Sound Recording with Contact Microphones

Sound Recording with Contact Microphones.

Contact microphones, or piezoelectric microphones, are fascinating tools that capture a hidden sonic universe. Thanks to their ability to record vibrations often imperceptible to the human ear, they highlight new textures and open unique possibilities for creativity.

What is a Contact Microphone ?

A contact microphone is a piezoelectric transducer that captures vibrations directly from the surface of the material, without picking up surrounding airborne sounds. Unlike conventional microphones, which record sound waves traveling through the air, contact microphones convert mechanical and structural vibrations into electrical signals.
Their core component is a piezoelectric material that generates an electrical voltage in response to pressure or vibration.
These microphones are often used to record sounds from objects such as :

  • Musical instruments (strings, percussion).
  • Various structures made of metal, wood, or plastic.
  • Machines, engines, or electronic devices.

Why Use a Contact Microphone for Sound Recording ?

Contact microphones provide a unique sonic perspective by revealing hidden textures and details within objects or materials.

  • Capturing Hidden Sounds
    Contact microphones reveal unsuspected details trapped within objects, such as the internal resonances of an instrument, the creaking of wood, or the pulsations of an engine. These abstract sounds add richness and complexity to sound creations.
  • Sound Isolation
    They ignore ambient airborne noises, focusing only on the vibrations of the recorded object. This makes them ideal for capturing details in noisy environments.
  • Creating Unique Sounds
    By manipulating recordings made with a contact microphone, it is possible to create abstract sound textures or strikingly realistic elements, offering the listener a new auditory experience.
  • Versatility
    From musicians to sound designers, contact microphones prove useful across a range of projects, including film sound effects, sound design, experimental music compositions, and more.

The Use of Contact Microphones ​

With contact microphones, the range of sound sources expands, any object can become a source of sound. The potential for using contact microphones is huge, allowing for creativity across various fields :

  • Music and Live Performance
    Contact microphones are ideal for acoustic instruments, providing clear, natural sound without capturing ambient noise. Many musicians use them to amplify subtle sounds or experiment with new textures.
  • Experimental Recording
    In experimental music, contact microphones allow everyday objects to become musical instruments. A simple wooden board, a glass, or a metal box can become a sound source.
  • Science and Engineering
    Scientists also use contact microphones to measure vibrations or detect cracks in structures. They are commonly used in acoustic testing or vibrational analysis.
  • Sound Art and Installations
    In sound installations, contact microphones can capture the vibrations of a sculpture or amplify the imperceptible sounds of an object. They enable exploration of the interactions between sound, material, and space.

Incredible Tools for Creativity

Contact microphones provide a unique way to interact with the world of sound, uncovering vibrations and textures often overlooked. They ennable a fresh approach to sound recording and creative sound design by harnessing the power of the resonance of material. These tools open the door to an unprecedented sonic world, pushing the boundaries of sound creation.

Have you ever experimented contact microphones ? Share your stories in the comments below !

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