What Is a Microphone Boom?
A boom microphone is a lightweight microphone attached to a long pole or fish pole, commonly known as the boom. This type of microphone is used on film and television sets and is held over the actors so as not to make an appearance in the shot.
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Components
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The microphone itself is typically referred to as a shotgun mic. A shotgun mic is directional so it can be held over the actors and is attached to the boom or pole by a shock mount. The furry cover over the microphone, or dead cat in the film industry, is a windscreen and can also be made of foam.
Uses
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First used in telephones, the microphone has evolved and now has many uses. Boom mics are most commonly used in film, and they allow the actors and cameras to move while still capturing sound, unlike stationary mics. The boom is also used to record live and studio music, and can be modified for certain situations. It allows for hands-free performances of entertainers and newscasters, but best of all it allows for freedom of movement, keeping cords off the floor and providing safety for performers.
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Boom Microphone Types
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Boom mics are not limited to the traditional fuzzy cat on a pole. The headset with an integrated boom mic provides a hands-free ability to multitask. Ear-piece booms are a discreet style of microphone that can be clipped to your shirt or hung around your ear. Headphone amps are designed for the boom operator, allowing them to monitor the sound that they are capturing; they clip onto your belt so your hands are free for the boom pole. A variable pattern overhead boom captures speech in great detail, range and accuracy. It works by remote control, and this mic picks up everything.
Boom Pole Types
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Boom poles can be expensive. A broom handle is a budget alternative to these high-end poles, but the carbon fiber or aluminum boom pole is a more professional selection. Carbon is more lightweight and keeps strain off of the boom operator, but it is more expensive than aluminum. The fiber or aluminum boom pole, while telescopic, allows you to adjust the length to suit the scene that you are shooting. It features a 3/8-inch male screw thread at the bottom to attach your microphone, and this boom pole can help achieve optimum sound levels.
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