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The Techniques Of Testing Different Microphones

By Bruce Hathaway

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Published: 27Aug2011
Word count: 586
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Microphones are a very important part of the public address systems. They have become vital in making sound audible over long distances. As a result, there has been great competition as many companies struggle to outdo each other in the manufacture and design of the these PA systems. With so many models and brands in the market, it has become imperative for anyone seeking to purchase one to have some knowledge and techniques of testing different mics.

Considering the fact that there are so many designs on sale, the decision over which one to use will depend on so many factors. It should also be noted that testing different brands of microphones should be carried out with specific objectives in mind. One microphone may not be very good for use in one situation but it could turn out great in another. Therefore it's imperative to define what the setting will be and how you want the microphone to perform.

There is equipment used to test audio devices and one should know how to use them to get the best results and there are specific features that one should be checking out. Among the features that should be considered can include the dynamic response, frequency response, pickup pattern and the special applications that each brand offers and how effective it is.

Here are some tips for determining the right sound: it must be healthy enough for the ears of a human being to withstand. This ultimately means that it should not be too loud or too weak for the ears to pick up. The pressures that come from the fluctuations in the amplitude should define the measurement unit that will be used to measure these considerations.

Different microphones will sound differently in different settings. One may be so audible in an indoor setting only to be very poor when used in the open air situations. The oscilloscope can however be of used in testing the exact decibels in each setting as well as the quality of sound resonance that it produces.

With the introduction of technology, great changes have taken place in the public address system designs. As a result the industry has produced new brands of microphones. One such microphone system includes the wireless. It''s able to send the source signal via a transmitter and receiver to the amplifier or mixer without the use of a cable to pass the signal to the amplifier. These types have become very popular due to the convenience they bring to the user.

Contrary to the older models that use cables, the wireless ones use frequency signals. Testing them is slightly different as compared to the corded ones. Among other considerations, the distance form the receiver to the wireless microphone is always a determinant in the quality of sound you can get.

Testing different microphones which are wireless should therefore be done with special attention to the distance covered during its use. If you have to use it while moving about in a wider area, you must try it out to verify that you'll be able to get the frequency to the receiver at all times. The frequency range is always indicated on the manual of the receivers.

The importance of trying out microphones, especially when you have an audience at hand, is a good practice and will help in achieving your goals.

Bruce has achieved a lifetime of producing and engineering at his recording studio, Excello, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. He is also a microphone expert with extensive knowledge of vocal, instrument, wireless, USB microphones and more.

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