The Cactus System and Electronics
The basic Cactus microphone system includes the Blue S2 Shock,
a Champagne tube microphone cable, and the model Power
Stream power supply with adjustable pickup pattern control,
shipped in a ATA flight case approved for the utmost protection.
In order to familiarize yourself with the specialized and unique
features of the Cactus microphone, please take the time to read
this manual, and be sure to try the suggested recording tips.
The Cactus amplifier utilizes a single hand-selected ECC 88
vacuum tube. This tube circuit is Class A and fully discrete,
meaning that the sound which arrives at the diaphragm of the
Blue capsule is transduced (converted to electrical energy) as
accurately as possible, with no integrated circuits (a.k.a “IC’s”)
in the signal path. To this end, the Cactus utilizes electronic
components of the highest quality (such as expensive metal-film
resistors and a custom-built transformer), and there are no pad or
low-cut filter switches in the microphone circuit. In short, this is a
signal path of the highest possible quality, allowing the user
to get the maximum benefit out of the multi-pattern capsule
created by Blue.
Getting Started
In order to get the most out of this, or any quality microphone, it
is essential to pair it with a good microphone pre-amplifier. Most
professional recordists prefer to have outboard preamps on hand,
and will choose solid-state or vacuum tube models based on their
unique characteristics. And, unlike many tube microphones, the
Cactus can be run through a variety of tube preamps without
excess coloration, noise, loss of detail or tube compression.
To maintain the integrity of your signal, use the Blue Quad mic
cable between the Power Stream power supply and the mic
preamp. It is not necessary or advisable to connect the Power
Stream power supply to a 48V phantom power source. And, when-
ever possible, connect the mic preamp output directly to your
recorder or A/D converter, bypassing the mixing board and any
unnecessary components.
For mounting the microphone on a stand, a recessed, threaded
socket is built into the bottom of the Cactus, next to the multi-pin
output jack. The S2 cradle and adjustable yoke mount assembly
provides an alternate mounting system to enhance positioning,
and to isolate the microphone body from low frequency vibrations
conducted through the stand.
To fit the Cactus into this assembly, first stretch the elastic bands
on the S2 shockmount over the two mounting nuts on each side
of the Cactus. The angle of the S2 Shock can be swiveled and
adjusted with the large thumbscrew.
Whether you are using the microphone on its own, or with the
S2 Shock you may find it easiest to 1) loosen the boom stand arm
or threaded end of the mic stand, 2) grasp the mic or mount as-
sembly in one hand, and 3) screw the mic stand threads into the
mount, without over-tightening. This procedure will assure that
the elastic shockmount bands stay in place, and eliminates any
possibility of damage to the mic.
Safety Notes:
Do not attach the multi-pin Champagne cable to
the Cactus until it had first been attached to a stand. Once the
microphone body is secure, connect the Champagne cable to the
Cactus and the Power Stream power supply, and then turn on the
Power Stream to begin the warm-up process. At the end of a ses-
sion, be sure to turn off the Power Stream power supply before
disconnecting the Champagne cable.
To secure the delicate capsule during transport and shipping,
three brass set screws are provided. These screws should be
mounted in the solid metal ring around the circumference of the
grille when you first take the microphone out of its case. Remove
these screws before using the microphone, and replace them
(once the Power Stream power supply has been turned off) if you
will be transporting or shipping the microphone.
Your Cactus mic
will not work properly if the security screws are not removed.
Содержание Cactus
Страница 1: ...Cactus...