Frequency and transient response Flashcards
What does a microphone’s frequency response graph indicate?
It shows the frequencies it picks up in relation to the human hearing range; the flatter the graph, the more ‘true’ the sound is.
A flatter graph indicates a more accurate representation of sound.
Define a transient in audio terms.
A transient is a short duration, high level peak, such as a handclap or snare drum hit.
Transients are crucial for capturing the dynamics of sound.
What does transient response refer to?
It refers to the ability of a microphone to respond to transient peaks – i.e. how quickly the diaphragm can move when disturbed by a vibration.
Fast transient response is important for accurate sound recording.
How does the transient response of a condenser microphone compare to that of a dynamic microphone?
The transient response for a condenser microphone is quick because the diaphragm is light, while dynamic microphones have a slower response due to a heavier diaphragm.
The weight of the diaphragm affects the speed of response.
What is the impact of inertia on dynamic microphones?
It causes a longer reaction time for the diaphragm to sound waves, leading to less accurate recordings.
Inertia is a factor due to the additional weight of the coil of wire.
Where does a ribbon microphone’s transient response fall in comparison to dynamic and condenser microphones?
A ribbon mic sits somewhere in between the transient response of a condenser and a dynamic microphone.
Ribbon microphones offer a balance in transient response and sound quality.
Which type of microphone has the fastest transient response?
Small diaphragm condenser microphones tend to have the fastest transient response.
Their lightweight diaphragm allows for quick movement.
Which type of microphone has the slowest transient response?
Large diaphragm dynamic microphones have the slowest transient response.
The heavier diaphragm contributes to the slower response time.
