Pressure Zone Microphone
(330-1080A)                Applications               Faxback Doc. # 32717

As stated earlier, the PZM performs best when mounted on a solid surface
four feet square or larger.  As with all microphones you will find the best
placement for your taste by experimenting.  However, the next few pages
will provide ideas to get you started.

STAGE PERFORMANCES

For general stage performance sound reinforcement or recording, use two
PZMs; one on each side, 10 ft. (3 m) from center stage and one foot from
the front edge of the stage (assuming the stage is about 50 ft. wide).

You may also position additional PZMs on scenery or tables, for extra sound reinforcement.  The low-profile design of the PZM makes it easy to hide.
Wireless microphone systems are useful with this type of application.

ACOUSTIC PIANOS

When recording or reinforcing acoustic pianos, place one or two PZMs inside
the piano.  The piano lid may be closed or open, depending on the amount of
isolation you need.  For extreme isolation, close the piano lid and place
blankets over the piano.

With two PZMs, place one near the bass strings and the other near the
treble strings for better separation.  (Take care to avoid the hammers in
upright piano.)

Another option is to place a single PZM direction under the piano.

With a combination pianist/vocalist, use the above microphone placement for
the piano.  Use a separate PZM mounted on a large piece of plastic or board
(4 ft. square) and facing the performer (possibly on the piano music rack),
to pick-up the voice.

LARGE VOCAL OR INSTRUMENTAL GROUPS

Because of its wide hemispherical pick-up pattern, the PZM is better suited
to recording or reinforcement of large groups than conventional
microphones.

Suspending a PZM mounted on a board or plastic sheet (4 ft. Square) above
and in front of the group produces excellent results. For stereo, mount two
PZMs and place them about 20 ft. apart, above in front of the group.

The placement described in "Stage Performances" also works well in some
cases; the PZMs should be at least 15 ft. away from the closest performer.

CONFERENCE TABLES AND LECTERNS

PZMs are ideal for use in places where conventional microphones are
impractical or unsightly. On a lectern, the PZM may be placed flat, so that
it is out of sight of the audience and does not inhibit the person
speaking.

A single PZM may be placed in the center of a conference table and everyone
will be recorded clearly and will sound "on mic."  The low profile of the
PZM allows the conferees to forget they are begin recorded.

DRUMS

PZMs are particularly useful with high sound pressure levels, such as from
drum sets.  They will accurately reproduce sounds up to 135 dB with use of
two 23-469s.  For drum sets, two PZMs are usually sufficient.  Mount one in
front of the bass drum and the other above or near the tom-tom and cymbals.

CHANGING THE PICK-UP PATTERN

In some cases the PZM might pick-up too much (audience noise, etc.).  It is
possible for you to change the pick-up pattern to be more directional by
using a piece of carpet or other acoustically absorbent material.  The
carpet should be even with or slightly behind the edge of the PZM
cartridge; it must not extend beyond the edge.

This set-up will provide 20 to 25 dB attenuation in the blocked direction.


(YO/EB 4/29/96)

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