Preset Modes; Additional Tips - Shure MV5 User Manual

Preset Modes

Three selectable modes adjust settings for gain, equalization, and dynamics to bring out the best sound characteristics for your recording needs.
Mode Application
Use for speech or vocals in pod-
casting or musical applications
Voice
Best for acoustic instruments and
live music applications
Instrument
Flat Suited for any application
Placement
This section suggests microphone placement for typical use cases.
Keep in mind that there are many effective ways to record a given
source. Experiment with microphone placement and settings to find
what works best.
Podcast and Voice Recording
Set the microphone to the Voice mode. Speak directly into the front of
the microphone, 2-12 inches (5-30 cm) away. Speaking closer to the
microphone results in more bass response, similar to voices on a radio
broadcast. Make additional gain adjustments if necessary.
Music, Singing, and Acoustic Instruments
To capture acoustic sources, such as singing, acoustic guitar, soft per-
cussion, or other musical instruments, use a close microphone place-
ment. Start with Instrument mode for best results.
Aim the microphone directly at the sound source. For a single source,
such as a string instrument or a vocalist, place the microphone 6 to 12
inches (15 to 30 cm) away. For a small group or a performer who is
singing and playing an instrument simultaneously, use a distance of 2
to 10 feet (0.6m to 3 m). Placing the microphone farther away results
in more ambient room sound. Make additional gain adjustments if
necessary.
4
Characteristics
Equalization to emphasize clarity and fullness, and gentle compression to keep
levels consistent. A de-esser reduces sibilance (the harsh sound that occurs
when words with an "S" are spoken).
Transparent compression to smooth out volume spikes and bring quiet passages
forward. Equalization emphasizes detail and gives an overall natural sound.
A completely unprocessed signal (no equalization or compression settings used).
Adds flexibility when processing the audio after recording.
2-12 in
(5-30 cm)
Bands and Louder Sources
To record a band with drums, amplified instruments, or any other loud
sources, start with Instrument mode for best results. Aim the micro-
phone towards the group at a distance of 6 to 15 feet (1.83 to 4.6 m).
Placement of the microphone depends on the size of the room, number
of people, and instrument volume. If possible, walk around the room
and listen to find where it sounds best. Make additional gain adjust-
ments if necessary.
For a single electric guitar amplifier, aim the microphone towards the
center of the speaker at a distance of 0 to 18 inches (0 to 45 cm).

Additional Tips

Shure offers additional educational publications on recording tech-
niques for specific instruments and applications. Visit www.shure.com
for more information.
6-15 ft
(2-4 m)
0-18 in
(0-45 cm)