DIY $5 Pop Filter

There is one simple fix that everyone can take when starting to record and that is adding a pop filter. As anyone that has ever had a Skype conversation with someone with a headset can vouch, the hard consonants like P,T, and D shoot air into a mic that causes that awful popping sound. Professional setups will almost always have some kind of pop protection, and if you look closely next time you see a studio, I guarantee you will spot them. For example, here is Justin Bieber using one…

If Justin Bieber uses a pop filter, shouldn’t you? Whether recording an audio podcast or vocals for your youtube video post, an external mic and pop filter will add almost instant polish.

Pop filters start at around $20, so its not that big of an investment. For me if I can make something for cheaper, I will. Using the following steps, I created a one for under $5 with nearly identical results. The only warning I will give you is that the purchase of the ingredients could be a little awkward feeling for the guys out there, but I didn’t care.

What You Will Need
1.) 1 plastic Hoopla embroidery hoop –  available at any craft store and comes in a variety of cool colors. $2
2.) 1 pair of black nylon stockings – I found a pair on clearance in Kohls for $.99
3.) A wire hanger – probably free, look in your closet
4.) Electrical Tape – I already had this too, a cheap roll is about $1

1.) Cut stockings open so that they lay flat.

2.) Open the Hoopla and place stockings over the ring. Make sure you stretch the stocking as hard as you can, so that it fits in there completely flat.

3.) Close the Hoopla and lock it into place. Trim all extra stocking away.

4.) Cut the wire hanger with a wire-cutter and straighten it out. Using a wrench, bend wire around the hoopla’s hinge.

5.) Take your external mic and wrap the end of the wire around the stand so that the pop filter is at an appropriate height for you.

6.) Use electrical tape to secure wire to the stand.