Maximizing Your Mix: Leveraging Odd and Even Harmonics for Pitch, Waveform, and Transient Clarity in Music Production

Odd harmonics are harmonics that appear as odd multiples of the fundamental frequency. For example, in a note with the fundamental frequency of A4 (440Hz), the odd harmonics could be 1320Hz (3 times), 2200Hz (5 times), 3080Hz (7 times), and so on. These harmonics can give the sound a ‘rough’ or ‘sharp’ texture, often making the timbre of an instrument ‘sharper’.

On the other hand, even harmonics are harmonics that appear as even multiples of the fundamental frequency. In the same note of A4, even harmonics could be 880Hz (2 times), 1760Hz (4 times), 2640Hz (6 times), etc. Even harmonics typically provide a ‘smoother’ and ‘more harmonious’ feel.

Decoding Condenser Microphones: Understanding the Differences Between FET, Tube, and Handheld Models

Condenser microphones are divided into FET, Tube, and Handheld types.Among them, tube microphones are perceived as high-end microphones.Of course, not all tubes are automatically good, but there are definite advantages that tubes can offer. The characteristics of vacuum tubes can be broadly classified into four categories. Let’s take a closer look.

Mastering Microphone Selection: Unveiling the Best Choices Between Dynamic and Condenser Mics

Many people face difficulties when selecting a microphone. This is often due to a lack of understanding of how to read specifications and what criteria define a good microphone. Some recommend microphones with phrases like ‘microphones that suit men well’ or ‘microphones that are good for thin vocals,’ but these are not actually good directions for evaluating a microphone.

People often ask about ‘the best microphone for a certain type of voice,’ but this is subjective and varies according to personal preference. Of course, certain microphones might emphasize or weaken specific frequency bands (often referred to as their ‘color’), but this doesn’t mean they are a perfect match for every situation.

Condenser Microphone as a Good Microphone? About Dynamic and Condenser Microphones

Dynamic Microphone Dynamic microphones capture sound using the principle of electromagnetic induction. The diaphragm moves in response to sound vibrations, and this movement causes an attached coil to move within the field of a permanent magnet. This movement generates an electrical signal within the coil, reflecting the sound vibrations. In other words, they do not require phantom power (external power supply).
Condenser microphones capture sound using the principle of capacitance. When sound moves the diaphragm, it alters the distance between the diaphragm and a backplate, changing the capacitance of the capacitor. This change is manifested as a voltage variation, which is then amplified and converted into an audio signal through amplifiers and other electronic circuits.

About transients and sound image

The concept of a transient is of paramount importance in music and audio engineering, denoting the sudden change in energy at the onset of a sound. Transients have a profound impact on the initial characteristics and dynamic range of a sound, with the management of this element greatly influencing the energy and phase of the sound.

Envelope : About ADSR

In music and audio synthesis, the envelope is commonly known as a mechanism to shape the dynamic properties of a sound. The ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelope is one of the most prevalent forms of this. Let’s explore each component of the ADSR.

Linear Phase ; About FIR and IIR Filters

As the name suggests, a linear phase implies that the phase response is linear. This means there’s a consistent time delay applied to all frequency components. When processing related to frequency, not all frequencies receive the same time delay, leading to phase distortion. This is typically referred to as the “Natural Phase.” However, if we apply the same delay based on the longest delay time across all frequencies, every frequency is processed uniformly without any phase distortion. This approach is called the “Linear Phase.”

The Missing Fundamental Phenomenon: The Brain’s Remarkable Musical Perception

Ever manipulated an EQ, applied a high-pass filter, and noticed you can still discern the pitch even when the fundamental frequency is cut off? This is the “missing fundamental effect.” It’s a phenomenon where, even when a specific sound’s fundamental frequency is absent, our brain perceives it as if it’s genuinely present. This occurrence showcases our brain’s ability to compare past experiences with the current situation, inferring missing information, and converting it into a complete picture.