SOUND ON SOUND

[SuperMasita]

Hi!

Today I bought a second hand C414B-XLS, with the intention of using mainly as a cardiod but also as S for M/S.

The mic sounds great, but I've noticed that (when set to figure 8) the back of the mic sound less bright (a dip around 4KHz). I would expect that this could have been the case maybe for a ribbon mic, but I was not expecting this from a 414, and I haven't noticed this before when working with them (TBH, I've have never tested them either, and probably a difference in the side I would have attributed to the source/ambience).

The first time I noticed this was when recording some voice from each side. Two avoid possible differences in distances or just changes in my voice, I tested with some speakers and pink noise and pure tones; the difference is there.

I was wondering if anybody is aware of any known difference between front and back, or has experienced. I am trying to understand if maybe there is a problem with the mic or not.

Thanks!

[Hugh Robjohns]

It should be symmetrical front and back, so I'd say it has a problem, either with one side of the capsule or, probably more likely, with part of the electronics handling one capsule output.

[SuperMasita]

It should be symmetrical front and back, so I'd say it has a problem, either with one side of the capsule or, probably more likely, with part of the electronics handling one capsule output.

Thanks, Hugh! I've reached the same conclusion: there is something wrong with the microphone.

Some folks pointed out that, if the issue was the capsule, the culprit could be moisture/humidity. Does this sound like a possibilty? If so, anyone is aware of a way to "dry" the capsule?

[Hugh Robjohns]

Moisture usually results in obvious noise -- frying bacon sounds -- rather than a reduced sensitivity or brightness! So I doubt it is a moisture problem.

Nevertheless, it can be dried out by placing the mic inside something like a large freezer bag (leave the bag open -- it's just to minimise dust falling on the mic) and then placing it in a warm airing cupboard (or similar) for a day or two.