RODE Microphones Classic II Limited Edition - Manual (Page 7)

Using Your Classic II
Setting the Polar Pattern
Using a “Pop Filter”
Your Classic II can be adjusted to any of nine polar patterns from omni, through cardioid to fi gure of eight. Th is fl exibility allows recording of most instruments and
voices with absolute control.
Select the preferred polar pattern. Th is is done with the middle dial on the front of the Classic II Power Supply.
• When the cardioid position is selected, the microphone picks up sound from in front of the microphone, and rejects sound from the rear.
Th is is the most commonly used pattern for recording vocals.
• When in the omni position (fully anti-clockwise), the microphone picks up sound from all around the microphone and there is no proximity eff ect as found in
cardioid mode. (Proximity Eff ect is an increase in lower frequencies when the sound source is ‘close’ to the microphone).
Th
e omni pattern is commonly used for room (ambient) miking or to record a more natural sound when close miking instruments.
• When in the Figure-8 position (fully clockwise), the microphone picks up sound from in front and behind, and rejects sound from the other two
sides. Th is pattern is commonly used for interviews (Two people with the microphone between them) or in conjunction with a cardioid microphone
to use the MS (mid-side) stereo recording technique.
Th e gold dot on the face of the Classic II indicates the front of the microphone, and the pick-up area of the cardioid pattern. Please be sure to have the side with the dot
facing the sound source you wish to record.
We strongly recommend the use of a pop fi lter or pop shield for all vocal recording. Th ese aid in minimising plosive sounds (hard ‘P’, ‘B’, ‘T’ and ‘K’ sounds) that produce a
sudden jet of air which can cause the capsule to overload and produce a ‘popping’ sound.
Any moisture on the microphone capsule can cause problems for condenser microphones, however the use of a pop fi lter will reduce the risk of this occurring.
Placement of the microphone and pop shield relative to the vocalist may be varied on several factors including room acoustics, the vocal performance, and whether the
vocalist has a high or deep voice.