Shock Mount Benefit for SDC Mics in X-Y Setup

[SprintBob]

Hey there.

Are shock mounts worth using when setting up mics like a Neumann KM 184 for recording solo acoustic with an X-Y setup?

My thought was whether it may help reduce background low frequency rumble.

Thanks for any feedback.

[Bob Womack]

It depends on your location. If you are in a really quiet room with no induction of low frequencies from the outside and no footstep transfer you don't need them. If you are on a tympanic wood floor you probably do.

Bob

[Brent Hahn]

Bob's right.

Also, the KM-184 is often a "gateway mic" for people. If you suspect that you might be one of those people, having the shock mount(s) as an add-in will get them sold faster when the time comes.

[SprintBob]

Thanks Bob/Brent,

The Neumann shock mounts are ridiculously priced so I am looking at a 3rd party mount that is 1/4 of the price. If it works to minimize background rumble (AC, foot tapping, maybe some part of breathing, etc.), could be a good investment.

Cheers,

Bob

[Brent Hahn]

That's a common size and shape of mic -- lots of things will work. But back to your original question, if the "rumble" is airborne, a shockmount won't help.

[SprintBob]

Originally Posted by Brent Hahn

That's a common size and shape of mic -- lots of things will work. But back to your original question, if the "rumble" is airborne, a shockmount won't help.

Thanks Brent, I understand. I ordered a pair of Peluso shock mounts from SoundPure for a bit over a $100. Will give em a try, stay tuned.

[guitarman68]

Peluso shockmount are nice - I use them for KM184s and KM84s.

[KevWind]

As noted it will not do anything for any boom coming off the guitar.
But for any floor vibration they work great.

[keith.rogers]

A bit late as I see some have been ordered, but I got my shotgun/SDC/pencil shockmount from B&H Photo Video. ("Shotgun" is the search term that will yield the most results.)

They have a good selection of lower cost items - some as low as $20. The one I got is all plastic (i.e., no metal threads), so I'd not recommend that if you're going to be putting it on/off a stand frequently, but for semi-permanent use, it's fine.

[SprintBob]

Well the bottom line it seems is the shock mounts certainly won't hurt so worth a try to me.

[Rudy4]

Some PVC pipe and some #303 rubber bands will take ya all the way to where you need to be!