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Acoustics and Recording Techniques Flashcards

7 cards from real CMP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Acoustics and Recording Techniques flashcards as text

  1. Which recording technique uses two microphones placed at 90° to each other with their capsules coincident, producing a stereo image with good mono compatibility?

    Answer: X/Y (coincident pair)

    X/Y coincident stereo uses two cardioid mics with capsules overlapping at 90°, delivering a stable stereo image that collapses to mono without phase issues.

  2. What is 'room mode' in the context of studio acoustics?

    Answer: A resonant frequency determined by the room's dimensions

    Room modes are standing waves at frequencies whose half-wavelengths fit between parallel surfaces, causing uneven bass response at different positions.

  3. A producer wants to record a drum kit with the most accurate stereo representation of the kit as heard by the drummer. Which overhead technique is most appropriate?

    Answer: Recorderman technique (spaced pair from snare perspective)

    The Recorderman technique places two mics equidistant from the snare — one overhead and one over the shoulder — replicating the drummer's listening perspective.

  4. What is the purpose of using a high-pass filter (HPF) when recording a trumpet?

    Answer: Remove unwanted low-frequency rumble and stand vibration

    A HPF below the trumpet's fundamental range eliminates mechanical rumble, HVAC noise, and stand vibrations that muddy the recording.

  5. In acoustic treatment, what type of material is most effective at absorbing low-frequency (bass) energy?

    Answer: Fiberglass or rockwool bass traps in corners

    Thick, dense mineral wool or fiberglass bass traps placed in room corners (where bass modes concentrate) are the most effective low-frequency absorbers.

  6. What is 'bleed' in the context of multi-microphone recording sessions?

    Answer: Unwanted sound from nearby instruments captured by a microphone

    Bleed (or spill) occurs when a microphone picks up sound from instruments other than its intended source, complicating mixing and editing.

  7. Which polar pattern allows a microphone to capture sound equally from all directions?

    Answer: Omnidirectional

    An omnidirectional microphone has a spherical pickup pattern with equal sensitivity at all angles, capturing the full acoustic environment.