What Is A DeadCat Used For?.
Dead Cats and Windjammers: The Secret Weapon of Outdoor Audio Recording
Introduction
Have you ever wondered why so many outdoor microphones have furry covers? Those furry covers are called dead cats, or windjammers, and they're an essential tool for any audio engineer who wants to record high-quality sound outdoors.
Wind noise can be a major problem for outdoor audio recording. When wind hits a microphone, it creates turbulence that can be picked up by the microphone and recorded as unwanted noise. Dead cats work by reducing the amount of turbulence that reaches the microphone, resulting in clearer, more professional-sounding recordings.
How Dead Cats Work
Dead cats are typically made of synthetic fur, which is very effective at absorbing wind noise. The fur is also very open and porous, which allows sound waves to pass through easily. This means that dead cats can reduce wind noise without significantly affecting the sound quality of the recording.
In addition to reducing wind noise, dead cats can also help to reduce plosives, which are the popping sounds that can occur when a person pronounces certain consonants, such as "p" and "b." Plosives can be caused by the sudden burst of air that is released when these consonants are pronounced. Dead cats can help to reduce plosives by absorbing some of the air before it reaches the microphone.
Types of Dead Cats
There are two main types of dead cats: foam windscreens and furry windscreens. Foam windscreens are less expensive and lighter than furry windscreens, but they are not as effective at reducing wind noise. Furry windscreens are more expensive and heavier, but they provide the best protection against wind noise.
When to Use a Dead Cat
Dead cats are essential for any type of outdoor audio recording, including:
- Film and video production
- News reporting
- Wildlife recording
- Sporting events
- Concerts and other live performances
If you are planning on recording audio outdoors, it is important to choose the right dead cat for your microphone. Most dead cats are designed to fit specific microphones, so be sure to check the compatibility before you buy.
How to Use a Dead Cat
To use a dead cat, simply slip it over the microphone and make sure that it is snug. If the dead cat is too loose, it will not be effective at reducing wind noise. If the dead cat is too tight, it can affect the sound quality of the recording.
Other Uses for Dead Cats
In addition to their primary use of reducing wind noise, dead cats can also be used for other purposes, such as:
- Protecting the microphone from moisture and dust
- Reducing handling noise
- Improving the sound quality of recordings in noisy environments
Conclusion
Dead cats are an essential tool for any audio engineer who wants to record high-quality sound outdoors. By reducing wind noise and plosives, dead cats can help you to capture clear, professional-sounding recordings in even the most challenging environments.
Here are some additional tips for using dead cats:
- If you are recording in very windy conditions, you may want to use a combination of a dead cat and a foam windscreen. This will provide the best possible protection against wind noise.
- Be careful not to overtighten the dead cat, as this can affect the sound quality of the recording.
- If you are recording in a humid environment, be sure to dry the dead cat thoroughly after use. This will help to prevent mold and mildew growth.
With proper care and use, your dead cat will provide you with years of reliable service.