TRUE Systems PRECISION 8 - Manual (Page 13)

Precision 8 OPERATION MANUAL
13
MID
SIDE
More About M-S Decoding:
M-S (Mid-Side) decoding is a particularly creative feature of the
Precision 8. While the
M-S microphone technique has been around for many years, the opportunity to use it is
frequently limited by the need for specialty microphones and/or decoders.
What is M-S?
It is a stereo microphone placement technique
that uses a center, forward-facing omni or
cardioid mic (Mid) and a side-facing figure 8
mic (Side). The signals from these two mics
are passed through matrix circuitry that
combines them in particular phase and level
relationships to produce a stereo L and R
output.
What good is M-S versus the typical XY microphone placement?
Originally, M-S was used because it provided a stereo signal with good mono
compatibility. While this is not very interesting for contemporary stereo CD’s, it is still
valuable for broadcast and film sound production. But there is another significant
benefit: varying the gain of the Side mic in relation to the Mid mic causes a variation in
the stereo image - from none, to extreme separation. It is not necessary to change the
angle or position of the microphones in order to change the stereo image. This feature
can really speed up the time-consuming process of finding a “sweet spot” that provides
both good tonal quality and good imaging.
What are the best applications for M-S?
M-S does an excellent job of capturing the natural sonic perspective of acoustical
ensembles.
• Orchestral and choral recording: use an M-S pair for the central array
• Drum kits: use an M-S pair for drum overhead micing.
• Vocal and instrumental ensembles: use M-S to give realistic perspective to backup
vocals or instrumental groups.
• Individual instruments or vocals: try M-S on acoustic guitar and in situations where
you wish to capture room ambience.
• Broadcast/film sound: use M-S to capture audience noise or background ambience.
M-S can also be used in TV and film work to match the sonic image width to the
visual image width.