TRUE Systems P2 ANALOG - Manual (Page 13)

P2 analog
OPERATION MANUAL
13
What good is M-S versus the typical XY microphone placement?
Originally, M-S was used because it provided a stereo signal with good mono
compatibility. While this is not very interesting for contemporary stereo CD’
s, it is still
valuable for broadcast and film sound production. But there is another significant
benefit: varying the gain of the Side mic in relation to the Mid mic causes a variation in
the stereo image - from none, to extreme separation. It is not necessary to change the
angle or position of the microphones in order to change the stereo image. This feature
can really speed up the time-consuming process of finding a “sweet spot” that provides
both good tonal quality and good imaging.
What are the best applications for M-S?
M-S does an excellent job of capturing the natural sonic perspective of acoustical
ensembles.
 Orchestral and choral recording: use an M-S pair for the central array
 Drum kits: use an M-S pair for drum overhead micing.
 Vocal and instrumental ensembles: use M-S to give realistic perspective to backup
vocals or instrumental groups.
 Individual instruments or vocals: try M-S on acoustic guitar and in situations where
you wish to capture room ambience.
 Broadcast/film sound: use M-S to capture audience noise or background ambience.
M-S can also be used in TV and film work to match the sonic image width to the
visual image width.
Stereo Phase Correlation Display
The Stereo Phase Correlation circuit “listens” to the two preamp outputs in the
frequency range where human hearing is most sensitive to audio phase information. It
analyzes the phase information and displays the following conditions:
 Output signals are essentially mono
 Output signals exhibit phase information that indicates a good stereo image
 Output contains too much out-of-phase information, producing tonal variance or
muddiness (Adjust the microphone positions)
 Outputs are completely out-of-phase. (Select the “180” polarity reverse on one
channel)
The Stereo Phase Correlation Display is also useful when placing two mics on an
instrument (for instance, acoustic guitar) to achieve a particular tonal effect. The Phase
Display will show any phase errors that produce a comb-filtering effect, allowing you to
interactively adjust the microphone position for optimum sound.