Audio Engineering & Music Production
Course 5: Microphone Placement Techniques

A microphone is a device that changes acoustic energy into an electric current that can be altered and manipulated. Any device that converts one form of energy into another form of energy is called a transducer. Microphones are used in many different applications and are typically the first stop in the signal flow of your recording path.

In this course, you will learn about various types of microphones, how they work, and popular mics you will see in the studio. The history of the microphone actually begins with the invention of the telephone and you’ll learn how technology and design throughout the years have improved.

Frequency response, polar or pickup pattern, signal-to-noise ratio, impedance, and other mic functionalities will be discussed as well as how different microphones pick up sounds and how they can alter those sounds. You’ll learn to identify different circuit types of microphones and how they all have a place in the studio.

At the end of the course, you’ll review what you’ve learned in preparation for a course quiz as well as take a microphone identification quiz. You’ll also complete a blog entry, prepare for the next course by writing down any questions you may have, and continue to mix songs in the studio if time permits.

Objectives

• History of Microphones
• Microphone Specifications
• Microphone Circuit Types
• Chapter Quiz
• Blog Entry