subject: A Few Things to Avoid Regarding Microphones [print this page] A Few Things to Avoid Regarding Microphones
Why do you suppose that people go on the net and search for "choosing the right microphone" ?Computer users take advantage of the web when they're looking for information. Generally, they have something in mind, something they want, an issue that they need solved. Internet users can be divided into 2 groups: Pleasure Seekers, looking for gain, profit, pleasure, enlightenment, entertainment, etc. or Pain Avoiders, looking to avoid illness, sickness, pain, costs, liabilities, problems, etc.This article will focus on the "Pain Avoidance side, dealing with the three things, points, mistakes or actions that one would most want to avoid.To provide an overall analysis of the problems here, you will need to know about the sound of each microphone and best placement.So what exactly do we need to avoid here? Precisely why would one be advised to avoid that?It is simply logical that if you find yourself having to deal with a very sensitive condenser mic, such as a Neuman U67, then the best way is to use this microphone in close proximity to the sound source. (This is a general guideline, not to be followed strictly.)Now, following that preamble, listed here are the 3 items you most want to avoid:Don't use a condenser mic for sound sources that have a high Sound Pressure Level, such as a blaring Marshall amplifier. (Small amps turned low are OK but not for the most expensive condenser mics. Save it for the vocals.). The principal reasoning with this is that the diaphragm on this type of microphone is too sensitive and is likely to distort somewhat (not a good distortion!).Try out differing mic positions. It's up to you to find the ideal position for that particular mic and the application. Don't forget this. Though it may be time consuming it's really crucial in making a great recording.Second, make sure you have the proper pre-amp for your microphone. And, just why would that be? A dynamic microphone doesn't need phantom power. A condenser mic does need to be powered. A ribbon mic must never be subjected to phantom power as this can destroy the circuitry and the diaphragm itself.Follow these preamplifier rules strictly and you'll be fine in this area.Third and last, yet not necessarily least, condenser and ribbon mics can be extremely fragile. Handle these types with loving care and keep them in a case. (dynamic mics are not as fragile and can sustain some rough handling, though not recommended). This is mainly because starting a session with a microphone that has suffered these conditions may not perform well.Avoid these 3 concerns and you'll have a better chance of bypassing the pitfalls in the microphone arena. This will likely go a long way in helping you solve, remove or prevent the issues that caused you to search for more knowledge about the success of making a good record.
