1 I'm all ears – theoretically!

There are many aspects to sound and hearing that most of us take for granted. Our ear/brain combination is capable of extremely sophisticated discrimination, enabling us to concentrate selectively on sound from one or two sources within a complex aural background; which may often comprise sound from many sources arriving at our ears simultaneously. Thus, before we start to use a mic, let's delve into some basic sound theory, so that we're aware of why things may not always turn out as expected.

Sound – the executive explanation

Whilst sitting at your desk, pick up an elastic band, and stretch it between the thumb and forefinger of one hand (Figure 1.1(a)(c)). Whilst watching the band, pluck it with one finger ...

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