MICROPHONE STORAGE
Keep the microphone covered when it is not in use. This will reduce
the damage that may result from a gust of air. Place the supplied
protective bag over the microphone when it is not in use. For long-
term storage, keep the microphone in its protective case. An
unprotected ribbon microphone can attract minute iron particles,
sometimes known as "tramp iron". If allowed, tramp iron can
penetrate the screen of a ribbon mic, sufficiently build up in the
magnetic gap and rub against the ribbon, causing distortion,
electrical shorts or tearing of the ribbon.
AIR TURBULENCE
Avoid exposing the microphone to strong air turbulence. Ribbon
microphones can withstand very high SPL (Sound Pressure Level), but
can be damaged by a strong gust of air or high levels of very low
frequency sound waves (from a kick drum or bass cabinet). This can
stretch the ribbon, reducing overall output, especially at high
frequencies.
Take precautions when recording any source that moves air. To avoid
damage, follow "The Hand Test": put the back of your hand where
the mic will be positioned; if you can feel the moving air, place a
pop-filter between the microphone and the source or simply pull the
mic farther back. When recording kick drums or bass guitar cabinets,
angle the microphone so that no air blasts the microphone directly
on-axis from the front or back.
Never blow directly into any microphone to test it. Not only does this
force moisture and dirt into the microphone, strong air movement
also can stretch the ribbon and while it may not break, it nonetheless
could significantly degrade the microphone’s performance. Though
the ribbon in your
R84
is protected by
multilayer screens and
acoustic cloths
which provides reasonable wind protection while still
allowing good high-end response, take care to avoid high-wind
outdoor environments.
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