What’s the Best Windshield or Pop-Filter for Me? |
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Both windshields (also known as windscreens or pop caps) and pop filters can be used to prevent a microphone from picking up the noise caused by displaced air, like a gust of wind, or the harder peaks in a recording caused by spoken or sung plosive sounds like ‘P’ and ‘B’. In this Guide, we look at the kind of windshields and pop filters available and explain the differences between the two to help you find what you need. If you can’t find the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us! Windshields | Pop Filters | Sound | More 1. What’s a Windshield?A microphone windshield (also known as a pop cap or windscreen) helps stop any unwanted noise from being picked up by a microphone. These noises could be anything from wind to the plosive sounds that are common in speech, like ‘P’ and ‘B’. A windshield is a kind of ‘cap’ that’s usually made of foam or fake-fur and is placed over the head of the microphone. This way, the microphone is protected on all sides against wind and other ambient noise. Handheld Microphone Windshields
2. When Do I Need to Use a Windshield? And Which One Do I Need?A windshield can be used anytime and anywhere to reduce the noise caused by air displacement, like the breath of a vocalist or speaker and wind. Most windshields are made of foam. This material is able to withstand a light breeze. But, if you’re planning to record outdoors, you’re likely to need better protection. In that case, try using a fake-fur or 3D-Tex windshield, since they’re designed to withstand strong wind. They’re also effective if you’re going to be running around with a microphone. Note: always double check that the windshield you pick out is the right size and will fit your microphone. This information can be found included in the specifications listed on the product page.
3. What’s a Pop-Filter?A pop filter (also known as a pop screen or pop shield) is a small screen that’s placed in front of the microphone to protect it from spoken or sung plosives like ‘P’ and ‘B’ sounds. Most pop filters are made from a fine stocking-like material, but there are also pop filters available that have been fitted with metal grilles. The metal grilles are easier to keep clean, but besides that, there’s little difference between the two versions. Pop filters are usually used to record speech or vocals and are placed between the performer’s mouth and the microphone.
4. When Should I Use a Pop Filter?
Pop Filters
5. How Do I Mount a Pop Filter Onto My Microphone?Most pop filters will come fitted with a universal clip that can simply be secured to a microphone stand. The filter itself is also usually mounted onto a flexible goose-neck so that it can be easily positioned. There are also pop filters that come integrated into shockmounts. Note: always check that your microphone is compatible with the shockmount. Pop Filters
6. Will I Get a ‘Dead’ Sound if I Use a Windshield or Pop Filter?If you’re placing something between the microphone and sound source, then it’s normal to lose a little sound in the higher frequencies. Luckily, a good windshield or pop filter won’t completely block the airflow, but scatter it instead, leaving the recording barely affected.. You’ll be able to tell the difference immediately.
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