BLUE Snowball USB Microphone

[jlh]

Has anyone used this mic to record piano?  I'm looking for a good microphone with which to record on my laptop computer.  Opinions?

https://www.bluemic.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Products&file=index&prod_id=18

[quantum]

Response to a similar question:
https://www.bluemic.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=281&highlight=piano

I see the frequency response of the mic is 40 Hz - 18 kHz.  It is important to note that the bottom A on the piano is approximately 27.5 Hz.  Your bottom end might not be optimal in the piano's lowest notes. 

It sounds like a great idea though, for convenience you don't need a pre amp and AD converter.  Also keep in mind you are limited by the length of your USB cable (I'm not sure about signal degradation in long runs of USB cables).  For long runs of cable you may want to look at a more traditional mic with XLR connectors. 

It is still new technology, so maybe you would want to give it a try and tell us about it.

[jlh]

Response to a similar question:
https://www.bluemic.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=281&highlight=piano

I see the frequency response of the mic is 40 Hz - 18 kHz.  It is important to note that the bottom A on the piano is approximately 27.5 Hz.  Your bottom end might not be optimal in the piano's lowest notes. 

It sounds like a great idea though, for convenience you don't need a pre amp and AD converter.  Also keep in mind you are limited by the length of your USB cable (I'm not sure about signal degradation in long runs of USB cables).  For long runs of cable you may want to look at a more traditional mic with XLR connectors. 

It is still new technology, so maybe you would want to give it a try and tell us about it.

Yeah the freq. response is one thing I noticed right away.  I've had good experiences with BLUE mics in the past, so I was willing to overlook that if others have had good experiences.  I emailed a salesman at one company that sells this mic and got this reply:

"In actuality, this mic is great, but not really for the application you are wanting.  Two reasons jump out at me right off.
 
First, this mic retro looking with those pieces of metal about it.  For lots of reasons this is good, but for your desires not good.  When recording classical pieces- especially a piano- one looks for real warmth and vibrancy.  This is the result of the microphone hearing off phase vibrations from about the room.  This mic will keep that from happening.
 
Second, you are correct with the thought that a 'large diaphram' mic will be better at picking up information than a smaller 'capsule' microphone.  This mic, while technically a large diaphram, cheats.  But really really well!
 
If you really are wishing to use the Blue Snowball for its USB connection, I understand and have no problem with that.  I would highly recommend you play around with the placement of the microphone to allow you the best possible sound."

So I'm still hung with my decision.  I think I'll do some more research and perhaps a better mic will be developed in the meantime...