Public learning track
Microphone Electrical Specifications and Signal Calculations
11th Grade · Arts · UK A-Level
7 lessons
Goal
Calculate and interpret fundamental microphone electrical metrics, including sensitivity conversions, equivalent noise levels, dynamic range, maximum SPL thresholds, and impedance matching.
Featured Diagrams
Microphone Specifications: Sensitivity, Self-Noise, and Maximum SPL
7 lessons
0 of 7 done
- 1Microphone Specifications: Sensitivity, Self-Noise, and Maximum SPLUp nextStart
- 2Analysing Frequency Response Curves in Microphones and MonitorsPremiumNot started yet
- 3Microphone Sensitivity Calculations: mV/Pa and dBVNot started yet
- 4Equivalent Noise Level (EIN), A-Weighting, and Signal-to-Noise RatioNot started yet
- 5Maximum Sound Pressure Level and Total Harmonic DistortionNot started yet
- 6Dynamic Range of Microphones and Noise Floor CalculationsNot started yet
- 7Output Impedance, Rated Load Impedance, and Damping FactorNot started yet
Standards Covered
- MUSTECH-5.1General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (UK A-Level) · Music-technology · Year 13 (A2 Level) · Grade 11gain-structure and how it affects noise and distortion
- MUSTECH-5.6General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (UK A-Level) · Music-technology · Year 13 (A2 Level) · Grade 11how microphones work including microphone sensitivity, electromagnetic induction and capacitance
- MUSTECH-5.4General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (UK A-Level) · Music-technology · Year 13 (A2 Level) · Grade 11the advantages and disadvantages of microphone types in terms of polar pattern and frequency response
Curriculum Framework
11th Grade · Arts · UK A-Level
1
10 lessons
Core Microphone Transducer Physics and Capsule Design
Understand the electromagnetic, electrostatic, and mechanical operating principles of dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphone capsules.
2
8 lessons
Specialised Microphones, Acoustic Isolation, and Circuit Topologies
Explore specialised microphone types, acoustic housing and mounting designs, output circuitry, and the historical evolution of transducer technology.
3
9 lessons
Capsule Acoustics and Polar Pattern Derivation
Understand the physical operating principles of pressure and pressure-gradient capsules and how acoustic and electrical networks generate directional and multi-pattern responses.
4
9 lessons
Applied Directional Acoustics and Critical Listening
Analyse real-world directivity behaviours, off-axis colouration, proximity effect, mathematical directivity metrics, and aural pattern identification.
5
7 lessons
Microphone Electrical Specifications and Signal Calculations
Calculate and interpret fundamental microphone electrical metrics, including sensitivity conversions, equivalent noise levels, dynamic range, maximum SPL thresholds, and impedance matching.
6
7 lessons
Microphone Acoustic Tailoring, Features, and Technical Evaluation
Analyze onboard filtering and attenuation circuits, acoustic frequency contouring, transient response characteristics, and apply technical spec analysis to studio benchmarking and exam questions.
7
7 lessons
Microphone Distance, Angle, and Phase Acoustics
Master the physics of microphone working distance, polar axis angles, direct-to-reverberant ratios, and multi-mic phase cancellation.
8
7 lessons
Applied Studio Miking, Isolation, and Error Diagnosis
Apply advanced boundary, spot, and multi-mic capture techniques while managing bleed, acoustic spaces, and diagnosing tracking errors.
9
7 lessons
Stereo Microphone Arrays and Phase Principles
Master foundational coincident, near-coincident, spaced pair, and Decca Tree microphone arrays while evaluating phase coherence and mono compatibility.
10
7 lessons
Advanced Spatial Audio, Baffled Arrays, and Stereo Capture
Analyze binaural capture, Ambisonics, baffled arrays, and the Stereo Recording Angle while applying stereo techniques in tracking sessions and listening exams.
11
8 lessons
Studio Signal Levels, Preamps, and Interconnection
Master analogue signal levels, preamplifier loading, DI circuits, balanced wiring, and studio grounding techniques.
12
6 lessons
Digital Calibration, Decibel Scales, and Signal Integrity
Calibrate A/D conversion levels across decibel domains, analyse thermal noise and distortion, and troubleshoot complex studio signal chains.
13
9 lessons
Studio Microphone Techniques: Drums, Electric Guitar, and Bass
Master multi-microphone capture, phase alignment, and polar pattern selection for acoustic drum kits, electric guitar cabinets, and electric bass.
14
7 lessons
Studio Microphone Techniques: Acoustic Instruments, Vocals, and Session Planning
Select and position microphone arrays for acoustic guitars, piano, orchestral instruments, and vocals, while evaluating room acoustics and exam recording setups.