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Microphone Maintenance.

By Bruce Hathaway

Republish: EasyPublish™
Published: 28Jul2011
Word count: 566
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The maintenance of high quality and expensive microphones is of the utmost importance. Determining the maintenance and cleaning of a microphone will depend on the type. Generally mics can be taken apart. It is possible to unscrew the grille on the top and to clean these parts separately or as a unit. Make sure they are detached from the microphone itself. Microphones are subject to dirt and a lot of unpleasant substances. Periodic microphone cleaning maintenance is a must.

There are definitely different schools of thought on this subject. If the parts are removable you can clean these with a large container of warm water. After adding some non-abrasive gentle dish washing liquid you can submerge the grille and the screen under the water. A small soft brush should be used to gently take away lip-stick or debris that is on the surface. Gently rinse all parts in warm water. At this time they can be placed on a fresh, clean towel to drain. Make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling together.

If your mic does not have removable parts there is another technique for cleaning. Extra care must be taken for this type of mic. Use an artist's paintbrush or a soft dry brush. Gently scrub in a horizontal manner to dislodge any unwanted particles. At this time you can also moisten the end of the clean brush with the solution and gently clean. When the grill is cleaned to your expectations make sure you leave it to dry upside down.

In between performances it is important to have a maintenance program. This would consist of using a soft cloth and just a little of mouthwash that is for the purpose of bacteria cleaning. Avoid touching the microphone head and the foam covering. The oils from your hands can be a problem with build up over time.

It is always best to read reviews and online information concerning the variety of methods for cleaning microphones. There are different schools of thought on maintaining both condenser mics and dynamic mics.

Everyone is in agreement on one thought, and that is that the connectors must be periodically cleaned of oxidation to continue to function properly. Always use a product that is designed for the the type of connector. Always make sure that every part that you have cleaned is completely dry before plugging into a power source.

When cleaning high-tech microphones it's best to consult the manual. Usually they have included with the purchase of the microphone, a special cleaning cloth and instructions. When used properly this should extend the life of the condenser especially with the more sensitive condenser microphones. Always follow the procedures carefully as outlined in the manual.

Prevention is always key in the care of any quality electronic piece of gear. Keeping it in a cool dry place, free from dust will extend the life of the microphone. Avoid humidity and try to store in a hard case to protect all of the internal parts. Never let them get dropped or used carelessly by people who want to just play around with them.

The care of these investments will add to the life and performance of the mic. Performances will also sound better on equipment treated with respect and will have greater reliability.

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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