Wireless Mic Tips for the Complete Novice

two wireless microphone on the window3 Things You Must Know Before You Buy a Wireless Microphone Those of us in the audio industry often take certain facts for granted. We know that a microphone needs a PA system to plug into, that an amplifier needs a speaker to make a sound, and that different sound systems fit different applications. For audio novices – which can… Read the rest

VHF vs. UHF: What Wireless FM System Is Ideal for You?

If you’re in the market for a wireless microphone (or assisted hearing system), chances are you’ve checked out both VHF and UHF models. And you’ve probably noticed some key differences, especially when it comes to price. What’s the difference between VHF and UHF wireless systems, and which is the ideal choice for you? What’s the Difference Between the VHF &… Read the rest

Mike vs. Mic: Which Abbreviation is Correct?

It’s a familiar dilemma to those of us who write about audio: What’s the abbreviation for microphone, “mike” or “mic”? For years (since roughly 1961, in fact), the former abbreviation – “mic” – has been the preferred choice of the pro audio industry. This does lead to problems, however. When you place a “mic” in front of an amp, is… Read the rest

5 Points to Ponder Before You Buy a Mic for Your Studio

Condenser MicrophoneYou’re putting together your home project recording studio. You’ve cleared out your spare room and plugged in your digital multitrack recorder. There’s only one thing missing- Microphones! What kind of mic should you add  to your home studio recording equipment? With a host of great sounding microphones by manufacturers like AKG, Shure, and Sennheiser, you can get warm sounds out… Read the rest

Dynamic or Condenser? A Tale of 2 Microphones

Dynamic MicrophoneDynamic vs. Condenser Mics Microphones — both dynamic and condenser — are key components of every PA system and recording studio, but even among sound reinforcement pros there can be considerable disagreement as to which mic is best for which task. Fortunately, you don’t have to be an audio school graduate to understand the difference between these two most basic… Read the rest

Are All Wireless Mics Created Equal?

The ins and outs of wireless microphone systems have caused many amateur (and more than a few professional) sound engineers to scratch their heads in confusion. Reception, interference, operating frequencies — not to mention price — can make choosing a wireless mic a daunting business. Wireless microphones operating in the UHF frequency band are often cited as the optimum choice… Read the rest

What’s the Best Mic for Recording High-Pitched Percussion?

Consider this: you’re recording a Merengue ensemble and the microphones are picked out for the marimba, accordion, guitar and tambora. But the güira, with a metallic sound extending well into the high frequencies (and at higher sound pressure levels), demands special attention. How do you address this issue? First, let’s take a look at exactly what a güira is for… Read the rest

USB Microphones & Adapters Bring Stardom Down To Earth

Home video recording is enjoying a renaissance lately, with every smartphone or a digital camcorder owner poised to become the next YouTube star. But there are loftier possibilities for this explosion of technology: instructional videos, product promotions, podcasting, video blogs- the sky truly is the limit! Making and uploading videos is now as simple as plugging your camcorder into an… Read the rest