Meet Eddy B. Brixen in Rome at the Audio Engineering Societys’ Convention 134.

Venue:
Fontana di Trevi Conference Centre

May 4th, tutorial T4: Understanding Microphone Specifications

Presenter:
Eddy B. Brixen, EBB-consult – Smorum, Denmark

Abstract:
There are lots and lots of microphones available to the audio engineer. The final choice is often made on the basis of experience or perhaps just habits. (Sometimes the mic is chosen because of the looks … .) Nevertheless, there is good information to be found in the microphone specifications. This tutorial will present the most important microphone specs and provide the attendee with up-to-date information on how these specs are obtained and understood. It also takes a critical look on how specs are presented to the user, what to look for and what to expect.

This tutorial is a follow up on the project X85, which has been taking place in the AES standards committee (SC 04-04).

May 6th: Paper presentation: Acoustical Characteristics of Vocal Modes in Singing

Presenters:
Eddy B. Brixen, EBB-consult – Smorum, Denmark;
Cathrine Sadolin, Complete Vocal Institute – Copenhagen, Denmark;
Henrik Kjelin, Complete Vocal Institute – Copenhagen, Denmark.

Abstract:
According to the Complete Vocal Technique four vocal modes are defined: Neutral, Curbing, Overdrive, and Edge. These modes are valid for both the singing voice and the speaking voice. The modes are clearly identified both from listening and from visual laryngograph inspection of the vocal cords and the surrounding area of the vocal tract. In a recent work a model has been described to distinguish between the modes based on acoustical analysis. This paper looks further into the characteristics of the voice modes in singing in order to test the model already provided. The conclusion is that the model is too simple to cover the full range. The work has also provided information on singers’ SPL and formants’ repositioning in dependence of pitch. Further work is recommended.

May 7th: Workshop W10: Miking for PA

Chair:
Eddy B. Brixen, EBB-consult – Smorum, Denmark

Panelists:
Giacome De Caterini, Casal Bauer – Italy
Igor Fiorini, VDM Group – Italy
Cathrine Sadolin, Complete Vocal Institute – Copenhagen, Denmark
Henrik Sadolin, Complete Vocal Institute – Copenhagen, Denmark

Abstract:
Miking for PA is a very important task. Providing amplification to the spoken or singing voice or the acoustical music instrument requires good knowledge about the sound source, about the PA-system, about the monitoring system—and about the microphones. This workshop takes you through some of the important issues and decisions when selecting the microphone with regards to peak level capacity, sensitivity, directivity, frequency response, sensitivity, etc. Getting balance, getting definition, getting the right timbre or “sound”—and still avoiding acoustical feedback, that’s the thing. Recognized engineers and sound designers will generously share their experiences from their work on the stages. Warning: Some of the attendees may pick up ideas that will change their habits forever…