Convention Paper
Taking the Mystery Out of Microphone Behavior
AES Convention 99 · Paper 4056 · October 1995
Abstract
This paper uses available computer technology and multimedia elements to demonstrate that it is possible to take complex and sophisticated engineering concepts and make them accessible to listeners who may not have the educational background to comprehend advanced engineering principles. This particular example is condensed from a series of technical lectures and workshops and will focus on -The behavior of condenser microphones (with various polar response characteristics) in different acoustic environments.- During the electronic presentation a laptop computer is used to tap into a large database to access text, line drawings, photographs, sound samples, and other media elements. It will demonstrate that learning can be made available on demand, that it can be tailored to a wide target audience, and that it encourages interactivity, while adjusting to varying modes of perception. The author will analyze these different media samples to determine how they can help us stay ahead in our professional environment with the enormous glut of information that we have to absorb, and yet satisfy our curiosity and quest for knowledge.
