Capture of Sound

Capture of Sound

Sound Source

  • Refers to the initiator of sound, such as vocals, percussion, wind, string, or electronic instruments.
  • The sound source is characterised by its own unique timbral and dynamic properties that should be understood to accurately capture sound.

Microphones

  • Different types of microphones capture sound differently; these include dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones.
  • Microphone selection is dependent on the sound source and the desired audio quality. For example, dynamic mics are durable and handle high sound pressure, suitable for live drums, while condenser mics are sensitive and detailed, ideal for studio vocal recording.
  • Each microphone has its unique frequency response and polar pattern which affect how it picks up sound from different directions.

Microphone Techniques

  • Understanding of various microphone techniques such as ambience capture, close miking, stereo miking, or 3:1 rule is critical.
  • Techniques like XY, ORTF, Blumlein, and Mid-Side can be used for capturing stereo sound sources.
  • Multiple microphone setups require careful placement to avoid phase cancellation.

Acoustics

  • Capturing sound also requires consideration of the recording space acoustics.
  • Spaces affect how sound is reflected and absorbed. Both room shape and materials used within it can profoundly affect the sound captured.

Gain Staging

  • Setting appropriate input levels is crucial for quality sound. Too low can add noise, while too high can add distortion.
  • The process of appropriately setting levels from the mics through to the final recording is referred to as gain staging.

Signal Chain

  • The signal chain refers to the path the sound takes from the source through to the recorded signal.
  • Understanding and properly setting up the signal chain - microphone, cable, preamp, audio interface, DAW - is all part of efficient sound capture.

Monitoring

  • A good monitoring system (studio monitors and/or headphones) is important to judge the quality of sound being captured.
  • Accurate monitoring can help detect issues with the recording such as clipping, distortion, background noise, or phase problems.

By grasping these key ideas and principles in sound capture, one can begin to make purposeful and creative decisions in the recording process.