Do mic isolation shields work?

[TwilightOdyssey]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Do you find that really works? I've heard you can get comb filtering issues with that.

Well, you can get phase issues from any combination of microphones greater than one, really, lol. But, yes, it really works; like anything else, though, it's not a panacea and it doesn't replace good mic'ing technique, just helps with the bleed. The best option is to have a performer/performers who can manage the dynamics of their instrument, but hi hat bleed is an eternal issue, I think.

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

As for the vocal shields, yeah they are to reduce early reflections rather than block outside noise.

Thanks--as suspected.

 

[beaubrummels]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Thanks, TO--good info. Thanks for explaining the part about determining the frequency.

I'm still wondering whether those mic isolation shields do anything...

They can only deal with sounds coming in from the back of the mic. But think about where the actual mic element is facing - away from the shield, so any sound reflecting from behind the very thing you are trying to record will also show up on your tracks. Only an ISO booth would avoid ambient fan noises. Either put the computer in another room, put it in a 'silent case', or install quieter fans (that are the same air effeciency) and live with it.

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Thanks.

I'll try isolating the machine more and also try different mic stand placement.

The machine is indeed more or less behind the mic stand.

 

[TwilightOdyssey]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

What mic are you using? How far do you set it up?

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

It's a Samson MTR201A. The mic is about 10 feet away. I don't have any flexibility in terms of where the PC is, but I can move the mic a bit father away.

 

[TwilightOdyssey]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Unfortunately, the manufacturer's published spec doesn't show the mic's polar pattern by frequency; that would make this a whole lot easier! Definitely try recording the fan noise and have a play with the EQ to identify the problem frequency before moving forward. Use a very high (narrow) Q, lots of gain. Start sweeping and make notes of all the bands that jump out at you. It should be the fundamental of the fan noise from your mic position plus all of its harmonics.

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Thanks, TO. This is very useful.

 

[TwilightOdyssey]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

My pleasure. That will be $2500, pls.

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Don't I get an NYC discount?

 

[TwilightOdyssey]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Okay, $2250.

 

[Kamanda~SD]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Well, you can get phase issues from any combination of microphones greater than one, really, lol. But, yes, it really works; like anything else, though, it's not a panacea and it doesn't replace good mic'ing technique, just helps with the bleed. The best option is to have a performer/performers who can manage the dynamics of their instrument, but hi hat bleed is an eternal issue, I think.

Yes of course, I've just heard of it making the bleed more unpleasant than not. I guess I just need to get off my ass and try it next time hah.

I got to work with a great drummer this summer and it made my life so much easier.

 

[Kamanda~SD]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

It's a Samson MTR201A. The mic is about 10 feet away. I don't have any flexibility in terms of where the PC is, but I can move the mic a bit father away.

(this depends on the performer of course) But have you tried using a dynamic mic? If you have a decent preamp and a good dynamic it can sound just as good if not better than a cheap condenser/ preamp combo.

I used to think Vocals = Large Diaphragm Condenser for years (without access to any high end ones mind you). And the first time I put an SM58 > CAPI VP26, and later an SM7b, it was a no-brainer for 90% of the stuff I record (punk, hard rock, metal).

Just a thought.

 

[DrNewcenstein]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

The PC specs should actually tell you the noise levels of the unit, and may include the frequencies of the fans. Otherwise, you might find that info in a Google search, especially if you know the exact model of the fans.

I still say the cabinet that the PC is in may be acting as a bandshell, projecting the noise out into the room, and that either closing the cabinet (if it has doors) or lining it with sound diffusers, or even draping a blanket over the opening of the cabinet will go a long way. Maybe even just set the PC on the floor? Try the cheapest and simplest methods first.

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

(this depends on the performer of course) But have you tried using a dynamic mic? If you have a decent preamp and a good dynamic it can sound just as good if not better than a cheap condenser/ preamp combo.

Yes--I've tried SM58s and 57s along with the Samson and A/B/C'd them. With one particular performer the condenser sounds a lot better. Good idea though and I agree: In some cases the 57 sounds better.

The PC specs should actually tell you the noise levels of the unit, and may include the frequencies of the fans. Otherwise, you might find that info in a Google search, especially if you know the exact model of the fans.

Good idea--thanks. The 2 case fans are aftermarket upgrades.

I still say the cabinet that the PC is in may be acting as a bandshell, projecting the noise out into the room, and that either closing the cabinet (if it has doors) or lining it with sound diffusers, or even draping a blanket over the opening of the cabinet will go a long way. Maybe even just set the PC on the floor? Try the cheapest and simplest methods first.

Good ideas again. And I should clarify that I don't hear mechanical fan noise at all (they are actually quieter than the OEM fans). It's more of a constant, steady "wind" sound--a faint "whrrrrr."

 

[DrNewcenstein]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

And I should clarify that I don't hear mechanical fan noise at all (they are actually quieter than the OEM fans). It's more of a constant, steady "wind" sound--a faint "whrrrrr."

In that case, it's definitely the cabinet acting as a bandshell. Unless you're overclocking the CPU, or using a power supply that's got just enough juice to run the system as opposed to more than you need, then the "wind" shouldn't be all that audible, unless you've got it in an open-front echo chamber, which apparently you do.

Even with 3 fans, it should be no more audible than a ceiling fan on high.

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

In that case, it's definitely the cabinet acting as a bandshell. Unless you're overclocking the CPU, or using a power supply that's got just enough juice to run the system as opposed to more than you need, then the "wind" shouldn't be all that audible, unless you've got it in an open-front echo chamber, which apparently you do.

PSU is fine and more than I need.

Yes--the PC is in a huge computer desk with a little compartment for the PC itself, which is like a garage and open on the front. That's not going to change. I have to find a workaround.

Even with 3 fans, it should be no more audible than a ceiling fan on high.

It isn't.

Thanks.

 

[GoldenVulture]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

What sort of surfaces do you have in the room ?
Lots of shiny floors and walls are going to reflect your noise around the room easily. Using blankets and screens strategically placed could help kill that.

- http://weeklycreations.com/2012/09/...w-to-make-sound-absorption-acoustical-panels/ -

 

[dg27]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Wood floor, solid plaster walls and ceiling (not Sheetrock)--typical NYC apartment.

I was thinking of something like in your picture. What did you use to build those? Are those hinges?

 

[NecroPolo]

Re: Do mic isolation shields work?

Okay, $2250.

Other than that, +1 to the letter to what you said about the application before. There's great insight.

ISO panels are all about reducing mic bleed and other unwanted aural attributes. Depending on material and placement they can be a decisive force / improvement in your recordings.

If your room has hard material walls the sound will bounce a lot and it will be present in all the mics, too. You can reduce this by adding soft materials to the walls that absorb waves. Don't need to buy arbitary stuff. Maybe a simple thick curtain on 2 out of 4 walls that you can pull when you don't record can bring a drastical improvement, without investing an ample of money.