Microphone Specifications and Concepts

This video tutorial, part of the FAQ series, explores the details of microphone specification sheets. It covers ten key specifications using the SM58 and Rode NT1 as examples. The video explains microphone types, frequency response, polar patterns, self-noise, signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity, max SPL, dynamic range, impedance, and power requirements. The tutorial aims to help viewers understand these specifications to make informed decisions when choosing microphones.

What is the main focus of this video tutorial?

• Understanding microphone specification sheets

• How to record music

• Editing audio files

• Setting up a home studio

Which type of microphone does not require phantom power?

• Lavalier

• Condenser

• Dynamic

• Electret

What does the frequency response specification indicate?

• The maximum sound pressure level

• The impedance of the microphone

• The power requirement of the microphone

• The frequencies the microphone can pick up

What does the polar pattern specification tell you?

• The type of microphone

• The area around the microphone that picks up sound

• The power requirement

• The self noise level

What does a lower self noise number indicate?

• Less noise in the recording

• Lower sensitivity

• More noise in the recording

• Higher sensitivity

What does the signal-to-noise ratio specification represent?

• The impedance

• The power requirement

• The ratio of desired signal to self noise

• The maximum sound pressure level

What does the sensitivity specification tell you?

• The polar pattern

• The power requirement

• How loud the output from the microphone is

• The impedance

What does the max SPL specification indicate?

• The maximum level a microphone can handle before distorting

• The power requirement

• The impedance

• The self noise level

What is the dynamic range of a microphone?

• The polar pattern

• The impedance

• The amount of usable audio

• The power requirement

What should you check if you know you won't have a phantom power supply?

• The impedance

• The power requirement

• The polar pattern

• The frequency response