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I have a USB mic and would like to record from in a padded closet roughly 30 feet away from the computer.

I read that buying a 30ft cable will not work, but is there anyway around this?

According to Wikipedia: USB 2.0 provides for a maximum cable length of 5 meters for devices running at Hi Speed (480 Mbit/s). The primary reason for this limit is the maximum allowed round-trip delay of about 1.5 μs.

So how do these USB cable extenders work then? Will one of these extenders work with my USB mic?

Thanks!

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2 Answers

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I think that a usb extension should work.

USB Extender/Repeater:

http://www.usbgear.com/AB30FT-AAC.html

http://www.usbcables.com/Extension_cable_USB_15ft/

Hope this helps.

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Make sure whatever you buy says "active repeater" or similar. – ultrasawblade Jul 20 '12 at 18:17
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I do not think a mic really needs full 480 Mbit/s transfer rates, however the delay is a factor. Considering a powered USB extension cable only costs $8.50 plus shipping I would just say go ahead and try it and report back.

Make sure whatever you get is called either Active or Powered, it basically acts as a 1 port USB hub.

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If the delay turn out to be a problem you can use a 'USB mic with build in sound card' (e.g. a blue yeti, though I am reluctant to mention what seems like shopping advice. It is just the Mic I looked at a while ago) – Hennes Jul 20 '12 at 18:20

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