Microphones

Virtually every microphone in the range can be suitable for recording bird sounds. Which microphone fits best depends on the recording method, the recorder used, the distance to the birds, and the desired sound image. The environment and the type of bird sound also play a role in this.

 

For recording subtle bird sounds, a sensitive microphone with low self-noise is necessary. Our microphones have very high sensitivity and very low self-noise. For instance, the Clippy EM272Z1 Mono Microphone is a compact option with a sensitive, omnidirectional capsule. For a more spacious sound image, the Clippy EM272Z1 Stereo Microphone may be of interest. A good alternative to the microphones mentioned above are the microphones from Earsight. They offer various versions, such as the Standard V2 PIP Stereo. All examples mentioned feature a PIP connection. XLR versions are also available for recorders with XLR connections. 

 

When choosing a microphone, it is therefore important not only to look at the type of microphone, but also at the connection, sensitivity, directional characteristics, and the recording conditions. View all microphones for fieldwork to compare the various options.

 

For example, a mono microphone is suitable when the focus is on a specific sound source, whereas a stereo microphone can capture more of the spatial environment. A mono microphone records sound as a single channel, whereas a stereo microphone uses two channels. A mono microphone can be useful because it is more efficient in terms of storage and energy consumption, making it easier to analyze data during periods of long monitoring. Stereo recordings (two channels) use one channel on the left and one channel on the right. Because it uses two channels, as opposed to the single channel of a mono microphone, it can create a more natural and spatial sound image. Consequently, a stereo microphone can yield better results when recording bird sounds, nature footage, and other audio productions.

 

Additionally, consider the desired type of recording: mono for directional sound recordings, stereo for a spatial sound image, and ultrasonic microphones for capturing sounds with very high frequencies.

 

Both mono microphones and stereo microphones are available in our range. Options for a mono microphone include, for example, the Clippy XLR EM272Z1 Mono Microphone and the Clippy EM272Z1 Mono Microphone. Options for a stereo microphone include the Clippy EM272Z1 Stereo Microphone and the Clippy XLR EM272Z1 Stereo Microphone - Matched Pair. Additionally, we offer various options from the brand Earsight.

 

The main differences between XLR microphones and PIP microphones are the power supply, the cable used, and the connector. XLR microphones have a fused connector. This prevents the microphone from coming loose from the recorder. Additionally, the cable connection is "balanced," meaning the cable does not cause extra noise. This is particularly important for cables longer than approximately 10 meters. PIP microphones often have a thinner and shorter cable. Furthermore, PIP microphones have a TRS connection. The signal connection is not balanced, and the longer cables can therefore cause extra noise.

 

Both types of microphones require power. This power is supplied by the recorder. For XLR microphones, the connection is called Phantom Power; for PIP microphones, it is called Plug-in Power. This power option must be enabled on the recorder. This can be done using a physical button or by selecting an option in the menu.

 

XLR microphones are often used in professional field setups and are suitable for recorders with XLR inputs. PIP (Plug-In Power) microphones are designed for equipment that provides a plug-in power supply via the microphone jack.

 

Which microphone is compatible with your audio recorder depends on the connection, power supply, and the type of recording you wish to make. Many field recorders work with XLR microphones, while compact recorders may also be suitable for PIP microphones. Therefore, first check which microphone connection and power supply your recorder supports.

 

Examples of XLR microphones are the Clippy XLR EM272Z1 Stereo Microphone and the EarSight Standard V2 XLR Stereo Microphone. Examples of PIP microphones are the Clippy EM272Z1 Stereo Microphone and the EarSight Standard V2 PIP Stereo Microphone. The product description or title of a microphone often indicates whether it is an XLR or PIP microphone.

 

For ultrasonic sounds, such as the echolocation sounds of bats, a special ultrasonic microphone is required. Ordinary microphones are generally not suitable for recording these high frequencies. When choosing an ultrasonic microphone, it is important to consider the frequency range and compatibility with your recorder or bat detector.

 

These ultrasonic microphones can be found in our range by identifying the word ‘Ultra’ or ‘Ultrasonic’ in the title. This can be seen in, among others: Clippy Ultra XLR Microphone – Single, Clippy Ultra XLR Stereo Microphone - Matched Pair, and Titley Ultrasonic Microphone. The latter is only suitable for Titley Chorus Recorders.

 

Which accessories are needed depends on the microphone and the recording conditions. A wind shield or other form of wind protection is almost always useful for outdoor recordings. Depending on the setup, a microphone stand, tripod, cables, mounting hardware, and a suitable protective cover may also be important. Check in advance which connections and accessories are compatible with the microphone and recorder.

 

Wind noise, in particular, can be a problem during field recordings. Wind can cause a lot of unwanted noise. Therefore, use a suitable wind shield or other wind protection around the microphone. Additional protection may be necessary in strong winds. Additionally, position the microphone so that it is exposed to the wind as little as possible directly. Good wind protection is especially important for long-term nature and wildlife recordings.

 

Curious about the accessories available in the Veldshop range? You can find them here.