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sounddguy · Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2012 4:46 pm Post subject: Mouth noise mic suggestions

I work with two different voice talents that seem to have a high number of mouth clicks and ticks. In addition to steering them to vocal coaching so they can work on the problem, I'm open to suggestions for any mics that might be more forgiving than the U87.

graemespicer · Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2012 4:50 pm Post subject:

I'm a big believer in this stuff: http://www.parnellpharm.com/mouthkote.htm

I used to have a lot of trouble with mouth clicks, this product worked wonders.

FWIW
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georgethetech · Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2012 5:17 pm Post subject:

Yikes, the U87 has a pretty smooth top end compared to most of the modern LDC's with a big presence peak that accentuates mouth noises. I don't think a mic swap will make a big difference. Anyone ever find that changing mics eliminates mouth clicks on their tracks?? I'd love to know!
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Jason Huggins · Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2012 5:35 pm Post subject:

Personally, placement was the real solution for me. I played with placement until I found the sweet spot for my voice, mouth and mic. The spot for me ended up being 4 inches up from my mouth, an inch to the left, upside down, with the diaphragm pointing towards my cheekbone under my left eye about 5-6 inches out. That pretty much did it for me.

I use an oktavamod NT1a, which is supposed to be a U87 clone.

Hestoft · Contributor Joined: 11 Jul 2010 Posts: 39

Graeme,

Thanks for that great tip. I am off to my local Walgreen's tomorrow!

As for finding one's mic's sweet spot for avoiding clicks, has anyone else has a similar experience? It seems counter-intuitive to me but I will definitely give it a try.

Ralf-Finn
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Jason Huggins · Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2012 10:28 am Post subject:

The real concept is not the sweet spot. The point is, your mic will pick up mouth noise more if you point it right down your throat. Every mic will have a more sibilant spot and a less sibilant spot, find the spot where clicks are diminished and tone is not compromised.

Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

Apples or apple juice will take care of those clicks.

sounddguy · Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2012 6:14 pm Post subject:

We've tried several products and different mics and placement.
Unfortunately I do long form with both of these individuals so it really can
add up.

Lance Blair · M&M Joined: 03 Jun 2007 Posts: 2279 Location: Atlanta

...and remember, mouth clicks and sinus clicks can sound very similar and appear just as frequently - and apples unfortunately won't help that, tho' they work great for mouth issues.
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Jason Huggins · Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2012 7:01 pm Post subject:

Other than what's been mentioned, do you drink a lot of water and avoid things that cause congestion (dairy, including coffee creamer) and dry mouth (soda, caffeine, etc)? I also do long form and have mostly mitigated clicks with technique and hydration. I do have a different mouth, studio and gear though.

heyguido · Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2012 11:30 pm Post subject:

Over the years, I've become fond of sparkling water with citrus flavor....

The carbonation and citrus both stimulate the salivary glands, keeping the mouth moist. Don't guzzle, just rinse and swallow. Make it a habit, and it becomes natural. Those who lean dry may also benefit from apple pectin, which provides additional salivary stimulation. Over-stimulation can be as bad as dry mouth. Mouth noises plague us all. Learning to deal with it is decidedly personal, but essential to mastering your instrument.

Carbonated Deer Park is cheap by the case, Perrier a little more dear. Both are highly effective. No sugar, no caffeine, and the body likes it.
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Jacob Ekstroem · Posted: Mon Oct 29, 2012 7:00 am Post subject:

Ask them to brush their teeth before a session. I even bring my toothbrush when I'm recording in other studios than my own and make a visit to the bathroom right before the session.

Replacing the mic shouldn't really be the obvious solution!
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Bill Campbell · DC Joined: 09 Mar 2007 Posts: 621

I think the big foam wind screens really suppress the mouth noises on large condenser mics. My wife who has a very good, crisp delivery also creates some mouth clicks. The foam helps a lot.

For long form narration and books, it's tough to beat a Shure SM7B. They sound good, don't pick much room noise, and aren't too sensitive to mouth noises and clicks. They sound good on just average voices, too.
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Dayo · Cinquecento Joined: 10 Jan 2008 Posts: 544 Location: UK

georgethetech · Posted: Mon Oct 29, 2012 4:44 pm Post subject:

Yes, placement is soooo crucial! I'll argue any day of the week this is much more important than mic selection. Amazing how working slightly "off mic" is far often far better than having it shoot right down your throat. I usually have the mic placed above the eyebrow or off the cheek at least 4".
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