Saturday, December 3, 2011

Microphone Patterns and Characteristics


Howdy!

I write a few microphone reviews for this blog, but have never explained the microphone polar pattern terms I use, so I had better remedy this.

Of course, all microphones are sensitive to sound, but they have different designs that allow them to detect sound from different directions. This is called directionality, which can be sorted into two popular types:

- Omnidirectional, which detect sound equally from all directions.

- Unidirectional, which detect sound mostly from one direction.

We are going to look at these two types of directionality, as well as look at the polar patterns for popular microphone types. Polar patterns help visualize how the microphone picks up sound, and are usually included in manufacturer’s sales and support materials.

As omnidirectional microphones detect sound from all directions, they are good for general field recording where the inclusion of ambient sound is desirable. They are also handy if the target sound is moving and the microphone cannot be moved. Omnidirectional microphones are usually not the right choice for live sound, as background noise can become overwhelming. One notable exception is the Green Bullet harmonica microphone, which is killer in live situations.

Unidirectional microphones are the most popular type for live sound and handheld applications, as they reduce background noise and feedback. There are two popular unidirectional microphone types: cardioid and hypercardioid.

Cardioid microphones pick up sound mostly from the front, with some sound picked up from the sides and very little from the rear. It does not pick up solely from the front, as that would leave very little latitude for movement, and eliminating all ambient sound makes for a sterile tone. The Shure SM-57 and SM-58 are cardioids microphones. By the way, it is called a cardioid pattern because it is kind of heart-shaped, believe it or not.

Hypercardioid microphones (also known as shotgun microphones) have a smaller pattern, so that they are even more directional than the cardioid type. I think the pattern looks like an alien’s head. These microphones are good if you need to isolate more background sound, but they can sound unnatural. Also, if the microphone is not directed at the sound source, or if the sound source moves, there can be drastic drops in volume. I call this the “Huell Howser” syndrome. If you have ever seen him use a hand-held microphone, you will understand what I am getting at here.

Anyway, If you do not have a specific reason to get an omnidirectional or hypercardioid microphone for a live application I would avoid them, as there are more downsides than upsides to choosing them. If you are heading out to buy a microphone for general use in for your band or DJ application, a cardioid microphone will probably be your best choice.

Mahalo!

4 comments:

  1. Microphone patterns and characteristics are a hot topic for those who do home recording. It can be very confusing. There's cardioid, hypercardioid, supercardioid and a wide variety of less common (and more exotic) microphone types. This https://uk.eliteassignmenthelp.com/urgent-assignments can be a quick head-spinner.

    ReplyDelete
  2. If you don't remember this, your car may be stolen!

    Imagine that your vehicle was taken! When you approach the police, they inquire about a specific "VIN check"

    Describe a VIN decoder.

    Similar to a passport, the "VIN decoder" allows you to find out the date of the car's birth and the identity of its "parent" (manufacturing facility). Additionally, you can find:

    1.Type of engine

    2.Model of a car

    3.The DMV's limitations

    4.The number of drivers in this vehicle

    You will be able to locate the car, and keeping in mind the code ensures your safety. The code can be checked in the database online. The VIN is situated on various parts of the car to make it harder for thieves to steal, such as the first person's seat on the floor, the frame (often in trucks and SUVs), the spar, and other areas.

    What happens if the VIN is intentionally harmed?

    There are numerous circumstances that can result in VIN damage, but failing to have one will have unpleasant repercussions because it is illegal to intentionally harm a VIN in order to avoid going to jail or the police. You could receive a fine of up to 80,000 rubles and spend two years in jail. You might be stopped on the road by a teacher.

    Conclusion.

    The VIN decoder may help to save your car from theft. But where can you check the car reality? This is why we exist– VIN decoders!

    ReplyDelete
  3. БК MelBet пользуется большой популярностью сегодня на российском рынке: -Деятельность организации лицензирована; - Игрокам предоставлен внушительный список ставок - в формате live и предматчевых; - Тут нет задержек с выплатами. Линия ставок неописуемо презентабельна. Для того, чтобы получить выгодный бонус на совершение ставок, требуется всего только использовать промокод MelBet RS777. Получить промокод можно на ставку либо на депозит. Каждое предложение имеет свои особенности отыгрыша - Мелбет промокод бонус.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Today, we are excited to dive into the expertise and services provided by the renowned tree company Moreno Valley. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, this trusted brand has been catering to the tree care needs of residents in Moreno Valley and beyond. Whether you're a homeowner looking to beautify your outdoor space or a business owner in need of professional tree services, link the tree company Moreno Valley has got you covered. Join us as we delve into the world of trees and discover the invaluable role that the tree company Moreno Valley plays in ensuring their health, safety, and vitality.

    ReplyDelete