DEALCASTERS Blog

OFCOSH Mic Booster Review: The $40 Cloudlifter Alternative That Actually Works!

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:39:07 +0000

Is the budget-friendly OFCOSH Mic Booster a legitimate Cloudlifter alternative, or just another cheap knockoff? In this comprehensive comparison, I put the $40 OFCOSH head-to-head against the industry-standard Cloudlifter CL-1 ($150) with multiple popular dynamic microphones to reveal the surprising truth about which mic activator delivers better value.

Discover how this affordable mic preamp provides 25dB of ultra-clean gain to transform quiet dynamic microphones like the SM7B, SM58, Samson Q2U, and Heil PR40 into professional-sounding powerhouses without breaking your budget.

WATCH THE SIDE-BY-SIDE TESTS to hear the actual audio quality difference (or lack thereof!) between a $40 investment and a $150 industry standard. The results might change how you approach your podcast or streaming setup forever!

This in-depth mic booster review covers:

✅ Direct sound comparisons with real-time gain measurements

✅ Build quality and design differences between OFCOSH and Cloudlifter

✅ Which microphones benefit most from a mic activator

✅ Why you might NOT need to upgrade your audio interface

✅ Perfect portable solution for recording on the go

Whether you're a podcaster struggling with noise, a streamer seeking cleaner audio, or a content creator on a budget, this compact preamp delivers studio-quality sound at a fraction of the price of premium alternatives.

You can snag the OFCOSH Mic Booster right here (Amazon): https://geni.us/OFCOSHMicBooster

If you've been considering a Cloudlifter but hesitating because of the cost, this video reveals the best mic booster alternative that could save you over $100 while delivering virtually identical performance.

The Zoom PodTrak P2: Solving the Dual USB Mic Problem (Almost)

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:03:52 +0000

Let's cut to the chase—if you've ever tried plugging two USB microphones into your computer to record a podcast, you already know the punchline: it doesn't work. At least, not without jumping through technical hoops that would make a circus performer jealous.

For years, this limitation has forced podcasters into uncomfortable compromises: investing in expensive XLR setups, recording one person at a time, or settling for subpar audio workarounds. It's a problem that's lingered far longer than it should have in our increasingly remote-work, content-creation-heavy world.

Enter the Zoom PodTrack P2—a $99 device that promises to solve this exact problem by letting you connect and record two separate USB microphones simultaneously. As someone who's used Zoom's audio gear for years (from the tank-like H6 to the feature-rich P8), I was genuinely excited to test this palm-sized problem-solver. But does it deliver on its promises?

Kind of.

What the P2 Gets Right

First off, the size is impressive. This thing literally fits in the palm of your hand, making it genuinely portable in a way that most podcast setups aren't. For anyone recording on the go or with limited desk space, that's a significant win.

The core functionality—connecting two USB microphones simultaneously—actually works as advertised, at least with compatible mics (more on that later). Each microphone gets its own dedicated input level knob and mute button, giving you independent control over both audio sources. The mute buttons are satisfyingly silent when pressed, a small but thoughtful touch for clean recordings.

Recording quality is solid at 24-bit/48kHz, saved directly to a microSD card (which can handle up to a terabyte of storage). That translates to about 110 hours of recording time on a decent-sized card—more than enough for even the most talkative podcasters among us.

I was particularly impressed with the P2's auto-save feature, which saves your recording every 10 seconds. This means if disaster strikes (power outage, accidental unplugging, battery death), you'll lose at most 10 seconds of content. For anyone who's ever lost an hour-long interview to technical failure, this feature alone might justify the price tag.

The AI noise reduction is another standout feature. When activated, it analyzes your environment for three seconds, then filters out background noise like computer fans or air conditioning. The difference is immediately noticeable—though not without some trade-offs in voice quality.

The Not-So-Great Stuff

Now for the reality check. While the P2 tackles some significant podcasting challenges, it introduces a few of its own that you should know about before purchasing.

First and most disappointing was my experience trying to record a phone call with a guest. Despite Zoom's marketing promise that you can "easily add a call-in guest by connecting your phone," I couldn't get my iPhone 13 to work with the P2 at all. I used the correct data-transfer Lightning to USB-C cable, but the connection simply wouldn't establish. I've reached out to Zoom support about this and am waiting for a solution.

Then there's the microphone compatibility issue. The P2 doesn't work with all USB microphones, despite what you might assume. I couldn't get it to recognize either my Blue Yeti (one of the most popular USB mics on the market) or my trusty Samson Q2U (a favorite among budget-conscious podcasters). This significantly limits the "use the gear you already own" appeal. Zoom does provide a compatibility list on their website, which I'd strongly recommend checking before purchasing.

The audio processing features, while simple to use, lack flexibility. The "Tone" button adds a significant low-end boost that might work for some voices but felt excessive to my ear. Similarly, the compression settings are one-size-fits-all, with no adjustability. For podcasters who care about their sound signature, this lack of control could be frustrating.

I also have concerns about durability. The P2 is primarily plastic and feels like something you'd need to handle with care. I'd definitely recommend picking up the SCU-20 case (sold separately) if you plan to travel with this device.

Finally, while the P2 offers two headphone outputs, they share a single volume control. This means you and your guest will always be monitoring at the same volume level—a small but potentially annoying limitation for co-hosted shows.

Is the P2 Worth $99?

Here's my honest take: The Zoom PodTrack P2 is simultaneously groundbreaking and frustrating—a device that solves one longstanding problem while introducing several smaller ones.

For $99, it's a solid value if:

- You specifically need to record two USB microphones simultaneously

- Your USB mics are on Zoom's compatibility list

- You primarily record in-person conversations rather than phone call interviews

- You appreciate simplicity over granular control

However, I'd recommend waiting if:

- You need reliable phone call recording functionality

- You own incompatible microphones like the Blue Yeti or Samson Q2U

- You require precise control over audio processing

Ultimately, the P2 represents an important step forward in making podcast production more accessible. It's not perfect—and for some workflows, it might create more problems than it solves—but it addresses a real need at a reasonable price point. I'm hoping Zoom will address the compatibility issues and phone connection problems in future firmware updates, because the core concept here is genuinely useful.

For now, it's a qualified recommendation from me. Check the compatibility list, understand the limitations, and if it still fits your needs, the P2 might just be the palm-sized podcasting solution you've been waiting for.

The Zoom PodTrak P2 is available on Amazon: https://geni.us/ZoomPodTrakP2

The SCU-20 case (Amazon): https://geni.us/ZoomSCU20

You can watch my full review of the Zoom PodTrak P2 here:

Shure MoveMic 88+: Versatile Wireless Audio Excellence!

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 18:43:52 +0000

Have you ever tried podcasting or streaming outside your comfy home studio, only to end up battling terrible audio and more wires than an 80s arcade game?

Q*bert was my favorite, btw. I digress…

Thankfully, there's a fix. The new Shure MoveMic 88+ just landed on our gear-loving desks, and trust me—this tiny powerhouse punches way above its size.

Here's what stands out (besides the fact you'll never have to stuff bundles of tangled cable into your backpack again):

Versatility Rules: Four selectable polar patterns, from crisp mono-cardioid for podcasting precision, to a wider stereo for immersive audio. Even better—touch a button on your phone and easily interview someone sitting across from you without tossing your mic back and forth awkwardly. (We've all done that awkward dance, let's admit.)

Sweet Smartphone Integration: This mic pairs directly with the Shure MOTIV Video (or Audio!) app on your phone—fast, automatically, and seamlessly. Forget about complicated workflows or trying to figure out weird connectors. Your latest episode? Recorded directly where your inspiration hits—coffee shop, airport lounge, or even the park bench where your killer ideas pop up on the fly.

Professional Sound on the Road: With built-in DSP (digital signal processing), gain control, customizable EQ, and compression settings that travel with your mic (yep, no repeated setups), you’ll capture studio-grade audio literally anywhere. Raw, noisy environments just met their match.

If you're creating something amazing but tired of settling for "good enough" audio outside your home office, the Shure MoveMic 88+ deserves some genuine consideration.

Check out our full no-holds-barred test video (yes, I took one for the team and demoed EVERY setting). And let me know—is mobile, pro-quality audio the ingredient your content creation game has been missing?

#PodcastingTips #AudioGear #ContentCreation #ShureMicrophones #MoveMic88Plus #LiveStreamingTips #EntrepreneurLife #MobileCreator

Shure MoveMic Dual-Channel Magic: Pro Audio Made Easy

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Today, content creation is not just a passion but a critical aspect of entrepreneurship - and sometimes… you want to move around and not have a mic in your face! Enter the Shure MoveMic Direct to Phone Wireless Lavalier Microphone – a game-changer for motivated creators of all levels who demand flexibility and quality in their audio recordings. This compact powerhouse is the only dual-channel, direct-to-phone wireless system in the market, enabling you to live stream seamlessly from the Shure MOTIV Video app directly to platforms like Facebook Live and YouTube Live, all without the need for some complicated setup or receiver.

What sets the MoveMic apart is not just its direct-to-phone capability but also its versatility. Whether you're recording on your phone or switching to a DSLR or mirrorless camera for higher-quality video using the MoveMic Receiver, the MoveMic ensures your audio is consistently crisp and clear. Its dual-channel functionality allows for simultaneous recording from two microphones, perfect for interviews or co-hosted podcasts.

Designed by the same team behind Shure's professional wireless systems, the MoveMic delivers broadcast-quality audio. Its custom acoustic design captures sound with laser precision, making sure every detail of your dialogue is heard. As we have always said - the most important thing related to your video - is your AUDIO! Plus, with a 24-hour battery life, the MoveMic is built for the long haul, ensuring you're always ready to capture content on the go.

For anyone who is serious about their content creation, the MoveMic is more than just a microphone; it's a versatile tool that adapts to your dynamic recording needs. Whether you're podcasting, live streaming, or producing video content, this wireless lavalier system offers the ease of use, quality, and reliability that Shure is known for.

Check out the video reviews here and on our YouTube channel and you’ll see why the Shure MoveMic Direct to Phone Wireless Lavalier Microphone might just be your essential tool for elevating your content. Its unparalleled functionality, combined with direct-to-phone streaming capabilities, makes it a standout choice for creators aiming for professional-quality audio without the professional-grade hassle.

SHURE MOVEMIC REVEAL VIDEO!

Do You Really Need All The New Microphones?

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 20:55:13 +0000

Do You Really Need All The New Microphones?

"The difference is if you're already using it, and you already have a Cloudlifter, there's really not much of a reason for you to get an SM7DB instead of an SM7B." - Shure SM7DB vs. SM7B

Beautiful people of Planet Earth! You've heard the buzz about the Shure SM7DB and its predecessor, the legendary SM7B. Well, it's time to cut through the noise (and the compression) for a no-frills, head-to-head battle of the mics.

The New Kid on the Block: Shure SM7DB

The Shure SM7DB is the fresh face with a trick up its sleeve—a built-in preamp. No more Gain Hunger Games! This bad boy comes ready to amplify your voice without the need for extra gear. It's like having a Cloudlifter built right in, designed by the same folks, no less. We love our Cloud Microphones Cloudlifters for Shure (see what we did there?) and they actually activated the same circuitry for this microphone and Shure Incorporated designed it to fit right inside! Booyah!

The Veteran: Shure SM7B

The SM7B is the mic that's been there, done that. It's a classic for a reason, but it's a bit of a diva when it comes to gain. You'll need a separate Cloudlifter to get it to sound not only loud enough - but to get the best potential "broadcast-like" sound out of it.

The Verdict

If you're already rocking an SM7B with a Cloudlifter, you might not need to switch. But if you're all about streamlining your setup, the SM7DB could be your new best friend. It's a one-cable wonder that might save you some cash, too.

Sound Check: No Processing, Just Pure Voice

In the video below, we've stripped these mics down to their birthday suits—no processing, just pure, unadulterated sound. Both mics are set to the same gain level on the RODECaster for a fair fight.

The Switcheroo

As you see in the video, we flip between the SM7DB and the SM7B, and you'll hear the difference—or maybe you won't. The SM7DB might sound clearer, while the SM7B could give you that warm, fuzzy feeling inside.

Final Thoughts

Both mics are top-notch, and with a little EQ or compression, you can make either one sing your tune. It's all about finding that perfect starting point for your voice and then adding the magic.

So, savvy entrepreneurs and podcasting pioneers, whether you're sticking with your trusty SM7B or eyeing the shiny SM7DB, remember: it's not just about the mic—it's about making your message heard. Now go out there and make some noise (the good kind)!

Check out the video, and if you like what you see and hear - please like and subscribe to the channel, because every time you do: a Blue Yeti gets it's wings!

Comparing the Shure SM7-DB to the Original SM7B: Which is Right for You?

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 16:52:28 +0000

Your audio is more important than your video. Yeah, I said it.

It’s a good thing that I've got something special for all you content creators, podcasters, and professionals looking to up their virtual presentation game with audio. Shure today released the SM7dB - a game-changing dynamic microphone designed to make your audio setup super simple while delivering top-notch sound quality.

You might be familiar with the iconic Shure SM7B - a legend in the world of microphones. It's been a go-to for countless professionals, from podcasters to musicians, and even in radio stations. But guess what? Shure has taken excellence to the next level with the SM7dB.

🤨 But why tho? I got you:

1️⃣ Built-In Preamp for Simplified Setup:

The SM7dB comes with a Shure-designed built-in preamp, licensed technology from Cloud, eliminating the need for external preamps like the Cloudlifter. This means you can go straight from the microphone to your interface, streamlining your setup and making it much more user-friendly.

2️⃣ Customizable Gain Options:

With the SM7dB, you have the power to choose between +18dB or +28dB of low-noise, flat, transparent gain. This provides flexibility for different interfaces and ensures that you're getting the perfect levels for your specific setup.

3️⃣ Audio Quality That Soars:

The SM7dB retains the warm and smooth audio quality that the SM7B is known for, but with the added benefit of the built-in preamp. This translates to even cleaner and more detailed audio reproduction, capturing every nuance of your voice or instrument. I compare this in more detail on the Dealcasters YouTube channel.

4️⃣ Streamlined Workflow:

No more fussing around with additional equipment. The SM7dB's integrated preamp simplifies your setup, making it ideal for those seeking a hassle-free recording experience. It's all about efficiency without compromising on quality.

5️⃣ Perfect for Virtual Presentations:

In the era of virtual meetings and presentations, audio quality is paramount. The SM7dB gets you that sound crystal clear and professional, giving you the confidence to communicate effectively in any virtual setting.

SHURE SM7DB VS SHURE SM7B

Sometimes upgrading isn't just about having the latest and greatest gear - it's about enhancing your overall audio experience and making your workflow more efficient. The Shure SM7dB is truly the evolution of excellence in microphones.

So, whether you're a podcaster, content creator, musician, or a professional looking to level up your virtual presence, the Shure SM7dB is a game-changer you'll want in your arsenal.

The Shure SM7dB is available now from Shure!: https://SM7DB.Dealcasters.Live

Feel free to drop any questions or comments below. Let's keep the conversation going! 🗣🎙

#ShureSM7dB #AudioExcellence #VirtualPresentations #ContentCreation #UpgradeYourSound #MicrophoneTechnology #ProfessionalAudio

Unveiling the Power of The SHURE MVX2U: Revolutionize Your Recording Process

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 01:22:30 +0000

If you're a musician, podcaster, or content creator looking to level up your recordings in a minimal way, SHURE MVX2U is the perfect tool for you. This powerful and versatile audio interface will totally revolutionize your recording process and you won’t believe how tiny (yet powerful) it is! We’re going to take a look at all the awesome features and capabilities of the MVX2U and how it can totally transform your audio recordings.

Killer Audio Quality

One of the standout features of the SHURE MVX2U is its ability to deliver superior audio quality. With its high-quality preamp and 24-bit/48kHz resolution, it captures every nuance of your voice or instrument with remarkable clarity and detail. Whether you're recording vocals, guitars, or even podcasts, the MVX2U ensures that your recordings sound professional and polished.

Versatility at its Best

Gone are the days of needing multiple devices to meet your recording needs. The SHURE MVX2U is a true all-in-one solution that offers remarkable versatility. It features a built-in headphone output for direct monitoring, an XLR input, as well as a USB output for seamless connectivity to your computer. This means you can use the MVX2U with a wide range of microphones, making it the perfect companion for any recording setup.

Intuitive Controls With The ShurePlus MOTIV App for Effortless Recording

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced audio engineer, the SHURE MVX2U seamlessly integrates with popular recording software such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live. But it has its own cool Shure software that allows for dialing in the best sound ever without even adjusting anything else! This allows you to take full advantage of the MVX2U's capabilities and unlock endless possibilities for enhancing your recordings. From applying effects and plugins to editing and mixing, the MVX2U provides a seamless workflow that empowers you to unleash your creativity.

Versatile Monitoring Options

Monitoring your audio is crucial to ensure you're getting the best results. The SHURE MVX2U offers versatile monitoring options to suit your needs. It features a dedicated headphone output with zero latency monitoring, allowing you to hear yourself in real-time while recording. Additionally, the interface has a direct monitor switch that lets you listen to your input or playback from your computer. This flexibility ensures you have full control over your audio monitoring.

Portability for On-the-Go Recording

As a content creator on the move, having a portable recording solution is key. The compact and lightweight design (but super solid metal casing) of the SHURE MVX2U makes it the perfect companion for recording on-the-go. Whether you're recording in a studio, a hotel room, or even outdoors, the MVX2U ensures that you have a reliable and professional audio interface at your fingertips.

If You Have G.A.S. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome)

This SHURE MVX2U audio interface isn't just a regular one - it's a total game-changer for musicians, podcasters, and other content makers. It's so versatile and has amazing audio quality, plus the controls are super easy to use and it works perfectly with recording software. Plus, you can take it anywhere you go! No more mediocre sound, now you can make pro-level recordings with this baby. Get ready to totally revolutionize the way you record!

Unleash Your Virtual Presence with PlexiCam: Eyes on Success!

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 17:53:00 +0000

Hey there, amazing folks of the digital world! If you're tired of struggling to maintain eye contact during your virtual presentations, Zoom calls, or online meetings, then I've got the game-changing solution for you: the incredible PlexiCam! We connected with the incredible Dan Keldsen of PlexiCam a few months ago and he turned us on to this amazingly simple yet effective tool for content creators!

Unveiling PlexiCam: The Eye Contact Wonder

Have you ever come across an idea that made you go, "Wow, why didn't I think of that?" PlexiCam is precisely that idea for me. Picture this: a clear, versatile contraption that elevates your virtual communication game like never before.

Universal Compatibility & Easy Setup

Whether you use a webcam, smartphone, or a professional DSLR camera, PlexiCam has you covered. It comes with a user-friendly mount that securely accommodates virtually any mobile phone, webcam or nice HD/DSLR/Mirrorless camera. Just hang it on your monitor, adjust as needed, and 💥BOOM!💥 You've got your eye contact game on point.

Here's a video showing the full setup and how we use it for keeping eye contact for everything!

Empowering Connections

Whether you're a salesperson, communicating with clients, or simply chatting with your loved ones, PlexiCam ensures you make genuine eye contact effortlessly. No more awkward glances or distractions – keep that connection alive!

Step Up Your Virtual Presence

Take charge of your online presence during Zoom meetings or live streams. With PlexiCam, you'll present yourself with confidence, professionalism, and sincerity – a surefire way to win hearts and captivate audiences.

So, there you have it, the marvelous PlexiCam! Say goodbye to eye contact struggles and embrace the power of genuine connections in your virtual interactions. Get ready to shine in all your presentations, and remember, I'm secretly wishing I came up with this ingenious solution myself. Happy presenting!

If you are interested in snagging one of these sweet PlexiCams, here is an affiliate link to their products on Amazon.

DISCLAIMER: All opinions are ours. Some links are affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through a qualifying link, we might make a small commission at no additional cost to you. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Read This Before You Decide To Get a Shure SM7B!

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 20:09:00 +0000

Hey there, fellow content creators! Today, we're diving into the world of the iconic Shure SM7B microphone – a staple in podcast and radio station studios everywhere. But hold on, there's a catch! To get that optimal sound quality we all crave, you gotta know how to use it right. And that's exactly what we discussed with Mario Ponce from Shure on our show.

The SM7B is a champ in the broadcast world, delivering that warm, rich voice we all love. But here's the thing – it needs some extra gain to truly bring out your voice. So, you might want to grab a gain lifter, like the trusty Cloudlifter, and make sure your interface can pump enough gain to make this microphone shine.

Now, let's talk about the SM7B being a dynamic microphone, which means no electric charge is needed. That's perfect for recording in non-acoustically treated rooms. On the flip side, condenser mics, being more sensitive and needing phantom power, are better suited for those fancy studio setups.

But hold on, we don't want you getting lost in a sea of technical jargon! Our chat with Mario highlighted the importance of understanding audio equipment and interfaces. Phantom power is key for a gain lifter, and selecting the right interface matters – it's gotta give you that necessary gain for the SM7B.

Listen up, folks – achieving top-notch sound quality with the SM7B requires some audio know-how. Get familiar with gainstaging, mic boosters, dynamic and condenser mics, and phantom power. Trust me; it'll save you from headaches like low volume, hissing, or subpar sound.

Fear not! Some interfaces out there can handle the SM7B without extra gear. Take the Rodecaster Pro 2 or the Focusrite Vocaster 1 – they pack the power and preamps to make your SM7B sing.

Bottom line – invest in your audio and equip yourself with the right knowledge. Elevate your content quality and watch your podcast, show, or content soar to new heights. We're big fans of the SM7B, but it's all about using it right to take your audio game to the next level. Happy creating, everyone!

If you are interested in snagging one of these Shure SM7Bs, here is an affiliate link to get it!

DISCLAIMER: All opinions are ours. Some links are affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through a qualifying link, we might make a small commission at no additional cost to you.

How The Cloudlifter Improves Microphone Sound Quality

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 19:22:00 +0000

The Cloudlifter is a device that is designed to improve microphone sound quality by providing additional gain to dynamic and ribbon microphones. These types of microphones typically require more gain than condenser microphones, and the Cloudlifter helps to achieve this by acting as a gain stage in the preamp.

One of the main benefits of using the Cloudlifter is that it allows content creators to capture more of the actual microphone sound and less of the sound of their interface. When the interface gain needs to be cranked up to capture the microphone sound, it can introduce artifacts and significantly deteriorate the audio quality. By using the Cloudlifter, content creators can avoid this issue and achieve a much cleaner and more natural sound.

The importance of high-quality audio in content creation cannot be overstated. When people listen to podcasts or other audio content, they want to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The sound of someone's voice is very intimate, and if the audio is harsh, unnatural, or has any audio issues, it can lead to audio fatigue and make listeners want to turn it off.

We discuss all of these things with Cloud Microphones Founder Rodger Cloud here.

The Cloudlifter helps to address these issues by providing more gain to the microphone, resulting in a more soothing and enjoyable sound. It allows content creators to draw people in with the sound of their voice, rather than pushing them away with poor audio quality. In a world where there is so much content being created, having high-quality audio can be a key differentiator and help content creators stand out for the right reasons.

While USB microphones have become popular among solo creators due to their ease of use, the Cloudlifter offers a way to enhance the sound quality of dynamic XLR (traditional mic cable input) microphones as well. USB microphones are convenient because they can be plugged directly into a computer, but they may not always provide the same level of sound quality as traditional microphones with an interface. By using the Cloudlifter with any dynamic microphone, content creators can still achieve a professional and studio-quality sound without the need for expensive condenser microphones or extensive room treatment.

We believe the Cloudlifter is a valuable tool for improving microphone sound quality in content creation. It provides additional gain to dynamic and ribbon microphones, allowing content creators to capture more of the microphone sound and less of the interface sound. This results in a cleaner and more natural sound that is comfortable and enjoyable for listeners. Whether used with dynamic microphones or tube and ribbon microphones, the Cloudlifter can help content creators achieve a professional and studio-quality sound without the need for expensive equipment or extensive room treatment.

If you are interested in snagging one of these cool Cloudlifters, here is an affiliate link to the CL-1 on Amazon.