Microphone Frequency Response Testing

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Why is microphone selection considered essential in recording?

To make the recording process more complicated

To achieve great recordings (correct)

To create a mysterious atmosphere in the studio

To overwhelm new recording engineers

What knowledge is necessary to understand why certain microphones work well for specific instruments?

Playing multiple musical instruments

Understanding acoustic theory (correct)

Experience with different microphone brands

Knowledge of studio equipment maintenance

How can a bad microphone choice affect a recording?

It will negatively stand out in the mix (correct)

It will blend seamlessly into the mix

It will enhance the sound quality

It will make the recording process faster

Why does the text recommend seeking guidance from microphone experts (salespersons)?

To choose the best microphone for recording needs Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended microphone type for recording vocals?

Large diaphragm condenser Signup and view all the answers

How should a studio microphone be positioned for recording an electric guitar?

Close on the speaker cabinet Signup and view all the answers

What is a suitable microphone placement for recording acoustic piano?

Highly variable Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone type is highly flattering on brass instruments?

Ribbon Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial step recommended for recording vocals with different microphones?

Set up three or four likely mics Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a large-diaphragm condenser mic for acoustic guitar recording?

Soak up room sound Signup and view all the answers

Which type of microphone is preferable for recording acoustic guitar?

Small-diaphragm cardioid condenser Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach when overdubbing vocals?

Match the mic to the vocalist Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you want to experiment with different microphones for vocals?

Set up three or four likely mics Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if there are phase relationship issues while using multiple microphones for a recording?

Mute all but one microphone Signup and view all the answers

How can one simplify drum microphone placement experimentation?

Listen while moving microphones slightly at a time Signup and view all the answers

What generates the audio signal in a dynamic microphone?

Motion of a conductor within a magnetic field Signup and view all the answers

Which type of microphone is more responsive to the speed and nuances of sound waves?

Condenser microphone Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using dynamic microphones over condenser microphones?

Less sensitive to sound pressure levels and high frequencies Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone is described as perfect for recording drums and electric guitars?

Dynamic Microphones Signup and view all the answers

What additional circuits do USB microphones contain that differentiate them from traditional studio microphones?

An onboard preamp and an analog-to-digital converter Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone type responds to the velocity of air molecules moving a small element in a magnetic field?

Ribbon Microphones Signup and view all the answers

What critical aspect can be affected during an exterior location recording on a windy day with ribbon microphones?

Velocity of air molecules Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone technology makes mobile digital recording as easy as plugging in the microphone and hitting record?

USB Microphones Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone type can handle the rigors of daily studio use despite being notoriously delicate in the past?

Ribbon Microphones Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone polar pattern is equally sensitive to sounds picked up from front and back but rejects sounds from the sides?

Figure-8 Signup and view all the answers

What creates the capacitor in condenser microphones?

Thin stretched conductive diaphragm and metal disk (backplate) Signup and view all the answers

Why do condenser microphones vary in solid-state and tube variations but still function similarly?

Due to the arrangement of their capacitor components Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of a large diaphragm condenser microphone like the Neumann U87?

Ideal for sharp transients and extended overtones Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone is less expensive compared to other types mentioned in the text?

Dynamic Microphones Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone type has a diaphragm classified as small and is recommended for applications like acoustic guitar and drum overheads?

Small Diaphragm Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes medium diaphragm microphones from large and small diaphragm ones?

Good at catching transients and high frequency content with a fuller sound Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone type is best suited for capturing loud sources with robust bass energy such as kick drum or toms?

Large Diaphragm Condenser Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of small diaphragm condenser microphones that make them stand out in certain applications?

Easier to position due to their small size Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone is often used for capturing instrument with sharp transients and extended overtones, such as the hi-hat?

Small Diaphragm Condenser Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of using large-diaphragm condenser microphones in the studio?

Highly versatile due to multiple pickup patterns and pads Signup and view all the answers

What makes medium diaphragm microphones unique compared to large and small diaphragm mics?

They combine characteristics of both large- and small-diaphragm mics. Signup and view all the answers

Which microphone type is typically used for recording drums?

Cardioid Dynamic Mic Signup and view all the answers

What feature of small-diaphragm condenser microphones makes them favorable for capturing acoustic guitar?

Their responsiveness due to smaller, lighter-mass diaphragms Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an anechoic chamber in microphone testing?

To create a controlled atmosphere without sound reflections Signup and view all the answers

What type of noise is typically used during microphone testing in an anechoic chamber?

Pink noise Signup and view all the answers

What do the horizontal numbers in a microphone frequency response chart represent?

Frequency Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a presence bump in a microphone frequency response chart?

To capture instrument nuances Signup and view all the answers

Why are Cardioid microphones commonly used in multi-miking situations?

The rejection of sound from the sides and rear Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between Supercardioid and Cardioid polar patterns?

Supercardioid has a smaller rear lobe than Cardioid Signup and view all the answers

Which type of microphone is best for capturing room sound along with the primary sound source?

Omnidirectional microphone Signup and view all the answers