Selecting Polar Patterns - AKG P420 User Instructions

Operation

Selecting Polar Patterns

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Each of the P420's selectable polar patterns is virtually frequency independent
so that reflected sound, too will be reproduced accurately and uncolored.
Cardioid (center setting): This is a standard setting for recording and gives
excellent results on all kinds of voices and a wide range of instruments.
Remember to aim the microphone front at the sound source.
Figure eight (left-hand setting): The microphone will pick up sounds
arriving from the front and rear with equal sensitivity. Use this mode to mic
up the side signal in M/S stereo recording or to record two sound sources
(talkers, instruments) facing each other. It is also a good choice for cymbal
overhead miking.
Omnidirectional (right-hand setting): This is the preferred setting for "all
around the mic" recording, high quality ambience (audience sound) miking,
or far-field recording in exceptionally good-sounding large or small
recording rooms, etc.
P420