Please match mic type to distance from sound source

[Paul Cascio]

Most of what I know about audio came from this forum, but what I have been unable to discern is how far away from the sound source I can be with a particular type of mic. Also, the position. Could you fill in the blanks please?


Hypercardioid, indoor use, small to medium size room such as living room. Conversation/interview, 2-3 people. Is 6 feet in front, too far?

Shotgun, outdoors

Supercardioid (what is a supercardioid?) Use? Distance?

Lavalier: Where exactly should it be? On lapel or directly below chin? How far?

Thanks

[Steve House]

Originally Posted by Paul Cascio

Most of what I know about audio came from this forum, but what I have been unable to discern is how far away from the sound source I can be with a particular type of mic. Also, the position. Could you fill in the blanks please?


Hypercardioid, indoor use, small to medium size room such as living room. Conversation/interview, 2-3 people. Is 6 feet in front, too far?

Way too far - ideally hypers should be around 18 to 24 inches away

Shotgun, outdoors

Short 'guns - 24 to ~ 36/48 inches
Long 'guns - 3 to ~ 6/8 feet

Supercardioid (what is a supercardioid?) Use? Distance?

Strictly speaking, 'super cardioid' refers to the pattern while 'shotgun' refers to one specifc type of construction used to achieve that pattern.

Lavalier: Where exactly should it be? On lapel or directly below chin? How far?

The rule of thumb is optimal placement is centered on the sternum in the middle of the chest at the nipple line. YMMV depending on the nature of the talent's voice