'Kucuk VSC-100'
Versatile Stereo Clip
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Concept – Ventures in Field Recording
As a Sound Designer, I realised that being able to engage in Field Recording would not only provide me with valuable assets to work with, but also teach me a thing or two about the world of Sound. When I started out on this venture, I decided that I would need a reliable setup for Stereo recording, yet I also needed something affordable.
Having acquired a pair of Line Audio CM3 microphones, I spotted that other field recordists had arranged stereo setups within their MK-I Rode Blimps, with varying results.
These microphone clips are the result of my efforts to refine those endeavours, providing an effective solution for stereo recording in the field.
Function – The Clips
In ORTF the clip is held centrally, whilst the Coincident setup provides the required vertical displacement
The clips provide a method through which a pair of short form microphones can be mounted in either a Coincident or ORTF stereo configuration. The system is reliable, and allows me to record audio in the field with no fuss – the mics are always in place, the setup always compact.
Practically, the system is very versatile. As swapping configuration only takes about 5 minutes, I am able to spec my setup for various applications; whether spot micing sources for sound design or capturing ambience.
This hands-on flexibility has allowed me to become familiar with the character of the microphones, and has encouraged me to experiment with different techniques. My options are always right there in front of me, a set of creative parameters to work with.
Whilst keeping the mics safe, the system also performs well; handling noise is minimal, and the distance between the capsules and housing is enough such that the wind shielding is still effective.
Top-down views showing the accuracy of the assembly
Function – The Baseplate
To supplement the system, I had also designed a baseplate that allows the rail to be securely placed at 90 degrees compared to the original design, allowing for a side on orientation of the blimp & pistol grip. This, combined with the use of Watson Wu's Mini Me Blimp modification, makes for a rather nice setup in the field, whether in hand or on a tripod!
The baseplate allows the assembly to be pitched side on
Production – 3D Printing
Notably, once I had designed them, I had the clips & baseplate 3D printed. The material they are made from is extremely strong, and I have had no fear of the little hooks breaking, either in normal use or during stereo-configuration swaps.
The whole three-piece set cost me less than £30 in total.
Plans – Free Release?
In terms of my plans for the clips – given the ease of 3D printing, I've been considering releasing the files so that it might make stereo field recording that much more accessible to others in a similar position.
Given enough interest, I'll design a version 2 and make the designs publicly available. I hope that I might be able to make the clip slightly more flexible, to accomodate a range of microphone diameters.
Register Your Interest
Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated! You can contact me reliably through the contact form here.
