3.2 Microphone types and placement
11 min read•august 21, 2024
Microphones are the unsung heroes of sound capture, transforming acoustic energy into electrical signals. From dynamic workhorses to sensitive condensers, each type offers unique characteristics for different recording scenarios. Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the right mic for any situation.
Proper microphone placement and technique are just as important as the mic itself. captures direct sound, while adds room ambience. Stereo techniques create width and depth in recordings. Mastering these skills allows audio professionals to shape the sound at its source, enhancing overall production quality.
Types of microphones
- Microphones serve as the foundation for capturing sound in real-world productions
- Understanding different microphone types enables audio professionals to choose the right tool for various recording scenarios
- Each microphone type offers unique characteristics that affect sound quality and suitability for specific applications
Dynamic microphones
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- Utilize a moving coil attached to a diaphragm to convert sound waves into electrical signals
- Robust construction withstands high sound pressure levels (SPL) and rough handling
- Ideal for live performances and recording loud sources (drum kits, guitar amplifiers)
- Exhibit less sensitivity to high frequencies compared to condenser microphones
- Popular models include the SM58 and Sennheiser MD 421
Condenser microphones
- Employ a thin, electrically charged diaphragm to capture sound waves
- Require phantom power (usually +48V) to operate
- Offer higher sensitivity and wider than dynamic microphones
- Excellent for capturing detailed sounds and nuances in studio recordings
- Come in two main types:
- Large-diaphragm condensers: Suited for vocals and acoustic instruments
- Small-diaphragm condensers: Ideal for recording overhead drums and acoustic guitars
Ribbon microphones
- Use a thin metal ribbon suspended between two magnets to convert sound into electrical signals
- Produce warm, smooth, and natural sound characteristics
- Highly directional with a figure-8
- Fragile and sensitive to wind and plosives
- Require careful handling and proper placement techniques
- Often used for recording brass instruments, guitar cabinets, and as room microphones
Lavalier microphones
- Small, clip-on microphones designed for hands-free operation
- Commonly used in television, theater, and public speaking applications
- Available in both dynamic and condenser versions
- Often feature polar patterns to capture sound from all directions
- Require proper placement on clothing to minimize rubbing noise and optimize sound quality
Shotgun microphones
- Highly directional microphones with a long, slotted tube design
- Utilize interference tube principles to reject off-axis sounds
- Ideal for capturing distant sound sources in film and video production
- Commonly used for boom microphone applications and outdoor recording
- Require careful aiming and positioning to achieve optimal results
Microphone polar patterns
- Polar patterns define a microphone's sensitivity to sounds from different directions
- Understanding polar patterns helps in selecting the right microphone for specific recording situations
- Proper use of polar patterns can enhance sound isolation and reduce unwanted noise in recordings
Cardioid vs omnidirectional
- pattern:
- Heart-shaped pickup pattern with maximum sensitivity at the front
- Rejects sound from the rear, providing good off-axis noise rejection
- Ideal for isolating individual sound sources in multi-instrument recordings
- Omnidirectional pattern:
- Picks up sound equally from all directions
- Provides a natural, open sound with minimal proximity effect
- Suitable for capturing room ambience and multiple sound sources simultaneously
Figure-8 pattern
- Captures sound equally from the front and rear of the microphone
- Exhibits strong rejection of sounds from the sides
- Commonly found in ribbon microphones and some large-diaphragm condensers
- Useful for recording duets or capturing room ambience in a controlled manner
- Can be employed in mid-side stereo recording techniques
Supercardioid and hypercardioid
- Offer narrower pickup patterns than standard cardioid microphones
- Provide increased directionality and better off-axis rejection
- :
- Slightly wider pickup angle than
- Small rear lobe of sensitivity
- Hypercardioid:
- Narrowest pickup angle among cardioid variants
- Larger rear lobe of sensitivity compared to supercardioid
- Both patterns excel in rejecting and minimizing feedback in applications
Multi-pattern microphones
- Feature switchable polar patterns to adapt to various recording situations
- Typically offer cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 patterns
- Allow for versatility in studio environments without changing microphones
- Enable experimentation with different polar patterns to achieve desired sound characteristics
- Often found in high-end large-diaphragm condenser microphones
Microphone frequency response
- Describes a microphone's sensitivity to different frequencies across the audible spectrum
- Influences the tonal characteristics and overall sound quality of recordings
- Understanding frequency response helps in selecting appropriate microphones for specific sources
Flat vs colored response
- Flat response:
- Reproduces all frequencies evenly across the spectrum
- Provides accurate and neutral sound representation
- Ideal for critical recording and measurement applications
- Colored response:
- Emphasizes or de-emphasizes certain frequency ranges
- Can enhance desirable characteristics of sound sources
- Often used to add warmth, presence, or brightness to recordings
Proximity effect
- Increase in low-frequency response as the sound source moves closer to the microphone
- More pronounced in directional microphones (cardioid, supercardioid, figure-8)
- Can be used creatively to add warmth and fullness to vocals or instruments
- Requires careful microphone placement to control the amount of bass boost
- Less noticeable or absent in omnidirectional microphones
High-frequency boost
- Deliberate emphasis of high frequencies in some microphone designs
- Enhances clarity and presence in recordings
- Commonly found in vocal microphones to add air and brilliance
- Can help compensate for high-frequency loss in distant miking techniques
- Requires consideration when selecting microphones for bright or harsh sound sources
Microphone sensitivity and SPL handling
- Sensitivity and SPL handling capabilities significantly impact a microphone's performance in various recording scenarios
- Understanding these characteristics helps in choosing appropriate microphones for different sound sources and environments
- Proper matching of microphone specifications to the recording situation ensures optimal sound quality and prevents distortion
Low vs high sensitivity
- Sensitivity measures a microphone's output level for a given sound pressure level
- Low sensitivity microphones:
- Produce lower output levels for a given sound pressure
- Suitable for recording loud sources without overloading preamps
- Often found in dynamic microphones designed for high-SPL applications
- High sensitivity microphones:
- Generate higher output levels for a given sound pressure
- Ideal for capturing quiet or distant sound sources
- Typically associated with condenser microphones
Maximum SPL ratings
- Indicates the highest sound pressure level a microphone can handle without distortion
- Measured in decibels (dB SPL)
- Higher max SPL ratings allow for recording louder sources without distortion
- Dynamic microphones generally have higher max SPL ratings than condenser microphones
- Important consideration when recording drums, brass instruments, or other loud sources
Pad switches
- Attenuate the microphone's output signal by a fixed amount (typically -10dB or -20dB)
- Allow recording of loud sources without overloading the microphone's internal electronics
- Extend the usable dynamic range of the microphone
- Commonly found on condenser microphones and some high-end dynamic microphones
- Useful when recording sources with wide dynamic range or unpredictable volume levels
Microphone placement techniques
- Proper microphone placement significantly impacts the quality and character of recorded sound
- Techniques vary depending on the sound source, desired outcome, and recording environment
- Experimentation and critical listening are essential for achieving optimal results
Close vs distant miking
- Close miking:
- Positions the microphone within a few inches of the sound source
- Captures direct sound with minimal room ambience
- Provides greater isolation and rejection of unwanted sounds
- Can enhance low-frequency response due to proximity effect
- Distant miking:
- Places the microphone farther away from the sound source
- Captures more room ambience and natural sound
- Allows for a more balanced blend of multiple instruments
- May require higher-quality microphones and preamps to maintain clarity
Stereo miking techniques
- X-Y technique:
- Uses two cardioid microphones angled at 90-110 degrees
- Provides good mono compatibility and precise stereo imaging
- ORTF technique:
- Employs two cardioid microphones spaced 17cm apart at a 110-degree angle
- Offers a wider stereo image than X-Y with some time-of-arrival differences
- Spaced pair:
- Utilizes two microphones spaced 3-10 feet apart
- Creates a wide stereo image but may have phase issues in mono playback
- Blumlein pair:
- Uses two figure-8 microphones angled at 90 degrees
- Provides excellent stereo imaging and room ambience capture
Room acoustics considerations
- Assess room reflections and standing waves when choosing microphone positions
- Use acoustic treatments to control unwanted reflections and improve sound quality
- Consider the room's natural reverb characteristics when deciding on close vs distant miking
- Experiment with microphone placement to find the sweet spot that balances direct sound and room ambience
Phase issues
- Occur when combining multiple microphones or using stereo techniques
- Can result in comb filtering, loss of low frequencies, or poor mono compatibility
- Mitigate phase problems by:
- Following the 3:1 rule (space microphones at least 3 times the distance from the source)
- Checking phase coherence with a phase correlation meter
- Using polarity inversion switches when necessary
- Pay special attention to phase when recording drums or other multi-miked instruments
Microphone selection criteria
- Choosing the right microphone involves considering various factors related to the sound source and recording environment
- Proper microphone selection enhances the quality of recordings and simplifies post-production work
- Understanding the strengths and limitations of different microphone types aids in making informed decisions
Instrument-specific considerations
- Acoustic guitar:
- Small-diaphragm condensers for detailed high-end response
- Large-diaphragm condensers for fuller body and warmth
- Electric guitar amplifiers:
- Dynamic microphones (Shure SM57) for durability and high SPL handling
- Ribbon microphones for smooth high-end response
- Drums:
- Dynamic microphones for close-miking drums (kick, snare, toms)
- Small-diaphragm condensers for overheads and hi-hats
- Large-diaphragm condensers or ribbon microphones for room ambience
- Brass instruments:
- Ribbon microphones for smooth high-end and natural tone
- Large-diaphragm condensers for brightness and presence
Vocal miking techniques
- Choose microphones based on the vocalist's tone and style
- Large-diaphragm condensers for detailed studio vocal recordings
- Dynamic microphones for live performances and aggressive vocal styles
- Consider using pop filters to reduce plosives
- Experiment with distance and angle to control proximity effect and sibilance
Environmental factors
- Assess ambient noise levels and choose microphones with appropriate sensitivity
- Consider using directional microphones in noisy environments
- Select microphones with proper weather resistance for outdoor recordings
- Choose low self-noise microphones for recording quiet sources or ambiences
Budget constraints
- Prioritize essential microphones based on primary recording needs
- Consider versatile multi-pattern microphones for increased flexibility
- Explore budget-friendly alternatives from reputable manufacturers
- Rent specialized or expensive microphones for specific projects when needed
Microphone accessories
- Proper use of microphone accessories enhances recording quality and protects equipment
- Understanding the function and application of various accessories improves overall recording workflow
- Investing in quality accessories can significantly impact the longevity and performance of microphones
Shock mounts and pop filters
- Shock mounts:
- Isolate microphones from mechanical vibrations and handling noise
- Essential for sensitive condenser microphones
- Come in elastic suspension and mechanical isolation designs
- Pop filters:
- Reduce plosive sounds (p, b, t) in vocal recordings
- Available in nylon mesh and metal screen varieties
- Typically positioned 2-6 inches from the microphone
Windscreens and blimps
- Windscreens:
- Foam covers that provide basic wind noise reduction
- Suitable for light breeze and indoor air movement
- Can slightly affect high-frequency response
- Blimps (zeppelin):
- Provide superior wind noise reduction for outdoor recording
- Consist of a suspended cage covered with a furry windshield
- Essential for location sound recording and field production
Microphone stands and booms
- Straight stands:
- Provide stable support for microphones in various applications
- Available in different heights and base designs
- Boom stands:
- Offer greater flexibility in microphone positioning
- Feature adjustable boom arms for precise placement
- Low-profile stands:
- Designed for close-miking drums, guitar cabinets, and other low sources
- Overhead boom stands:
- Used for suspending microphones above drum kits or orchestras
Cables and connectors
- XLR cables:
- Standard balanced connection for professional microphones
- Available in various lengths and quality levels
- TRS cables:
- Used for some studio microphones and audio interfaces
- Provide balanced or unbalanced connections depending on the device
- USB cables:
- Connect digital USB microphones directly to computers
- Adapters and converters:
- Allow for connecting microphones to different input types
- Include XLR to TRS, XLR to USB, and impedance matching adapters
Digital vs analog microphones
- The distinction between digital and analog microphones impacts recording workflows and equipment compatibility
- Understanding the advantages and limitations of each type helps in selecting appropriate microphones for different production environments
- Digital microphones offer convenience and integration with modern recording systems, while analog microphones provide traditional sound quality and flexibility
USB microphones
- Integrate analog-to-digital conversion and preamp circuitry within the microphone body
- Connect directly to computers via USB, eliminating the need for external audio interfaces
- Offer plug-and-play functionality for quick and easy recording setups
- Popular for podcasting, voiceover work, and home studio applications
- May have limitations in terms of sound quality and flexibility compared to professional analog microphones
Network-enabled microphones
- Feature built-in network connectivity (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) for audio transmission
- Allow for long-distance signal transmission without quality loss
- Ideal for large-scale installations and broadcast applications
- Enable centralized control and monitoring of multiple microphones
- Require specialized network infrastructure and software for operation
Analog-to-digital conversion
- Process of converting analog microphone signals to digital format
- Occurs in audio interfaces, mixing consoles, or within digital microphones
- Key specifications include:
- Bit depth: Determines the dynamic range and resolution of the digital signal
- Sample rate: Defines the number of samples per second, affecting frequency response
- High-quality analog-to-digital conversion is crucial for maintaining the integrity of microphone signals in digital recording systems
Microphone maintenance and care
- Proper maintenance and care extend the lifespan and performance of microphones
- Regular cleaning and careful handling prevent damage and ensure consistent sound quality
- Understanding common issues and troubleshooting techniques helps maintain a reliable microphone inventory
Cleaning and storage
- Use soft, lint-free cloths to gently clean microphone bodies
- Avoid using solvents or harsh chemicals on microphone grilles or capsules
- Store microphones in protective cases or pouches when not in use
- Keep microphones in a cool, dry environment to prevent moisture damage
- Use silica gel packets in storage cases to absorb excess humidity
Troubleshooting common issues
- No signal:
- Check cable connections and test with known working cables
- Verify phantom power is engaged for condenser microphones
- Inspect for visible damage to the microphone body or capsule
- Intermittent signal:
- Wiggle cables to identify loose connections
- Check for oxidation on connectors and clean if necessary
- Inspect internal wiring if the problem persists
- Excessive noise:
- Identify potential sources of electromagnetic interference
- Verify proper grounding of audio equipment
- Consider using balanced cables to reduce noise pickup
Calibration and testing
- Perform regular frequency response and sensitivity checks
- Use a calibrated sound source to verify microphone performance
- Compare microphone output levels to ensure consistent gain staging
- Conduct polar pattern tests to confirm proper directionality
- Keep detailed records of microphone performance and maintenance history
Key Terms to Review (31)
Ambient noise: Ambient noise refers to the background sounds present in an environment that can influence the overall audio landscape of a production. This type of sound is crucial as it can set the mood, establish location, and enhance realism in a scene. Understanding how to effectively incorporate ambient noise is essential for both genre conventions and proper microphone techniques, ensuring that soundscapes feel authentic and immersive.
Cardioid: A cardioid is a specific microphone polar pattern characterized by a heart-shaped sensitivity that captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This design makes cardioid microphones ideal for situations where isolating the sound source is crucial, helping to minimize feedback and unwanted ambient noise.
Close miking: Close miking is a technique used in audio recording where a microphone is positioned very close to the sound source. This method captures a clear and direct sound, minimizing background noise and room acoustics, making it ideal for various recording situations such as vocals, instruments, or dialogue. The proximity of the microphone also enhances the presence and detail of the sound being recorded, allowing for a more intimate listening experience.
Condenser microphone: A condenser microphone is a type of microphone that uses a diaphragm placed close to a backplate to create an electrical charge, converting sound waves into audio signals. These microphones are known for their high sensitivity and wide frequency response, making them ideal for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments with clarity and detail.
Distant miking: Distant miking refers to the technique of placing a microphone at a considerable distance from the sound source, capturing ambient sound along with the direct sound. This method is often used to create a sense of space and to blend various sound elements in a recording. It can result in a more natural sound and is commonly applied in live environments or when recording ensembles, where capturing the overall atmosphere is desired.
Dynamic microphone: A dynamic microphone is a type of microphone that operates using an electromagnetic induction principle, where sound waves cause a diaphragm to move within a magnetic field, generating an electrical signal. This design makes dynamic microphones particularly robust and capable of handling high sound pressure levels, making them suitable for live sound applications and various recording environments.
Figure-8 pattern: The figure-8 pattern is a microphone pickup pattern that captures sound from two opposite sides while rejecting sound from the front and back. This design allows for effective recording of dialogue or instruments in a way that emphasizes sounds coming from the left and right, making it useful in various recording techniques such as interviews or duets. The unique shape of this pattern contributes to its ability to isolate specific audio sources while minimizing background noise.
Frequency Response: Frequency response refers to the measure of an audio system's output spectrum in response to a stimulus signal. It is crucial for understanding how sound editing and mixing affect the final audio output, as well as how different microphone types and placements capture sound. This term reveals how effectively an audio system can reproduce various frequencies, affecting clarity and balance in both recorded and live sound scenarios.
Hypercardioid: Hypercardioid is a microphone polar pattern that is highly directional, capturing sound predominantly from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This pattern is useful in environments where clarity is essential, allowing for effective sound isolation and minimizing unwanted ambient noise. The hypercardioid shape is somewhat similar to the cardioid pattern but has a tighter pickup angle at the front and an added sensitivity to sounds from the rear.
Input Gain: Input gain refers to the amplification level applied to an audio signal before it is processed by other equipment. It determines how much the sound captured by a microphone is boosted, affecting the overall quality and clarity of the recording. Proper input gain settings are crucial, as they help to prevent distortion and maintain a balanced audio level, ensuring that the captured sound is both clear and dynamic.
Lavalier microphone: A lavalier microphone is a small, clip-on microphone designed for hands-free operation, commonly used in film, television, theater, and presentations. Its discreet design allows it to be easily attached to clothing, providing the convenience of capturing audio without obstructing the speaker's movements or visuals. Lavalier microphones are typically used to ensure clear sound capture from a subject while maintaining a low profile during productions.
Live sound: Live sound refers to the audio production that occurs during live events, such as concerts, theater performances, or public speeches, where sound is amplified and mixed in real-time for an audience. It involves the use of various equipment, including microphones, speakers, and mixing consoles, to ensure clear and balanced audio delivery. Proper microphone types and placement are crucial to achieving optimal sound quality in these settings.
Maximum SPL ratings: Maximum SPL ratings refer to the highest sound pressure level that a microphone can handle without distortion or damage. This is an essential specification when selecting microphones for various applications, as it indicates how well a microphone can capture loud sounds without compromising audio quality. Understanding maximum SPL ratings helps in choosing the right microphone type and placement to suit different sound environments and recording needs.
Multi-pattern microphone: A multi-pattern microphone is a versatile audio recording device that can switch between different polar patterns, such as cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight. This adaptability allows sound engineers to tailor the microphone's response to specific recording environments or sources, making it ideal for various applications in music, broadcasting, and field recording. The ability to choose the polar pattern significantly influences how sound is captured and can enhance the quality of recordings in different settings.
Neumann: Neumann refers to a specific type of microphone technology known for its high-quality sound capture and versatility in various recording environments. Often associated with professional audio production, Neumann microphones are revered for their exceptional clarity, detail, and low self-noise, making them a popular choice among recording engineers and musicians alike. Their distinct characteristics play a significant role in the placement and selection of microphones for different recording applications.
Omnidirectional: Omnidirectional refers to a type of microphone pickup pattern that captures sound equally from all directions. This characteristic makes omnidirectional microphones ideal for recording ambient sounds or capturing multiple sound sources simultaneously, as they do not favor any specific direction. Their design allows for natural sound reproduction, making them useful in various audio production scenarios.
Pad Switches: Pad switches are electronic devices commonly used in audio equipment to control various functions like microphone gain or output levels. They act as a means of adjusting the signal strength before it reaches the processing stage, which helps in minimizing distortion and improving sound quality. Understanding how pad switches function is crucial for optimizing microphone placement and overall audio production.
Polar Pattern: A polar pattern is the directional sensitivity of a microphone, illustrating how well it picks up sound from different angles. It defines the area around the microphone where sound is captured effectively and influences how sound sources are recorded based on their positioning relative to the mic. Understanding polar patterns is crucial for selecting the right microphone type and placement for various recording environments and applications.
Pop filter: A pop filter is a device used in audio recording to reduce or eliminate popping sounds caused by plosive consonants such as 'p' and 'b'. It is typically made of a mesh material stretched over a circular frame and is placed in front of the microphone to diffuse the airflow from the speaker's mouth. This helps to ensure clearer audio capture and enhances the overall quality of recordings.
Ribbon microphone: A ribbon microphone is a type of dynamic microphone that uses a thin metal ribbon placed in a magnetic field to convert sound waves into electrical signals. This design allows for a unique sound quality, often described as warm and natural, making it popular for recording vocals and certain musical instruments. Ribbon microphones also tend to have a figure-eight polar pattern, which captures sound from both the front and back while rejecting noise from the sides.
Sensitivity Rating: Sensitivity rating refers to the measurement of a microphone's ability to convert sound waves into electrical signals. It indicates how responsive a microphone is to sound input, typically expressed in decibels (dB), and helps determine its suitability for various recording situations, particularly in relation to microphone types and placement.
Shock mount: A shock mount is a device used to isolate microphones from vibrations and handling noise, ensuring cleaner audio recordings. By suspending the microphone in a framework that absorbs shocks and vibrations, it minimizes unwanted noise caused by movements or disturbances in the environment. This is crucial for achieving high-quality sound in various recording scenarios, especially in environments where movement and noise can impact the clarity of the audio.
Shotgun microphone: A shotgun microphone is a highly directional audio recording device designed to capture sound from a specific source while minimizing ambient noise. Its elongated shape and narrow pickup pattern allow it to focus on sounds directly in front of it, making it ideal for use in film, television, and field recordings where isolating dialogue or particular sounds is crucial. This microphone type often requires careful placement and positioning to ensure optimal audio quality.
Shure: Shure is a renowned manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics, known for producing high-quality products that cater to a variety of applications, including live sound, studio recording, and broadcasting. The brand is particularly recognized for its dynamic microphones, condenser microphones, and wireless systems, which are widely used by professionals in the audio industry. Shure's commitment to innovation and reliability has made it a trusted name among sound engineers and performers alike.
Sound reflection: Sound reflection is the phenomenon where sound waves bounce off a surface and travel back towards the source or in different directions. This behavior is crucial in audio recording and live sound environments, as it influences how sound is captured and perceived. Understanding sound reflection helps in selecting the right microphone type and determining optimal placement to ensure clear and accurate audio capture.
Stereo miking techniques: Stereo miking techniques refer to various methods used to capture sound in a way that reproduces the spatial characteristics of a sound source in a stereo format. These techniques enhance the listening experience by creating a sense of depth and directionality, crucial for music production, film sound, and other audio applications. Understanding how to effectively use different microphone types and placement strategies can significantly influence the overall quality and realism of recorded audio.
Studio recording: Studio recording is the process of capturing sound in a controlled environment, typically using professional equipment and technology to achieve high-quality audio. This process allows for the manipulation of various elements, such as microphone placement and sound mixing, ensuring that the final product meets industry standards. Studio recording is essential for creating music, podcasts, and other audio content where clarity and precision are critical.
Supercardioid: A supercardioid is a type of directional microphone polar pattern that is more sensitive to sound coming from the front and has a narrower pickup angle compared to a cardioid microphone. This design allows it to effectively isolate sound sources while minimizing background noise, making it especially useful in live sound settings and studio recordings. The supercardioid pattern captures sound primarily from the front but also has a slight pickup from the rear, which can be advantageous or problematic depending on the environment.
TRS Cable: A TRS cable, short for Tip-Ring-Sleeve cable, is a type of audio connector commonly used to transmit audio signals. It typically features three contact points, which correspond to the tip, ring, and sleeve of the plug. TRS cables are widely used for connecting microphones, headphones, and various audio equipment, allowing for stereo audio transmission or balanced audio connections in professional settings.
USB microphone: A USB microphone is a type of digital microphone that connects to a computer or other device via a USB port, enabling high-quality audio capture without the need for additional audio interfaces. This convenience makes USB microphones popular among content creators, podcasters, and musicians, as they offer plug-and-play functionality and typically include built-in analog-to-digital converters for sound processing.
XLR connector: An XLR connector is a type of electrical connector commonly used in professional audio, video, and stage lighting equipment. It is characterized by its circular design and three or more pins that securely connect microphones and other audio devices, providing a balanced audio signal. This design helps to minimize noise and interference, making it essential for high-quality sound capture and transmission.