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Gear / Technical Help => Microphones & Setup => Topic started by: Belexes on October 01, 2007, 08:21:10 PM

Title: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on October 01, 2007, 08:21:10 PM
The SP-CMC-8's (AT943's) may now officially collect dust.  I am very happy with the results of these mics that I just purchased.

Someone wanted a sample:

Lineage: MM-HLSC-1 (9' on SP T-bar w/windscreens) > ST-9100 > R-09 (16/44) > Cool Edit Pro (Normalize to -1 dB > MP3 for the sample

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=HH2NXE37

Thanks to Arni for sending me his samples that helped in my decision.  I was debating over these or the SP-CMC-4 low sens.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: firebaugh on October 01, 2007, 08:59:16 PM
I've recorded about a half dozen shows and I've been happy with mine.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: attheshow on October 01, 2007, 09:06:55 PM
Don't let the CMC-8's collect dust. Sell them to me.  ;D They might not sound as nice as your new Sennheisers, but they'll be quite an improvement over my ECM-719.  :-[
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: dennisrtyler on October 01, 2007, 09:08:16 PM
The SP-CMC-8's (AT943's) may now officially collect dust.  I am very happy with the results of these mics that I just purchased.

Someone wanted a sample:

Lineage: MM-HLSC-1 (9' on SP T-bar w/windscreens) > ST-9100 > R-09 (16/44) > Cool Edit Pro (Normalize to -1 dB > MP3 for the sample

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=HH2NXE37

Thanks to Arni for sending me his samples that helped in my decision.  I was debating over these or the SP-CMC-4 low sens.
damn what is the procedure for downloading from megaupload? i keep getting the runaround. i enter the 3 letter code and click download, wait the 45 secs and then click the download link and then get taken to a page of advertising. what am i doing wrong?

ok i got it :P
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: larrysellers on October 01, 2007, 09:13:41 PM
I love mine.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: dennisrtyler on October 01, 2007, 09:29:21 PM
very nice! could you post a sample of a song with considerable bass? TIA
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on October 01, 2007, 10:10:47 PM
very nice! could you post a sample of a song with considerable bass? TIA

Bass: (lots of kick drum, but the bass guitar wasn't very up front in the mix)
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=Y98M6N8Y

Band:
http://gregwatersmusic.com/

Festival:
http://www.octoberfestonline.org/entertainment.htm

Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: dennisrtyler on October 01, 2007, 10:17:50 PM
very nice! could you post a sample of a song with considerable bass? TIA

Bass: (lots of kick drum, but the bass guitar wasn't very up front in the mix)
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=Y98M6N8Y

Band:
http://gregwatersmusic.com/

Festival:
http://www.octoberfestonline.org/entertainment.htm


awesome, thanks!
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 02, 2007, 05:34:42 AM
Great stuff!! Samples sounds awesome, real clear and great clarity.

I can't show my appreciation just yet as I'm yet to tape with them, but I'll be taping next friday with them for the first time since I got them.

Can't wait to see what results I get (Hopefully, I'll pull a cracker!)  ;D


Thanks for the samples, appreciated very much.


P.S. Just wondering, what kind of venue was it? Small club/pub gig, arena, etc... Also, what was your position in the venue? thanks!
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: tod3sschu3tze on October 02, 2007, 07:15:34 AM
i am so happy with these mics, too.
using them in smaller clubs for metal/hardcore shows.
needed a long time to find the right mics for this needs (bass resistance etc.)

here's a sample:

UNEARTH (came out good, but vocals were pretty quite): http://www.megaupload.com/?d=R80QHT0T

only thing is: not first choice for stealthing, a bit too big in my eyes ... but up to now i didnt attract attention to security guys.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on October 02, 2007, 07:33:47 AM

P.S. Just wondering, what kind of venue was it? Small club/pub gig, arena, etc... Also, what was your position in the venue? thanks!


Outdoors with no cover, about 35 feet from the stage, DFC.  The mix position was further back behind a big tree, so I was hesitant on going back that far.  I was in the sweet spot as far as I was concerned. I walked around during the prior band's set to gauge things.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Dede2002 on October 03, 2007, 06:20:15 PM
Excelent topic. I simply love mine ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: bluntforcetrauma on October 03, 2007, 10:25:41 PM
what is the difference between the mm-HLSC-1  and the mm-HLSC -2, sorry if it is silly and easy?

How are they compared to DPA 4022 cardoids regardless of stealth capability?
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: illconditioned on October 03, 2007, 11:38:00 PM
Someone (???) needs to replace the builtin mics in the Edirol R09 (or Samson H2) with these mics (and include a 2.2 or 4.7k mod).  That would be cool!

  Richard
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on October 04, 2007, 01:31:30 AM
what is the difference between the mm-HLSC-1  and the mm-HLSC -2, sorry if it is silly and easy?

How are they compared to DPA 4022 cardoids regardless of stealth capability?

No differance at all except that the hlsc-1 comes with the shure clips, and thats straight from Microphone madness's mouth.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: tod3sschu3tze on October 04, 2007, 08:06:57 AM
How are they compared to DPA 4022 cardoids regardless of stealth capability?

the hlsc-1 are substantive bigger! someone here who has got both mics and can take a picture for better comparison, please? :)
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on October 05, 2007, 09:20:22 PM
Some photos comparing the SP-CMC-8 to the MM-HLSC-1 in terms of size.  Lincoln for reference.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on October 05, 2007, 09:22:06 PM
Another....
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: illconditioned on October 06, 2007, 01:14:56 AM
OK, I've tried the Senn MKE40 again.  Very nice sounding mic I think, better than AT853 certainly, and some more detail than Church Cards.  The problem is EQ.  Lack of bass, and maybe(?) tuned for voice/middle ranges.

It would be worth figuring out the correct EQ to fix this mic.  I believe there was a guy over at Micbuilders who was writing a program to do this, but it was never released.

So far, I'm fixing this by just mixing with soundboard for a *kickass* tape.  I'll post a sample at www.soundmann.com soon...

  Richard
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 01:27:18 PM
These mics seem to have overloaded easily...  :'(

Explanation here:-

Recorded Rush last night. The sound was truly amazing (especially for an arena). I had levels on my h120 set to 12 on both channels and safety clip on (set at 1sec). After the show the levels were down to 8 so the safety clip did SOMETHING although I don't hear it. The recording had potential but imo is completely useless as the bass distorts all the way through. I don't think its the mics I just think the levels were too hot and the safety clip didn't do enough. I wish I checked my levels more but had no chance as security were 1 metre in front all night (I could have sworn he saw my mics several times lol).

What do you think of the sample? Can it be repaired to a certain degree? I know its impossible to get rid of distortion fully but if anything that COULD improve the sound even a little bit would be better than nothing.

Ah well, my first bad recording in nearly 2 years taping. Quite annoyed with myself but I guess these things happen (plus was my first time taping with my Iriver, previously used Hi MD).

Source: Sennhieser MKE40 (MM-HLSC) > SPSB-1 (No roll-off) > Iriver h120 (Rockboxed)

Heres the sample:-

http://www.mediafire.com/?arnngmjdifo


Thanks,
Simon.


Also posted in Computer/Software area.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Arni99 on October 13, 2007, 03:22:03 PM
These mics seem to have overloaded easily...  :'(

Explanation here:-

Recorded Rush last night. The sound was truly amazing (especially for an arena). I had levels on my h120 set to 12 on both channels and safety clip on (set at 1sec). After the show the levels were down to 8 so the safety clip did SOMETHING although I don't hear it. The recording had potential but imo is completely useless as the bass distorts all the way through. I don't think its the mics I just think the levels were too hot and the safety clip didn't do enough. I wish I checked my levels more but had no chance as security were 1 metre in front all night (I could have sworn he saw my mics several times lol).

What do you think of the sample? Can it be repaired to a certain degree? I know its impossible to get rid of distortion fully but if anything that COULD improve the sound even a little bit would be better than nothing.

Ah well, my first bad recording in nearly 2 years taping. Quite annoyed with myself but I guess these things happen (plus was my first time taping with my Iriver, previously used Hi MD).

Source: Sennhieser MKE40 (MM-HLSC) > SPSB-1 (No roll-off) > Iriver h120 (Rockboxed)

Heres the sample:-

http://www.mediafire.com/?arnngmjdifo


Thanks,
Simon.


Also posted in Computer/Software area.
your 9V battery was ok?
I had a similar experience and believe that the irivers input simply can´t handle the very hot-signal coming from the sennheisers at extremly loud shows. it´s like overloading the input with an external preamp although the levels are always far below 0dB.

Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 04:09:13 PM
What if I had Chris's 4.7k mod cable between the mics and the iriver?? Would that stop the input overloading??
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on October 13, 2007, 04:15:02 PM
What if I had Chris's 4.7k mod cable between the mics and the iriver?? Would that stop the input overloading??

That may do the trick. Were you running line-in with the BB or mic-in?
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 05:28:05 PM
What if I had Chris's 4.7k mod cable between the mics and the iriver?? Would that stop the input overloading??

That may do the trick. Were you running line-in with the BB or mic-in?

Always line-in. I'm actually very suprised (and annoyed) this has happened. Never in a million years did I think the HLSC would distort so easily (or the Iriver input, whatever was the culprit).

The 9v I used was brand new (Duracell M3). Could have been a duff, but I'd say its unlikely as the reason imo.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: fourdegreeswarmer on October 13, 2007, 05:41:21 PM
I had a similar experience and believe that the irivers input simply can´t handle the very hot-signal coming from the sennheisers at extremly loud shows. it´s like overloading the input with an external preamp although the levels are always far below 0dB.
It's been my experience that the iRiver cannot handle even fairly reasonable amounts of low end and will distort quite readily. I was using omnis, which I thought probably made things worse. Sad to see it happened to you Simon  :-\
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: illconditioned on October 13, 2007, 06:08:21 PM
I had a similar experience and believe that the irivers input simply can´t handle the very hot-signal coming from the sennheisers at extremly loud shows. it´s like overloading the input with an external preamp although the levels are always far below 0dB.
It's been my experience that the iRiver cannot handle even fairly reasonable amounts of low end and will distort quite readily. I was using omnis, which I thought probably made things worse. Sad to see it happened to you Simon  :-\

Before you blame the iRiver (or any other recorder), get either 3-wire power or 4.7k mod on those mics.

I've overloaded the same mics (before I ran 3 wire).

  Richard
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 06:28:25 PM
I had a similar experience and believe that the irivers input simply can´t handle the very hot-signal coming from the sennheisers at extremly loud shows. it´s like overloading the input with an external preamp although the levels are always far below 0dB.
It's been my experience that the iRiver cannot handle even fairly reasonable amounts of low end and will distort quite readily. I was using omnis, which I thought probably made things worse. Sad to see it happened to you Simon  :-\

Before you blame the iRiver (or any other recorder), get either 3-wire power or 4.7k mod on those mics.

I've overloaded the same mics (before I ran 3 wire).

  Richard


So you reckon it was the mics then? Also, by getting the 4.7k cable, will it make the signal 'less-hot' before it goes into the Iriver??

Thanks,
Simon.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: illconditioned on October 13, 2007, 06:41:23 PM
I had a similar experience and believe that the irivers input simply can´t handle the very hot-signal coming from the sennheisers at extremly loud shows. it´s like overloading the input with an external preamp although the levels are always far below 0dB.
It's been my experience that the iRiver cannot handle even fairly reasonable amounts of low end and will distort quite readily. I was using omnis, which I thought probably made things worse. Sad to see it happened to you Simon  :-\

Before you blame the iRiver (or any other recorder), get either 3-wire power or 4.7k mod on those mics.

I've overloaded the same mics (before I ran 3 wire).

  Richard


So you reckon it was the mics then? Also, by getting the 4.7k cable, will it make the signal 'less-hot' before it goes into the Iriver??

Thanks,
Simon.

Yes, 4.7k mod will reduce the level (maybe 5-10dB or so).  But I really doubt the mics were too hot for a line level input.

By the way, you don't get a "4.7k cable".  You have to mod the mics.  Each mic has three wires (two conductors + shield).  You need to change the wiring at the miniplug.

I can't help you with this, but if you Email Chris Church, he can probably do it for you.  Or, you could buy a set of his mics (just the mics) and try them out.  Not too expensive for just the mics.

  Richard
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 06:50:43 PM
I'm sure Chris has/can do the 4.7 mod in a wire, I might be wrong though.

Check this thread/post: http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,90301.msg1202422.html#msg1202422

I'm guessing its basically male end of mics > female end cable > male end (with mod) then into the recorder?? Did I say it right?

Thanks.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Alchemy on October 13, 2007, 06:59:16 PM
OK, I've tried the Senn MKE40 again.  Very nice sounding mic I think, better than AT853 certainly

Oh my! :o Blasphemy!  ;)
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Alchemy on October 13, 2007, 07:20:24 PM
These mics seem to have overloaded easily...  :'(

Explanation here:-

Recorded Rush last night. The sound was truly amazing (especially for an arena). I had levels on my h120 set to 12 on both channels and safety clip on (set at 1sec). After the show the levels were down to 8 so the safety clip did SOMETHING although I don't hear it. The recording had potential but imo is completely useless as the bass distorts all the way through. I don't think its the mics I just think the levels were too hot and the safety clip didn't do enough. I wish I checked my levels more but had no chance as security were 1 metre in front all night (I could have sworn he saw my mics several times lol).

What do you think of the sample? Can it be repaired to a certain degree? I know its impossible to get rid of distortion fully but if anything that COULD improve the sound even a little bit would be better than nothing.

Ah well, my first bad recording in nearly 2 years taping. Quite annoyed with myself but I guess these things happen (plus was my first time taping with my Iriver, previously used Hi MD).

Source: Sennhieser MKE40 (MM-HLSC) > SPSB-1 (No roll-off) > Iriver h120 (Rockboxed)

Heres the sample:-

http://www.mediafire.com/?arnngmjdifo


Thanks,
Simon.


Also posted in Computer/Software area.

Simon,

You don't mention where you were located in the venue, in respect to any of the speaker arrays. In my opinion, most of the distortion involved in these recordings has to do with taper loction in the venue. I'm sure it is obvious to you that by getting closer to the stacks, you are subjecting the mics to more and more SPLs. But if you were farther back towards the soundboard, you most likely would not have that much distortion- if any at all. I'm talking about this from previous experiences.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 07:26:45 PM
I was about 15-20 metres away. I'm really worried about this now. I'm confused to what really caused it.

 :'(
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Alchemy on October 13, 2007, 07:47:21 PM
I was about 15-20 metres away. I'm really worried about this now. I'm confused to what really caused it.

 :'(

I'll relate something quickly and you can make of it what you will. I was recording Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band this past Tuesday at a huge arena with bad acoustics. I was using the rig you see in my signature: AT831s on two wire power with no bass roll-off. I had a GA floor ticket and also won the pit lotto so I could basically tape wherever I wanted to. I selected a location about 30 feet in front of the soundboard, in line with the main right array. The sound was very loud, but I did not have any audible distortion for this part. For the encores, I went up inside the pit, and stood at the center- a mere 15ft at the most from the stage. The mix was way off in this section, but I did not change my volume levels at all. The recording did not clip, so the volume was about the same, however, I did get a few seconds of bass drum distortion here and there. I did not get this in my original spot- which tells me that the sound pressure was of course greater in the pit. I won't make any direct decisions to you, but I think you get my point.

And just because I was further back doesn't mean I made a distant recording either. I liked the sound better when I was closer to the sounboard!  :)
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 13, 2007, 08:01:02 PM
I understand what you're saying. The spot I had was super-sweet though, I taped from there before (deep purple) but I used my HI-MD and Church mics (with batt box) and it came out fine.

The sound was supurb! really great sound. It just makes me more worried for future recordings (especially metal acts and bands in smaller venues).
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: firebaugh on October 13, 2007, 08:48:28 PM
All I tape are metal acts in small clubs and I haven't had this problem.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on October 13, 2007, 08:54:03 PM
I understand what you're saying. The spot I had was super-sweet though, I taped from there before (deep purple) but I used my HI-MD and Church mics (with batt box) and it came out fine.

The sound was supurb! really great sound. It just makes me more worried for future recordings (especially metal acts and bands in smaller venues).

I had an isuue with brickwalling or clipping with my h120 and at853's(not modded), i am thinking that the H120 has some limitations on the pre and that running a pre in front of it might be necessary, which i will run tuesday at van halen with my hlsc's, hoping this makes the difference, especially since it is in the same arena where i had the issue , it will be a good measure between a BB and a pre
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Arni99 on October 14, 2007, 06:35:30 AM
Simon, you can try modding your HLSC-1 with a small 4.7k resistor soldered into the common ground conductor of your HLSC.
open the 3.5mm miniplug by unscrewing:
mine has 2 red conductors: 1 for left and 1 for right channel.
and 1 common soldering point for ground - both groundconductors(l+r) are soldered to a common single point on  the 3.5mm plug´s shaft(ground).

get soldering equipment and do it ;). you can easily undo the mod aswell.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 14, 2007, 03:45:01 PM
I understand what you're saying. The spot I had was super-sweet though, I taped from there before (deep purple) but I used my HI-MD and Church mics (with batt box) and it came out fine.

The sound was supurb! really great sound. It just makes me more worried for future recordings (especially metal acts and bands in smaller venues).

I had an isuue with brickwalling or clipping with my h120 and at853's(not modded), i am thinking that the H120 has some limitations on the pre and that running a pre in front of it might be necessary, which i will run tuesday at van halen with my hlsc's, hoping this makes the difference, especially since it is in the same arena where i had the issue , it will be a good measure between a BB and a pre

Please let us know how this goes, would really appreciate it.

Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 14, 2007, 04:24:05 PM

MM HLSC-1 overloading?  :o :o
I don't think so. These mics can handle a jet plane taking off with no sweat.
You can blame any other piece of gear but these mics. They are sound pressure beasts. ;)

Thats the thing. I can't find an explanation on what it really was. I'm annoyed and VERY worried for future recordings because I don't know what caused the distortion. Is it the mics, recorder, batt box, I don't know...

Its all starting to confuse me more than ever.

I don't see how a pre-amp will solve the problem because I guess it will send an even 'hotter' signal to the Iriver input and if that is to blame (Iriver input) it will make it worse.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Alchemy on October 14, 2007, 04:25:22 PM
Were you using a new 9 volt battery? Remember, as soon as you plug the mics into the bat box, you are drawing power. Just trying to think of other options.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 14, 2007, 04:29:45 PM
Were you using a new 9 volt battery? Remember, as soon as you plug the mics into the bat box, you are drawing power. Just trying to think of other options.

Brand new 9v (Duracell M3) and I plugged the mics in about 10 min before the show.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Liquid Drum on October 15, 2007, 05:02:19 AM
Were you using a new 9 volt battery? Remember, as soon as you plug the mics into the bat box, you are drawing power. Just trying to think of other options.

Brand new 9v (Duracell M3) and I plugged the mics in about 10 min before the show.

I have had duds that have come right out of the wrapper and into the pre (premium batteries too). That being said, I have never experienced a situation that brickwalled these mics. I taped godsmack from the second row in the spring and it was so loud I could feel it in my teeth but the mics took the hit with no problem.

This is what is confusing me. Because many people are saying how they never distort but here I am with a distorted recording. Could it be the Iriver as arni said? Were you using an iriver to tape Godsmack??


Thanks,
Simon.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on April 06, 2008, 07:12:39 PM

This is a sample from this past weekend in a small club for the band Stealin' Strings. I ran a stand with my SPC4's at DINA about 9' up and about 12' from the stage.  I also ran my HLSC's on the same config, same stand > ST-9100 > R-09. 

The HLSC-1's were modded my Chris Church, mainly lowering the noise floor.

Plenty of bass response out of them:

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=J0LHGZFO
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: su6oxone on April 22, 2008, 06:50:37 PM

MM HLSC-1 overloading?  :o :o
I don't think so. These mics can handle a jet plane taking off with no sweat.
You can blame any other piece of gear but these mics. They are sound pressure beasts. ;)

The MM website says the HLSC-1 mics can handle some 138dB without a battery box/plug-in power and still not distort.  This sounds right to all the HLSC-1 owners?
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: udovdh on April 23, 2008, 10:40:53 AM

MM HLSC-1 overloading?  :o :o
I don't think so. These mics can handle a jet plane taking off with no sweat.
You can blame any other piece of gear but these mics. They are sound pressure beasts. ;)

The MM website says the HLSC-1 mics can handle some 138dB without a battery box/plug-in power and still not distort.  This sounds right to all the HLSC-1 owners?
Not?
K=1%?
Even the `real` Sennies are specced lower. So what is the difference?
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on April 23, 2008, 04:46:05 PM
Using a BB tonight 3rd row center. Will up on Dime if it comes out good.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: su6oxone on April 25, 2008, 08:24:17 AM
Never used my HLSC-1 without a battery box. Still, my answer is yes. No distortion ever.

Thanks for the info, I might try these out someday.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on April 25, 2008, 09:56:14 AM
If anyone gets these modded to lower the noise floor, Chris Church's 9100 pre is a must. I found that even being 3rd row at a rock concert with a battery box, I had to use all the gain structure from my D-50 (maxed out).  I'm sure unmodded with bb, these are great.  I used a bb instead of the 9100 for 007 considerations given the security near my position.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Church-Audio on April 25, 2008, 10:02:33 AM
If anyone gets these modded to lower the noise floor, Chris Church's 9100 pre is a must. I found that even being 3rd row at a rock concert with a battery box, I had to use all the gain structure from my D-50 (maxed out).  I'm sure unmodded with bb, these are great.  I used a bb instead of the 9100 for 007 considerations given the security near my position.

Most people that run these mics will never have a distortion issue, but they have almost exactly the same overload characteristics as the 853 when run 2 wire. The mics show a distortion level of about 7% at 1k at 114db now at lower frequencies it could be much worse and this again depends on a few factors such as the spacing between the diaphragm and the back plate. But they both distort. My mod fixes this for guys that want to run loud shows and do so all the time it should not be an issue. But if you want to be able to run all kinds of shows you will need a good preamp after the mod.

My mod is going to reduce the sensitivity of the mics by 12 db.. So that's how much gain you need to make up the difference. If you get one of my preamps and size is an issue I suggest the Ugly preamp its the size of a normal battery box with the same exact performance and specs as my 9100 v 3.3a.

The other part of my mod is a simple one.. The guys at Sennheiser did not use metal screen on the sides of the mics and on top of the diaphragm.. ( There is a course mesh ) but that is not good enough to block out RF and other types of interference. So I put in a fine brass mesh screen this allows your mics to be protected for debris and it greatly reduces inducted noise and provides a much better electrical shield then plastic mesh while not effecting frequency response. This is how I can reduce the sensitivity while not increasing the noise floor as much as one would think a 12 db reduction would do.
Chris
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Belexes on April 25, 2008, 10:23:49 AM
My mod is going to reduce the sensitivity of the mics by 12 db.. So that's how much gain you need to make up the difference. If you get one of my preamps and size is an issue I suggest the Ugly preamp its the size of a normal battery box with the same exact performance and specs as my 9100 v 3.3a.

 :hmmm:  I may just need to do that. Very tempting.

I was running "line-in" and thought about switching over to "mic in" to get added dB's, but was worried about possible brickwalling, so I just stayed line-in and figured I'd fix it in post.  Never used mic-in with the D-50 yet.

T
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Church-Audio on April 25, 2008, 10:28:30 AM
My mod is going to reduce the sensitivity of the mics by 12 db.. So that's how much gain you need to make up the difference. If you get one of my preamps and size is an issue I suggest the Ugly preamp its the size of a normal battery box with the same exact performance and specs as my 9100 v 3.3a.

 :hmmm:  I may just need to do that. Very tempting.

I was running "line-in" and thought about switching over to "mic in" to get added dB's, but was worried about possible brickwalling, so I just stayed line-in and figured I'd fix it in post.  Never used mic-in with the D-50 yet.

T

Well the problem with running mic in is your preamp.. And you do still need a battery box for mic in.. But it really does depend on how the gain structure is on your recorder.

Chris
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on April 26, 2008, 11:41:56 PM
I remember seeing a pic of the mod for the at853's once in the forums but can't seem to find it, i want to do the mod to my hlsc's, can anyone point me in the direction of that pic or post or another pic or layout of that mod, was that the 4.7k or 2.2k mod, seems like a pretty simple mod but just want to make sure where to put that resistor
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Church-Audio on April 27, 2008, 08:28:04 AM
I remember seeing a pic of the mod for the at853's once in the forums but can't seem to find it, i want to do the mod to my hlsc's, can anyone point me in the direction of that pic or post or another pic or layout of that mod, was that the 4.7k or 2.2k mod, seems like a pretty simple mod but just want to make sure where to put that resistor

On each end of the 853 cable there are three wires a Copper wire = shield a Yellow wire = signal and a Red wire = Bias.. The mod is simple you take the red wires attach them to the tip or ring of a stereo mini plug. Then you take the Yellow wire attach a small 4.7k resistor between it and ground attach the copper wire to ground. And your done. The trick is finding the small resistors. I use 1/8 watt resistors. I can send you a few if you send me $3.00 to cover postage. I use a switchcraft jack like this one.. 35HDBAU you can find them here.. http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=MI16PYk8XENDbdMsGnKcGA%3D%3D

They are $8.00 per connector very expensive for a 3.5 mm but they are real gold with a black shell and they are built to last.


Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on April 28, 2008, 08:54:57 AM
+t, thats great info

thanks
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on April 28, 2008, 12:34:46 PM
One last question, got the right 4.7's from rat shack and just want to know if it matters what end goes in what direction?
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Church-Audio on April 28, 2008, 12:57:37 PM
One last question, got the right 4.7's from rat shack and just want to know if it matters what end goes in what direction?

No resistors are not polarity sensitive. But you really should be using Metal Film resistors and not carbon.. Carbon tends to be more noisy..

Chris
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on April 28, 2008, 01:51:51 PM
Will that be something the average guy(me) will notice, i was in a pinch to use this setup tonight so will look into the metal film resistors after this, Also i already did the mod and it is a very noticable difference and being that i am very close tonight i think the mod will serve me right
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Church-Audio on April 28, 2008, 02:25:58 PM
Will that be something the average guy(me) will notice, i was in a pinch to use this setup tonight so will look into the metal film resistors after this, Also i already did the mod and it is a very noticable difference and being that i am very close tonight i think the mod will serve me right
This is the issue if your only ever going to be recording loud shows you will be fine.. With carbon if you plan on using them for recording quiet stuff you should get metal film. I have never tested carbon resistors in this circuit. So I cant say for sure how much more noise will be present, all I know is I would never do a mod that reduces sensitivity by 12 db and use carbon. If you need a pair let me know I can send you some..

Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: darktrain on April 28, 2008, 03:27:54 PM
ok, yeh i really only plan on really loud shows with them like tohight where i am close and then later this week where it is a small club and loud metal, i'll let you know how it goes and send a sample out.

thanks
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: su6oxone on April 30, 2008, 01:49:28 AM
The other part of my mod is a simple one.. The guys at Sennheiser did not use metal screen on the sides of the mics and on top of the diaphragm.. ( There is a course mesh ) but that is not good enough to block out RF and other types of interference. So I put in a fine brass mesh screen this allows your mics to be protected for debris and it greatly reduces inducted noise and provides a much better electrical shield then plastic mesh while not effecting frequency response. This is how I can reduce the sensitivity while not increasing the noise floor as much as one would think a 12 db reduction would do.
Chris


Chris, is it possible to replace the capsule to cover up the mesh?  The mesh not only doesn't look good but will likely be more noticeable when trying to stealth.
Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: Church-Audio on April 30, 2008, 08:16:51 AM
The other part of my mod is a simple one.. The guys at Sennheiser did not use metal screen on the sides of the mics and on top of the diaphragm.. ( There is a course mesh ) but that is not good enough to block out RF and other types of interference. So I put in a fine brass mesh screen this allows your mics to be protected for debris and it greatly reduces inducted noise and provides a much better electrical shield then plastic mesh while not effecting frequency response. This is how I can reduce the sensitivity while not increasing the noise floor as much as one would think a 12 db reduction would do.
Chris


Chris, is it possible to replace the capsule to cover up the mesh?  The mesh not only doesn't look good but will likely be more noticeable when trying to stealth.

Sorry I dont follow are you talking about the mesh I put on or the mesh that is already there?

The mesh I put on is underneath the mesh that is from the factory. The factory mesh is necessary because it protects the mic diaphragm from damage. Its just that the mesh is so course that objects can get in past the mesh and deposit them selves onto the diaphragm the mesh I use is so fine that it does not effect the mics response and it prevents debris from collecting on the diaphragm.

Title: Re: The MM-HLSC-1 Appreciation Thread
Post by: fandelive on November 29, 2010, 03:19:05 PM
It would be worth figuring out the correct EQ to fix this mic.  I believe there was a guy over at Micbuilders who was writing a program to do this, but it was never released.

Can anyone provide some more information about that guy or program ?
I'd love to give it a try :)