Change the interviewer to someone with a voice like Larry King. You can still control the script and get the questions out but fix it with a simple change of personnel.
Otherwise you are right that you need gear such as good microphones and a mixer panel.
Bob
HI.. first time asking a question on CNet.
I've read many of the other questions and very helpful answers (especially the thread on Elura 100 for Oral Histories) and have some more specific questions.
I haven't actually purchased the Elura yet; but I picked it so that I can also do some analog pass through and update some of my older tapes to the computer for possible editing.
Currently I am working with three colleagues on collecting data via interviews. Having done some preliminary ones to test the questions, we now need to look at the tech problems we've uncovered.
We need to have both the voice of the subject and the interviewer. My voice is particularly low, due to a physical problem, and in the past I've used the Audio Technica ATR 55 with mixed results. The microphone sometimes produces a nasty buzz and the cord is very short which makes it difficult to set up for a two way conversation. I'm not sure its plug is compatible w the Elura, either. I've looked at the ATR25 which comes with an "extension", but have also read that this can cause more noise in the final product.
As with most folks, we're doing this low budget- tho I realize with my voice limitations I may need to be prepared to spend more. If it makes a difference, the quality of my voice is soft, low, and breathy-(cross between Lauren Bacall and Marilyn Monroe). I considered lavalier- although we are beginning our research interviews at a conference in a hotel and I'm concerned about wireless interference.
Other suggestions?
Many thanks!
AKH
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