Phantom Power
Although the N8 needs a standard 48V phantom-power source to
operate, you should still make sure that phantom power is turned off
before plugging and unplugging the microphones. The loud pops that
occur when the microphone is plugged in with phantom-power engaged
can damage speakers, headphones, and ears. Since passive ribbon
microphones or other transformer-coupled microphones are particularly
sensitive to phantom-power, it is recommended to disengage phantom-
power before plugging and unplugging a habit.
Wind Gusts
A second and equally important rule is never to blow directly into a
ribbon microphone to test it. Strong air turbulence can stretch the ribbon
diaphragm and while it may not break, it will nonetheless significantly
degrade the microphone’s performance. Using the mic outdoors requires
special care so that the wind does not damage the ribbon. Indoors,
however, it is also important to avoid serious air turbulence as could be
caused by open windows, air-conditioning systems or a slammed door.
Use the supplied cloth bag to cover the microphone whenever it is not in
use. High SPL sound sources do not usually pose a problem because most
ribbon microphones can handle 130 dB SPL or more without difficulty.
It is only those “explosive” sources that produce a strong blast of air,
such as the bass port on an electric guitar or bass amp, a guitar being
plugged (or unplugged) while the amp level is turned fully up, an on-
axis kick-drum (particularly with a port on the front head), that require
special protection. If you are unsure about how much wind is hitting the
microphone, place the back of your hand where the microphone is going
to be. If you are still concerned about wind blasts, angle the microphone.
Tramp Iron
Remember also that most ribbon microphones contain a magnet that
produces a fairly strong magnetic field. This field can attract any ferric
objects near the microphone that, if they are small enough, can penetrate
the outer screening and work their way inside the microphone. Minute
iron particles, sometimes known as “tramp iron,” exist everywhere within
our environment. When in close proximity to a ribbon microphone, these
can be pulled inside. Over time, tramp iron can build up sufficiently in
the magnetic gap to rub against the ribbon, causing distortion or
electrical shorts. Under no circumstances should you disassemble and
take the grill off of the microphone as this could allow tramp iron to enter
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