CARVIN CM-87S Large Diaphragm Condenser Mic User Manual

CARVIN CM-87S Large Diaphragm Condenser Mic

CM-87S Large Diaphragm Condenser Mic

Specifications:

• Frequency Range: 30Hz-20kHz
• Dynamic Range: 133dB
• Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
• Max SPL: 135dB (145dB with 10dB pad)
• Pad Switch: 10dB
• Low Cut Switch: -6dB @ 80Hz
• Shockmount: eliminates low freq. vibration & handling noise (-72 dB below 40Hz)
• Power Supply: 48V (Included)
• Cable: 30 ft. Oxygen-free copper cable
• Mic Dimensions: 7.5L x 2.75W
• Mic Weight: 1.2 lbs
• Case: Custom aluminum flight case
• Flight Case Dimensions: 15.75W x 11D x 4.75H

Product Usage Instructions

Receiving Inspection:
Before getting started, inspect your CM-87S microphone for any damage that may have occurred during shipping. If any damage is found, please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.

Check List of Parts:

• CM-87S microphone
• 48V phantom power supply
• AC cable for power supply
• XLR mic cable
• Shockmount
• Soft carry pouch for mic
• Aluminum flight case

Getting Started Quickly:
If you want to get started right away, follow these steps:

1. Get your new CM-87S mic, XLR Mic Cable, CPS-48 phantom power supply, and a 120V AC grounded power outlet.
2. Attach the Shockmount to a microphone stand.
3. Plug the CPS-48 phantom power supply into the proper AC voltage.
4. With the power off, connect the XLR mic cable to the MIC IN on the power supply.
5. Place your CM-87S mic into the shockmount and connect the XLR mic cable to the CM-87S mic.
6. Use a second XLR cable (not included) to connect the OUTPUT of the power supply to your input source (e.g., mixer, multi-track recorder).
7. Turn the power supply ON (ensure all volume, gain knobs, or faders on your input source are turned OFF).
8. Set the input source’s volume or fader to 0 dB. Test the level by speaking into the mic.
9. Gradually increase the mixer’s gain on this channel until just before the signal peaks.
10. Check for transients that can cause the signal to peak by speaking or singing at the loudest volume you will perform at. Adjust the gain up or down as necessary.
11. Once signal levels are set, adjust any EQ that might be needed.
12. You are now ready to record with your CM-87S mic.

FAQ :

• Q: Where can I find the full manual for the CM-87S microphone?
  A: You can find the full manual for the CM-87S microphone at https://manual- hub.com/.

• Q: How can I contact CARVIN for support or inquiries?
  A: You can contact CARVIN at 12340 World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA 92128, or call them at 800-854-2235. You can also visit their website at www.carvin.com.

• Q: What is the shockmount used for?
  A: The shockmount is used to eliminate low-frequency vibrations and handling noise, providing a cleaner recording.

CARVIN ENGINEERING DATA CM-87S Large Diaphragm Condenser Mic OPERATING MANUAL

• Congratulations on your purchase of the CM-87S microphone.
• This large diaphragm mic is a precision device that will provide accurate recordings of vocals and instruments. A power supply, shock mount and cables are also included along with an aluminum flight case. Please take the time to verify that all components are included with your CM-87S microphone.

RECEIVING INSPECTION—read before getting started

• INSPECT YOUR MIC FOR ANY DAMAGE which may have occurred during shipping. If any damage is found, please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.
• SAVE THE CARTON & ALL PACKING MATERIALS. In the event you have to re-ship your unit, always use the original carton and packing material. This will provide the best possi-ble protection during shipment. CARVIN and the shipping company are not liable for any damage caused by improper packing.
• SAVE YOUR INVOICE. It will be required for warranty service if needed in the future. RECORD THE SERIAL NUMBER on the enclosed warranty card or below on this manual for your records. Keep your portion of the card and return the portion with your name and comments to us.

CHECK LIST OF PARTS

CM-87S microphone 48v phantom power supply AC cable for power supply XLR mic cable Shockmount Soft carry pouch for mic Aluminum flight case
For your records, you may wish to record the following information.

• Serial No._____
• Invoice Date___

GETTING STARTED QUICKLY

If you are like most people, you probably want to get started right away. Great! You can read the rest of the manual later to learn the finer points of recording with a condenser mic. In order to get started, you will need your new CM-87S mic and XLR Mic Cable, CPS-48 phantom power supply and a 120 V AC grounded power outlet. You will also need a micro-phone stand to attach the Shockmount to hold your CM-87S mic. Other equipment needed may include more XLR cables to connect to a mixer or recording device.

1. Plug the CPS-48 phantom power supply into the proper AC voltage.
2. With the power off, connect the XLR mic cable to the MIC IN on the power supply.
3. With the Shockmount connected to a mic stand, place your CM-87S mic into the shockmount and connect the XLR mic cable to the CM-87S mic.
4. Next, you will need a second XLR cable (not included) to connect the OUTPUT of the power supply to your input source (ie. mixer, multi-track recorder etc…).
5. Once connected, you can turn the power supply ON (make sure all volume, gain knobs, or faders on your input source are turned OFF).
6. Bring the input source’s volume or fader up to 0 dB. Speak into the mic to test the level.
7. Turn the mixer’s gain up on this channel and stop just before the signal peaks.
8. Check for transients that can cause the signal to peak by speaking or singing at the loudest volume you will perform at and adjust the gain up or down as necessary.
9. With the signal levels set, adjust any EQ that might be needed.
10. You are now ready to record with your CM-87S mic.

MODEL CM-87S SPECIFICATIONS

• Freq. Range: 30Hz-20k Hz
• Dynamic Range: 133 dB
• Output Imp: 200 Ohms
• Max SPL: 135dB (145dB with 10dB pad)
• Pad Switch: 10dB
• Low Cut Switch: -6dB @ 80Hz
• Shockmount: eliminates low freq. vibration &
• handling noise (-72 dB below 40Hz)
• Power Supply: 48V (Included)
• Cable: 30 ft. Oxygen-free copper cable
• Mic Dimensions: 7.5”L x 2.75”W
• Mic Weight: 1.2 lbs
• Case: Custom aluminum flight case
• Flight Case Dim: 15.75” W x 11”D x 4.75”H

12340 World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA 92128
800-854-2235
www.carvin.com

CM-87S CONSTRUCTION AND CARE

• CM-87 Introduction:
  The CM-87S is a studio quality, multi-purpose Large Diaphragm Condenser microphone. It features a Gold Sputtered, 6 micron ele-ment and premium, low noise electronics, all suspended in a handsome, rock solid, machined casing. The CM-87S also features a 10 dB pad switch for easy handling of really hot signals and a low cut switch for reducing hum, rumble, wind and handling noise. This versatile microphone was developed with the project studio in mind; so it is equally adept at reproducing stunning vocal performances as it is at capturing the subtlest nuances of a fine acoustic guitar. And with a maximum SPL of 135dB (145 dB with 10dB pad switch engaged), the CM-87S is also an excellent instru-ment and percussion microphone. You no longer have to own a million dollar studio to get the sound the big boys get. The Carvin CM-87S is your affordable ticket to awesome studio sound!

• Construction and Shockmount:
  The internally braced CM-87 capsule is precision mounted behind a heavy mesh screen of perforated metal with large open-ings that offers complete protection while maintaining total “acoustic transparency”. Nestled below, is the low noise, class A circuitry surrounded by the solid, machined outer shell. When used with the low cut switch on along with the included Shockmount, low fre-quency vibration and handling noise are virtually eliminated (-72 dB below 40Hz)!

• Power Supply:

  • The CM-87S comes standard with the heavy duty CPS-48 phan-tom power supply, ensuring you will never experience noise or dis-tortion during loud dynamic passages due to insufficient current. The power supply connects to the CM-87S conveniently via the included XLR mic cable.
  • *Note: While the CM-87S will operate from any professional qual-ity 48V phantom power supply, we recommend using the CPS-48 unless you are absolutely sure about the quality of an alternate phan-tom power supply. The Carvin S/L mixing consoles will also pro-vide the proper 48V phantom power and are designed to be used with the CM-87S. Carvin is not responsible for damage to your CM-87S caused by a non Carvin power supply.

• Flight Case:
  The CM-87S, shockmount, power supply and cables, all fit snugly and safely in a high grade, aluminum alloy flight case so you know your microphone and accessories are well protected between ses-sions or during travel. Carvin recommends returning your CM-87S to this case after each use.

• Care and Feeding:

  • Condenser microphones do not like to be banged, dropped, tapped, blown into, shaken or stirred. The gold sputtered element is very thin and fragile and can easily be stretched or knocked out of align-ment. This is true of all large diaphragm condensers. Be very care-ful with your CM-87S! If you drop it from any distance, the resulting damage will not be covered under your warranty.
  • Additionally, these mics don’t like moisture. It is always advis-able to use a pop screen (Carvin part #WS87)when micing vocals to avoid not only overly accentuated “P”, “B”, and “S” sounds, but also to keep unwanted moisture off of the element. Over time, mois-ture on the element can attract airborne dust and dirt particles and gradually degrade the performance of your mic. Carvin advises that the microphone be kept in its flight case at all times when not in use. Take a few minutes after every session and put your mic away properly to help ensure years of top notch performance. Additionally, always make sure the silicone “moisture absorber” (little white packet with crystals in it) is packed in the case with your microphone. This will help to eliminate any moisture or humidity in the case during storage. You can re-activate a saturated “moisture absorber” by baking it in an oven at 250 degrees for about 30 minutes. The outer shell of your mic can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth. Do not use harsh detergents, solvents, or abrasive materials.

1. Shockmount
   The shockmount will fit any standard mic stand. It is designed to hold the CM- 87S mic while reducing low frequency vibration and handling noise.

2. Low cut switch
   The Low Cut switch helps eliminate boomy low end frequencies (-6dB @ 80Hz)

3. 10dB pad switch
   This switch changes the mic’s maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 135 dB to 145 dB. Switch to an SPL of 145 dB when recording loud sources.

4. XLR cable connector
   Connect only balanced XLR cables.

STUDIO SET UP

• The illustration below shows the standard set up in a recording studio. The shockmount should be set on a round or tripod base mic stand. The CM-87S should always set in the shockmount to eliminate any noise or vibrations from the floor or walls. The phantom power supply should be connected to a 120 V AC outlet. Be sure the power supply is properly grounded and never defeat the ground on the AC plug. The XLR mic cables should be connected to the MIC IN on the power supply and then connected to the CM-87S mic. High quality XLR cables (like the one provided) should always be used. The OUTPUT jack on the power supply will pass the mic’s signal to the MIC input on a mixer. Always disable any phantom power that may be present on the mixer as you will be using an external source for phantom power.
• Many professionals use a compressor/limiter when recording. They are ideal for eliminating transient signals. Transients are those quick changes in volume that can cause a performance to sound too loud in some areas. A compressor/limiter will keep the signal at a constant volume while limiting any peak signals. The result is a “hot” and constant signal that is ideal for both vocal performances and recording. The illustration below shows a typical set-up for inserting a compressor/limiter.
• With today’s high quality digital audio hardware, recording at home has never been so widespread and affordable! When recording to a digital or analog format of any kind, be sure to adjust your mixer or input source to produce the strongest signal without clipping or distorting. This will give you the best sounding recording.

RECORDING TIPS

• Lead Vocals
  For micing vocals, the element should be close to the height of the singer’s mouth while in a normal, comfortable singing position, although, some vocalists prefer the microphone slightly elevated. While proper mic positioning is important for good sound, a relaxed, comfortable singer is more important, so position the mic to the singer’s liking (within reason!). Typically 6 to 12 inches away from the mic is ideal for lead vocals, but feel free to experiment. Every mic has a “sweet spot” where the voice reproduction sounds best. That spot is unique for each voice! Experiment with distances to arrive at the “sweet spot”. When getting in close to the mic, remember to use a pop screen to prevent “popping” your “P’s” and excessive moisture from hitting the mic element.

• Background Vocals
  If you want the feeling of distance or space, move the mic further away. Just be aware that as you get further away, you may need more gain to achieve the desired recording levels. And with more gain comes the possibility of picking up unwanted back-ground noise. When recording multiple vocalists on one mic, test each person’s levels individually before recording them together. If one vocalist is louder than the other, have that person take one step back. Repeat this process until all vocalists can be recorded at even levels with a single mic.

• Recording Instruments
  For instrument or percussion micing, there really is no right or wrong placement except when you are recording multiple instruments, where proper “close micing” techniques must be used to prevent excessive “bleed-through” between instrument tracks. Never be afraid to try various positions or angles. Feel free to change the acoustic properties of the recording environment by using sound absorbent panels and materials. Additionally, try using multiple CM-87S’s at different placements and distances. Example: When micing an electric guitar cabinet, try using one CM-87S up close (within several inches of the speaker) and another CM-87S at a further distance as an “ambience” mic. You will achieve a totally different sound than with one mic alone. Micing an acoustic guitar can be a whole art in itself. Start out by placing the mic near the sound hole. Try moving the mic closer to the bridge of the guitar for a brighter sound and closer to the neck and sound hole to add low end frequencies. Using a second mic at a distance can again give you a totally different sound on tape. The different sound possibilities are limited only by your creativity and imagination!

IMPORTANT! FOR YOUR PROTECTION, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:

• WATER AND MOISTURE: Appliance should not be used near water (near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc). Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
• POWER SOURCES: The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
• GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.
• POWER CORD PROTECTION: Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
• SERVICING: The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
• FUSING: If your unit is equipped with a fuse receptacle, replace only with the same type fuse. Refer to replacement text on the unit for correct fuse type.

LIMITED WARRANTY

• Your Carvin product is guaranteed against failure for ONE YEAR unless otherwise stated. Carvin will service and supply all parts at no charge to the customer providing the unit is under warranty. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. CARVIN DOES NOT PAY FOR PARTS OR SERVICING OTHER THAN OUR OWN. A COPY OF THE ORIGINAL INVOICE IS REQUIRED TO VERIFY YOUR WARRANTY. This warranty does not cover, and no liability is assumed, for damage due to: dropping, moisture damage, accidents, abuse, natural disasters, loss of parts, lack of reasonable care, incorrect use, or failure to follow instructions. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied. No representative or person is authorized to represent or assume for Carvin any liability in connection with the sale or servicing of Carvin products. CARVIN SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSE-QUENTIAL DAMAGES.
• When RETURNING merchandise to the factory, you may call for a return authorization number. Describe the problem in writing.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (EUROPEAN)

• The conductors in the AC power cord are colored in accordance with the following code.
• GREEN & YELLOW —Earth BLUE—Neutral BROWN—Live
• U.K. MAIN PLUG WARNING: A molded main plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe. NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERTA DAMAGED OR CUT MAIN PLUG INTO A POWER SOCKET.

References

• Carvin Audio Great Sounding Gear For Musicians and Sound Professionals
• Manual-Hub.com – Free PDF manuals!

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