MXL 4000 Condenser Microphone
I'm not sure about the different patterns, I just have it set on the stock settings right now. Don't really know how/why I would use the figure 8 or other patterns...
Yea, I read through the first 7 pages of that tread but was still confused. There were so many people asking questions is just seemed cluttered. All I really care about is the vocals and the 'recording techniques' used to capture them.Gee, sounds like maybe we need a sticky thread over in the mic forum explaining that stuff. Maybe call it:
"How does diaphragm size/polar pattern relate to mic applications?"
Just a thought.
So are you talking off axis like sideways, or up and down? I have been messing with it a little and I think I want get more of the lower end of the voice. So I guess I should try recording closer to the mic, then just use the compressor to fix the fluxuations in volume? Also, there is a switch with a line on one side and a 'slanted line' (It's straight, then slants. maybe to a 110 degree angle) on the other side. I have it set to the straight line, but I don't really know what it is used for...The lower portion of the vocalist's tone is controlled by the proximity effect of the microphone; close for more bass, further away for less bass. Recording into the front of the mic, while slightly off axis, can reduce a bright peak in the mic's response. There are so many factors at work, a simple answer just doesn't do it.
If you won't read the big thread, then I suggest you experiment, and keep track of what happens when you change something.
Ok, so I want to leave the setting on the straight line. I will try some more testing with the angles, I think that is something that I need to do to get more of the lower end of the voice. Right now, I have only really recorded with the mic straight up. But, since you said angling the mic won't affect the proximity effect, that may be the best way for me to go.Straight line is the "flat" setting; bent line is the "bass roll off" setting to counteract proximity effect and prevent popping. Up, or down, or to the side are all pretty much the same sound. It will reduce popping a bit, still give you proximity effect, and might help in taming a mic's sharp peak in the treble range. Having the mic at eye or forehead level will also reduce popping.