Microphone adaptor

[iceberg]

Many AVers use voiceover in their presentations. Some of us have good quality microphones from our analogue days. Usually they have XLR connectors but using a simple XLR to mini-jack adaptor for the computer mic input is generally unsatisfactory. Options include using the XLR inputs of devices such as the Zoom H4 or best of all, a proper mixer.

I've just come across a XLR to USB adaptor - the Shure X2U. This is basically a mic pre-amp with gain control and optionally phantom power. A similar device is made by Blue Icicle and is less expensive.

I've not tried either but could be a solution, particularly as they can be used with most computers.