PT101 - Lesson 5a

Phantom Power in Microphones

• Provides the necessary voltage (usually 48V) for condenser microphones to operate.
• Turning on phantom power for incompatible microphones can cause damage or malfunction.

Microphone Types

• Large diaphragm microphones capture low frequencies effectively, ideal for vocals and warm sounds.
• Small diaphragm microphones offer greater clarity and transient response, suited for drums and piano recordings.
• Ribbon microphones excel in capturing natural sound, making them ideal for professional recording spaces.
• Dynamic microphones use a coil that moves within a magnetic field to convert sound waves into electrical signals.

Recording Goals and Techniques

• Main goal of audio recording is to achieve clear and accurate sound representation.
• Small diaphragm mics are preferred for percussion due to their fast response and detailed frequency capture.
• Understanding microphone characteristics and how they interface with audio systems is vital for effective production.

Microphone Polar Patterns

• Omnidirectional microphones capture sound equally from all directions, useful for ambient recording.
• Cardioid microphones are effective in live scenarios due to their directionality, focusing on sound from the front.
• A figure-8 polar pattern captures sounds equally from the front and back while rejecting side sounds.

Signal Types and Equipment

• Consumer-level and some professional equipment typically utilize line level signals.
• High-end professional equipment, like mixing consoles, uses a balanced line level signal for quality transmission.
• Direct boxes help convert instrument level signals to microphone level for compatibility with audio interfaces.

Audio Interfaces and Headphones

• Many audio interfaces include built-in preamps for direct connection of instruments like guitars or basses.
• Closed-back headphones are favored by performers during recording to minimize sound leakage and prevent echo.

Acoustic Treatment and Recording Quality

• Sound absorption panels help improve acoustics in recording environments, enhancing sound quality.
• Proximity effect can boost bass frequencies when a microphone is close to a sound source, affecting tone.
• Installation of sound-absorbing foam may be impractical in home studios due to space or aesthetic concerns.

Vocal Recording Recommendations

• Pop filters are suggested to reduce plosive sounds during vocal recording, enhancing clarity.
• Omnidirectional microphones remain unaffected by proximity effect, offering consistent sound regardless of distance.

Preamp and Microphone Characteristics

• Preamplification amplifies weak microphone signals to usable levels for recording.
• Dynamic microphones may face limitations in capturing intricate details compared to condenser mics.
• Condenser microphones are characterized by their sensitivity and ability to capture a wider frequency range.

Notable Microphones and Audio Formats

• Neumann U87 is a legendary condenser microphone known for its versatility in professional settings.
• Consumer audio formats may include copy protection, while AES/EBU format employs XLR cables and carries two channels of audio.
• S/PDIF supports two-channel audio, whereas a single AES/EBU cable can transmit 8 channels of information.

Performance and Accessibility in Recording

• Vocalists typically avoid hand-holding microphones to prevent handling noise during recordings.
• Standard microphone mounts can transmit vibrations leading to noise, highlighting the importance of stable setups.
• Pop filters are crucial for minimizing unwanted plosive sounds, ensuring higher quality recordings.

Test your knowledge on the different polar patterns of microphones, with a focus on omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure 8 patterns. Learn about the characteristics and uses of each pattern to enhance your understanding of microphone technology.