Music & Audio Advice Microphone Types and Techniques 4

Question 1

What does a pop filter primarily reduce when recording vocals?

Accepted Answer

Plosive bursts from 'p' and 'b' sounds

Answer

A pop filter diffuses the burst of air from plosive consonants before it reaches the diaphragm.

Question 2

A shock mount is used to isolate a microphone from what?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical vibrations and handling noise

Answer

Shock mounts suspend the mic with elastic to prevent floor and stand vibrations from being picked up.

Question 3

What accessory is best for reducing wind noise during outdoor recording?

Accepted Answer

Windscreen or 'dead cat' foam/fur cover

Answer

A foam windscreen or furry 'dead cat' cover breaks up wind before it hits the capsule outdoors.

Question 4

Engaging a microphone's pad (attenuation) switch does what?

Accepted Answer

Reduces input sensitivity to handle loud sources

Answer

A pad lowers the mic's output by a set amount so loud sources don't overload the preamp.

Question 5

A low-cut (high-pass) filter on a mic is useful for what?

Accepted Answer

Removing rumble and low-frequency noise

Answer

A high-pass filter rolls off low frequencies, reducing rumble, handling noise, and excessive proximity bass.

Music & Audio Advice Practice Test