Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone Instruction Manual

Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone

DESCRIPTION

The Studio Projects B1 condenser microphone is a large diaphragm cardioid microphone in a pressure-gradient transducer employing a high-quality transformerless design and extremely low noise. Studio Projects’ B1 will enhance any professional or project studio application at an unbelievably low price. As a result of uncompromising dedication and today’s advanced production abilities, Studio Projects has broken the barrier of quality vs price for today’s recording studio environment. Being versatile is the key in the recording arena, and Studio Projects B1 is no exception. Equipped with a true 1 inch 3 um gold sputtered large diaphragm in a pressure gradient transducer capsule, the B1 will deliver the finest quality of vocal and instrumentation recordings in a wide variety of applications while offering an natural extended transparent high-end, yet offer the thick-bodied low end expected from a quality microphone.

B1

The B1 is a high-quality true condenser pressure gradient microphone with a FET impedance converter. It is a large diaphragm microphone with a cardioid polar pattern and a 3-um capsule for natural reproduction of the vocal and instrument range. The B1 uses a transformerless circuit, that features extremely low noise and a wide dynamic range. The B1’s polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle. Signals coming from the side are reproduced accurately and without any coloration. The microphone capsule is immune to typical interference and outside contamination. The microphone is supplied with a shock mount, windscreen, and heavy-duty road case with locking latches.

SPECIFICATION

• Brand: Studio Projects
• Item model number:  B1
• Sensitivity: -34dB,(0dB=1V/Pa)
• Polar pattern: Cardioid.
• Frequency response: 20~20000Hz.
• Noise level: 12dB-A (IEC651).
• S/N ratio: 82 dB.
• Max. Output: 3.3V 0.5% THD @1000Hz at 1KOHM load impedance.
• Max. SPL: 137 dB
• Power requirement: 48 +/- 4V, 3mA.
• Accessories: Mic Clip clamp, Foam Windscreen.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX

• Microphone
• Instruction Manual

USING STUDIO PROJECT MICROPHONES

• Studio Projects is a high-quality true condenser pressure gradient microphone with a FET impedance converter. (NOTE, this is NOT an electret microphone).
• The capacitor element is manufactured to the classic ‘center electrode’ design which provides smooth extended frequency response without low-frequency boominess. Quality is further enhanced by using dynamic feedback at the capacitor element. This original technique eliminates distortions that can occur when using this type of microphone for high volume levels. The capacitor membrane is microfine 3 um ‘mylar’ with gold sputtering, voltage polarized by phantom power.
• The polar response is linear over a wide incidence angle, so signals coming from the side are reproduced without coloration. All models are supplied with an elastic shock mount system. Although the microphones are not particularly susceptible to sounds transmitted through the case, it is advisable to use this shock mount wherever possible.
• The B1 & B3 are more sensitive to sounds from the front than from the rear when used in the CARDIOD pattern. The front of the microphone is indicated by the Studio Projects logo. To get the best quality, be sure the sound source is in line with the front of the microphone. For vocals, a ‘nylon’ pop shield is recommended. AVOID using foam plastic ‘pop’ shields. These may be effective at stopping ‘popping’, but can also affect the working of the microphone so the sound is dulled. To get that classic early capacitor microphone sound, the singer should sing across the front of the microphone at a distance of 6″ to 24″ from the microphone.
• The B3 is a Multi-Pattern microphone that provides Cardioid, Omni, and Figure Eight patterns. These multiple patterns allow the user more flexibility in their recordings. The Omni pattern picks up sounds uniformly from all over the capsule, while Figure 8 rejects sounds from the sides (left/right). Using these patterns correctly will give the user a wide variety of recording applications.

ORIGINS AND MANUFACTURE

Studio Projects Microphones are manufactured in Beijing, China by 797 Audio to a specification created by Studio Projects, Torrance, California. All Studio Projects microphones are inspected and tested at the factory, then inspected and tested again at the PMI Audio Groups facility prior to shipping. Studio Projects microphones meet the requirements of electronic equipment sold in the USA, Canada, and the European Union. All Studio Projects products are CE Approved.

APPLICATIONS

• Close miking of instruments with high sound pressure levels
• Announcer’s mic for broadcasting/dubbing
• Home recording and project studios
• Vocalist recording
• Spot mic for wind instruments, strings, percussion, and guitar amps.

OPERATION

The B1 & B3 are capable of handling high sound volume levels so it can be used safely close to musical instrument amplifiers, however, the B1 is best suited for those high-volume applications. If the amplifier sound is very loud, this may overload the microphone amplifier. Simply adjust the level to the microphone or reposition it. It is a very low-noise microphone and suitable for vocal recording to the highest quality. The B1 and B3 are more suited for critical vocal recordings, strings, overheads, Broadcast, and production use. Experimentation is critical for optimum performance. Microphone placement is crucial to a proper recording.

The B1 & B3 are addressed from the front, marked with the Studio Projects logo. The large diaphragm capsule inside the head grille has a very smooth frequency response, therefore the acoustic information is not affected in its tonal quality when recorded by the microphone. The microphone maintains an excellent response reproducing all transient material of music and speech without coloration.

PROBLEMS

Should any microphone accidentally become damp and fail to operate properly (start crackling, or go very quiet) then place it in a warm and very dry environment for 24 hours. The ideal environment is an airing cupboard. Studio Projects are extremely resistant to physical damage, but if the microphone fails to work after being dropped, it should be returned in adequate packing to the supplier. A double test and inspection system means that manufacturing faults are non-existent but should any fault occur, it will be repaired (or replaced) free of charge except where the fault has been caused by physical damage.

CARE

Although the “mylar” membrane on the capacitor is more robust than the gold foil used by the original German designs of the 1930s, it is extremely fine and liable to damage if mishandled. There are two safety factors that MUST be remembered when handling these microphones:

1. Keep the microphone dry.
2. Avoid wind or air blasts directly onto the capsule.
3. Avoid shaking the microphone. The B series uses a floating isolation mount that houses the capsule. The housing eliminates vibrations but is not a stiff mount. Shaking will cause a knocking sound inside your microphone and should be avoided.

All electronic equipment should be kept dry, but it is even more important to avoid any damp conditions when using high-quality condenser microphones. Damp can cause partial short circuits in the polarizing voltage, this will cause crackling noises and low output. The most important instruction for condenser microphones is NEVER blown at the capsule. Damage caused by the blast of air on the capsule is often permanent and requires the complete replacement of the capacitor element (capsule). Never use the microphone in the open air without substantial wind protection.

STUDIO PROJECTS LIMITED WARRANTY

THIS PRODUCT IS FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY

PMI Audio Group warrants that all products will be free from defects in material or workmanship:

• A: For a period of (1) one year from the date of purchase (hereinafter the labor warranty period), PMI Audio Group will repair or replace this Product if determined to be defective. After the expiration of the labor warranty period, the Purchaser must pay labor charges.
• B: In addition, PMI Audio Group will supply, at no charge, replacements for defective parts for a period of (one year) from the date of purchase. During the labor warranty period, to repair the Product, the Purchaser must return the defective Product, freight prepaid, or deliver it to PMI Audio Group Service Center. The product to be repaired is to be returned in either its original carton or a similar package affording an equal degree of production. PMI Audio Group will return the repaired Product freight prepaid to the Purchaser. PMI Audio Group is not obligated to provide the Purchaser with a substitute unit during the warranty period or at any time.

CONDITIONS

1. Notification of claims: Warranty Service: If Purchaser discovers that the Product has proven defective in material or workmanship, then written notice with an explanation of the claim shall be given promptly by Purchaser to PMI but all claims for warranty service must be made within the warranty period. If after investigation PMI determines that the reported problem was not covered by the warranty, Purchaser shall pay PMI for the cost of investigating the problem at its then prevailing time-and-materials rate. No repair or replacement by the Purchaser of any Product or part thereof shall extend the warranty period to the entire Product. The specific warranty on the repaired part only shall be in effect for a period of ninety (90) days following the repair or replacement of that part or the remaining period of the Product warranty, whichever is greater.
2. Exclusive Remedy: Acceptance: Purchaser’s exclusive remedy and PMI’s sole obligation is to supply (or pay for) all labor necessary to repair any product found to be defective within the warranty period and to supply, at no extra charge, new or rebuilt replacements for defective parts. If repair or replacement fails to remedy the defect, then and only in such an event, shall PMI exchange to Purchaser a new or reconditioned unit. Purchaser’s failure to make a claim as provided in paragraph 1 above or continued use of the product shall constitute an unqualified acceptance of such Product and a waiver by Purchaser of all claims thereto.
3. Exceptions to Limited warranty: PMI shall have no liability or obligation to Purchaser with respect to any Product subjected to abuse, improper use, negligence, accident, modification, failure of the end-user to follow the operating and maintenance procedures outlined in the users manual, attempted repair by non-qualified personnel, operation of the unit outside of the published environmental and electrical parameters, or if such products’ original identification (trademark, serial number) markings have been defaced, altered, or removed. PMI excludes from warranty coverage, Products sold AS IS and/or WITH ALL FAULTS and excludes used products that have not been sold by PMI to the Purchaser. PMI also excludes from the warranty coverage, Products sold or located outside of the United States and Puerto Rico, and consumables(such as fuses and batteries).
4. Proof of purchase: The dealer’s dated bill of sale must be retained as evidence of the date of purchase and to establish warranty eligibility.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY

EXCEPT FOR THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES, PMI HEREBY DISCLAIM S AND EXCLUDES ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR LIMITED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY/OR ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND/OR ANY WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO ANY CLAIM OF INFRINGEMENT THAT MAY BE PROVED IN SECTION 2-312(3) OF THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE AND/OR IN ANY COMPARABLE STATE STATUE. PMI HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTY THAT THE PRODUCT IS COMPATIBLE WITH ANY COMBINATION OF NON-JOEMEEK PRODUCTS PURCHASER MAY CHOOSE TO CONNECT TO THE PRODUCT.

LIMITATION ON LIABILITY

THE LIABILITY OF PMI, IF ANY, AND THE PURCHASER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR  DAMAGES FOR ANY CLAIM OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER, REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY WHETHER ARISING IN TORT OR CONTRACT, SHALL NOT BE GREATER THAN THE ACTUAL PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT WITH RESPECT TO WHICH SUCH CLAIM IS MADE. IN NO EVENT SHALL PMI BE LIABLE TO THE PURCHASER FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COMPENSATION, REIMBURSEMENT, OR DAMAGES ON ACCOUNT OF THE LOSS OF PRESENT OR PROSPECTIVE PROFITS OR ANY OTHER REASON WHATSOEVER.

PMI AUDIO GROUP

23775 Madison Street, Torrance, CA 90505 voice 310-373-9129 Facsimile 310-373-4714 toll-free USA 877-563-6335

Email info@pmiaudio.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone?

The Studio Projects B1 is a vocal condenser microphone known for its versatility and high-quality sound capture, designed for studio and live sound applications.

What are the key features of the Studio Projects B1 microphone?

The Studio Projects B1 microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern, a large diaphragm capsule, a wide frequency response, and a high sensitivity level, making it suitable for vocals and instruments.

Is the Studio Projects B1 suitable for recording vocals?

Yes, the Studio Projects B1 is an excellent choice for recording vocals, providing clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it ideal for singers, podcasters, and voice-over artists.

Can I use it for instrument recording?

Absolutely, the Studio Projects B1 is versatile for instrument recording, capturing acoustic instruments, guitar amps, drums, and more with precision.

Does the Studio Projects B1 microphone require additional audio interfaces or drivers?

No, the Studio Projects B1 is typically a plug-and-play microphone and does not require additional audio interfaces or drivers; simply connect it to your audio interface or mixer.

Is there a headphone monitoring feature?

No, the Studio Projects B1 microphone itself does not include a headphone monitoring feature. You would need a separate audio interface or mixer with headphone monitoring capabilities for this.

What is the frequency response of the Studio Projects B1 microphone?

The microphone typically has a frequency response of 20 Hz - 20 kHz, capturing a wide range of audio frequencies with accuracy.

Is there an adjustable gain control on the microphone?

No, the Studio Projects B1 microphone does not typically have an adjustable gain control. Gain control is usually handled by the connected audio interface or mixer.

What is the weight and dimensions of the Studio Projects B1 microphone?

The Studio Projects B1 microphone is a compact and lightweight microphone with dimensions of approximately 15 x 4 x 9 inches and a weight of 4 pounds.

Is it suitable for live performances?

While primarily designed for studio use, some users may use the Studio Projects B1 for live performances in controlled sound environments.

Can I use it with recording software and DAWs?

Yes, the Studio Projects B1 is compatible with various recording software and digital audio workstations (DAWs) on both Windows and Mac platforms.

Is there a carrying case included for transport and storage?

The Studio Projects B1 microphone package may include a protective carrying case for convenient transport and safe storage.

What type of connector does it use?

The Studio Projects B1 typically uses an XLR connector, which is a common standard for professional microphones and audio equipment.

Is there a warranty for the Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone?

Studio Projects often provides a limited warranty for the Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone; warranties often range from 6 months tu 1 year or more.

Where can I purchase the Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone?

You can typically purchase the Studio Projects B1 Vocal Condenser Microphone from authorized Studio Projects dealers, music stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive a genuine product.

Can I use it for podcasting and broadcast?

Yes, the Studio Projects B1 microphone is suitable for podcasting and broadcast applications, offering high-quality audio capture for professional- quality recordings.

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