The most common microphones I use on corporate events are Shure wireless SM58, WL185 Lavalier, and wired MX418. I created three EQ snapshots using a mic compare measurement in Smaart for a more transparent starting point.

What is a mic compare measurement?

In the same way that we use the transfer function measurement in Smaart to observe changes to our mix as it passes through speakers and the air, we can also observe changes to the source as it passes through microphones.

To do this, first position the mics so that their capsules are as close as possible to each other. It’s often easiest to place them on-axis with each other with the source at 90º.

Connect the monitor output of your mix console to an input of your audio interface. Create a new transfer function measurement pair using the console’s monitor output as the measurement signal and your measurement mic as the reference signal.

Start the measurement and signal generator in Smaart.

On the mix console, hit solo on the mic channel that you want to measure (sending it to the monitor buss), flatten the EQ, and turn up the monitor output until the measurement trace in Smaart centers around 0dB. For better data on global trends, create an average from several mics like I did.

Creating the snapshot

Adjust the channel EQ to your satisfaction.

Keep in mind that many (most?) microphones include purpose built non-linearities like helpful EQ enhancements. Think every kick mic you’ve ever used.

Here’s an RE320 I measured. I chose to make no EQ changes because I listened to it in headphones and the room and it sounded great.

Shure SM58

Here’s the pre and post EQ measurement for the SM58.

Here’s the manufacturer’s specification.

Here’s the EQ I came up for a more transparent response.

And here’s the EQ I settled on after listening on a show. You can download all of the snapshots here.

Shure 185

Here’s the pre and post EQ measurement for the 185 capsule.

I couldn’t find the manufacturer’s specification. If you have it, let me know.

Here’s the EQ I came up for a more transparent response.

And here’s the EQ I settled on after listing on a show. You can download all of the snapshots for X/M32 here.

Shure MX412

Here’s the pre and post EQ measurement for the MX412.

I couldn’t find the manufacturer’s specification. If you have it, let me know.

Here’s the EQ I came up for a more transparent response.

And here’s the EQ I settled on after listing on a show. You can download all of the snapshots here.

Have you tried a mic compare measurement? What were your results?

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