Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone User Manual
- June 13, 2024
- TURNSTILE AUDIO
Table of Contents
Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
DESCRIPTION
The Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone is a microphone of professional quality that has been tuned for voice recording, podcasting, and broadcasting applications. It has a hyper-cardioid polar pattern, which successfully reduces background noise, and it contains easy settings such as a low-cut switch, which gets rid of undesirable noise, and a mid-range boost switch, which improves speech clarity. This microphone boasts an elegant appearance and solid construction, and in addition to producing a sound that is pure and natural, it possesses the adaptability required for a variety of broadcasting and recording applications.
SPECIFICATION
- Brand: Turnstile Audio
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Special Feature: Stand
- Compatible Devices: Speaker
- Color: Black
- Included Components: What’s in the box:
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 2.8 Pounds
- Microphone Form Factor: Table Array
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Frequency Response: 10 KHz
- Product Dimensions: 12.5 x 9.3 x 3.6 inches
- Item model number: TAP500
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
- Turnstile Audio TAP500 Hyper Cardioid Microphone
- Shock Mount
- Windscreen
- Pouch
- Turnstile Audio 2-Year Limited Warranty
- User Manual
FEATURES
- Polar Pattern: This microphone uses a cardioid pattern, prioritizing sound from the front while reducing background noise from the sides and rear.
- Dynamic Design: Being a dynamic microphone, it’s durable and capable of handling high sound levels, making it a great choice for broadcasting and recording.
- Enhanced Directionality: It offers an option for a hyper-cardioid pattern, providing even more effective background noise reduction and precise sound capture.
- Noise Reduction: It comes with a low-cut switch to minimize undesirable low-frequency noise, ensuring clearer audio.
- Vocal Clarity: The mid-range boost switch focuses on enhancing vocal clarity in the 6kHz to 10kHz frequency range, making voices more prominent.
- Sturdy Construction: Built for longevity and resilience, it features a rugged build suitable for professional applications.
- Versatile Usage: Designed to excel in broadcasting, podcasting, voice recording, and various audio tasks.
- User-Friendly Controls: Conveniently placed switches for easy adjustments to adapt to different recording environments.
- Modern Aesthetics: Its sleek and contemporary design adds a professional aesthetic to any recording setup.
HOW TO USE
- Connection: Connect the microphone to a suitable XLR input on your audio equipment, such as an audio interface, mixer, or recording device.
- Phantom Power: If necessary, ensure that phantom power is supplied to the microphone.
- Placement: Position the microphone on a stable surface, stand, or shock mount at your preferred height and orientation.
- Windscreen: If provided, attach the windscreen to reduce plosive sounds during recording.
- Recording Software: Launch your recording software and configure the microphone as the input source.
- Monitoring: Use headphones or speakers to monitor the audio while recording or performing.
- Gain Control: Adjust the microphone gain on your recording equipment to manage input levels.
- Distance: Experiment with microphone distance from the sound source to achieve your desired sound capture.
- Storage: After use, store the microphone in a dry environment and protect it from dust and moisture.
MAINTENANCE
- Cleaning: Regularly wipe the microphone’s exterior using a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Clean the grille and windscreen gently if necessary.
- Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in a protective case or pouch to prevent damage and dust accumulation.
- Cable Inspection: Examine the microphone cable for visible damage or wear and replace it if required.
- Shock Mount and Accessories: Check the shock mount and other provided accessories for signs of damage or wear.
- Connector Care: Ensure the XLR connector is clean and undamaged to maintain a secure connection.
- Windscreen Maintenance: If a windscreen is included, keep it clean and free from dirt or moisture.
- Phantom Power: Confirm whether the microphone necessitates phantom power and use it as needed.
- Professional Servicing: For important applications, consider periodic professional maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
- Environmental Protection: Safeguard the microphone from extreme temperatures and humidity to prevent potential harm.
- Transportation: When moving the microphone, use a carrying case or pouch to shield it from shocks and impacts.
TROUBLESHOOTING
- No Sound Output: Inspect cable connections and verify the microphone is correctly plugged into a compatible input on your audio equipment.
- Low Volume: Adjust the microphone gain or input level on your audio gear to increase volume if it’s too low.
- Distorted Audio: Reduce microphone gain if you experience audio distortion or clipping.
- Interference or Noise: Investigate nearby sources of interference and reposition the microphone away from potential sources of electromagnetic interference.
- Feedback: Modify microphone placement and monitor positioning to prevent feedback during recording or performances.
- Phantom Power Issues: Ensure phantom power is correctly applied if the microphone requires it.
- Compatibility Check: Confirm that your audio equipment (e.g., audio interface, mixer) is compatible with the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone.
- Unusual Sounds: If you hear unusual noises (e.g., crackling or buzzing), check cable connections and cables for damage.
- Microphone Placement: Experiment with microphone placement to achieve the desired sound and minimize background noise.
- Professional Assistance: If issues persist, reach out to Turnstile Audio customer support or a qualified technician for help.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone?
The Turnstile Audio TAP500 is a cardioid dynamic broadcast microphone known for its durability and broadcast-quality audio capture, designed for professional broadcast and podcasting applications.
What are the key features of the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone?
The Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern, a dynamic capsule, low handling noise, and a wide frequency response, making it ideal for broadcast, podcasting, and voice-over work.
Is the Turnstile Audio TAP500 suitable for recording vocals?
Yes, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 is an excellent choice for recording vocals, delivering clear and professional sound quality, making it a top choice for broadcasters and podcasters.
Can I use it for instrument recording?
While it's primarily designed for vocals and speech, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 can also be used for instrument recording, particularly for capturing acoustic instruments and guitar amps.
Does the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone require additional audio interfaces or drivers?
No, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 is typically a plug-and-play microphone and does not require additional audio interfaces or drivers; simply connect it to your audio mixer or interface.
Is there a headphone monitoring feature?
No, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone itself does not include a headphone monitoring feature. You would need a separate audio mixer or device with headphone monitoring capabilities for this.
What is the frequency response of the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone?
The microphone typically has a frequency response of 6kHz to 10kHz, capturing a wide range of audio frequencies with clarity.
Is there an adjustable gain control on the microphone?
No, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone does not typically have an adjustable gain control. Gain control is usually handled by the connected audio mixer or interface.
What is the weight and dimensions of the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone?
The Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone is a compact and lightweight microphone with dimensions of approximately 12.5 x 9.3 x 3.6 inches and a weight of 2.8 Pounds.
Is it suitable for live performances?
While primarily designed for studio and broadcast use, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 can be used for live performances in controlled sound environments.
Can I use it with recording software and DAWs?
Yes, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 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 Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone package may include a protective carrying case for convenient transport and safe storage.
What type of connector does it use?
The Turnstile Audio TAP500 typically uses an XLR connector, which is a common standard for professional microphones and audio equipment.
Is there a warranty for the Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone?
Turnstile Audio often provides a limited warranty for the Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone; warranties often range from 6 months tu 1 year or more.
Where can I purchase the Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone?
You can typically purchase the Turnstile Audio TAP500 Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone from authorized Turnstile Audio dealers, professional audio stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive a genuine product.
Is it suitable for professional broadcast applications?
Yes, the Turnstile Audio TAP500 microphone is designed for professional broadcast applications and delivers broadcast-quality audio for radio, podcasts, and voice-over work.