Transients

TRANSIENT IN RESPONSE

What is transient?

Change in level

* A transient is described as an abrupt and a sudden change in level.

* A percussion instrument had a fast transient

* A hard it fast strumming guitar will have a fast transient

TRANSIENT RESPONSE

* This is the microphones ability to respond to transients

* Microphones are governed by the laws of physics

* As with all objects they have inertia- an object desire to stay in its resting position. Its position of lowest energy in laymen's it wants to stay still

* Microphones are moved with acoustic energy

* Construction can make a massive difference

* They response to the sound waves striking their diaphragm a lighter diaphragm requires less energy in order to move than a heavier one.

DIAPHRAGMS

* Generally lighter diaphragms are found on capacitor microphones and the heaviest are found on dynamic microphones with moving coil.

* As result of the light diaphragm microphones are more responsive to transients. Choosing the right microphone

* Best use your ears. Dont always trust a specification

* The fastest transient response does not mean it is a more suitable microphone for the job in hand that the microphone with a slower response.

* Compression - The larger diaphragm microphones will smooth to harsh transient.

* Smearing - Large stopping time, they can sometimes blend one transient into the next The above effects are suitable for bass, electric guitar and certain types of vocals.

* Detail - Capacitor microphones will produce better than larger diaphragm microphones. Sound improves.

* High frequency - Sharper transient exist in higher frequencies- capacitors are better for this * these principles combine to create brighter and cleaner sound