M-Audio Microphone User Manual

Describes dynamic, ribbon, and condenser microphones, outlining their distinct characteristics and applications.

Details moving-coil dynamic microphones, their construction, sensitivity, durability, and common usage scenarios.

Explains the operation, sensitivity, fragility, and sound coloration typical of ribbon microphones.

Explains condenser microphone operation, power requirements, sensitivity, and ideal studio applications.

Discusses the impact of small, medium, and large capsule sizes on microphone frequency response and signal-to-noise ratio.

Details small capsules, their accuracy, and limitations for recording, often best suited for measurement.

Describes medium capsules, their typical frequency response, and acceptable signal-to-noise ratios for professional use.

Explains large capsules, their sensitivity, low-frequency detail, and the prevalence of proximity effect.

Discusses the diaphragm's critical role in mic sensitivity, material construction, and thinness.

Explains the function of the backplate in condenser mics and M-Audio's use of solid brass construction.

Introduces polar patterns and their influence on microphone directionality and off-axis frequency response.

Describes the cardioid pattern's unidirectional pickup, rejection of rear sound, and proximity effect.

Explains the omni pattern's all-directional pickup, use for capturing ambience, and reduced proximity effect.

Details the figure-8 pattern's sensitivity on opposing sides and rejection of sound from the sides.

Describes the super-cardioid pattern's narrower focus of sensitivity and its use for isolation.

Discusses the construction of multi-pattern microphones and the benefits of interchangeable patterns.

Explains diaphragm orientation and its impact on microphone design, addressability, and pattern switching.

Discusses head amps, impedance conversion, and the role of electronics in signal transmission.

Explains the concept of electrical impedance and its effects on audio signals and cable length.

Compares tube and solid-state electronics on frequency response, THD, and dynamic distortion.

Discusses the cost, noise characteristics, microphonics, and heat generation of tube electronics.

Compares solid-state costs, key components like FETs, and their sound characteristics versus op amps.

Addresses the perception of tube warmth in recordings and its relation to digital audio.

Discusses manufacturing standards and how companies prioritize profit over quality.

Explains the importance of using matched pairs of microphones for optimal stereo recording results.

Details M-Audio's commitment to high manufacturing standards and tight production tolerances.

Advises on protecting sensitive microphones from physical shock and proper mounting techniques.

Explains the use of pop filters for vocal plosives and windscreens for outdoor wind noise reduction.

Discusses the impact of temperature and humidity extremes on condenser microphone performance.

Provides guidelines for cleaning and storing microphones to prevent damage and maintain performance.

Differentiates close-miking and distance-miking techniques and their effects on sound and ambience.

Compares the performance and application suitability of large and medium microphone capsules.

Explains how to manage extraneous low-frequency content and the utility of high-pass filters.

Discusses the critical role of the microphone preamp in boosting low-level signals for recording.

Covers the use of EQ and compression during the recording process for optimal signal quality.

Discusses how room acoustics, reflections, and damping affect microphone recordings.

Introduces the TAMPA preamp, highlighting its Temporal Harmonic Alignment technology.

Explains phasing problems caused by multiple mics and offers tips for minimization.

Discusses reducing reflective surfaces in the recording space to prevent unwanted sound coloration.

Advises on providing adequate space around microphones to avoid sonic obstruction and pattern distortion.

Describes the X-Y stereo miking technique using coincident cardioid microphones.

Explains the Blumlein stereo miking technique using figure-8 microphones.

Describes the ORTF stereo miking technique, emulating human ear placement.

Explains the Mid-Side stereo miking technique and its reliance on post-processing.

Describes the Spaced Omni technique for capturing ambience with omnidirectional microphones.

Explains the Decca Tree stereo miking technique, popular in film scoring.

Provides guidelines for miking vocals, covering mic choice, placement, and common issues.

Offers techniques for miking acoustic guitar, including common positions and potential pitfalls.

Details miking techniques for electric guitar amplifiers, including speaker interaction.

Covers miking techniques for grand pianos, considering environment, placement, and piano lid.

Explains techniques for miking drum kits from a distance to capture overall balance and room sound.

Discusses common drum miking setups using one to four microphones for different results.

Covers techniques for close-miking individual drum components like kick, snare, and hi-hat.

Explains using room microphones to capture drum ambience and create a larger sound.

Details the Solaris microphone model, its features, and ideal applications.

Describes the Nova microphone model, highlighting its sensitivity and pattern flexibility.

Explains the Luna microphone model, noting its strengths for acoustic guitar and stringed instruments.

Troubleshooting steps for resolving issues where a microphone has no audio output.

Provides solutions for diagnosing and fixing audible buzz or hum in microphone signals.

Guides users on diagnosing and fixing issues causing muffled microphone sound.

Troubleshooting steps for addressing issues with low output levels from a microphone.