Great thread. I have learned much during my own recording, the value of the pop filter as well as proximity and it's effect on the amount (or lack of) distortion. One of the most difficult balances is that between your distance from the mic and how loud you sing - you need to learn how your system "responds" as you perform.

Personally, I use an Audio Technica AT2020, which is a decently priced mic that I have seen compared to the Shure SM57. For what I am doing, it works well, has a clean sound, good sensitivity, and reasonably accurate reproduction.

Pop

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