PROXIMITY EFFECT
Proximity effect is a characteristic of all directional microphones; it
is a rise in low-frequency response that increases at closer working
distances. While this can be used to good effect, particularly with
low-register voices to give them an enhanced richness and depth,
the potential trade-off is reduced articulation or clarity that can
result from the masking effect on the treble due to “excessive” bass
boost.
As a stereo far-field ribbon microphone, the R88 was designed
to capture balanced sound from long distances. Sound sources
should be measured in feet rather than inches away from the mic.
From 16 inches to 20 feet, the mic retains its full spectrum and
incredible low end. When positioned closer than 16 inches, the mic
adds proximity effect. When carefully used, this proximity effect can
beef up thin sounds — either voices or instruments.
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(graph is a visualization, not a measurement)
