[Harp-L] Mic volume and tone

["John F. Potts" <hvyj@xxxxxxx>]

Joel,

FWIW, I rarely use a volume control on a mic to adjust volume during  
performance.  I usually just use the VC to set the output gain level  
of the mic to get the tone i want and leave it there.  Occasionally,  
for a very quiet passage i may turn down a little, but i almost never  
turn the VC up from the point i originally set it at.

I don't use bullet mics.  But on every mic i do use,  turning the  
volume down on the mic results in a "cleaner" tone.  I think you are  
reducing the gain level of the input signal to the amp when you turn  
down the volume control on the mic, so the signal is not as "hot."    
On my EV RE 15, EV 660 and Shure 545, (and, to a much lesser extent,  
on my Audix Fireballs) reducing the output level of the mics  by  
adjusting the volume control definitely produces a somewhat cleaner/ 
smoother  tone, which I actually prefer.  i have an in line VC I got  
from Greg Heumann that I can use for this purpose.

My favorite mic lately is a 545 Ultimate I got from Greg Heumann,  
which has a built in VC.  I often turn the volume control down a  
little to smooth out the signal, especially if i am going into a tube  
amp.  Unlike many harp players, I prefer a relatively clean tone  
without "crunch" or distortion.  If i want distortion, i can create  
it with breath and mic handling technique, but if I set up for a  
distorted tone, I loose articulation.  Going into a tube amp with the  
mics i use i am able to get the cleaner/smoother tone I prefer by  
adjusting the VC downwards and leaving it there. i don't usually use  
a VC if I am going into a PA, except on the 545 Ultimate which has a  
VC built in.

The effect on tone from adjusting a VC may be different for other  
mics.  My experience is only with the particular mics I use.

JP