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The Art Of Choosing Just The Perfect Microphones

By Bruce Hathaway

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Republish: EasyPublish
Published: 01Apr2011
Word count: 627
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Not all microphones are the same. Some are definitely better than others. The one to use really depends on the singer that will be using it. Not all singers have the same type of voice. There are different frequency responses that need to be taken into account.

Every microphone has a different polar pattern. This can make a big difference. There are a few different pickup patterns but the most common are the cardioids, omni and bi-directional. The one that you choose will determine how your voice sounds and how it carries.

Most people that choose cardioid pattern microphone will need it if they plan on using it with a noisy background. It basically leaves out much of the ambient sound. Many choose to use this for karaoke, for example. A noisy room, live venue or an outdoor setting will really benefit from this type.

The omni microphone is the best choice if you are in a room that has great acoustics. It will help bring out a more natural tone to the voice. It is a multi pattern style and really sounds great for many such situations.

The bi-directional, also referred to as the figure 8, is normally used for acoustic-based groups or orchestras. This is because it picks up sound from the front and back but not so much from the sides. You will pick up the instrument being played more easily. If used for a singer, you will pick up on the entire vocal performance but not as much of the instruments standing next to them. This may be a good choice, depending on how much the singer projects.

You may need to try several types before deciding which one will work best for you. Not all are great quality and it may be that you need to practice using different styles and brands to find the perfect one for you. If it will be used for a long period of time so this process is well worth your time and effort. You do not want to be stuck with a less than perfect model (that fits into your budget) when you don't have to.

Another good idea is to ask other professionals for their advice and see which ones they are adamant about . It would also be a good plan to find someone that uses their microphone for the same purpose that you will be using it for. This will help you skip a few steps and possibly choose the best one sooner and more easily than you thought.

Recording vocals is an important situation that really should be taken seriously. The fact is once you've decided on a vocal take, it's there forever. You should never take any short cuts. Getting the right microphone helps to make the voice all that it can be. With the new technology that is out there you should have no excuse but to sound really good.

Getting just the right mic may seem like a daunting task with all of the different types and brands of microphones, but if you just follow a few important steps you can pick the one that is right for you. It will be worth your time and effort. Remember to get advice when you can. Get recommendations from others that you know and respect for their expertise. Also look at reviews online from past customers too. You will have your own personal microphone that you can take with you for whatever recording or live situation you're in. With that approach you can have more confidence in the results as well.

Bruce Hathaway has been a recording engineer and musician for over 25 years. Through this experience, including his own home project studio, he has become an audio expert offering advice to other musicians interested in recording. If you're interested in purchasing microphones and mic accessories, click on the link to see Bruce's online shop.

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