Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Use a unidirectional microphone with a PA system, for dictation, broadcasting or other situations where you only want to pick up an individual voice.
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Step 2
Consider using a unidirectional, cardioid or stereo microphone for interviewing.
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Step 3
Choose an omnidirectional mike for recording lectures or meetings. Aim the microphone at the speaker during a lecture.
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Step 4
Use a lavaliere (clip-on) microphone when you need to have your hands available and aren't using a podium.
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Step 5
Follow the instructions in your manual for placing the microphone the proper distance from the speaker.
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Step 6
Move the microphone closer to the speaker if the sound is hollow or it sounds like the speaker is in a tunnel. Test the sound on the PA system or make a brief test recording to determine the best distance.
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Step 7
Pull the microphone farther away from the speaker if the sound is distorted.
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Step 8
Keep the microphone away from computers, heat and air ducts, electrical devices not related to its use, and fluorescent lights.
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Step 9
Maintain a distance between the microphone and PA (or computer) speakers to avoid feedback.
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Step 10
Set the microphone level as high as possible without distorting (exceeding 100 VU or going into the red on a recording meter) or causing feedback.
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Step 11
Use a windscreen to prevent unwanted sounds ("p" sounds making an unpleasant popping noise) and hissing ("s" sounds making a sibilant, hissing noise).
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Step 12
Test the microphone and sound system before speeches or presentations.
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Step 13
Use a magnetically shielded microphone with a computer.
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Step 14
Employ a close-talk microphone (one that is built into a headset) for word processing with voice-recognition software. If a microphone is included with the software, use it.
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Step 15
Use a close-talk or stick-on microphone for computer command and control.









Comments
jpwriter said
on 3/28/2009 This is very difficult to follow since I don't know much about microphones.