Microphone Application Questions

[Steve Montoto]

Is there a thread or website that explains which microphones they are using in certain situations that work really well.

Such as:

Which is best mic to record vocals from a speakers podium such as a reader in a wedding.

Which is best mic to wire for lapel on speaker or groom ect..

What mic for ambiance ect.

Which mic for loud volume recording(concert, or auditorium or church Choir)

I would like to fine tune my microphone selection.

Thanks,

Steve

[Joe Gioielli]

Steve, I hope this isn't too basic, but I'll do my best. Microphones have a pick up pattern. Imagine the mic as a hose. The pick up pattern is the like the shape of the water coming out of the hose. There is also a frequency responce range. That is what the mic will actually hear. (The mic on a phone has low bass responce which is why you sound funny on the phone.) When you pick a mic it is goung to depend what you are recording (Music, human vocals, wildlife sounds etc.) and how far away you have to be (a single flute player of a large group of singers.) and find the mic that does that job. The best way to do that is to contact manufactures and ask them. (Shure, Electro Voice, Adzen, etc).

Good mics do not come cheap. They are just like are cameras. You get what you pay for and they need cables, adapter boxes, windscreens, blimps, and all sorts of other goodies. Get a feel for what you need, set a budget, get what you can. One good mic is better than 2 cheap ones.

[Bryan Beasleigh]

Herds and herds of reading here. http://www.equipmentemporium.com/articles.htm

Also try Jay Rose's site as well as his forum at dv.com.

http://www.dplay.com/

http://www.dv.com/forums/showTopics.jhtml?sid=1&fid=3

He has an excellent book, well worth the price.

http://www.dplay.com/book/pgs2e/