Microphone Types and Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real Music & Audio Advice practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Microphone Types and Techniques flashcards as text
What does a pop filter primarily reduce when recording vocals?
Answer: Plosive bursts from 'p' and 'b' sounds
A pop filter diffuses the burst of air from plosive consonants before it reaches the diaphragm.
A shock mount is used to isolate a microphone from what?
Answer: Mechanical vibrations and handling noise
Shock mounts suspend the mic with elastic to prevent floor and stand vibrations from being picked up.
What accessory is best for reducing wind noise during outdoor recording?
Answer: Windscreen or 'dead cat' foam/fur cover
A foam windscreen or furry 'dead cat' cover breaks up wind before it hits the capsule outdoors.
Engaging a microphone's pad (attenuation) switch does what?
Answer: Reduces input sensitivity to handle loud sources
A pad lowers the mic's output by a set amount so loud sources don't overload the preamp.
A low-cut (high-pass) filter on a mic is useful for what?
Answer: Removing rumble and low-frequency noise
A high-pass filter rolls off low frequencies, reducing rumble, handling noise, and excessive proximity bass.
When micing a loud guitar amp cabinet, a common starting position is to place the mic where?
Answer: Close to the grille, near the speaker cone's edge or center
Placing a dynamic mic close to the speaker, adjusting between the cone center and edge, shapes brightness versus warmth.
What is the '3-to-1 rule' in microphone placement?
Answer: Space mics at least three times the source-to-mic distance apart
The 3:1 rule keeps multiple mics spaced at least three times the source distance to minimize phase problems.