Topic: Windtech windscreens - shedding color?

[Massive Dynamic]

I picked up a pair of Windtech 1200 from Full Compass for my new Beyerdynamic mics. I stored them on the mics inside of a plastic storage case padded with some generic 1/2" foam. I was surprised to see the black spots where the windscreens had been in contact with the natural color foam. Should I be concerned?

[johnw]

Windscreens do shed and the particles will get stuck to the diaphragms on your microphones. I doubt the microphones are ruined, and its unlikely you'd even notice a sonic difference, but I'd pitch them and replace them with new ones.

[OOK]

I wash my screens once every few months with hot soapy water.... they stay clean and I haven't noticed any shedding...

[Massive Dynamic]

So, these brand new screens are trash? To be clear, it's just pigment, not flakes. The screens are not deteriorating or old. Should brand new screens be washed before using?

[OOK]

Nope not trash....  Washed or not...thats a judgement call..  I do and have never had a problem...  although I have never washed my big ass shures becasue of the diference in internal course foam....  but single foam types like the wind techs shouldn't be a problem. I have the original pair I bought since recirding...  and they still look great.  Certianly dry them thoroughly before using or storing...  ook

[flipp]

Could be some residual chemicals in the natural foam that are reacting with the dye in the Windtechs. If there is no visible sheding from the Windtechs consider replacing the natural foam with something else or laying some 100% cotton fabric between the two foams. Or wash and thoroughly dry both the windscreens and the natural foam then use a cloth to separate the two when back in the container.

[johnw]

Didn't realize they were brand new. It looks like bad shedding from the picture, but its hard to tell. Regardless of what it is, there are fine particles of something (pigment or foam) coming off the windscreens and these particles could theoretically stick to the diaphragm of your microphones. You can try washing them, but if it was me, I'd buy a new pair or return them since the screens are pretty inexpensive compared to the microphones.