ABSTRACT
Microphone designs and types differ greatly from one to the other. Some may have a certain sonic personality that allows it to work best with certain instruments and situations, while others may be suited for a wide range of applications. In audio production, three transducer mic types can be used to accomplish this: dynamic mic; ribbon mic; condenser mic. Most modern professional condenser (and some ribbon) mics are designed to be powered directly from the console/interface/mic preamp through the use of a phantom power supply. There are a few issues that are common to many pickups and placement situations: low-frequency rumble; proximity effect; popping; off-axis pickup. Distant miking is often used in classical and other traditional styles of recording to pick up large instrumental ensembles. The grand piano is an acoustically complex instrument that can be miked in a variety of ways, depending on the style and preferences of the artist, producer and/or engineer.
