Using Equalization

until the ringing or feedback disappears. Don’t lower the frequency area any further than you need to, or the quality of the overall sound may suffer. If you don’t specifically need to utilize the ten-band graphic master equalizer in a partic- ular environment, leave it completely flat (all sliders at their center detented “0” position).

In most instances, the best way to approach equalization is to think in terms of which frequency areas you need to attenuate, as opposed to which ones you need to boost (boosting a frequency area also has the effect of boosting the overall signal; too much EQ boost can actually cause overload— with the accompanying Peak LED warning!). Be aware of the phenomenon of masking, where loud sounds in one frequency range obscure softer sounds in the same range; by cutting EQ “notches” in a loud signal, you can actually make room for a softer one to shine through. And try not to think of EQ as a miracle worker— no amount of equalization can put a singer in tune or remove the distortion from an overloaded input signal! The key is to get the signal right in the first place, by using correct gain structure and mic placement.

Although the specific EQ you will apply to a channel signal is very much a matter of personal taste, here are a few general suggestions: Boosting the low frequency of instruments such as bass drums or bass guitar will add warmth and make the sound “fatter”; conversely, you may want to attenuate the low frequency component of instruments such as cymbals, high-hats, and shakers so as to “thin” them out. The mid-range controls are particularly effective for vocals— attenuating the low-mid control can give a vocal performance more of an “FM-radio” feel and boosting the high-mid control can help a vocal cut through dense instrumentation. Be careful not to boost high frequencies too much or you risk adding hiss to the signal, though just a touch can help add “shimmer” to an acoustic guitar, ride cymbal, or high-hat.

S63, S83, S83 specifications

The Samson S63 and S83 microphones are notable products in the realm of professional audio equipment, offering high performance and reliability for various sound applications. These microphones cater to a wide range of users, from musicians to broadcast professionals, ensuring superior sound quality in every scenario.

The Samson S63 is a cardioid dynamic microphone renowned for its robust construction and versatility. It is designed to provide excellent sound capture, especially for live performances and studio recordings. One of its main features is its high output level, which enables the microphone to pick up sound effectively while minimizing background noise. The cardioid pattern is particularly useful for isolating the sound source, reducing the interference from other instruments or background sounds. The S63's frequency response spans from 50 Hz to 15 kHz, making it suitable for a variety of vocal ranges and instruments.

On the other hand, the Samson S83 is a boundary microphone that excels in capturing sound from a wider space, making it ideal for conference rooms, boardrooms, and live events. This microphone features a low-profile design that allows for discreet placement on surfaces, ensuring it blends into any environment. The S83 also employs an omnidirectional pickup pattern, allowing it to capture sound equally from all directions, which is essential in group settings or panel discussions. With a frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz, the S83 ensures clarity for both speech and music.

Both the S63 and S83 are built with durability in mind, featuring sturdy metal construction that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. They also come equipped with internal pop filters, which help to reduce plosive sounds when speaking or singing closely into the microphones. Additionally, these microphones are compatible with various audio equipment, including mixers and audio interfaces, making them highly adaptable for different audio setups.

In summary, the Samson S63 and S83 microphones offer distinct advantages tailored to specific use cases. The S63 is perfect for vocalists and performers requiring a reliable dynamic microphone that handles sound isolation with ease. Meanwhile, the S83 serves as an excellent choice for capturing sound in a broader space, ideal for panel discussions and conferences. Together, they exemplify quality sound engineering and effectiveness essential for both live events and studio environments.