Glossary

Microphones are the unsung heroes of theater sound, capturing every whisper and roar on stage. From dynamic workhorses to sensitive condensers, each type has its strengths. Understanding their characteristics helps sound designers choose the perfect mic for every theatrical moment.

Polar patterns, , and are key factors in microphone selection. These elements determine how a mic captures sound in different directions, reproduces various frequencies, and handles quiet or loud sources. Mastering these concepts allows for crystal-clear dialog and immersive soundscapes in theatrical productions.

Types of microphones

  • Microphones serve as the first point of contact for capturing sound in theater productions, converting acoustic energy into electrical signals
  • Understanding different microphone types allows sound designers to choose the most appropriate tool for each specific application in a theatrical setting
  • Proper microphone selection impacts overall sound quality, clarity, and the ability to accurately reproduce performers' voices and stage effects

Dynamic vs condenser microphones

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  • Dynamic microphones utilize a moving coil attached to a diaphragm to generate electrical signals
  • Rugged construction makes dynamic microphones ideal for high-volume sources and live performances
  • Condenser microphones employ a charged backplate and thin diaphragm to capture sound with greater sensitivity
  • Require phantom power to operate, typically provided by mixing consoles or audio interfaces
  • Condenser microphones excel at capturing subtle nuances and high frequencies, often preferred for recording vocals and acoustic instruments

Ribbon microphones

  • Utilize a thin metal ribbon suspended between two magnets to capture sound waves
  • Known for their warm, natural sound reproduction and excellent transient response
  • Highly directional, typically with a polar pattern
  • Delicate construction requires careful handling and protection from strong air currents
  • Often used for capturing room ambience or as overhead microphones for ensembles in theater productions

Boundary microphones

  • Designed to be mounted on flat surfaces (floors, walls, tables) to capture sound waves traveling parallel to the surface
  • Utilize the principle of pressure zone microphones (PZM) to minimize phase cancellation
  • Ideal for capturing dialogue in theater productions with minimal visual impact
  • Often used in conference rooms, on stage floors, or mounted on set pieces to pick up actors' voices
  • Provide wide coverage area and natural sound quality without the need for visible stands or booms

Lavalier microphones

  • Small, discreet microphones designed to be worn on clothing or hidden in costumes
  • Available in both wired and wireless configurations for flexibility in theatrical applications
  • polar pattern helps maintain consistent sound quality as performers move
  • Require careful placement and management of clothing rustle to achieve optimal sound
  • Popular choice for dialog capture in theater, allowing for natural movement and minimal visual distraction

Handheld vs headset microphones

  • Handheld microphones offer versatility and control for performers, ideal for singers or presenters
  • Often feature built-in pop filters and shock mounting to reduce handling noise and plosives
  • Headset microphones provide hands-free operation and consistent microphone positioning
  • Lightweight and comfortable designs allow for extended wear during long performances
  • Headsets offer improved gain-before- compared to lavalier microphones due to closer mouth placement

Microphone polar patterns

  • Polar patterns define the directional sensitivity of microphones, crucial for controlling sound capture in theatrical environments
  • Understanding polar patterns helps sound designers minimize unwanted noise and optimize microphone placement for clear, focused audio
  • Different polar patterns suit various applications in theater, from capturing individual performers to ambient sound and audience reactions

Cardioid pattern

  • Heart-shaped pickup pattern with maximum sensitivity at the front of the microphone
  • Provides good off-axis rejection, reducing pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear
  • Ideal for isolating individual sound sources in theater, such as actors or specific instruments
  • Exhibits proximity effect, which can be used creatively to enhance low frequencies when close-miking
  • Common choice for handheld vocal microphones and instrument miking in theatrical productions

Omnidirectional pattern

  • Captures sound equally from all directions surrounding the microphone capsule
  • No proximity effect, maintaining consistent frequency response regardless of distance
  • Ideal for capturing ambient sound, room acoustics, or multiple sources in theater settings
  • Often used in lavalier microphones for theater performers to allow natural movement without changes in sound quality
  • Requires careful placement to avoid picking up unwanted noise sources in the theater environment

Figure-8 pattern

  • Bi-directional pickup with equal sensitivity at the front and rear of the microphone
  • Provides excellent side rejection, useful for isolating sounds in crowded stage environments
  • Often found in ribbon microphones, valued for their natural sound quality in theater applications
  • Can be used creatively to capture two actors facing each other or to record stereo ambient sound
  • Exhibits pronounced proximity effect, which can be leveraged for added warmth in vocal performances

Supercardioid and hypercardioid patterns

  • Offer narrower pickup patterns than standard , with increased directionality
  • Provide better off-axis rejection, reducing bleed from nearby sound sources on stage
  • Feature a small rear lobe of sensitivity, requiring careful positioning to avoid feedback
  • Ideal for long-distance sound capture in theater, such as boom-mounted microphones above the stage
  • Commonly used in shotgun microphones for capturing dialogue in film and video productions

Frequency response

  • Frequency response describes how a microphone reproduces different frequencies across the audible spectrum
  • Understanding frequency response helps sound designers choose microphones that complement performers' voices and instruments
  • Proper microphone selection based on frequency response contributes to clarity, intelligibility, and overall sound quality in theatrical productions

Flat vs colored response

  • Flat response microphones aim to reproduce all frequencies equally, providing a neutral, accurate representation of the source
  • Ideal for capturing sound sources that require minimal coloration or when post-production equalization is preferred
  • Colored response microphones intentionally emphasize or de-emphasize certain frequency ranges
  • Can be used to enhance vocal presence, add warmth to instruments, or compensate for common sound system deficiencies
  • Tailored frequency responses often found in microphones designed for specific applications (vocal microphones, kick drum microphones)

Proximity effect

  • Increase in low-frequency response as the sound source moves closer to directional microphones
  • Most pronounced in cardioid and figure-8 patterns, less noticeable in and patterns
  • Can be used creatively to add warmth and intimacy to vocal performances in theater
  • Requires careful microphone technique to maintain consistent tone as performers move
  • Omnidirectional microphones do not exhibit proximity effect, maintaining consistent frequency response regardless of distance

Microphone sensitivity

  • Sensitivity measures a microphone's ability to convert acoustic energy into electrical output
  • Higher sensitivity microphones produce stronger output signals, requiring less gain from preamps
  • Understanding microphone sensitivity helps sound designers optimize signal levels and minimize noise in theater sound systems

Self-noise and signal-to-noise ratio

  • refers to the inherent electrical noise generated by a microphone's internal components
  • Measured in dB-A, lower self-noise values indicate cleaner, quieter performance
  • (SNR) compares the level of desired signal to the level of background noise
  • Higher SNR values indicate better ability to capture quiet sounds without introducing noticeable noise
  • Critical for capturing subtle performances and maintaining clarity in quiet theatrical moments

Maximum sound pressure level

  • Defines the highest sound pressure level a microphone can handle without distortion
  • Measured in dB SPL, higher values indicate greater ability to capture loud sources cleanly
  • Important consideration for miking loud instruments or capturing high-energy performances in theater
  • Some microphones feature switchable pads to attenuate input and increase maximum SPL handling
  • Proper selection of microphones with appropriate SPL handling helps maintain audio quality during dynamic theatrical performances

Key Terms to Review (27)

Boundary Microphone: A boundary microphone is a type of microphone designed to pick up sound from a large area, typically mounted on a flat surface like a table or wall. These microphones are sensitive to sound reflections, allowing them to capture audio more evenly and reduce background noise. They are often used in theater and other performance settings where multiple sound sources need to be recorded simultaneously.
Cardioid: Cardioid refers to a polar pattern for microphones that captures sound primarily from the front while minimizing noise from the sides and rear. This directional sensitivity makes cardioid microphones particularly effective in live performance settings, as they help isolate the intended sound source and reduce feedback from surrounding sounds. Their shape resembles a heart, which is where the name originates, reflecting their focus on picking up audio from a specific direction.
Condenser Microphone: A condenser microphone is a type of microphone that uses a diaphragm placed close to a backplate to create capacitance changes in response to sound waves. This design allows for high sensitivity and a wide frequency response, making it ideal for capturing detailed audio in various settings, including theater sound systems, recording environments, and live performances.
Dynamic Microphone: A dynamic microphone is a type of microphone that converts sound waves into electrical signals using electromagnetic induction. It is known for its durability, ability to handle high sound pressure levels, and versatility, making it a popular choice for live sound applications, recording, and broadcasting.
Eq adjustments: EQ adjustments, or equalization adjustments, refer to the process of altering the balance between frequency components in an audio signal. This technique is crucial in shaping the overall sound by enhancing or reducing specific frequencies to achieve clarity and tonal balance, especially when dealing with different types of microphones and sound sources.
Feedback: Feedback refers to the process where a sound output is re-amplified through a microphone, resulting in a loop of sound that can create a distinct, often harsh, tone. This phenomenon occurs when the sound from speakers re-enters the microphone, creating an unwanted amplification that can disrupt performances. Understanding feedback is crucial for controlling audio quality and enhancing clarity in various settings, particularly in live environments, such as theater and musical performances.
Figure-8: Figure-8 refers to a microphone polar pattern that captures sound from two opposite directions while rejecting sound from the sides. This pattern is particularly useful for applications where two sound sources need to be recorded, such as in interviews or duets, as it allows for a clear capture of both voices while minimizing background noise. The figure-8 pattern is typically associated with ribbon and some condenser microphones.
Frequency Response: Frequency response refers to the measure of how a system reacts to different frequencies of input signals, indicating its sensitivity and performance across the audio spectrum. It plays a crucial role in how sound is perceived, as variations in frequency response can affect amplitude and loudness, sound propagation, and the overall quality of audio equipment such as microphones and speakers.
Gain Structure: Gain structure refers to the process of managing audio signal levels throughout a sound system to ensure optimal performance and sound quality. Proper gain structure minimizes distortion, maximizes dynamic range, and prevents unwanted noise, leading to clearer audio reproduction in various contexts, from microphone usage to speaker calibration.
Handheld microphone: A handheld microphone is a type of microphone designed to be held in the hand, allowing for flexible movement and easy use during performances, speeches, and other live events. These microphones are popular in theater and live sound applications due to their durability, ease of use, and ability to capture sound directly from the performer’s mouth, making them ideal for vocalists and speakers.
Headset microphone: A headset microphone is a type of microphone that is attached to a headset, allowing for hands-free operation while capturing sound from the speaker's mouth. This design provides convenience and clarity, making it ideal for live performances, broadcasting, and presentations where mobility and consistent audio input are crucial. It typically includes a built-in earphone for monitoring audio, ensuring that the user can hear themselves or other sounds while speaking.
Hypercardioid: Hypercardioid refers to a polar pattern of microphone sensitivity that captures sound primarily from the front while still allowing some pickup from the rear. This directional characteristic makes hypercardioid microphones particularly useful in situations where you want to isolate a sound source from background noise, making it popular in live performances and studio recording. The unique sensitivity pattern has implications for feedback rejection and placement of microphones in relation to sound sources.
Lavalier microphone: A lavalier microphone, often referred to as a lapel mic, is a small, clip-on microphone designed to be discreetly attached to a person's clothing. These microphones are widely used in theater, television, and public speaking due to their ability to capture clear audio while allowing the speaker to move freely. Their small size and wireless options make them ideal for performance settings where unobtrusive audio capture is essential.
Level Balancing: Level balancing refers to the process of adjusting audio levels to ensure a harmonious and cohesive sound experience across all elements in a performance. This practice is essential for maintaining clarity and consistency in the audio output, allowing each sound source—whether vocals, instruments, or effects—to be heard appropriately in relation to others. Achieving proper level balancing enhances the overall mix and allows for effective communication of the intended emotional impact of the performance.
Mic technique: Mic technique refers to the specific methods and practices employed when using microphones to capture sound effectively in various environments. This involves understanding microphone placement, distance, angle, and the type of microphone being used to achieve optimal sound quality. Good mic technique ensures clarity and balance in audio recordings, which is essential for sound design in theater productions.
Mixing techniques: Mixing techniques refer to the various methods and processes used to combine multiple audio tracks into a cohesive final product. These techniques can enhance the clarity, balance, and overall impact of sound in a performance or production, ensuring that each element contributes effectively to the overall soundscape. Understanding these methods is crucial in managing elements such as volume levels, panning, equalization, and effects processing, which ultimately shape the audience's experience.
Omnidirectional: Omnidirectional refers to a microphone's ability to capture sound equally from all directions, allowing it to pick up audio from every angle around it. This feature makes omnidirectional microphones ideal for recording ambient sounds or capturing conversations in settings where sound sources are not fixed. Their design enables them to maintain consistent audio levels regardless of the sound source's position relative to the microphone.
Pop Filter: A pop filter is a sound-diffusing device used in recording and broadcasting to minimize or eliminate plosive sounds produced by vocalists, particularly when pronouncing 'p' and 'b' consonants. This tool helps protect microphones from excessive air pressure, thereby reducing distortion and enhancing audio clarity, which is essential for capturing high-quality sound in both studio settings and live performances.
Ribbon Microphone: A ribbon microphone is a type of dynamic microphone that uses a thin ribbon of metal suspended in a magnetic field to convert sound waves into electrical signals. Known for their warm and natural sound quality, ribbon microphones are particularly sensitive to high frequencies and are often favored in recording environments for vocals and instruments, enhancing the overall richness of the audio. Their unique design and characteristics make them important tools in both live performance settings and studio recordings.
Self-noise: Self-noise refers to the inherent noise produced by a microphone when it is in operation, which can interfere with the desired audio signal. This noise arises from various internal components of the microphone, such as the circuitry and transducer elements, and can affect the clarity and quality of recorded sound. Understanding self-noise is crucial for sound designers because it influences the choice of microphones for specific applications, especially in environments where low noise levels are essential.
Sennheiser EW Series: The Sennheiser EW Series is a line of wireless microphone systems designed for professional audio applications, particularly in theater, film, and live performances. These systems are known for their reliable transmission, ease of use, and high sound quality, making them a popular choice among sound designers and audio engineers. The EW Series includes handheld, bodypack, and clip-on microphones that provide versatility and flexibility for various performance scenarios.
Sensitivity: Sensitivity refers to the ability of a microphone or speaker to convert sound pressure into an electrical signal or vice versa, measured in decibels (dB). In microphones, higher sensitivity means that the device can capture softer sounds without needing excessive amplification, while in speakers, it indicates how efficiently the device can convert electrical signals into sound output. Understanding sensitivity helps in selecting the right equipment for various audio applications.
Shock Mount: A shock mount is a device designed to isolate microphones from vibrations and handling noise, ensuring that unwanted sounds do not interfere with the audio being recorded. By suspending the microphone in a frame or using elastic materials, shock mounts prevent mechanical vibrations from being transmitted to the mic, which is crucial for capturing clean sound in various environments. This isolation is particularly important when using different types of microphones in theater settings, as it enhances audio quality and minimizes disturbances during performances.
Shure SM58: The Shure SM58 is a dynamic cardioid microphone renowned for its durability and ability to capture vocals with clarity and warmth. Often used in live performances, it excels in sound isolation, minimizing background noise while emphasizing the primary sound source, making it a favorite among musicians and theater professionals alike.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is a measure used to compare the level of a desired signal to the level of background noise. A higher SNR indicates a clearer signal, which is crucial in various audio applications to ensure that the intended sounds are distinguishable from unwanted interference. Understanding SNR is important for optimizing equipment and setups, as it directly affects clarity in microphones, speakers, amplifiers, wireless systems, and mixing processes.
Supercardioid: Supercardioid is a microphone polar pattern that captures sound primarily from the front while slightly picking up sound from the sides and minimizing noise from the rear. This directional characteristic makes it ideal for isolating sound sources in loud environments, allowing for clearer audio capture in settings like theaters or live performances. The supercardioid pattern is narrower than a cardioid pattern but wider than a hypercardioid pattern, making it versatile for various applications.
Windshield: A windshield is a protective covering for microphones, designed to minimize wind noise and plosive sounds when capturing audio. This accessory is particularly important in outdoor settings or situations where airflow might interfere with sound quality, ensuring that the recorded audio remains clear and free from unwanted distortion.
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