Audio

1. Audio The red-haired stepchild of video production It’s really important! Bad audio = lost viewers Lots of choices in sound design Basic principle: Transduction Sound waves are transduced into electrical signals, and then back to sound waves.

2. Audio The red-haired stepchild of video production First choice: which microphone, categorized by how the transduction is done. Dynamic Mics– most rugged, relatively inexpensive, good quality. Can withstand poor conditions and loud levels Condenser Mics– better quality, but much more sensitive to temperature, moisture, loud levels and physical shock. Batteries!

3. Audio The red-haired stepchild of video production 3. Ribbon Mics– most sensitive, highest quality, used in recording studios and radio stations. Very expensive. Have a “warmer” sound.

4. Pickup Patterns How the microphone “hears” the sound or picks up the sound Omnidirectional Cardioid Hypercardioid

5. Microphone Accessories Don’t lose them! Or break them! Windscreen Windsock or Dead Cat

6. Microphone Accessories Don’t lose them! Or break them! Clips Boom pole

7. Classified by how they are used • Mobile • Hand held • Used extensively in the field • Performer can “work” the mic (move it closer or farther) • Must change mic position when interviewing • Must be rugged so usually are dynamic • If directional, speak into the mic (hold at 45 degree angle to mouth) If omnidirectional, speak across the mic (hold at chest unless loud background noise ) • Disadvantage—may obscure part of reporter’s face

8. Classified by how they are used Mobile mics • 2. Lavalier or lav – small mic pinned to clothing • Used in many on-camera interview situations. Omnidirectional or cardioid. • How to use lavs: • Make sure to put it on. Easy to sit on it. • Make sure the cord is under jacket or blouse. • Pin it on the side the person will be talking. • Use tape on cable if needed.

9. Classified by how they are used Mobile mics • How to use lavs: • Use double mics in case battery dies in one • Avoid hitting anything with the lav (jewelry, clothing) • Check the battery if it is condenser • and not using phantom power • Some lavs have to be turned on • Use a windscreen if outdoors.

10. Classified by how they are used Mobile mics • 3. Boom mics – used when you don’t want to see them, e.g. films, TV dramas and sitcoms • How to use boom or fishpole • Aim directly at subject’s mouth • Wear headsets at all times • Watch out for shadows • Don’t get in the shot • Move it smoothly

11. Classified by how they are used Mobile mics • 4. Headset mics – combined with earphones which carry the program audio (and IFB) • May help reporter hear better • Used in noisy conventions or • sporting events • Keeps the reporter’s hands free • Some singers use them • Can look ugly

12. Classified by how they are used Mobile mics • 4. Headset mics • Photo • by • Getty • Images Photo by AP

13. Classified by how they are used • Stationary Mics • 1. Desk – usually dynamic and omnidirectional • 2. Stand – often used for singers or instruments • 3. Hanging – out of sight, used for dramas

14. Audio Terms to Know • Impedance – how much resistance to signal flow there is. High Z = bad, cheap Low Z = good, pro • Frequency response – how wide a range of frequency can the mic reproduce. High quality mic responds equally well to all frequencies. (20Hz to 20,000Hz)

15. Audio Terms to Know • Balanced or Unbalanced Mics and Cables • Professional mics have a balanced output that is connected by a cable that has 3 wires in it, two carry the audio signal and one is the ground. Use XLR connectors.

16. Audio Terms to Know • Balanced or Unbalanced Mics and Cables • Semiprofessional equipment use only two wires—one for the audio and one for the ground. Use phone plug, RCA phono plug or mini plug. More susceptible to hum and interference.