SOUND WORKSHOP I

This was the first workshop of the new term that we explored the use of sound. During this we were taught the various techniques that could be used to produce a good sound for our visual pieces and the equipment used. We had access to a variety of different microphones and were taught a few different set ups. Specifically, we were taught about polar patterns and shown how to set the Mic up to record for live music.




In our workshop we primarily had Ben play the guitar and Donna record vocals but also explored other sounds using different vocalists and guitars.




Polar Patterns Explored

Each contemporary microphone used in sound today has a specific Polar Pattern. The basis of a Polar Pattern is in which direction a microphone picks up sound. It is the sensitivity of a microphones ability to pick up sounds coming from different angles towards its centre.

Cardioid Polar Pattern
A commonly used directional polar pattern, an example of this used in practice would be in the microphone held by a Vocalist when performing on stage. It is often used to pick up only one sound source and is not as sensitive to sounds around this main source, at its sides or rear.

Super-cardioid/Hyper-cardioid Polar Pattern
This is a variation on the classic Cardioid shape but have a tighter and more narrow directionality at the front. Most commonly used in Shot Gun Mics or on Cameras. This Polar Pattern will pickup some sound from its rear. This is good for isolating sound and focusing on one source.

Omni-directional Polar Pattern
Microphones with this Polar Pattern pickup sound sources from every directions which makes them useful for moving subjects, ambience or sound that is not easily controlled. Most often used in Lavalier Mic's. These microphones are flexible but are the nosiest.

Figure of Eight (Bidirectional) 
These Microphones pick up sound sources from the front and the rear but block out sound from the sides. They are most often used in interviews where the Mic needs to pick up two audio sources.


BIBLIOGRAPHY

Source: http://www.rode.com/blog/all/what-are-a-microphones-polar-patterns