General Microphone Rules

1. For optimal signal-to-noise ratio, place the microphone as close as possible to the desired sound source.

2. For the best gain-before-feedback and isolation from undesired background noise, aim the microphone toward the sound source and away from undesired sound sources.

3. For the purest reproduction of sound, use only one microphone per sound source and use the fewest number of microphones necessary for the application.

4. For maximum isolation, keep the distance between microphones at least three times the distance from each source to its microphone.

5. Placing the microphone close to the sound source improves bass response. This phenomenon is known as proximity effect and can be used to achieve a fuller sound, and to change the bass output of an instrument without using tone controls. Proximity effect is also especially good for vocals during soft passages where emphasis is needed.

6. Placing the microphone too close to acoustically reflective (smooth, hard) surfaces will result in a poor frequency response and will increase the chances for feedback. To minimize this effect, place microphones as far as possible from acoustically reflective surfaces.

7. Add an external windscreen when using the microphone outdoors to reduce wind noise.

8. It is important to keep foreign particles out of the grille and the windscreen because they may alter the frequency response of the microphone. Also, avoid exposing condenser microphones to heat and high humidity.