How to Use a Pop Filter
A pop filter is not essential for recording vocals, but can help attenuate aspirated plosive sounds---hard "P," "T" or "B" sounds that can result in a kind of popping sound when recorded---while protecting the microphone from moisture at the same time. Moisture protection is most important when using a condenser microphone, as they are extremely sensitive to moisture and are much more delicate than a cardioid microphone. For these reasons, it is recommended that a pop filter, whether manufactured or homemade, be used in most vocal recording situations.
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Instructions
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Position the pop filter close to, but not touching, the microphone. Some pop filters are designed to be fitted to a second stand that can be positioned between the vocalist and the microphone. Most, however, are designed to be fixed directly to the microphone stand using a clamp or bracket. If adding the pop filter to a microphone stand, securely fix the bracket to the stand and then mount the pop filter.
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Angle the microphone and pop filter to the 10 o'clock or 2 o'clock position. This will further help to prevent plosive sounds.
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Record vocals as normal. The pop filter should not need to be touched or adjusted in any way during the recording after its initial setup.
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Remove the pop filter after use and wipe it down with a soft cloth. This will remove any moisture that has built up on the filter during the recording session.
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Tips & Warnings
Pop filters are great for dispersing the quick blasts of air that result from vocal plosive sounds, but in general they also attenuate the high-end of the frequency spectrum. This isn't necessarily a good or a bad thing, but it is useful to remember. In general there is a greater degree of attenuation when using homemade pop filters.
References
- Photo Credit home recording image by Rachwalski Andrzej from Fotolia.com
