Chapter 13

Lavalier Mics & Accessories AKG Audio-Technica • Beyerdynamic • • Countryman • • DPA • Electro-Voice Lectrosonics • PSC • • Sanken • • Sennheiser • • Shure • • Sonotrim • • Sony • • TRAM •

• Products featured in this catalog • r

= Available for rent 57

Lavalier Mics & Accessories Beyerdynamic MCE-7 The MCE-7 is Beyerdynamic’s newest omnidirectional lavalier. It has very little cable noise. Comes complete with mounting clip, and can be wired with a connector to fit your wireless needs. SBEY0035

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz Impedance: approx. 2k ς S/N Ratio: 60 dB Maximum SPL: >120 dB

Countryman (cont.) Isomax EMW r The EMW lavalier microphone is a professional electret condenser mic which has been optimized for discreet placement on performing talent in film, broadcast, theatrical and sound reinforcement applications. Its omnidirectional polar pattern is very uniform over a wide range of frequencies and is available with a choice of three different frequency responses: “F” Response - flattest possible curve, “S” Response - provides a smooth 6 dB “shelved-up” curve between 2 kHz and 15 kHz, and “P” Response - provides a sharp 12 dB “peaked” curve at 12 kHz to preserve sibilance and enhance intelligibility when the mic is hidden under clothing. Available with tinned leads (pigtail) or appropriately terminated for your wireless transmitter.

Countryman

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Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz Sensitivity: -40 dB Output Impedance: 600 ς ± balanced, 1500 ς unbalanced for wireless use Maximum SPL: 130 dB

B6 Only one-tenth of an inch (2.5 mm) in diameter, the B6 outperforms microphones many times its size. The B6 features replaceable protective caps that can change its color and frequency response to match your application. Designed to survive, it is highly resistant to moisture, makeup and other hazards found in a production environment.

DPA

Frequency response: 30 - 20 kHz ±3 dB (flat cap) Maximum SPL: 118 dB

Isomax B3 The B3 is a very small, round omnidirectional electret microphone. It has special features that allow it to withstand moisture and makeup when placed in the hair, on the body, or overnight in your favorite cola beverage. The protective screen on the B3 is easily removed for cleaning or replacement when clogged with makeup, and its Kevlar reinforced cable and ultra thin diaphragm results in low handling noise.

4060, 4061, & 4062 The DPA4060 omnidirectional lavalier is the result of years of acoustical expertise from Danish Pro Audio. It is designed to be used with wireless systems for television and theater applications. It maintains a high level of performance when exposed to humidity, sweat, and wind. The DPA4060 includes two different protection grids, depending on where the microphone is to be placed. If it is placed on the head of the performer, it will need a 4 dB soft boost at 8 kHz to sound neutral, for chest mounting, it needs an 8 dB soft boost at 8 kHz.

DPA4060 SB&K0004 Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa +/-3 dB Maximum SPL: 134 dB DPA4061 r SB&K0010 Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz Sensitivity: 6 mV/Pa +/-3 dB Maximum SPL: 144 dB DPA4062 Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz Sensitivity: 1 mV/Pa +/-3 dB Maximum SPL: 154 dB

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz Sensitivity: -10 dB Output Impedance: 600 ς balanced, 2000 ς unbalanced for wireless use Maximum SPL: 150 dB (hardwired), 130 dB (wireless)

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Phone: (818) 980-9891

Outside California: (800) 228-4429

Main Fax: (818) 980-9911

Rental Fax: (818) 980-7932

Lavalier Mics & Accessories PSC MilliMic r PSC has designed and built the ultimate production lavalier, the MilliMic. Incorporating the latest in capsule design, the MilliMic boasts miniature size, very high output, a low inherent noise floor, and exceptional shielding against electromagnetic interference. The soft, flexible, and non-reflective finish of the MilliMic’s cable will also better isolate handling noise and keep the MilliMic unobtrusive on camera. Included in the MilliMic’s attractive storage case are a wide variety of MilliMic mounting accessories, including the exclusive PSC “Guard Mount”, useful in applications where concealment is mandatory and clothing noise must be negated. Also available is PSC’s revolutionary MilliMic Power Supply. This power supply is available in a variety of connector configurations, and thanks to its Lithium Power Cell, MilliMic Power Supply will power your MilliMic for up to five years. The MilliMic and MilliMic Power Supply are available in several different termination options, the most popular of which are listed here. Microphone Type: Omni Electret Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 16 kHz Self Noise: 66 dB Maximum SPL: 127 dB Total dynamic range: 99 dB Min. Power supply: 48±4 V Phantom

COS-11sPT 20 Hz to 20 kHz 8.9 mV/1 Pa -41 dB ± 2 dB >66 dB 123 dB 95 dB Min. +3 to +10 V

COS-11sBP 20 Hz to 20 kHz 6.0 mV/1 Pa -44.5 dB ± 3 dB >66 dB 120 dB 92 dB Min. 1.5 V Battery or 12-52 V Phantom

Sennheiser MKE 2 Gold r The MKE 2 Gold sub-miniature omnidirectional lav is ideal for television broadcast and theatrical productions. Its accurate frequency response produces natural, uncolored sound. A unique Umbrella Diaphragm™ delivers moisture-resistant performance with the identical high audio quality of the industry standard MKE 2 lavalier. Its size makes it not only unobtrusive and easy to conceal, but also affords a textbook perfect omni directional polar pattern. An extremely thin (0.000014") low mass diaphragm exhibits extraordinary transient response. The mic also comes with two additional sound inlet caps to tailor the high frequency as needed. Color: matte black. Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20k Hz, ± 3 dB Sensitivity (free field, no load) (1 kHz): (1 kHz) 10 mV/Pa ±2.5 dB Equivalent noise level A-weighted (DIN IEC 651): 27 dB CCIR-weighted (CCIR 468-3) 38 dB Max. SPL (1 kHz): 130 dB (THD = 1 %)

MKE 102 20 Hz to 20 kHz 10m V/Pa ± 2.5 dB 130 dB

MKE 104 40 Hz to 20 kHz 10 mV/Pa ± 2.5 dB 127 dB

• MKE 102 capsule SSEN0056 • MKE 104 capsule SSEN0063 • KA100-60 right angle cable for MKE102/104 w/K6 Collar SSEN0072 • KA100-5 right angle cable for MKE102/104 pigtail SSEN0064A • KA100S-5 straight cable for MKE102/104 pigtail SSEN0064 MKE 102/MKE 104 Accessories r • NB2 adjustable headset boom SSEN0035 • MZW 2-A metal mesh windscreen for MKE 2 SSEN0152A • MZW 2-F foam windscreen for MKE 2 SSEN0152B • MZW 102 metal mesh windscreen for MK 102 SSEN0062 • MZW 104 metal mesh windscreen for MK 104 SSEN0063A • MZQ 100 clip for right angle KA- cables SSEN0068 • TB-US tie bar clip for MKE 2 SSEN0247 • MZQ 2 tie clip for MKE 2 SSEN0052 • MZM 2/10 magnetic microphone holder SSEN0061 • ZH 100 pin clip for ME 102/104 SSEN0079 • MZ 100 accessory kit includes: MZQ2 (black and nickel), MZQ 100 (black and gray), ZH 100, & case SSEN0152C

• MKE 2-5 Gold - pigtail SSEN0045L • MKE 2-60 Gold - w/ K6 collar SSEN0048 • MKE 2-P-C Gold - w/ XLR male connector for 48 V SSEN0212

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Outside California: (800) 228-4429

Main Fax: (818) 980-9911

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Lavalier Mics & Accessories Shure

Sony (cont.)

WL50 r lav mic series sets a new standard for Shure’s new WL50 miniature mics. Visually unobtrusive, the WL50s are ideal for theater, television broadcast, video/film, and event production. Designed for applications that require minimal visibility without compromising sound quality, these microphones are available individually, as well as with Shure wireless systems. WL50BX (black, pigtail) SSHU0234

ECM-55B r An omnidirectional electret that offers two-way powering using an internal battery (AA-cell) or external power supply. The ECM-55B also comes with a metal windscreen and two tie bars (single and double). Its larger capsule design affords it improved performance over the ECM-44B. Available in matte black (ECM-55B) or satin-nickel finish (ECM-55S). • • • • •

ECM-55B black SSON0055 ECM-55BPT black pigtail SSON0055B AD-C55 colored urethane windscreen AD-R55B black metal windscreen SSON0005A SAD-55B black horizontal single clip (also fits ECM-66) SSON0004 • SAD-W55B black horizontal double clip (also fits ECM-66) SSON0004B

Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz Sensitivity: -45 dBV/Pa or -55 dBV/Pa (WL50-Lo) Maximum SPL: 133 dB at 1% THD/1 k ohm, 143 dB at 1% THD/1 k ohm (WL50-Lo)

Sony ECM-44B r The omnidirectional ECM-44B offers a high level of performance at an affordable price. The unit comes hardwired to its power supply and operates on a single AA-cell battery.

Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 18 kHz Sensitivity: -52 dB S/N Ratio: >66 dB Maximum SPL: 126 dB Phantom Power: 48 VDC

Also included are a foam windscreen, tie bar, and vinyl carrying case. The r mic element comes either in a matte black (ECM-44B) or satin-nickel (ECM-44S) finish. • • • • •

ECM-66B r The ECM-66B is a unidirectional lavalier for use in applications where background noise must be kept to a minimum while maintaining clear, on-axis pick-up. Like the ECM-55B and ECM-77B, it can be powered from its internal battery or an external power supply. Also included are a foam windscreen and two tie bars (vertical and horizontal).

ECM-44B (black) SSON0003 ECM-44BPT (black pigtail) SSON0003B AD-R44B black urethane windscreen SSON0024 SAD-H44B black horizontal single clip SSON0042 SAD-244B black horizontal double clip SSON0052

Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 15 kHz Sensitivity: -53 dB S/N Ratio: >62 dB Maximum SPL: 122 dB

• • • •

ECM-66B black SSON0069 ECM-66BPT black pigtail SSON0066 AD-C66 volored urethane windscreen SSON0046 AD-R66B black urethane windscreen SSON0046A

Frequency Response: 70 Hz to 14 kHz Sensitivity: -50 dB S/N Ratio: >65 dB Maximum SPL: 130 dB Phantom Power: 48 VDC

© 2001 Location Sound Corporation

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Lavalier Mics & Accessories Sony (cont.) ECM-77B r The ECM-77B is a miniature omnidirectional lavalier similar to the ECM-55B except with extended frequency response and a smaller element design. It comes supplied with a metal windscreen and two tie bars (single and double). Like the other ECM Series lavaliers, it is available in matte black (ECM-77B) or satin-nickel finish (ECM-77S). • • • • • •

ECM-77B black SSON0070 ECM-77BPT black pigtail SSON0071A AD-C77 colored urethane windscreen SSON0075 AD-R77B black metal windscreen SSON0078 SAD-H77B black tie bar SSON0082 SAD-W77B black double tie bar SSON0081

TRAM Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 16 kHz Maximum SPL: 134 dB Output Level: -57 dB Nominal Impedance: 250 ς

Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 20 kHz Sensitivity: -52 dB S/N Ratio: >64 dB Maximum SPL: 120 dB Phantom Power: 48 VDC

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SONOTRIM Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 16 kHz Maximum SPL: 134 dB Output Level: -57 dB Nominal Impedance: 250 ς

TRAM TR-50 r The TR-50 is a miniature omnidirectional lavalier. Its flat design and assortment of clips facilitates ease of mounting. The mic is available with or without the detachable power supply for use hardwired with a wireless transmitter, or hardwired to its power supply. The most popular configurations are listed below. • TR-50BML+ black w/ TA5F for Lectrosonics STRA0032B • TR-50BML-XL+ black w/ TA5F for Lectrosonics w/ power supply STRA0035 • TR-50BNCMO black pigtail no accessories STRA0011A • TR-50BNC black pigtail w/ accessories STRA0047

Sonotrim Sonotrim r The Sonotrim is a high grade positive bias TRAM lavalier with optimum specifications featuring a 3 dB peak in the dialogue range.

TRAM & Sonotrim Accessories r (also available in gray, tan, and white) • • • • • • • • •

BCOH black clip on holder STRA0006 BCH black cable holder STRA0010 BTB black tie bar STRA0014 BDTB black double tie bar STRA0015 BWS black foam windscreen STRA0008 BTD black tape down STRA0012 BTT black tie tack STRA0007 BBLTD black boundary layer tape down STRA0019 BCR black cable reel STRA0013

• STR-PS+ hardwire to power supply (positive bias only) SSCH0020 • STR-LV+ w/ 4 pin Lemo for Vega SSCH0019 • STR-LV-XL+ w/ 4 pin Lemo for Vega w/ power supply STRA0048 • STR-ML+ w/ TA5F for Lectrosonics (positive bias only) SSCH0039 • STR-ML-XL+ w/ TA5F for Lectrosonics (positive bias only) w/ power supply SSCH0038 • STR-NCMO pigtail no accessories SSCH0004 • STR-NC pigtail w/ accessories SSCH0053

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Phone: (818) 980-9891

Outside California: (800) 228-4429

Main Fax: (818) 980-9911

Rental Fax: (818) 980-7932

Lavalier Mics & Accessories PARTS MATRIX FOR FEATURED LAVALIERS Windscreen f=foam m=metal

Tiebar

Tie Tack

Vampire/Pin

Other

EMW

AXWSB (f)

AEMWCLIPB

AEMWTACKB

AEMWVIPER

AEMWMCLIP - magnetic clip

B3

A3B3WS (f)

4060 Series

DUA0560 (f)

DMM0001 - single or double DMM0004 - miniature single

DMM0005

DMM0002 double or single

DMM0004 - magnetic mount CLV-1 - cleavage mount

MilliMic

FPSCMMWS (foam Ball) FPSCMMWSC (foam for clip)

FPSCMMTBM -single FPSCMMTBMD -double

N/A

FPSCMMVC

FPSCMMGM - guard mount FPSCMMCM - cable mount

NanoMic

FPSCNMWS (f)

FPSCNMTBM

N/A

N/A

FPSCNMTDM - tape down

COS-11s

WS-11 (m) WSL-11 (m, large) FW-11 (f)

HC-11sV - vertical HC-11sH - Horizontal

N/A

N/A

RM - 11 - rubber mount PIN - 11Ss - safety pin

MKE-2 Gold

MZW 2-A (m) MZW 2-F (f)

TB-US MZQ 2

N/A

MZS 2 ZH 100

MZM2/10 - magnetic mount

ME 102

MZW 102 (m) MZW 2-F (f)

MZQ 100 (for RA cable) TB-US MZQ 2

N/A

ZH 100

KA 100 - RA cable KA 100S - straight cable MZM2/10 - magnetic mount

ME 104

MZW 104 (m) MZW 2-F (f)

MZQ 100 (for RA cable) TB-US MZQ 2

N/A

ZH 100

KA 100 - RA cable KA 100S - straight cable MZM2/10 - magnetic mount

ECM-44B

ADR44B (f)

N/A

SADS44

ECM-55B

ADC55C (f) 12 pack, 2 x 6 colors ADR55B (m)

SADH55B - single SADW55B -double

N/A

SADS55

ECM-66B

ADC66C (f) 12 pack, 2 x 6 colors ADR66B (f)

SADH66B - single SADW55B - double

N/A

SADS55

ECM-77B

ADC77C (f) 12 pack, 2 x 6 colors ADR77B (m)

SADH77B - single SADW77B - double

N/A

SADS77

RPM304 (f, black) RPM306 (f, beige) RPM308 (f, white)

WL-50

Tram/Sonotrim *color: B=Black G=Gray T=Tan W=White

*WS (f)

A3B3CAP - replacement cap B6MCLIP - magnetic clip

SADW44B - double

2 swivel clips & dual tie clips RPM500 (black) RPM502 (beige) RPM504 (white)

*TB -single BDTB - double

© 2001 Location Sound Corporation

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High Boost EQ Caps: RPM208 (black) RPM212 (beige) RPM216 (white) N/A

N/A Mid Boost EQ Caps: RPM304 (black) RPM306 (beige) RPM308 (white)

*TT

*COH

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*CH - cable holder (x) TD - tape down BBLTD - boundary layer tape down MC-1 - mic cage, plain back MC-2 - mic cage, clip on back

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63

Lavalier Mics & Accessories TECH TIP

Lavaliers: An Overview

A lavalier is generally defined as being any small microphone designed to be worn on a person’s body. The majority of lavaliers are omni directional (they pick up sound in all directions). Most lavaliers are electret condenser designs, which are highly sensitive, full spectrum, and miniature. An often-misunderstood characteristic of lavaliers is their “reach”, or ability to pick up distant sounds. This is a function of self-noise; the quieter ones will reach further. In some instances, such as in noisy environments, this is undesirable.

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Lavaliers are usually placed on the performer so they always have a “close up “sound. Some of the problems that may be encountered with lavaliers include the difficulties of hiding them under clothing, the ensuing clothing noise, and wind noise. Lavaliers may be used as either “hardwire” or “wireless”. Hardwire means that the actors are physically connected via an audio cable to the mixing panel or recorder. Wireless refers to connecting the lavalier to a small transmitter and transmitting the signal back to a receiver, which, in turn, feeds an audio signal into the mixing panel or recorder. Regardless of whether the signal is conveyed by wire or radio, the microphone capsule remains the same. It is only the connectors and power supply that change. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND: The first modern lavalier to find acceptance by the professional community was the Sony ECM-50, introduced a generation ago (and since replaced by the ECM-55). The sound quality of the ECM-50 was characterized as very full with strong bass response. Newscasters felt that it gave their voices a rich, mellow quality. The ECM-50 can be described as a proximity lavalier, as it did tend to favor or isolate voice from background. Also, there is a very pronounced drop-off when the source drifts off-axis (such as turning the head over the shoulder, away from the mic). The excellent bass response of ECM-50 proved to be a disadvantage when working outside the studio. It was sensitive to wind noise and background rumble. Nevertheless, the ECM-50 was the most popular lav available for its day. The later years brought a handful of new entries into the field. For instance, the Tram TR-50 astounded the industry with its diminutive size, without sacrificing quality. Sony updated their lavalier line, Sennheiser developed their impressive MKE 2. Professional Sound Corporation designed and built the MilliMic production lavalier, The Sonotrim STR-

64

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Outside California: (800) 228-4429

ML gained favor for use with production wireless and Sanken introduced the COS-11PT. The newcomers in the arena of high quality lavalier mics are the elegant DPA 4060 and the super-miniature Countryman B-6. SO WHICH LAVALIER SHOULD YOU OWN? Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Every sound mixer has a personal preference based upon experiences, budget, and individual needs. Many professional mixers stock an assortment of lavaliers in their packages. Just like camera lenses, there is no one microphone that is best suited for all situations. Omni Lavaliers * The Tram TR-50 sound is more open sounding than many lavaliers and cuts very well with boom mics. The Tram has been the most popular lavalier in feature film work for many years. It comes with an assortment of very useful mounting clips and has proven to be a very reliable tool for sound recordists. * The Sonotrim STR-ML lav is a variation of the Tram mic with a slightly less severe presence peak. The Sonotrim is very popular for use with the Lectrosonics wireless systems. Many mixers will use Tram mics for their hardwire uses and Sonotrims for when they need to introduce wireless into the shot. The Sonotrims come with the same assortment of mounting clips that are provided with the Tram TR-50. * The Sanken COS-11 has become the new Lavalier of choice for production sound mixers. The COS-11 is ultra small, ultra high output, and has recently taken the film and video industry by storm. The uniqueness of the Sanken lies in the newly developed unique vertical placement of the diaphragm for greater effective area within a much smaller casing. This mic sounds as close to a shotgun mic as any lavalier we have heard. The COS-11 is often purchased in the “red-dot” version for decreased sensitivity when being used with wireless mics. The LSC service department can also pad non red-dot mics down after the fact if the mic proves to be too “hot” for your wireless. * The Sennheiser MKE-2 has had great success in the live theatrical market such as Broadway and touring theater applications due to its resistance to moisture (read: Actors sweat). Its overall toughness in harsh environments (read: any stage production) is due, in part, to a metal strand in its cable, which resists the common problem of capsule separation from the cable. Its overall sound quality is superb and its miniature size makes it very easy to conceal. It is also considered to be one of the premier lav mics for “plant mic” use. * The Danish Pro Audio (DPA) 4060 lav is the priciest lav on the market. DPA has incorporated a unique double vent protection system together with water resistant materials to offer an exceptional level of moisture resistance. This is one of the smallest lavs on the market and yet it retains great sound and sensitivity. Another great feature of this mic is the provided protective caps that can be used to modify the high-end frequency response depending on the placement of the microphone on the body. The DPA line of mics also has a high SPL rating, making it well suited for both film and theatrical applications.

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Lavalier Mics & Accessories * The PSC MilliMic boasts miniature size, very high output, a low inherent noise floor and exceptional shielding against electromagnetic interference. The soft, flexible and non-reflective matte finish of the MilliMic’s cable will also better isolate handling noise and keep the mic unobtrusive on camera. It blends nicely with overhead booms. This mic has also found a very good niche in the Television News market. The MilliMic is moderately priced and packaged with a unique and versatile array of mounting hardware. * The Countryman EMW series of lavaliers are among the most water resistant mic’s on the market. They sound great and are available in an assortment of colors and connector types for your wireless. Countryman’s B-6 has also gained popularity due to its incredibly small size and the assortment of included caps, which allow you to tailor the frequency response of the mic capsule. Directional Lavaliers What about directional lavaliers such as the Sony ECM-66 and the Sennheiser MKE 104? From a production standpoint, the use of directional lavaliers has not proved practical. Directional lavs have to be pointed precisely in the direction of the sound, and often times that is just not feasible when wiring actors with hidden mics. Also, directional lavalieres stop being directional when their side ports are blocked by clothing and mounting tape, making them difficult to hide under wardrobe. The most popular application for directional lavalieres has been for public address, where feedback can be a real problem for sensitive, omni directional lavaliers. As long as there are no loudspeaker enclosures directly over the podium area, cardioid lavaliers are very effective in isolating speech from feedback and ambient noise. In summary, there is no one lavalier that is best for all situations. Your choice of lavaliers should include a wide range of types of patterns, frequency responses and shapes to accommodate the different situations that may arise. An actor with a low, muffled “Bruno Kirby-type” voice may benefit from a lav with a bit of a mid-range peak for clarity. A thinner voice may be enhanced by a bit of a low-end boost. The best mic for the job changes with each job. The right mic for this shot or job may not be right for the next one. NOISE CONSIDERATIONS: One of the ever-present difficulties of hiding lavaliers under wardrobe is clothing noise. In actuality, there are two different causes of “clothing noise”: Contact noise and acoustic noise. Contact noise is the result of garments rubbing against either the mic capsule itself or the leading few inches of cable (equally sensitive to friction). Contact noise can usually be controlled - if not completely eliminated - by careful positioning and taping down of the mic and cable. Begin by securing the clothing on both sides of the mic capsule. This can be done by sandwiching the mic between two sticky triangles of cloth,

© 2001 Location Sound Corporation

camera, or gaffers tape. Form these triangles by folding a few inches of 1" wide tape corner over corner, similar to folding a flag. By immobilizing the mic between both layers of clothing, you have eliminated the possibility of either layer of clothing rubbing against or flapping onto the microphone. If the lavalier must be positioned between skin and clothing, or attached directly to the skin, then a professional medical/surgical tape should be used against the skin. Once the mic capsule has been secured, the next step is to form a strain relief for the thin cable. Make a small loop just under the mic capsule. In the case of very sensitive mics, such as the Sony ECM-77, the Sennheiser MKE 2, and the Sanken COS-11, make the loop go around twice. Tie a small thread or use a thin strip of camera tape (sticky side out) to preserve the loop. Tie the loop loose enough so that it can “breathe” (change diameter to absorb tugs). Apply a few inches of tape along the cable below the loop. Any tension on the cable will be absorbed by the garment, rather than by the microphone (which is somewhat isolated by the floating loop). The remainder of the mic cable can be run under clothing and can terminate either at the waist or the ankle. The end of the mic connector should be secured so that it does not dangle freely. During a take, it becomes a simple matter to plug in an extension XLR cable. Afterwards, the talent can easily be disconnected so that he or she is free to roam around. When using an external “tie clip”, it is still important to think in terms of creating a strain relief. Loop the thin cable up and under the tie clip, forming a semi-circle, and passing through the wide hinge of the clip. Continue the loop behind the garment, and bring the cable around downward, thus completing the circle. As the cable loops downward, it should be inserted between the jaws of the tie clip and the back of the garment. Hide the balance of the cable behind the wardrobe. See pictures on next page. Not only is this arrangement more pleasing to the eye than a dangling cable, but also the floating loop of the cable isolates the mic while the grip of the tie clip serves as a strain relief. Acoustic clothing noise is the sound generated by the clothing itself as garments or layers rub against each other when the actor moves. Noise is much more prevalent from synthetic fabrics than from natural cottons or wools. There is no simple remedy, only prevention, so it is wise to consult early with the wardrobe department. However, here are a couple of tricks that may help. Anti-static sprays, such as Static Guard™, will reduce static electric discharge, clinging, and reduce friction. Dry silicon spray lubricants sometimes help, but be

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Lavalier Mics & Accessories careful of staining. Stiff or starched clothing can be softened with water or alcohol (make sure the colors don’t bleed). Saddle soap, silicon, or light oil can take the bite out of hard leather.

Form sticky triangles to secure mic on both sides.

Proper use of horizonal mounting clip.

Another noise problem common to lavaliers is that of wind noise. Manufacturers usually supply small foam or metal mesh windscreens with their lavaliers, but these are usually more effective against breath pops than against outdoor gusts of wind. Lavaliers used under clothing have the advantage of being partially shielded from the wind, but may still require added protection. Clothing rubbing against windscreens can be extremely noisy, so great care must be taken when using hidden lavaliers out of doors. Surrounding the windscreen with sticky tape and securing it to both layers of clothing, as you would a bare mic, will reduce the friction noise. However, the tape may destroy a foam windscreen when it is removed! Inexpensive, expendable windscreens can be made by wrapping the mic in acoustafoam, or by pulling the foam booties off of video cleaning swabs.

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Form floating loop and tape down the leading inches of cable.

Cheesecloth over a mic works very well against wind. Another Hollywood variation is to snip the finger tips off children’s woolen gloves, and pull the wool tips over a lavalier wrapped in foam or cheesecloth. We hope these tips are of help to you in your pursuit of better audio. LSC is the professional’s choice for audio gear and support. Call us for more information and to fill any of your professional audio needs. For recording sound on location, call Location Sound Corporation.

Notes:

66

Phone: (818) 980-9891

Outside California: (800) 228-4429

Main Fax: (818) 980-9911

Rental Fax: (818) 980-7932