Comments on Profile Post by Lyander

The EARS rig is excellent for FR, but even with some minor tweaks the IR, CSD, and distortion have limited utility. Better than nothing.

$100 RRP and that's a bit of a splurge. Thinking that if it can serve dual purpose for family vids I could write it off as a justifiable expense and let them have it when not running sweeps, haha.

Alternatively, cheaper mic for FPC/FAC with decent self-noise + dynamic range?

The UMIK-1 has an omni directional polar pattern. That is good for measurements, close mic recording or if you wish to embrace room acoustics. Alternatively you may want a directional mic. On the cheap I can recommend the following combination to achieve USB recording: https://www.amazon.com/Maven-Mini-Microphone-Kit-Cameras/dp/B07ZHWJ6XY (microphone)

USB interface that will provide bias power to Maven mini mic
https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-External-Headphone-Microphone-Desktops/dp/B01N905VOY

Thank you! This is actually exactly what I was hoping for, though I wonder at whether the Maven mini won't be significantly gimped if used for measurements?

My level of knowledge about mics is such that I hadn't even considered polar patterns (yes I looked it up). Gah.

You want an omni mic for measurements. Directional mics have different purpose. The Maven is designed to reject room ambience. Think of microphones like camera lenses. They have different goals depending on design.

And just like that I am learning more than expected. Thank you! :)