cardioid microphone

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Word: Cardioid Microphone

Definition: A cardioid microphone is a type of microphone that is designed to pick up sound primarily from the front. It has a heart-shaped sensitivity pattern, which is why it’s called "cardioid" (the word "cardio" relates to the heart). This means it captures sound best from one direction while reducing noise from the sides and back.

Usage Instructions:

• When to Use: Cardioid microphones are great for situations where you want to focus on a single sound source, like a singer or a speaker, while minimizing background noise. They are commonly used in live performances, recording studios, and even for podcasting.
• How to Use: Position the microphone so that the front (the side with the logo or the most sensitive area) is facing the sound source, such as a person’s mouth when they are speaking or singing.

Example:

• "The singer used a cardioid microphone during the concert to ensure her voice was clear, even in the noisy environment."

Advanced Usage:

• In a studio setting, sound engineers often choose cardioid microphones for vocals because they help isolate the voice from other instruments, making the recording clearer.

Word Variants:

• Cardioid (adjective): Describing the shape or pattern (e.g., "The cardioid pickup pattern helps reduce feedback.").
• Omnidirectional (antonym): A different type of microphone that picks up sound from all directions equally.

Different Meanings:

• The term "cardioid" itself can also refer to a mathematical curve that resembles a heart shape. However, in the context of microphones, it specifically refers to the pickup pattern.

Synonyms:

• Directional microphone
• Unidirectional microphone (though "unidirectional" can refer to other patterns as well, such as supercardioid).

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "cardioid microphone." However, you might hear phrases like "pick up" which refers to the microphone capturing sound.

In Summary:

A cardioid microphone is a specialized tool for capturing sound from a specific direction, making it ideal for performances and recordings where clarity is important.

Academic

Noun

1. a directional microphone with a cardioid pattern of sensitivity