Where to Place Boundary Mic

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ericgcollyer

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I am doing a live event that we want to simulcast online. The problem is that the machines used for presenting in the room, and for broadcasting online are completely different and therefore don't share audio sources. The only part I really need help with is the placement of a boundary mic. I have a shure MX 393 and honestly have no idea how to use it. Any tips on how to use a boundary mic? Placement, levels etc?
 
I am doing a live event that we want to simulcast online. The problem is that the machines used for presenting in the room, and for broadcasting online are completely different and therefore don't share audio sources. The only part I really need help with is the placement of a boundary mic. I have a shure MX 393 and honestly have no idea how to use it. Any tips on how to use a boundary mic? Placement, levels etc?


You place a boundary mic. on the boundary - table, floor, wall, ceiling, etc.

For your application you will have to experiment beforehand to find the best position.
 
To expand on what John said, the point of a boundary mic is that it must be on a hard, flat surface. By being in that position, it picks up only the direct sound waves, not any reflections off said hard, flat surface. (The physics is more complex but that'll do for setting up).

Boundary mics are most commonly used in theatres (along the front edge of the stage) to provide general sound reinforcement or on tables at conferences for basic recording of what's being said. However, I've seen/heard decent results from boundary mics placed on walls and even ceilings. This is the reason John was saying you'll have to experiment with the location.

One other thought though--your post at least implies that the event is being miked up for sound reinforcement purposes. I know you said the PA and broadcast systems are separate, but don't discount getting splitter cables or boxes and feeding the same sources into both systems. Or, another option would be to use an aux on the PA mixer to create a separate mix specifically for the simulcast. Depending on the size of the room and how elaborate the event is, either of those might produce better results than a single boundary mic.
 
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