POLAR PATTERN SELECTOR
The three position polar pattern selector is a three-way switch
found on the front side of the microphone. The selector allows
the user to choose omnidirectional, cardioid or figure eight
patterns.
Omnidirectional: Left position. An omnidirectional polar
pattern covers all directions and picks up all sound in a 360
degree radius. Useful for natural, ambient sound.
Cardioid: Middle position. Cardioid microphones pick up
sound within 120 degrees of the direction they are facing.
Useful for capturing one sound with a minimum of ambiance.
Figure Eight: Right position. Figure of Eight (bi-directional) microphones pick up sound from
the front and rear while rejecting sound from the sides.
BASS CUT SWITCH
The bass cut switch, also known as a hi-pass filter, provides a
6dB per octave attenuation below 100Hz when engaged. This
is very useful in removing unwanted low frequency
information such as rumble or bass build-up due to proximity
effect. Experienced engineers know that it is a good practice to
filter out low frequencies when it does not affect the audible
sound. A good example of this would be recording vocals.
Most singers do not have much information below 100Hz, so
engaging a filter will help maintain the integrity of the signal.
15dB PAD
The 15dB reduces the signal before the head amplifier in the microphone. This is very useful for
recording high SPL signals. If you are experiencing distortion, engaging the pad will likely be
the solution.
Also, if you have the gain on your mic preamp all the way down and the signal is still
overdriving your signal path, engaging the pad would be indicated.
