5  Using microphones

 

Objectives and problems in recording

It is obvious that any reproduced recording should aim to be either a replica of the original sound or, by means of mixing and editing techniques, a combination of original sounds (not necessarily natural ones) that achieves a particular artistic result. These, then, could be described as the general objectives. The problem is really how to achieve them. The correct use of microphones will go a long way towards realizing this aim, but what in practice is meant by ‘correct’?

Sensible positioning of the microphones is very important, for a start. Experience helps to bring good results quickly and trial-and-error may also be satisfactory – eventually! And while there are no hard and fast ...

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