Sound Recording with Electromagnetic Field Microphones
Sound Recording with Electromagnetic Field Microphones.
The Drop Rig Technique
The Drop Rig Technique for Capturing Natural Soundscapes
The drop rig technique in field recording involves leaving a recording setup hidden in a specific environment to capture ambient sounds without human presence disturbing the ecosystem. This approach is particularly useful in natural settings to record pure, unaltered sounds of nature, where wildlife can move freely without fear. Discretion is key to successfully implementing this method.
What is the Drop Rig technique ?
A drop rig setup involves placing a portable audio recording system in a specific environment, most often in nature, hidden carefully within natural elements to remain as discreet as possible. This ensures the environment remains undisturbed while capturing authentic soundscapes.
To achieve a successful recording, several technical considerations must be taken into account.
Technical Aspects
Choosing the Right Gear for Extended Unattended Use
- Microphones
PIP (Plug-In Power) microphones are particularly well-suited for this type of recording. These small microphones can be easily hidden in natural settings, under a branch, inside a hollow tree stump, or around a tree using the “tree ears” technique. They offer :- Good-quality audio
- Compact design, making them easy to conceal
- Affordable pricing, which softens the blow if the gear is stolen or damaged
- Recorder
A discreet, affordable audio recorder is preferable, but without compromising audio quality. Ensure the recorder has compatible microphone inputs, such as a mini-jack connection for PIP microphones.
- Power ans storage solutions
These technical aspects are not to be neglected, as the device will need to record continuously for hours. An external battery pack and ample storage capacity (a large capacity memory card) are ideal for such situations.
You can discover a list of useful microphones and recorders for this type of technique.
Why Use a Drop Rig ?
The drop rig technique is an ingenious, lightweight solution for capturing hours of uninterrupted sound. Once carefully positioned and left to operate autonomously, the recording unit can unveil surprising and unexpected audio treasures.
Listening back in post-production can be a delightful experience, nature’s hidden symphony may reveal sounds you never anticipated.
Have you ever left a recorder unattended for a long time ? Share your stories in the comments below !
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