Recording classroom lectures to laptop

[996GT2]

When I sit in front of the lecture hall, my Thinkpad's microphone is sensitive enough to record the professor's lectures. However, when I'm not in the front, there is a lot of background noise (especially from the keyboard). What kind of external mic would be best for recording lectures from the back of a large lecture hall? The professor uses a mic and his voice is amplified by speakers around the room, but the particular lecture hall is not wired for sound so I have to personally record the lectures.

Also, I'm trying to keep this inexpensive, so no suggestions of $500 pro mic setups please 😉

 

[corkyg]

This question was answered in detail a couple of days ago in the Peripherals Forum.

Mic

Basically, you need a directional microphone, and those come is all prices categories.

 

[996GT2]

Originally posted by: corkyg
This question was answered in detail a couple of days ago in the Peripherals Forum.

Mic

Basically, you need a directional microphone, and those come is all prices categories.

Thanks for the link.

So how wold this microphone do? It's described as being a stereo unidirectional microphone. Also, is there any way to get similar performance at less cost than the Audio-Technica?

 

[corkyg]

It sure is decent value. Read through the 37 user reviews - some good - some bad - but also some good ideas. II don't think you need stereo, but it can also be connected monaurally.

If you have a RadioSHack nearby, pay them a visit - they have a few that you might be able to try out on your Thiunkpad.

Shack