Can really loud sounds damage mics?

shaocaholica

shaocaholica

Well-known member
If I'm getting some sounds in the field with something like a Sony PCM-D50 or Zoom H4n, can I actually damage the mics if I encounter a really loud sound up close to the mics? Think industrial heavy machinery, metal hitting metal, sirens, etc. What about explosions, like they use at a mine or for demolitions?
 
shaocaholica said:
If I'm getting some sounds in the field with something like a Sony PCM-D50 or Zoom H4n, can I actually damage the mics if I encounter a really loud sound up close to the mics? Think industrial heavy machinery, metal hitting metal, sirens, etc. What about explosions, like they use at a mine or for demolitions?
Click to expand...

Yes they can. Condenser mics such as are used on those recorders are relatively delicate. Machinery sounds, metal-working sounds, or sirens shouldn't damage them though they may sound distorted but gunshots, explosions, etc where there is a strong pressure wave hitting the mic diaphragm certainly could. Dynamics are much more rugged in those applications. And BTW, it wouldn't matter if you were RECORDING with the internal mics or not ... if the mic is close to the overpressure source it could get damaged even though it's not actively in use. If you're micing an explosion in a mine or a tank gun firing during artillery practice on a military base, even a rifle or pistol up close, use a cheap dynamic mic that you don't mind risking and a VERY long cable to get the recorder much farther away.
 
I did mention that the article was a bit off topic...

In the article he explains the reasons for the distances and placements of the different types of mics. Note that he puts dynamic mics close to and in front of the weapons as they will take the most punishment - they're also used on loud guitars and drums - and they are generally cheaper than condensers. The condensers are behind or at a further distance in front of the weapons. You have to assume that Charles knows his business (he does, I occasionally trade emails with him) and has damaged a few mics (he has). You also have to keep in mind that he would consider destroying a $200 mic a business expense and that it is built into his pricing.

The way sound actually works is a study in it self. Loud sounds such as gunshots are perceived as louder when you are further away (8' to 12') than when you are firing the weapon yourself as the low frequencies need some distance to actually propagate themselves.

The mics in the Zoom and the Sony are not particularly robust so I would be very careful using them to capture extremely loud sound sources. For loud sounds I like the Shure SM-57 and the EV RE-20.
 
Ok, lets say Im going to use an external mic while trying to keep the onboard mics further away from the source. What kinds of extra protection should I use to cover the built in mics just in case? Whats a cheap material I can insulate them with that would provide good protection?
 
shaocaholica said:
Ok, lets say Im going to use an external mic while trying to keep the onboard mics further away from the source. What kinds of extra protection should I use to cover the built in mics just in case? Whats a cheap material I can insulate them with that would provide good protection?
Click to expand...


Wrap it in a big, fluffy towel. Also keep in mind, mic signals can go down a good 100 feet of cable without much of a problem (asuming you have that much cable) so you can get very far away if you have to.

But don't get too paranoid about it. I'm guessing those mics can handle louder sounds then you want to subject your own ears to.
 
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