Embark on the next leg of our microphone journey as we dive into the realm of multi-polar pattern microphones. These versatile gems are crafted for multiple studio applications, solidifying their status as recording assets. Join me on this as we look at various microphone types and explore the distinct sonic characteristics and qualities attributed to different polar patterns. Together, we'll navigate the intricate landscape of microphone technology, shedding light on the nuances that contribute to their performance in diverse recording scenarios.
Microphone frequency response
X-Axis: Frequency Range
The x-axis represents the frequency range in Hertz (Hz), typically ranging from low frequencies (bass) on the left to high frequencies (treble) on the right.
Y-Axis: Amplitude/Level
The y-axis represents the amplitude or volume of the sound at each frequency. It shows how loud or soft the sound produces at different frequencies.
Flat Response
A flat response means all frequencies produce at an equal volume, Often considered ideal for accurate recording.
Bass and Treble Response
Microphones may have specific bumps or dips in certain frequency ranges.
Roll-Off
The chart may indicate a roll-off at the extreme low or high frequencies. A roll-off means that the speaker's response decreases in level at specific frequencies.
Different Microphone polar pattern
A polar pattern in microphones defines the directional pattern of the microphone's sound capture. Indicating the areas around the microphone where you can effectively record sound.
Cardioid patterns pick up from the front, rejecting sound from the back.
Supercardioid is highly directional, capturing sound primarily from the front while minimizing pickup from the sides. It offers a more focused and narrow pickup area compared to a regular cardioid pattern.
Omnidirectional microphones capture audio from every angle of the mic.
Bidirectional/Figure 8 offers a figure-eight pickup pattern, designed primarily from two opposite directions—front and rear—while rejecting sound from the sides.
AKG 414
|
Microphone type |
|
|
Transducer Type |
Condenser microphone (electrostatic principles moving diagrams |
|
Polar Pattern & Frequency Response |
Multi-patterns
|
| Properties | The AKG C414 can accentuate vocals and solo instruments, ensuring their prominence even within busy mixes. Additionally, its versatility shines in distance miking applications, making it a choice across various recording scenarios, proving its excellence in capturing a wide range of sound sources. |
Audio Technica 4050
|
Microphone type |
|
|
Transducer Type |
Condenser microphone (electrostatic principles moving diagrams |
|
Polar Pattern & Frequency Response |
Omni, cardioid, and figure 8 pattern, 20-18,000 Hz, 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave roll-off
|
|
Properties |
The Audio-Technica AT4050 boasts transparent highs and mids, creating a balanced low-frequency response for a smooth sonic experience. Its warm sound signature makes it an ideal choice for capturing the nuances of vocals and a variety of instruments, ensuring clarity in every recording. |
Rode NT2-A
|
Microphone Type |
|
|
Transducer Type |
Condenser mic (electrostatic principles moving diagrams |
|
Polar Pattern & Frequency Response |
Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 20-20,000Hz
|
|
Properties |
The Rode NT2-A offers velvety, vintage-inspired characteristics of microphones from the '50s and '60s. Its distinctive smoothness makes it an excellent choice for capturing the nuances of both instruments and vocals, adding a timeless quality to your recordings. |
Neumann U87
|
Microphone Type |
|
|
Transducer Type |
Condenser mic (electrostatic principles moving diagrams |
|
Polar Pattern & Frequency Response |
Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 20-20,000Hz
|
| Properties | The Neumann U87 features a flat midrange complemented by a subtle presence boost, enhancing the richness of vocals while allowing them to shine. Widely used for orchestral recordings. Versatility Extends to delivering exceptional performance on various instruments, making it a choice for capturing dynamic audio sources. |
Shure KSM 44
|
Microphone Type |
|
|
Transducer Type |
Condenser mic (electrostatic principles moving diagrams |
|
Polar Pattern & Frequency Response |
Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 20-20,000Hz |
| Properties | The Shure KSM 44 excels in capturing nuanced, quiet sounds, making it an exceptional choice for room mics, vocals, and a diverse range of instruments. Its versatility extends across various recording scenarios, ensuring a high-quality audio capture across a spectrum of sound sources. |
In conclusion, multi-polar pattern microphones stand as sophisticated additions to any studio mic collection. Many different types each offering unique sound characteristics. While these mics may be more expensive in the audio technology world. They prove to be invaluable investments for those seeking to elevate their recording capabilities. Remember, the journey of sonic exploration is ongoing, and upgrading your tools as you grow ensures your studio setup evolves with you.