Microphones and Miking

Question 1

Name the main reason for choosing one mic over another as covered in class.

Answer 1

EQ (frequency response)

Question 2

Name 4 Types of Microphones.

Answer 2

condenser, dynamic, PZM (condenser w/ metal plate), ribbon

Question 3

Name 5 advantages of a Condenser mic.

Answer 3

More expensive
Wider frequency response (more natural bass and treble)
Flat frequency response (no EQ bumps - more transparent)
Best transient response (picks up sharp sounds like percussion better)
Sensitive w/ high output (micing something soft in volume)
Attenuators/pads that turn volume down - usually not great b/c they have too much noise
Rolloff switches (good if bass rumble in room)

Question 4

Name 5 advantages of a Dynamic mic.

Answer 4

Particular EQ
Durable
Can handle more sound pressure level (good inside kick drum)
Doesn’t need phantom power
Inexpensive

Question 5

Name 4 Pickup Patterns of Microphones.

Answer 5

Omni-directional, cardioid, super cardioid, bi-directional, shotgun (horrible quality), parabolic

Question 6

What does a direct box do to voltage?

Answer 6

Drops from line level to mic level (better impedence matching leading to better quality)

Question 7

Name 3 advantages of using a direct box.

Answer 7

Signal goes much further
Isolate sound
Impedence matching (better quality)