Music & Audio Advice Microphone Types and Techniques 5

Question 1

A USB microphone differs from an XLR microphone mainly because it includes what built in?

Accepted Answer

An analog-to-digital converter and audio interface

Answer

A larger diaphragm

Answer

A built-in speaker

Answer

A phantom power generator for other mics

Question 2

A lavalier microphone is typically what polar pattern for hands-free speech?

Accepted Answer

Omnidirectional

Answer

Shotgun

Answer

Figure-8

Answer

Hypercardioid

Question 3

Which connector is standard for professional balanced microphone cables?

Accepted Answer

XLR

Answer

RCA

Answer

1/4-inch TS

Answer

USB-C

Question 4

Why is a balanced connection preferred for microphones over long cable runs?

Accepted Answer

It rejects induced noise via differential signaling

Answer

It carries phantom power only

Answer

It increases the signal level

Answer

It removes the need for a preamp

Question 5

A large-diaphragm condenser is generally favored for studio vocals because it offers what?

Accepted Answer

Warmth, detail, and low self-noise

Answer

Maximum durability for the road

Answer

The narrowest pickup pattern

Answer

No need for any power

Question 6

A boundary (PZM) microphone is designed to be placed where?

Accepted Answer

Flat on a large surface like a table or floor

Answer

High overhead on a boom

Answer

Inside the instrument

Answer

Behind a windscreen outdoors

Question 7

What does a microphone's sensitivity specification describe?

Accepted Answer

How much electrical output it produces for a given sound pressure

Answer

Its maximum loudness output

Answer

The length of cable it supports

Answer

The number of polar patterns available