There are a few different polar pattern types utilized in microphones today. The two basic types include omnidirectional and unidirectional. Cardioids, bi-directional and shotgun types are subcategories of omnidirectional microphones. Here is a fast overview of each type : Omnidirectional The omnidirectional microphone records sounds similarly from all directions. They're fairly good when recording interviews, but the 360 degree pickup also tends to pick up a fair quantity of ambient sound when used in a noisy environment. The commonest omnidirectional use involves groups of vocalists or instrumentalists as the microphone can be conveniently located around the performers. Lavaliers are another common use - these are tiny microphones that can be clipped to a speaker's lapel or blouse and then fed to a wireless or concealed transmitter. Unidirectional A unidirectional microphone is sensitive to sounds coming from only one direction. These microphones are best suited for recording individual voices in loud locations ( interviews ) as well as picking up sound from a long distance. Cardioid Cardioids are a form of unidirectional microphone, so named as the pickup pattern is heart-shaped. This type of microphone is most sensitive to sounds coming from the front. The most important attribute is its capability to discriminate between direct sounds ( coming from the direction which it is pointed ) and unwished-for noise from all other directions. They are favored for live sound as they clear out stage monitors or loudspeakers while providing excellent feedback rejection. Supercardioid microphones are another adaptation that is most sensitive at the front while rejecting sounds 150 degrees to the rear. Hypercardioid microphones are most delicate at the front and sides, while rejecting sounds entering 120 degrees to the rear. Hypercardioid microphones are frequently employed in circumstances where maximum isolation is desired between sound sources. Dynamic cardioid vocal microphones are extremely commonly used for live performances. Some microphones like the Sennheiser e965, supply the ability to modify cardioid polar patterns with the flip of a switch - making it workable to change pickup characteristics on a make-shift basis. Bi-directional Bi-directional microphones are capable of receiving sound from both the front and the back, with a polar pattern appears like a figure-eight. Most ribbon microphones use this pattern, which are prized for their capability to capture high-frequency detail. Shotgun Shotgun microphones are the most highly directional.
Article Source: http://www.articlecontentprovider.com/articlesubmit
There are a few different polar pattern types utilized in microphones today. The two basic types include omnidirectional and unidirectional. Cardioids, bi-directional and shotgun types are subcategories of omnidirectional microphones. Here is a fast overview of each type : Omnidirectional The omni
Bruce Hathaway has been a recording engineer both at Excello Recording in Williamsburg and his home studio.He has also scored 23 films since the year 2000. http://www.micsandmoreonline.com
Please Rate this Article
5 out of 5 4 out of 5 3 out of 5 2 out of 5 1 out of 5
