Stereo Technique
Capturing width and space with two or more microphones and their differences
Related
Stereo technique uses two or more microphones to capture differences in arrival time and level, so playback opens a left-right space. The main families are coincident, near-coincident and spaced, differing in how much time and level difference they rely on.
Coincident pairs such as XY and mid-side have almost no time difference, giving stable images and good mono compatibility. Spaced pairs such as A/B rely on time difference, offering width but sometimes a hollow centre. ORTF sits between them. Choose by ensemble size, room reflection and final format, and keep a mono check.
The usual mistake is assuming more microphones create more space. Extra mics bring phase summing and comb filtering; decide whether you want time or level differences before placing them.
Sources
- 立体声拾音制式，参 Huber & Runstein, Modern Recording Techniques 与 Bartlett, Practical Recording Techniques；本文为原创表述
Used for fact-checking only; all prose is original.