--- In Dan Dugan <> wrote:
>
> Myles Thompson, you wrote,
>
> > Does anyone have experience using ECM-50 mics for binaural recording? I=
've come across a pair in good condition on a local web site and thought I =
could snap them up.
> >
> > Would you recommend them?
>
> A pair of ECM-50 mics would be good for binaural experiments, but they ha=
ve a relatively low output and high self-noise, so they won't be good for q=
uiet soundscapes.
>
> > Binaural seems like a fascinating challenge - and possibly a worthwhile=
pursuit in terms of creating an immersive and memorable experience for the=
listener. I have read on forums that you can stick the mics in your ears o=
r wear them in an 80s style headband. I'm wondering how this is achieved ex=
actly - without causing handling noise. I assume swallowing and breathing s=
hould also be controlled.
>
> I've done that a lot. One can learn to breathe quietly, and to not turn y=
our head rapidly. My biggest problem has been stomach growls.
>
> > Also - is binaural only really effective when played through headphones=
? Are the 'dummy head' benefits lost when playing through stereo speakers?
> >
> > Are there any specifics to consider in the stereo mix with binaural?
>
> Binaural is a headphone medium. Recordings that sound good on headphones =
usually sound too distant when listened to on speakers. One listens to an o=
rchestra from the tenth row, but recording mics are put over the conductor.=
Making a speaker-compatible recording means micing the sources at a much c=
loser distance than you would use judging by the sound in headphones. Put t=
he binaural rig where you would put an omni mic to record the event. It can=
be good on speakers and still exciting on headphones.
>
> Binaural techniques are great for natural soundscape recording, but quiet=
and sensitive mics are required.
>
> -Dan
>
Thanks very much Dan. I might try them for some sort of audio narratives - =
e.g. walking around a fairground / zoo / playground / harbour and see what =
comes out of it. I'm quite interested in putting some sort of podcast serie=
s on local soundscapes together.
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