User manual BLUE MICROPHONES SNOWBALL

[. . . ] Just above the USB output port, you will find a three-position switch. Viewed from left to right, the positions are as follows: 1 2 3 First position: Activates the cardioid capsule. Second position: Activates the cardioid capsule with a -10dB PAD (more geek talk for a device that reduces the output of the mic for use with loud sound sources that could cause distortion of the signal). Third position: Activates the omni capsule. Snowball suggested applications The Snowball was designed for convenient studio use without the necessity for a lot of signal processing -- or even a mic pre! [. . . ] Once mounted, you can gently pivot the Snowball back and forth for optimum positioning in front of the sound source. ! HEADS UP!: Forceful positioning of the swivel mount can result in damage not covered by the warranty, so there. Snowball mounted on The Ringer What do you connect it to? Once safely mounted, connect the Snowball to the System Requirements* USB port on your Macintosh or Windows computer (the Snowball is USB 2. 0 compatible -- see the right Windows Macintosh sidebar for full system requirements). Make sure XP Home Edition or Mac OSX XP Professional USB 1. 0 or 2. 0 that the active, on-axis side of the diaphragm (the USB 1. 0 or 2. 0 64 MB RAM (minimum) 64 MB RAM (minimum) side with the BLUE logo) is facing the desired source. When connected, the LED just above the Blue logo will glow red, indicating power has reached the Snowball and it is ready to roll. For additional set-up information and FAQs about the Snowball, visit the Blue Microphones website at www. bluemic. com, then click on the Snowball link at the top of the home page. *While the Snowball has been designed to work effectively with a wide range of recording applications, we cannot guarantee full compatibility with all software on the market. If you are experiencing difficulties using the Snowball with a particular application, please contact the software manufacturer for assistance and technical support. Macintosh Setup Procedure: In system OSX: in the Apple menu, open SYSTEM PREFERENCES. Double click BLUE USB BALL MIC under CHOOSE A DEVICE FOR SOUND INPUT dialog box. In Windows XP Home Edition or XP Professional: Under START MENU open SOUNDS AND AUDIO DEVICES control panel. Select AUDIO tab; insure BLUE BALL USB MIC is selected as DEFAULT DEVICE. How do I get the most out of my Snowball? The following application hints are intended to give you a good starting point to get the most out of this unique audio tool. As with all applications however, there are no rules, only guidelines. You'll find that the omni capsule captures more of the room sound, while the cardioid capsule is more focused on what's right in front of it. Vocals Here's a little-known secret: vocalists love singing into unique and impressive mics like the Snowball. Put it in front of any singer and you're sure to get an inspired performance. For a "big" vocal sound, position the vocalist within one to four inches of the diaphragm. With the input volume properly adjusted in your computer's settings, there is no need to worry about overloading the microphone, but be sure to use a high-quality sonically neutral pop filter, such as the Blue Pop, to control plosives and protect the diaphragm. Tilt the microphone slightly upward (toward the forehead) for more projection and head tone, straight on at the mouth for maximum brightness and intelligibility, or down toward the chest for more robust full lows and smoother highs. We recommend starting out in position one -- or position two, which activates the -10dB PAD for real screamers. Electric Guitar Because of its neutral response and solid bottom end, the Snowball is an excellent mic for any clean or distorted guitar amp. Position the diaphragm toward the center of the speaker or dust cap to capture more highs, or toward the edge of the speaker cone for a fuller sound with more low end. For overdriven or distorted tones, move the mic towards the outer edge of the speaker cone, or back it away from the amp a foot or more to blend room tone with direct pickup and soften high frequencies. [. . . ] Orienting the diaphragm toward the shell will soften the sharp attack of a hand drum, or pick up more of the bright, crackling buzz from a snare drum. Moving the microphone closer to a drum generally increases the low end, shell resonance, and separation from other sound sources, while more distant placement emphasizes the interaction of the drum and the environment, producing a blended, airier sound. If you have multiple USB inputs available, try a pair of Snowballs as drum overheads! Saxophones, Flutes, and Reeds For soprano sax, clarinet, oboe and related instruments, position the Snowball directly above and in front of the keys between the middle of the horn and the lowest pads. Try moving the Snowball up or down along the length of the body to adjust the balance of airy highs (toward the mouthpiece) and cutting midrange (toward the bell). [. . . ]