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Using the PAD Switch
The C03U includes a PAD switch, which you can
use to lower the input sensitivity of the micro-
phone. When the PAD switch is set at the 0dB posi-
tion the PAD is bypassed and there is no effect on
the signal. When the PAD switch is set to the –10dB
position, the microphone's input sensitivity will be
lowered by 10dB. You can use the PAD when you
are miking loud sound sources with a high SPL
(Sound Pressure Level).
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Using the Hi-Pass Filter
The C03U offers a user selectable hi-pass, or low-cut filter, which you can use to elimi-
nate any unwanted low frequency reproduction. When the Hi-pass Filter is is set to
the "flat" (indicated by the straight line) position,
there is no effect on the signal. When the Hi-pass
switch is set to the "roll-off" position (indicated
with the angled line), a 12dB per octave low-cut
at 100Hz is applied to the signal. This can be
extremely useful for removing low frequency stage
rumble, wind noise during outdoor use, and filter-
ing out lows from drums when used as overhead
cymbal microphone on a drum kit.
Polar Patterns
The most important characteristic of any microphone is its directionality or "pickup
pattern". The C03U's versatile dual capsule design is capable of producing three useful
pick up patterns; Cardioid, Omni, and Figure 8. It is easy for you to select the pickup
pattern using the C03U's pattern selection switch located on the rear of the micro-
phone. When choosing a pattern, you should be aware of the phenomenon known as
the "proximity effect".
Simply put, proximity effect is the change in frequency response as the microphone
position is changed relative to the sound source. Any microphone exhibits its best
frequency response when pointed directly at the sound source (on-axis). Depending
on the pickup pattern, the low frequency response will increase, sometimes
greatly, when positioned less than 12 inches away from the sound source (off-axis).
Understanding and knowing how to use the proximity effect can be a tremendous
help in getting just sound you looking for. The following sections details the three
available pickup patterns.
Operating the C03U
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