boom mics - favorite? favorites?

Post by **Chris Lynch** » Sun Jun 09, 2002 8:50 am

I'm just getting started thinking about getting started with s8 film. I run a small personal recording studio so I'm familiar with audio gear, but for film application I could use some advice.

Is there a preferred polar pattern for boom mics for dialog? I have two cardioid mics that I think should work well, but I wonder if omni or hypercardioid are ever favored for general purpose, or just for acoustical problem solving?

Thanks,

-Chris

crimson · Post by **crimson** » Sun Jun 09, 2002 7:10 pm

There are a lot of good choices for boom mics. For a decent one you would need to spend about $350 and up.

Sony and Sennheiser are a good start. The K6 ME-66 is a good all around boom.
If you got dough I would suggest the 416 from Sennheiser ($1000). Its much more directional than the K6 series and its popular among low budget filmmakers. From there the sky is the limit. Serious booms, like a high end Neuman, would set you back a down payment for a car ($5000).

I know its popular among the mass but IMHO stay away from Azden, Audio Tech and likes. Though they are cheaper - the quailty of the sound is not the same. Especially for a person with audio background like you, the difference is noticeable. I think those who don't are either using cheap field headphones or non loud speakers.

Mic + accesories (boom, shock mount, fur, headphones, etc) = beginnig at around $500.

Uni directional are preffered for general field recording with some obvious exceptions. Small wireless lavs are very helpful. Omnis for complicated dialogue scenes.
you just need to balance your needs and capabilities. Remember big productions have the luxury of ADR, multi person sound crew, $$$, etc.

Post by **Chris Lynch** » Mon Jun 10, 2002 11:40 pm

Thanks Crimson,

That's just what I was looking for! I actually use AT mics, they do have some good apps, and even if they're not so hot for dialog I'll use them for film because I'm not doing low budget film, only no budget! If my work justifies it, maybe I'll spend more later, but for now I'm curious to see how far I can go with what I have.

Where would you suggest buying an actual boom? Markertek? Full Compass?

-Chris

crimson · Post by **crimson** » Tue Jun 11, 2002 1:52 am

boompoles also vary in price.

Expensive booms are made of lightweight material - like carbon fiber. Only to look for is size, weight and grip. Metal more duarble but heavier. Plastic is not quite sturdy but much lighter. Try them out first.
Price range from $70 - $300. Pro level starts around $200.

I agree - ability dictates need. To be honest I just sucker my boss to use the company gear

Post by **jessh** » Tue Jun 11, 2002 6:32 am

If you dont have much to spend on a boompole you might consider buying a professional shock mount and then making a run to home depot(or anther hardware store), get yourself one of the extending fiberglass poles they have for various things like putting in lights, painting, etc... wont be as nice or as light as a professional boom pole, but the results will be roughly the same with the exception of your sound persons arms being more tired, and it will most likely cost you a lot less. And while you are there you may need to get a bolt or something of the right size for the shock mount and figure out a way to attach it to the extending pole.

~Jess

Post by **JIM DUNN** » Tue Jun 11, 2002 7:15 pm

I got my 5'-10' fishpole model GG-10 with shock mount from Guy Graphics for $125 and think it's just dandy. http://www.guygraphics.com/

Post by **jessh** » Tue Jun 11, 2002 10:39 pm

JIM DUNN wrote:I got my 5'-10' fishpole model GG-10 with shock mount from Guy Graphics for $125 and think it's just dandy. http://www.guygraphics.com/

and that thing is _lite_! It also seemed very sturdy for its wieght. I was very suprised when I held it, although it is the only real boom I have ever held :-)

~Jess

Post by **Chris Lynch** » Wed Jun 12, 2002 12:28 am

Not that I've tried one before, but that does look nice! Thanks for all the tips. Everyone here is so helpful I don't know what to do with myself, thanks!!

I'll be sure to compress and post my work. Or maybe it'd be a better "thank you" to keep it to myself...

Post by **S8 Booster** » Wed Jun 12, 2002 11:10 am

Just though this one might be of interest.

It is a Sony studio mike that dates back in the Ã‚Â´70. Thought it had dropped to "S8 level" in price by now but unfortunately it is still popular with recording studios so it is priced at something like 365,- GBP.

It does have adjustable geometry which might be good for film making but it is designed for studio purpose.

Filmshooting