Capturing Sound Properties and Pitfalls of Sound Recording

Differences between microphones ▪ Transducer ▪ The element inside the microphone that transfers sound waves to electrical impulses. ▪ Pickup Pattern ▪ The area around the microphone where sound can actually be heard.

Types of Transducers ▪ Dynamic (moving coil microphone) ▪ A coil of wire is mounted on a diaphragm which sits inside a magnetic field ▪ Diaphragm movement creates an electric current

Dynamic Details ▪ Low Cost - More rugged transducer ▪ Can handle high sound pressure levels ▪ Kick Drums, Snare Drums, Guitar Amps ▪ AC-DC vs Anne Murray

Transducer Types ▪ Condenser Microphones ▪ Uses a constant electric charge from a battery or ‘phantom’ power ▪ More sensitive than Dynamic ▪ Very responsive ▪ to high frequencies ▪ Acoustic Guitar, ▪ Cymbals

Condenser Mics ▪ Diaphragms are smaller, require less force, are more sensitive ▪ Small Diaphragm Large Diaphragm

Pickup Pattern ▪ Omni-directional ▪ A mic that is equally sensitive to sounds from all sides. ▪ Great for picking up natural room sounds. ▪ Very forgiving.

Types of Microphones ▪ Uni-directional ▪ Most popular type is Cardioid ▪ Sensitive to sound only in a specific direction ▪ Good balance of voice and background

Types of Microphones ▪ Handheld Microphones ▪ Easiest way to mic your talent ▪ Distance is a factor

Types of Microphones ▪ Lapel Microphones (lavaliers) ▪ Many uses - Interviews - Sound Effects ▪ More prone to mechanical noise

Types of Microphones ▪ Shotgun Microphones ▪ More expensive ▪ Out of sight ▪ The longer the mic....better isolation ▪ BUT...more artificial sound

Types of Microphones ▪ Boundary Microphones ▪ Also called Pressure Zone Microphone (PZM) ▪ A Hemispheric pick up pattern (180 degrees) ▪ Wall or table mounted ▪ Makes use of entire surface

Wireless Microphones ▪ Available for most major types of mics ▪ Less reliable than Wired Mics ▪ The more you pay...the better the sound ▪ Frequency issues