Studio Projects LSD 2 - Manual (Page 2)

INSTRUCTION BOOK CONTENTS
What is Studio Projects?...................................................................................................2
Guidelines For Proper Care/Use ......................................................................................2
Electrical Features…........................................................................................................3
Operation………………………………………………….................................................4
Troubleshooting Tips…………………………………………………..........………………5
Origins and manufacture.................................................................................................6
Applications....................................................................................................................6
C1..................................................................................................................................7
C3......................................................................................................................................8
T3..................................................................................................................................9
C4..................................................................................................................................10
LSD2................................................................................................................................11
WHAT IS STUDIO PROJECTS?
Based in Gardena, California, Studio Projects is a line of microphones and electronics started in
1999 by Alan Hyatt of PMI Audio Group. Our line of award winning microphones and preamps is
a result of a partnership between PMI Audio and Beijing 797 Audio Co. LTD. a manufacturer of
condenser microphones and professional audio products since 1952.
Within the line, there is a broad and evolving range of tools designed to provide the engineer and
recordist with a level of sonic quality and durability. Studio Projects continues to prove that innova-
tive designs and years of experience produces quality products that fit well in all professional and
home applications.
If you have any questions or issues at any time, please feel free to contact us by phone or email,
or log on to our web forum at http://www.pmiaudio.com/forums/.
GUIDELINES FOR PROPER CARE/USE
Large capsule capacitor mics such as the Studio Projects C-series, are built to handle a fairly
substantial degree of abuse. However, one should always consider their investment and treat
these mics with delicacy. The capsule itself is by far the most easily damaged component
within the microphone. The biggest threat to a capsule is moisture and high humidity. A cap-
sule corrupted by moisture, will lose sensitivity and exhibit a rumbling sound. This is due to the
water molecules condensing within the very small gap between the diaphragm and backplate.
When this occurs, the two plates cannot properly maintain their electrical charge. The result
is that the microphone may become unusable and require repair. Since it is a lot more fun to
make recordings than to send your mic to us for servicing, please consider the following:
• Improper vocal recording technique is the primary cause of moisture-related capsule failure.
Breathing on the transducer will cause the mylar diaphragm to immediately fog up. If this
occurs repeatedly over time, the capsule will most likely short out.
This may seem a bit ironic, since the microphones are intended for vocal use, but with proper
care and technique, these problems can be avoided. One easy way to prevent moisture from
reaching the capsule is to put some distance between the vocalist and the microphone. A
distance of six to twelve inches is acceptable. It is common to see stage performers sing-
ing directly into the grill of a handheld unit, but these are generally dynamic microphones,
which are much more robust and employ an entirely different operating principle - which is
not nearly so susceptible to moisture. Additionally, large diameter capacitor microphones are
quite sensitive. It is not necessary to get right up on the grill. Doing so may in fact result in
artifacts such as sibilance and popping. For reference, it may be of help to look up a picture
of Frank Sinatra or Billie Holiday to observe how these legends placed themselves in relation
to their microphones.
• A pop filter is a device, used as an additional layer of protection between vocalist and
microphone. Ideally suited for this purpose is the Studio Projects part# SP-MPF. Additional
benefits of the use of a pop filter are the reduction of plosives and sibilance. Studio Projects
recommends the use of a pop filter for all vocal work where vocalist and microphone are in
close proximity.
• Provided with all Studio Projects microphones is a zipper pouch or hard shell case. When not
in use, storing the microphones in these provided accessories will help to protect them from
moisture, dust, scratches and dents.
• A foam windscreen is included with each microphone for use in conditions where wind may
interfere with sound pickup. To use, simply slide windscreen over microphone grill. Verify that
microphone is properly oriented towards sound source, as it is harder to see which way the
mic is facing once the windscreen is in place.
• In the event of the microphone exhibiting loss of signal and or rumbling noise, place it in a
warm, low humidity environment, such as the middle of the Sahara desert at high noon, or
preferably several inches beneath an incandescent light bulb. This will help to remove any
moisture. If problems persist, please contact Studio Projects directly using the contact infor-
mation found in this manual.
ELECTRICAL FEATURES
The C1, C3, C4 & LSD2 require +48-volt phantom power to operate. Verify that your gain device
(preamp, mixing console, etc.) provides this feature. Both microphones are solid state devices
with externally polarized transducers, FET impedance conversion circuitry and active outputs.
Their individual circuit topologies provide low noise and high sound pressure handling capabilities.
The T3 employs a separate power supply, which provides power to the microphone. The
impedance circuitry is vacuum tube based with externally polarized transducer. The output
is balanced, employing a humbucking transformer. The circuit topology provides very high
sensitivity, low noise and high sound pressure handling capabilities.
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