Sound Science
Microphones
Can I Hear It?
(YES YOU CAN)
A Beautiful, Flowing Signal
100

This objective measurement references the number of waves that occur over a period of time. Subjectively, humans refer to it as "pitch."

What is frequency?

100

Microphones are these components, which converts acoustic energy into electrical energy.

What is an input transducer?

100

Frequency is measured and Hertz, and this range of frequency is the range of human hearing capabilities.

What is 20Hz to 20kHz?

100

Often one of the first components in a console's signal flow, this adds amplification to a mic-level signal.

What is a pre-amp?

200

This switch on a console will cause the signal to invert over a zero line, but does not use delay shift.

What is polarity reverse?

200

This type of directional microphone accepts sound from 0º and 180º, and includes two separate diaphragms.

What is a bidirectional microphone?

200

According to the Fletcher-Munson curve, this frequency group is more prominent when listening at lower volume levels.

What are the mids?

200

This type of bus setup is used to apply time-based effects so that the user can include a mix of the dry signal AND the wet signal.

What are FX sends/returns?

300

When two matching frequencies are played 180º out of phase, this occurs.

What is cancellation?

300

This type of transducer has a thin sheet of metal suspended between magnets, and should not be sent phantom power.

What is a ribbon microphone?

300

This style of EQ has a set bandwidth, and uses faders to cut or boost a large variety of frequencies.

What is a graphic EQ?

300

This parameter on an input channel allows the user to make space in the frequency and stereo field by mixing the signal Left or Right.

What is the pan/pan pot?

400

Constructive interference causes the amplitude of a frequency (or group of frequencies) to do this.

What is increase?

400

This transducer type requires an external power source for an additional stage of amplification at mic-level, and is sensitive to high SPLs.

What is a condenser?

400

This device is used to attenuate a signal that is entering the console at a higher-than-optimal level.

What is a pad?

400

This type of console set-up is useful for situations where only one fader is available for both input level and monitoring.

What is a split console set-up?