10  Microphones

Basic Requirements

Before purchasing microphones for high quality applications, such as recording or broadcasting, the following check-list should be considered.

Sound Quality

1.  Is the frequency response satisfactory? Ideally this should be ± 2 dB over the range 20 Hz to 20 kHz but less tight tolerances may be acceptable at the high and low frequency ends. There can be advantages in a non-flat response for some specialized purposes: a reduced bass response can be an advantage in public address situations, for example.

2.  Transient response. This is not easy to assess except by listening tests, which should be done with a wide range of sound sources.

3.  Sensitivity. Is the electrical output adequate bearing in mind the situations ...

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