Near-coincident

Definition

Near-coincident refers to a stereo miking technique where two microphones are placed in close proximity to a sound source, often with a slight angle between them. This setup aims to capture a natural and spacious stereo image while minimizing phase issues that can arise when microphones are too far apart. The placement is usually designed to take advantage of both the direct sound and the ambient sound, providing a balanced representation of the source.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Near-coincident techniques are effective in capturing a rich stereo image while avoiding excessive phase issues that can occur with wider miking setups.
2. This method is especially useful for recording live performances, as it can effectively balance direct sound from instruments with room ambiance.
3. Using near-coincident mics can create a sense of depth and space in recordings without overly complicating the mic setup.
4. Microphone selection is crucial; typically, matched pairs of cardioid or condenser microphones work best for achieving optimal results.
5. Adjusting the distance between the microphones allows for control over the stereo width, enabling subtle adjustments based on the recording environment.

Review Questions

• How does near-coincident miking improve the quality of stereo recordings compared to other techniques?
  • Near-coincident miking improves the quality of stereo recordings by allowing for a natural blend of direct sound and ambient sound while minimizing phase issues. By placing the microphones close together at a slight angle, it captures a more coherent stereo image than techniques that use greater distances. This method offers greater control over the balance between the sound source and its environment, leading to recordings that feel more spacious and lifelike.
• Discuss the advantages and potential drawbacks of using near-coincident miking in live settings.
  • The advantages of using near-coincident miking in live settings include its ability to capture both the clarity of individual instruments and the richness of ambient sound without significant phase cancellation. This can enhance the overall sound quality in dynamic environments like concerts. However, potential drawbacks include limited flexibility in mic placement due to stage configurations and challenges in isolating instruments when multiple sources are present close together.
• Evaluate how different microphone placements within the near-coincident technique can affect the final audio output in terms of stereo image and phase relationships.
  • Different microphone placements within the near-coincident technique can significantly influence the final audio output by altering both the stereo image and phase relationships. For instance, adjusting the angle between microphones affects how sound waves interact, potentially enhancing or diminishing spatial characteristics. Additionally, varying distances can lead to different levels of ambient sound capture, affecting how pronounced or subdued certain elements appear in the mix. Understanding these nuances allows engineers to tailor their setups for specific audio goals and ensure optimal results.

Related terms

XY Configuration: A stereo miking technique where two microphones are positioned at a 90-degree angle to each other, usually at the same point, capturing a stereo image with minimal phase interference.

ORTF Technique: A stereo recording method using two cardioid microphones positioned 17 cm apart and angled at 110 degrees, designed to replicate the way human ears perceive sound.

Phase Cancellation: A phenomenon that occurs when sound waves from different microphones interact in such a way that they diminish or cancel each other out, often caused by improper microphone placement.