Nick,

When a microphone picks up a direct sound and also a delayed version of the same sound, the waveforms are offset. So they combine and create peaks and dips in the frequency response. This results in the familiar hollow "phasey" sound, similar to that of a flanger or phaser effect unit. Understand that this effect is not the sound of phase shift, which by itself is inaudible. What you're really hearing is the severe peaks and dips in the response.

--Ethan

I have an article about it at http://kevinkemp.com/homerecordingtutorial/micing.htm

Kevin

Kevin,

> I have an article about it

Excellent explanation. :tu:

--Ethan

HI' all
I'm new to this forum and would like to add that the next time you watch a news helicopter, take notice that you don't hear much of the chopper's noise. This is because there is an ambient mic in the chopper OUT OF PHASE mixed with the newscasters vocal mic in the chopper. If you can ever take a ride in one of those choppers you will find them to be very LOUD inside

Something else I might add
If you ever see a low-budget film, notice how when they speak you will hear a sound like a compressor pumping ( and it probably is ) and you will hear the ambient sound get louder. In a typical higher budget shoot there will be an ambient mic out of phase to keep the balance in control for a more natural sound

is that how noise canceling headphones work?