Recording Techniques
- The collection of extraneous noise. This can be a concern, especially in amplified performances, where audio feedback can be a significant problem. Alternatively, it can be a desired outcome, in situations where ambient noise is useful (hall reverberation, audience reaction).
- Choice of a signal type: Mono, stereo or multi-channel.
- Type of sound-source: Acoustic instruments produce a sound very different from electric instruments, which are again different from the human voice.
- Situational circumstances: Sometimes a microphone should not be visible, or having a microphone nearby is not appropriate. In scenes for a movie the microphone may be held above the pictureframe, just out of sight. In this way there is always a certain distance between the actor and the microphone.
- Processing: If the signal is destined to be heavily processed, or “mixed down”, a different type of input may be required.
- The use of a windshield as well as a pop shield, designed to reduce vocal plosives.
