Operating Notes - Samson CS Series Owner's Manual

CS Series · Capsule Select Microphone
Operating Notes
Polar Pattern
Every microphone has a characteristic polar pattern that determines the microphone's sensitivity to signals coming from 360° around the micro-
phone. The CS1 and CS2 capsules are unidirectional supercardioid, meaning that they predominantly pick up and reproduce sound originating
directly in front of the microphone, with a coverage angle of approximately 115°, and rejects off-axis ambient sounds.
Feedback Rejection
When using a microphone in a live situation, you may encounter feedback issues. Feedback is the characteristic howling sound
that occurs when a mic is placed too close to a loudspeaker, and the signal from the loudspeaker is fed into the mic, then into
the loudspeaker, etc., until an oscillating tone is generated. When using floor monitors with the CS Series microphone, the
monitors should be placed about 55° off of the rear axis. This same consideration should be made when using the CS Series
microphones on drum kits or guitar amplifiers; the microphone should be positioned to avoid picking up sounds from the rear
of the microphone.
Proximity Effect
Proximity effect is an audio phenomenon that is inherent to uni-directional microphone designs. As the microphone is brought close to the sound
source (approximately ¼") there is boost to the bass frequencies below 100Hz. As you become aware of this boost in frequencies, you can use it to
your advantage to enhance vocals, and increase the warmth of instruments.
Guidelines for Microphone Use
• Aim the microphone at the desired source. Keep unwanted sound sources at ~126° angle from the front of the microphone.
• Place the microphone as close to the sound source as possible.
• Use the proximity effect to your advantage: the closer the mic is to the sound source, the more emphasized the bass response will be.
• Use a windscreen to suppress unwanted wind noise.
• Never cup your hand over the microphone grill, as this will affect the response of the microphone, and can induce feedback.
5
EN FR DE ES IT