Microphone

Objectives Describe the main characteristics of any microphone: directionality, element, impedance, and frequency response. Describe a variety of microphone formats and and several situations that would require the use of each microphone.

Objectives Demonstrate the proper use of microphones . Create an on-camera interview segment using a camcorder, a microphone, and a tripod.

Microphones Microphones are designed to work in different settings. There is no “best” or “perfect” microphones for all situations. Tie-pin microphone

“Collection” and “Selection” Develop a collection of microphones, and select the best microphone for each situation. Just like a fisherman has a variety of lures in his tackle box, a TV studio should have several microphones.

Microphone Directionality Omni directional- collects sound from all around 360 degrees.

Microphone Directionality Omni directional – microphone can be share by the group.

Microphone Directionality Unidirectional – collects most of the sound from the front, and very little from the back and sides.

Microphone Directionality Unidirectional – usually single-source mic, or used in interviews.

Microphone Element The part of the microphone that changes sound waves into electrical energy.

Microphone Element Dynamic Element Durable Good with loud noises Good/average sound quality Usually handheld

Microphone Element Condenser Element Excellent sound quality More fragile Not as good with sound A favorite of singers

Microphones Condenser microphones require a power source. Electret condenser – power from a battery Phantom-power condenser- power from the audio mixer

Microphone Impedance High impedance Low impedance The two are not compatible! The impedance of the microphones must match the impedance of the system.

Microphone Impedance High Impedance Portable audio systems Consumer and some professional camcorders Cable runs of 30 feet and less

Microphone Impedance Low Impedance High quality Professional audio systems (theatres, TV, studios, etc.) Professional camcorders Longer cables runs

Microphone Impedance Connectors: Low impedance systems almost always use the XLR connector. High impedance systems almost us ¼ inch phone connector or 1/8 inch mini connectors.

Microphone impedance Some microphones are dual-impedance – they can be switched from high to low impedance using a 3-way on/off switch.

Microphone Impedance A match line transformer can be used to convert the impedance of a microphone. This example converts a low impedance microphone to high impedance. A high-to- low transformer is also available.

Microphone Frequency Response A microphone ability to hear tones (high and low) across the audible spectrum.

Microphone Frequency Response The human ear can hear the range of 20Hz (low bass notes) to 20,000Hz (high notes).

Microphone Frequency Response Microphones can be compared to that range. Generally speaking, condenser microphones have a better frequency response than dynamic microphones.

Microphones Describing each microphone: 1. Directionality 2. Element 3. Impedance 4. Frequency Response

Types of Microphones (microphones formats) Handheld Microphones Available in… Omni directional and unidirectional, Dynamic and condenser, High impedance and low impedance, Various frequency ranges.

Types of Microphones (microphones formats) Lavaliere (Tie-Pin) Microphone Omni directional , Almost always condenser , Advantages: Small size Hands-free No skill require

Types of Microphones (microphones formats) Surface Mount Microphone Flat back, designed to lay flat on a table. Great for recording group discussions.

Types of Microphones (microphones formats) Shotgun Microphone Extremely unidirectional microphone Great for videotaping guest speaker and presentations Can be camera mounted Wear headphones!

Types of Microphones (microphones formats) Wireless Microphone System Components: -Microphones -Transmitter -Receiving station Transmitter and receiving station tuned to the same radio frequency

Types of Microphones (microphones formats) Wireless Microphone System Handheld or lavaliere A favorite of entertainers and reporters Be aware of power needs. Environmental factors can impact range. Practice with your wire less microphone system in a variety of situations.

Using microphones Know your microphones. Select the best microphones for each situation. Wear headphones.

Using Microphones Carefully connect your microphone. Don’t put the excessive weight of adapters onto the microphone jack. Using microphone extension cable instead.

Using Microphones Use a widescreen when recording outdoors. Use the correct talent to-microphone distance (six-inches) from the source Mic is a source – not a area.