Lesson 5 - Posted on 2015-01-15 by Ripley Jene

Zach showed me the microphone library at Hyde Street Studios. We discussed the history and legacy of some of the microphones. 

I found it interesting how the styles and characteristics of some the microphones shaped the specific production sounds of certain eras of music. Some records from the 50s into the 60s had warmer, beefier vocals; which I think reflected the popularity of Blues, Gospel and Country records of that time. 

We spoke about the brighter, snappier, solid state Microphones used in the 80s pop vocals like Tiffany; some warmer tube microphones were used at that time with more pop ballad records. Made me think of artists like Celine Dion, Janet Jackson, Patti LaBelle. 

I learned about German microphone designers TELEFUNKEN who created some of the most popular specialty mics of the 60's like the "U47". Record Company Studios would contract TELEFUNKEN to design specific-styled mics. There is a present day company TELEFUNKEN USA that has the licensing rights that re-release some of these legendary mics. 

There was an expert microphone repair technician by the name of David Bach who became known for repairing many vintage microphones. He kept a library of some in immaculate condition as  reference to compare with the mics he was repairing. After 20+ yrs of holding this reputation, he created his own line of microphones.

I such an appreciation for all the technology innovated in microphones over the years. Learning all the history of microphones makes me want to re-listen to all my favorite records to figure out which mics were used!