USB Headset problems

[EvilKupo]

OK so I host a Podcast and there's 4 of us. We use USB headsets to record and when I plug all 4 headsets into the back of the computer (into the Mobo itself), it records fine with little to no difference in record time. However, I have a new computer desk and no longer have the ability to pull my tower out in order for the cords to reach us. I tried a very old USB hub (probably 7 years old!) and it won't even recognize all 4 mics. I plugged 2 into the front of the computer and the other 2 into the USB hub. After a hour and a half recording, there was a bad echo (due to the two plugged into the Hub recording being longer). I was wondering is this because the USB hub can't handle the data transfer (therefore a USB 2.0 hub would fix my problem) or is it because the USB hub isn't powered? Sorry I can't really explain better than this and I'm not even sure if this is the right place to post this, but any help would be great!

 

[0roo0roo]

you need an active powered hub. usb headsets need power. each usb headset has its own "soundcard"

 

[EvilKupo]

I had a feeling this was the case, any recommendations?

 

[0roo0roo]

why don't you try some cheap usb extension cables first, assuming your mb has enough ports, monoprice etc..should cost next to nothing theres no reason to reach behind your case.

 

[EvilKupo]

Just for anyone searching about this in the future, I ended up going to Radio Shack and buying a 4 port powered USB hub for under $30. USB extensions would have cost about the same and I didn't really have the open USB ports anyway (I couldn't buy them online, I needed it the next day). I also found out that one of the headsets is what's causing most of my problems (it always lags, same headset every time regardless of setup), although the powered hub helped. Thanks to you who originally replied.

 

[ChAoTiCpInOy]

Why don't you just use one mic and everyone talks into that one? Since you guys are all in the same room.

 

[0roo0roo]

yea its so sexy when everyones faces are literally inches away from each other. like a group mic fellatio.

 

[ChAoTiCpInOy]

You don't need to be right in front of each other. There are mics that pick stuff up (omnidirectional).