Hypercardioid Ultra-directional, Cardioid

AKG WMS GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY

DEFINITIONS FROM A TO Z

Hypercardioid

Ultra-directional

Figure- eight

Omni- directional

Cardioid

cates its sensitivity to sounds arriving from different directions. Omnidirectional micro- phones “hear” equally well in all directions while all others prefer sound from one (unidirectional) or two (bidirectional) direc- tions. The polar diagram shows the three- dimensional “hearing performance” of a microphone as a single curve. It is suffi- cient to plot only one half of the curve (0° through 180°) since the other half (180° through 360°) is symmetrical. In this way, the directivity can be shown for several dif- ferent frequencies (broken, dotted, solid lines).

Pop Noise

In order to avoid those unpopular pop noi- ses on stage, remember the following:

•Talk across the microphone head.

•Interestingly, pop noises are worst about 2 in. from the mic. So move either closer or further away.

•Perhaps use an extra foam windscreen.

See “Accessories” section.

Pressure Gradient Microphone

If both the front and rear of a diaphragm are exposed to a sound field, then the force that vibrates the diaphragm results from the difference between the sound pressures in front and to the rear of the diaphragm (called the pressure gradient).

The magnitude of the driving force depends on the distance between the front and rear sound entries, the frequency, and the angle of incidence and is therefore a directional variable which can be utilized to design

At 150° off-axis, the sensitivity is 17 dB down (referenced to 0°) at 125 Hz (solid line), and 10 dB down at 8 kHz (dashdotted line, right- hand half). 150° means 150° left, right, up, and down (see diagrams on the left).

directional microphones. Cardioid, figure eight, or hypercardioid polar patterns can be achieved by incorporating appropriate sound paths.

Pressure Microphone

If only one side (front) of a microphone dia- phragm is exposed to a sound field and the other (rear) side sealed off by a soundproof case, the diaphragm will be vibrated by changes in sound pressure only. Sound pressure being a non-directional (scalar) variable, the microphone is equally sensi- tive in all directions. The resulting polar pattern is called omnidirectional 1.

Proximity Effect

In unidirectional microphones, as the wor- king distance decreases, the output voltage rises more markedly at the low frequencies than throughout the rest of the frequency range. This is due to the fact that the dia- phragm is vibrated by the pressure gradient between its front and rear surfaces and the pressure gradient is related to the curva- ture of the wave fronts.

Rear sound entries

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WMS 40, WMS 400, WMS 4000 specifications

AKG Acoustics has long been recognized as a premier brand in the professional audio industry, particularly in the realm of wireless microphone systems. Among its celebrated offerings, the WMS 4000, WMS 400, and WMS 40 series stand out for their advanced technology and robust performance, catering to a range of applications from live performances to studio recordings.

Starting with the WMS 4000, this system is engineered for versatility and reliability. It features a sophisticated transmission diversity system that minimizes dropouts and ensures clear audio quality. The WMS 4000 offers an extensive frequency range, accommodating diverse environments and frequencies. A standout feature is its digital pilot tone, which automatically mutes the transmitter when it is switched off, effectively preventing unwanted noise during transitions. With a range of up to 300 meters, the WMS 4000 is ideal for large venues, allowing performers ample space to move without compromising sound quality.

Next, the WMS 400 series maintains the high standards set by its predecessor while providing a more accessible option for mid-level performers. It combines ease of use with quality audio performance, boasting a user-friendly interface that simplifies setup and operation. The WMS 400 employs an efficient frequency management system, which automatically scans the environment to select the best frequencies available, ensuring optimal performance with minimal interference. The system also features a rugged metal chassis, enhancing durability for live applications.

The WMS 40 series serves as an entry-level solution, perfect for beginners and small venues. It is lightweight and features a straightforward design, making it easy to operate for users without extensive technical knowledge. One of its most notable characteristics is its plug-and-play functionality, allowing for quick setup without complicated configurations. The WMS 40 series also offers excellent sound quality through its crystal-clear audio transmission and robust reception, making it a popular choice for schools, theaters, and small events.

All of these systems benefit from AKG's heritage in sound engineering, incorporating advanced audio processing technologies that ensure superior sound fidelity. They also come with a variety of microphone options, including handheld, lavalier, and headworn microphones, providing flexibility to meet different performance needs. Whether for a professional stage or an intimate setting, the AKG WMS series delivers outstanding performance, reliability, and user-friendly features that cater to a wide range of audio applications.