great choice of mics, I love Lauten... Build quality, sound quality are second to none and they have an amazing service! Highly recommend.
Thanks for doing this; looked like fun! To me, the Gator was best at dampening the S's. It took the brightness out of them, even though they remained clear. It is possible that the larger diameter between the two contributed to the effect as well.
Which one was number 4?
Entered!
This is crazy because to me, it sounds not far from the equivalent to a different mic. I had no idea pop filters had that much effect on a recording.
As a side note, Ariana has an incredible voice! Well done.
Thank you very much :)
10:56 😂😂
lol he didn't know I was there when I did it. I'm glad he kept it in haha
You don't necessarily need a pop filter but if you're going to use one, use it correctly.....which you're not doing in this video. The pop filter has to be at least 5 inches away from the microphone (approximately a sideways fist) to give plosives time to dissipate through the filter. if you have it almost right up to the mic the pop filter isn't doing much of anything. You need to redo this test using the pop filters the way they're meant to be used, not close to or right up against the mic. I bet you the sound would be different for each one if you redo it using the filters the right way (and yes, there is a right way).
Gator mesh did it for me
Maybe I passed out in the middle of the video but I heard absolutely no mention of the fact that the metal pop filters didn't actually work as pop filters. There were very obvious plosives passing through the metal pop filters. The GATOR was absolutely the best balance of acoustic transparency, plosive rejection and price.
Great take after great take. Damn! :)
Thank you!!!!
@@arianamastersofficial Welcome!
KING OF SIBILANCE: RODENT1A! A NIGHTMARE to take out!
4 was easily the best
That mic would've looked great in my home studio, but why bother I've never won anything. I'm just gonna save some money to buy it🤷🏿♂️
@ClickOnProfile167 seriously?
It's the Stedman for me and it's not even close.
All the others muffle the sound.
Is the competition international?
Whats with the Pauly?
Another Test?
Pauly?
@@AndrewMasters Pauly P120 T ;)
At least you folks understand that pop filters are a goodtool to haveon hand. Not like that other guy on another channel who hates pop filters. Remember Sir George Martin made pop filters that he had the Beatles use when recording.
When’s the moog getting some love
Isovox sound better to me
Get a pop filter for pops
Use a
I think the Gator sounded best.