An overhead boom microphone is a very popular piece of equipment when it comes to recording audio for films and television programs. In definition, a boom microphone is a type of mic that picks up sound coming from a certain direction. These microphones come in a wide variety of styles, plus there are many brand names of which they can be identified with. This type of microphone is typically mounted or fastened to what is known as a boom arm or boom pole. The proper choice of boom mic will make the performers and production teams jobs so much easier plus it will help them to produce much more professional footage.
Essential Uses of a Boom Microphone
- Reporters regard it as a helpful instrument which allows them to accomplish their tasks without having to worry about holding a mic in their hand. This frees their hands and allows them to take pleasure from the amplified auditory sound common in most conventional microphones.
- Different styles of boom microphones are also best for theatrical productions allowing stage actors and actresses to move and act freely without interrupting the sound and at the same time not being disrupted by any microphone concerns.
- This type of microphone can also be used in group discussions provided that the operator positions it in a location which can amplify the voices of everyone participating in the discussion. This is to facilitate a clearer discussion. The item is designed sensitively in such a way that it can pick up every noise within the surrounding vicinity in which it is located.
- Sufficiently charged boom microphones have the aptitude to work without any wire or cables commonly present in traditional microphones.
Common Disadvantages Associated with a Boom Microphone
- Some boom micro phones can be very sensitive, so much so that it can pick up even the slightest sound within the area, which could be unnecessary for the task that is being undertaken. This might cause some disruptions for the sound editor. However, this burden can be lessened by incorporating certain separating devices. Using foam padding or some kind of elastic suspensions can help prevent this.
- There are times when the mic boom pole may pop up in the scene causing visibility on camera. While it is true that the mic should be close to the particular person who speaking so as to be able to hear what he or she is saying, it is a must that certain precautionary measures be followed to ensure that unintentional popping up in the scene can be avoided.
- Battery powered versions of the boom microphone should be adequately charged prior to starting the production. This is to shun away any unexpected and unwanted incidents regarding the microphone not functioning at its best.
- At certain times, a team may be necessary to make sure that the microphone is performing well. For instance, when an actor needs to walk backward, the person in charge of the boom microphone may need to walk in the opposite direction to prevent being seen on the shot. Having no one to guide or assist him may result in that person having an accident on camera. This may bring about additional costs to the production which could have been avoided.
Other Styles of Boom Microphone:
Headsets
Apart from the common styles of boom microphone, there are also other styles of microphone which can be used. Some phone headsets are made available with an integrated boom mic providing more ease to the user. This is a great headset for people who wish to perform other tasks while talking over their telephone. There are many good features associated with this type of device. It allows you to work on something else while keeping your hands free. Many Bluetooth and other wireless headsets feature a boom microphone, which offers ease to the user.
A very popular use for a headset is within a call center. When in this type of environment a noise canceling headset is vital. These types of headset are also great for traveling, as it will not pick up any background noise such as the airplane engine of passengers talking. Some of the best noise canceling headset can be found online.
Ear Pieces
There are also miniature variations that come with an ear clip. This allows for easy use. The ear clip can be hanged securely on the left ear and a switch can be fastened to the shirt of the person who is using it. These are discreet and comfortable to use.
Headphone Amp
These are designed to be worn by the boom operator. It allows them to monitor the audio that they are capturing. The amps are designed to clip onto a belt, which means that your hands are still free to hold the boom pole.
Variable Pattern Overhead Boom Mic
The variable pattern overhead boom microphone has the ability to capture speech and ambiance as well as musical instruments and group/choir vocals. The sound is captured in great detail, range and accuracy. It is controllable from a remote location and comes with all the required accessories that are needed to hang the microphone including a wall plate.
Types of Boom Poles
Unfortunately boom poles are not cheap. If you are an amateur then you may be using a broom handle as your pole. However, a proper carbon fiber boom pole would look and feel so much more professional. A fiber boom pole is telescopic. It allows you to adjust the length to suit the situation. It features a 3/8th male screw thread at the end for you to attach your microphone allowing you to achieve much better sound levels.
Boom Microphone Stand
Another type of device for resting the mic on is a low profile boom microphone stand. This particular device is great for musical instruments such as drums. It is ideal to use with anything that is close to the floor and is great to rest the mic in front of amplifier speakers. The kick drum/amp mic stand is compact and features an adjustable boom. They are available in a U-shaped base or tripod design. A popular manufacturer of this stand is known as studio grade and is a good fit for a boom microphone.
