In
a message dated 7/24/02 5:21:37 PM Pacific Daylight Time, YesTor
writes:
<<
Subj: DSM mics
Date: 7/24/02 5:21:37 PM Pacific Daylight Time
From: YesTxxxx
To: GuySonic
Dear Leonard,
My name is Dian Lxx... I purchased a pair of DSM-6
back in 94 and you also mod-ed my D7 at that time.
I recorded about 10 Yes shows that summer and got
great results until toward the end of the tour, when
my (brand new) deck flaked out. I put it aside for
the next... uh 8 years.
Having given up temporarily on DAT, l last summer
went the MD route. I used a Sony MZR70 (not the best
choice I realize, but it was a Christmas gift) and
alternated between the DSM's and CSB's with bass roll-off.
I found the CSB's/rolloff to give a rather sterile, dry
sounding recording. The DSM's were definitely better
however I ran into problems with Squire's bass pedals.
In either case, operating the MD (two annoying disc
swaps while trying to stay stealth, AND the recording
level issues) was a pain in the you-know-what.
This year I decided to give the DAT a go again. You very
kindly referred me to ProDigital in Broomall (only 30
minutes away) and they completely tuned up my deck
for $200. Well worth it!!! Plus I made a friend down
there
who bailed me out the day before I needed the deck,
when it ate a bad tape and jammed up.
I just returned from recording the first 4 gigs of the tour
and am extremely pleased with the results!! I now
realize that DAT/DSM is the way to go, especially
given the fact that the deck is specifically modified
for my microphones. The sound is incredible! Squire
has not been using his bass pedals much this tour so
overload is not a problem.
I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate
your products and services. I love these mics!!
Yes, I tried MD and Core Sounds, but I have to say,
my current setup blows the other one away... now I
am a true believer!
I will certainly recommend you to any people I run
into who are seriously interested in taping. Thanks
again.
Dian Lxxx
Philadelphia
>>
Hello Dian,
Thank
you for taking the time to write about your experiences and for
passing the good word about our products here.
You
might want to read the tips on deck settings on the site at: http://www.sonicstudios.com/tips.htm
Pop/Rock
shows are a lot better sounding than 10 years ago, but now at
higher volume levels especially more bass sounds at times. The
PA-6LC or one of the other bass filters should help record a cleaner
sound that is not so buried in bass.
Another
consideration is if your DSM mic is now too sensitive (equivalent
DSM model as in the chart) for current Rock recording levels.
I cannot tell you for sure unless you have the original INVOICE
NUMBER so I can look up the calibration records on your set. I
now model batch mics and mark the sensitivity model on the mic
cable label, but was not doing this when you purchased years ago.
I did sell you a set meant for Rock recording, as it was many
years ago, so it is probably at least a DSM-6S/M, but would be
better if it is a DSM-6S/L equivalent for typical much louder
bass venues.
See
DSM model chart on page: http://www.sonicstudios.com/dsm.htm
Let
me know if you want to try out a PA-6LCxx ($125 or more depending
on model) mic powering bass reduction filter, or just wanting
to ask a few questions.
Best
Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo, Owners
----------------------------
Subj:
Re: some DSM questions
In
a message dated 7/23/02 12:33:45 PM Pacific Daylight Time, crouch@jwfc.jfcom.mil
writes:
<<
Subj: some DSM questions
Date: 7/23/02 12:33:45 PM Pacific Daylight Time
From: cxxxxxxh@jwfc.xxxx.mil (Cxxxxxxx)
To: guysonic@aol.com ('guysonic@aol.com')
Greetings!
My name is Kevin Cxxxxh, I bought a DSM microphone set from you
a few years
ago. They are still awesome!! I have recorded concerts, Broadway
shows, done
some sound effects work with them, and now I have a new application.
. . I
want to use them in my side business of shooting wedding videos.
I've
already used them during the ceremony by hiding them with a Sony
M1 DAT up
close to the bride, groom, and minister (very nice sound). But
I've been
hesitant to plug them (with the powering/bass rolloff unit) into
my Canon
GL-1 camera for covering receptions without asking you about it
first.
Should this work well without damaging anything?
REPLY: No harm to anything to try this directly into the
camera with or without the PA adapter (to see if the camera has
mic power available). Just never connect DSM to anything with
12-48 Phantom Power inputs.
Also, last time we talked you were still working on the headphone-style
band
with windscreens. your WHB looks great (definitely less geek factor
for when
you're out in public places), but I have a question - what do
I do about
monitoring the audio being captured? If I wear my favorite open-back
headphones then it'll bleed back into the mics and they'll physically
get in
the way of each other. Should I get some in-ear monitors (no band
over the
head)? If so, what kind? Have you thought about integrating something
like
that into your WHB headband? However, I'm always hesitant about
putting a
speaker in my ear without some kind of limiter in the circuit.
REPLY:
Suggest Etymotic (or similar) type in the ear has near 29 dB isolation
with suggested audiologist made exact ear canal molded inserts.
~$400 completed.
Lastly, now that I'm shooting more video, have you considered
developing a
microphone adapter for camcorders like the Beachtek or the one
from
Studio1productions.com? I'm sure it would be much better than
theirs (I own
one of each).
REPLY:
Maybe with built in VU meters, headphone jack w/amplifier, DSM
mic power, bass filter switch, and whatever else wished for features?
Hope all is well - thanks for your time,
Kevin Cxxxxxh
Subj:
a completely unbiased DSM review
Date: 7/24/02 9:47:30 AM Pacific
Daylight Time
From: cxxxh@jwfc.xxxx..mil (Cxxxxx, Kxxxxx )
To: GuySonic@aol.com ('GuySonic@aol.com')
And
I thought you would enjoy this:
If you want the most unbiased testimony to the realism of the
sound captured
with the DSMs: A few weeks ago I was playing back a DAT of a wedding
ceremony I captured by placing the DSMs and Sony M1 DAT in a plant
holder
near where the bride, groom, and minister were standing. I turned
up the
volume and for the first time ever my dog (a lab named Pearl)
got her
hackles up, bared her teeth, and started barking like mad at the
monitors.
Took awhile to calm her down. Need I say more?
Kevin
>>
In
a message dated 7/18/02 10:57:59 AM Pacific Daylight Time, eric@jxxxxxy.com
writes:
<<
Subj: Re: Lapel Mic for Dictation
Date: 7/18/02 10:57:59 AM Pacific
Daylight Time
From: eric@jxxxxty.com (Eric Gxxx)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hi Leonard:
Just wanted to let you know that I received the lapel mic last
week,
and have been using it now for a week--it works beautifully with
the
Sony IC recorder for speech recognition on IBM ViaVoice/Mac!
Recognition accuracy was a little dicey with the first speech
training model I had been using with my Shure wireless mic setup,
but
I re-trained the ViaVoice program by talking on a "straight-through"
basis by connecting the whole setup to ViaVoice and re-reading
the
training screens and turning down the volume a little, and accuracy
shot way up in hardly any time at all.
It blows me away to be able to walk around with the unit on VOR
and
just talk whenever I want to, anywhere, then hook it up in the
late
afternoon and watch the type spray out on the screen. It eats
a pair
of AAA batteries every day, but with rechargeables I can get by
with
this. Too bad Sony didn't put an AC adaptor on the unit--otherewise
I
would have considered some kind of larger-capacity battery setup
to
attach to it, similar to what you have described.
FYI, the only modification I did was to fasten the mic by the
gold
hook with wire ties to a wooden clothespin, so I can hook it to
the
same spot each day on the front of my shirt, about 5-6" below
my
chin (consistent mic position is critical for speech recognition,
as
you know)--I guess it just didn't feel right to let the thing
hang
willy-nilly from a button hook on the side of my collar, but that's
just me I suppose
Anyway, thanks for the help on this--you are truly the master
of the
microphone! -- and will keep in touch with you for any future
ideas.
Eric
>>
Hello
Eric,
Thank
for taking the time to let me know that the lapel mic is working
well for you and for describing the clothespin attachment. Your
use of a clothespin to best hold a position prompts me to look
for a smaller 'clothespin' or similar for including with the lapel
microphone. I refuse to use those metal alligator clips (I have
hundreds of these unused) that tend to chew into everything.
Might
find some compact sized film drying clips or stationery paper
clip versions. Maybe a visit to Staples will find something suitable
to include with the mic in the future.
Leonard
(NOTE:
Thanks
to Eric's comments, the lapel mic is now shipped with a secure
and gentle plastic clip accessory)
--------------
In
a message dated 7/8/02 6:21:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time, Talbot10
writes:
Subj:
Just the greatest recordings I have ever heard
Date: 7/8/02 6:21:55 PM Pacific
Daylight Time
From: Txxxxt10
To: GuySonic
As a singer songwriter trying to record with just two mics and
good preamps I am stunned at the songs that I downloaded!! Wow!
How you can get such incredible dynamics and still have such great
presence is wonderful! Is there any limiting or compresson at
all in the mastering process? I am just stunned. Thanks for making
the mp3's available.
I will definately buy some of the CD's! It is the best recordings
I have ever heard. I know Harvey Reid would appreciate this. You
guys are really artists. Thanks so much
Bill Hxxl >>
Hello
Bill,
Thank
you for the nice comments about the MP3
music posted. It's good to know that over 95% of the recording
quality is due to the Microphones and how utilized. Therefore,
the preamplifier and recording deck is much less important than
the mic and method.
Most
of the recordings have notes on the DSM model mics and other recording
gear used to do the recordings. Some of the Session Recordings
of acoustic groups have ONLY a bit of compression added later
in post, but NO other special processing effects or sweetening
before converting to MP3 files for you to hear.
In
other words, these music files are naturally recorded and sound
exceptional BECAUSE of the DSM microphones and not because I or
my customers are particularly talented recording engineers.
Mostly,
CD's of these groups are not available for purchase as marketing
excellent sounding CDs are a separate issue. If you desire to
record your own music compositions, I can suggest an appropriate
recording system if knowing a little about your available portable
recorder, type of music, and ambient or room(s) used for session
or performance recording purpose.
Some
URL's with information to view about this is at:
http://www.sonicstudios.com/multitrk.htm
http://www.sonicstudios.com/reviews.htm
http://www.sonicstudios.com/dsm.htm
http://www.sonicstudios.com/liteguy.htm
FAQ PAGES
http://www.sonicstudios.com/tips.htm
http://www.sonicstudios.com/ordering.htm
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo, Owners
--------------------------
In
a message dated 6/27/02 9:29:13 PM Pacific Daylight Time, redrocker@sbcglobal.net
writes:
<<
Subj: Thanks
Date: 6/27/02 9:29:13 PM Pacific
Daylight Time
From: rxxxxr@sbcgxxxxxl.net (Bob S)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hi Leonard,
I just want to let you know that I recorded my first show with
the M1 and DSM6's that you recently sold me. The recording was
fantastic!! The recorded sound was fuller and had more presence
than any that I have previously made. This system is worth every
penny. The show I did had a lot of bottom end to it, and your
mics took it all in without a hint of distortion. I did have to
roll off a little bit of bottom, since the bass was shaking the
ceiling tiles. When I mastered the CD all I had to do was add
a bit of compression to tighten up the bass.
I
just wish I had found you 2 years ago, I would have never gone
with my previous set up. It's great to see someone not only deliver
on a promise, but to have it exceeded.
The
only problem I had was with the supplied NiMH batteries. The manual
states that they would last 4 hours. They lasted 15 minutes. Fortunately
I brought a set of regular batteries, and that I check the DAT
somewhat regular. I did lose about 10 minutes of the show.
Thanks
again!!!
Bob S.
>>
Hello
Bob,
Thank
you for reporting satisfaction of your first recording experience
with the DSM-6S/L and the upgraded M1 DAT deck system. Customer
feedback like yours makes the extra effort and time that goes
into making sure your recording interests and needs are understood
and that you only purchase the appropriate recording system that
suits your interests.
As
you are now realizing, the carefully designed and manufactured
mics/upgraded decks takes us much more time and greater attention
to component/system details to produce, but this extra effort
and care usually results in exceptional customer satisfaction.
Both
Debbie and I are most happy (as yourself) that you have discovered
and trusted our tiny company to deliver as we guarantee. We may
sell specialized audio recording equipment to make a (very) modest
income, but our real joy and reward is hearing that we've succeeded
in making our customers are very happy with our service and products.
The
M1 DAT is NOT the easiest portable to power on AA cells. I suggest
you read the battery care tips on the external DAT battery systems
page ( http://www.sonicstudios.com/batsys98.htm
)
The
M1 DAT will NOT run for much more than a 1.5 hours on regular
Alkaline cells.
The
Sony brand rechargeable NiMH cells (~1300 ma) included inside
the M1 package are far from being the highest available capacity.
Available now are 1800ma NiMH AA cells that could last well over
5 hours if charged and maintained correctly as suggested in the
Battery TIPS
section.
As
a least a backup, the Eveready L91 Photo Lithium AA cells (camera
department in stores) are NOT rechargeable, but will last (at
least) 5 hours per set. These pricey cells can provide very dependable
powering of your M1 in emergencies or on a regular basis for recording
important events where NiMH rechargeable are found too unreliable
or troublesome.
Best
Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo, Owners
----------------------------
In
a message dated 4/29/02 3:33:31 PM Pacific Daylight Time, KvnDvd
writes:
<<
Subj: i've been using a friend's Sonics... wow
Date: 4/29/02 3:33:31 PM Pacific
Daylight Time
From: KxxDxxxxd
To: GuySonic
hey - my name is kevin
i got hooked up with a customer of yours from Alaska - the very
kind and generous Steve Hxxxxxr - who sent me his sonics to tape
a few shows here in NYC - and now i can't live w/out them (semi
embarassed to admit i was using a sony ecm condenser mic)
i use minidisc - and from what i understand from most tapers/traders
i deal with most md users use cheap mics - (bad mics + md = tinny
crappy sound)
the sound on my md w/ your mics is astounding...i tape 2/3 shows
a week now...
but i can't keep these mics forever...
money is sort of tight now -
i was wondering - you have the dsm-6 at a 'lower cost' - how much
lower???
i think i'm using the dsm-6 now... - but they have been used (a
lil abused?) since steve 1st got them in 95(?? 96?)and a 'new'
pair for me may do the trick
i may be able to swing the dsm-6 a bit easier moneywise too
i am a 'serious' buyer -
and i will purchase from you.
thanks
kevin dxxxxxd
>>
Hello
David,
What
deck are you using?
If
a Sharp MD, then just plugging in a DSM-6/L ($350 a lower precision
matched low sensitivity mic) should be all you need. See:
http://www.sonicstudios.com/dsm.htm
See
Sharp MD at: Best
Sharp MiniDISC Models Past and Present
However,
using any other deck demands the mic powering be done with a PA
adapter, better with one like steve's PA-6LC3
with bass filters(?) for $200, but let me know the deck or give
me a call to determine quickly what your best options might be.
If
using a Sony DAT deck, then MOD-2
might be considered.
Please
see: http://www.sonicstudios.com/pa_x.htm
Payment/Shipping
options at: http://www.sonicstudios.com/ordering.htm
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo, Owners
----------------------------
In
a message dated 2/4/02 8:27:44 AM Pacific Standard Time, piers@gn.apc.org
writes:
<<
Subj: Delighted!
Date: 2/4/02 8:27:44 AM Pacific
Standard Time
From: pxxxx@gn.xxxx.org (Piers Gxxxx)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Deeply impressed with your DSM 1M mic's
Clean crisp, warm and friendly sound for human voice - and extraordinary
stereo.
You are right - people smile when they hear the sound.
Am still a little worried as to what I shall do to even up the
difference in
levels between me and the interviewee - as a radio newby I have
no idea how
easy this is to do in say protools...if there is background noise
will that
end up sounding pumped up and down?
Presumably your PBS radio customer has found a way round this
or does he
really take the mic's off and hold 'em under the interviewee's
nose? Seems a
shame to lose that glorious stereo..
Anyway thanks again, they are great
Best
Piers
>>
Hello Piers,
Thank
you for the note on good initial impressions with the system sent.
The
word for bringing loud and soft sounds naturally closer together
is "compression." This is not volume adjustment, but
a tool in available in pure analog domain as a separate effects
box (vacuum tube devices are most favored here) and pure digital
audio domain as a software tool in most professional editing suites.
I
have used "compression/expansion" functions to good
effect in music and voice recordings where loud and soft is at
too much distance in levels for a "full sound" that's
accessible to most casual listeners.
An
example (30 sec clips) of extreme compression use is labeled as
"Bonus" example of compression 'before and after"
on selection "Christmas on Christmas Island" at:
http://www.sonicstudios.com\zumwald.htm
Best
Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo, Owners
----------------------------
In
a message dated 10/23/01 1:16:27 PM Pacific Daylight Time, jphendriks@yahoo.com
writes:
<<
Subj: Feedback on the Mic
Date: 10/23/01 1:16:27 PM Pacific
Daylight Time
From: jpxxxxxs@yahoo.com (Jan-Paul Hxxxxxxxs)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hello Leonard,
I just want to let you know I am very very happy with mics (DSM
6S/L). So far I have made two recordings.
The first one was at an outdoor festival. I was really astonished
about the quality of the recording.
I
had the impression that the sound was rather good for an outdoor
festival. But the recording really was
unbelievable good, it seemed if the recording was better than
what i heard.
I
also used the bass filter with the highest bass reduction (I expected
the loud rock needed much bass reduction)
but this turned out to be somewhat too much.
The
second recording was in a small theatre of about 300 people. The
music was not too loud so I didn't use
the bass filter. Again, the sound quality was extremely good.
I had my friends listening to the
recordings and said to wait for the end of the track to hear if
this was really a live recording (in stead
of a studio one).
Many thanks for your great quality product! It is really worth
the money. I wish I had bought it much earlier.
Kind regards,
Jan-Paul Hxxxxxxs
>>
Hello
Jan-Paul,
Thank
you for letting me know the mic system is working out to your
highest expectations. Your taking time to express satisfaction
makes the extra time and efforts taken here in making these products
rewarding in the truest sense.
Best
Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo, Owners
--------------------
In
a message dated 3/19/01 8:09:44 AM Pacific Standard Time, peter@redrice.net
writes:
<<
Subj: return from egypt
Date: 3/19/01 8:09:44 AM Pacific
Standard Time
From: peter@rxxxxe.net (peter sxxxxxxn)
To: guysonic@aol.com
dear leonard and debbie:
just to say i'm back from egypt, where i had a wonderful time
with the sharp MD and the DMSs. thanks again for getting them
to me in time for the trip. my film projects didnt work out, but
i wasnt that worried, as i spent hours a day just taping everyday
noises, all over cairo, and along the red sea coast. ocean waves,
kinfe grinders, urban collage, interviews with sufi sheikhs: a
real patchwork of my experience of egypt, condensed into about
a bag full of minidiscs.
all the friends i shared them with raw where blown away by the
realism of the recordings. i still have a lot to learn in terms
of how to get the best results - and how to recognise them! -
but i had so much fun this far, i imagine that the learning curve
is going to be fun, even if rather steep. my DAW should be ready
in about a month's time, and then i can really get down to work,
pruning, editing, arranging.
i've one question that intrigues me, which i dont know if you
can shed any light on: why is that when you listen to waves crashing
against a beach from standing, you hear the nearest sounds louder
than those further away; whereas if you lie down, your head almost
level with the ground, the close-by (treble) crash of wave on
sand recedes, and the distant (bass) roar of huge masses of water
in motion from a few hundred metres out becomes more audible?
is this the implementation of a general acoustic law about how
different frequencies travel and are emphasised? or was it something
peculiar to the shape and context of that specific stretch of
beach i was recording on?
thanks again for helping open the door on a whole new world for
me, hope this finds you both well,
all good wishes,
peter
peter sxxxxn
gourna films
brussels/cairo
>>
Hello
Peter,
Sorry
with having such phone trouble (I think this was my wireless phone
'arm-wrestling for channel frequencies' with a wireless speaker
transmitter recently left on and operating) and also for not being
coherently fully awake when you called this morning. But always
good to hear from you whatever my condition.
Thank
you for the news of having enjoyed recording many exotic sounds.
Long
distance 'Boundary layer' sound propagation over water surface
is common. Thermal differences in air near the water's surface
and a few feet or more height will channel sound between water
and air layer(s) without much loss (for miles in some cases) depending
on local conditions. Used this to record many simultaneous sounds
occurring around and over small isolated lakes (especially good
in the dead of night with no wind and small surrounding valley)
that traveled 100 meters or more, but sounds like right next to
you!
Regards
in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo
----------------------------------------
In
a message dated 3/12/01 6:36:57 PM Pacific Standard Time, fiske@mediaone.net
writes:
<<
Subj: Great Mics, Thanks
Date: 3/12/01 6:36:57 PM Pacific
Standard Time
From: fxxxe@mxxxxxe.net (Larry Fxxxxe)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hello Leonard,
I ordered a pair of DSM-6S/L mics with the PA6LC3 powering
adapter. So far, I have recorded two shows with them, using
the 45Hz setting for both. I am VERY happy with the mics.
I played back one of the recordings for some friends, and
one of them refused to believe it was my recording, he insisted
that costly studio mics (earthworks or neumanns) were used!!!!
I plan on getting the MOD-2 upgrade done eventually, so I
can try using the mics without filtering any bass.
Another satisfied customer,
Larry Fxxxx
http://www.jxxxxxxe.net/~fxxxe/
>>
Hello Larry,
Thank
you for one of the best customer satisfaction feedback responses
I've had in recent years! This may make the customer feedback
section of the FAQ pages when I can get around to expanding the
content.
Let
me know when the MOD-2 upgrade is desired anytime.
Thank
you again for ordering and the feedback on getting excellent results.
Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard (& Debbie) Lombardo
----------------------------------------
Subj:
good luck with ss in india
Date: 2/8/01 7:08:16 PM Pacific
Standard Time
From: dxxxh@nwlink.com (d. hxxxxe)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
hey,
doug hxxxx calling out to you. just back from a month in northern
india. went to the Khuma Mela (major pilgrimage to the ganges).
Extreme
conditions and i had excellent performance from my ss pair and
and the modified pcm-m1. Lovely recordings in windy conditions
with the
double pair of windsocks. Very confident with this set-up during
the
trip and listening back now is satisfying.
Thanks
for the excellent
work Leonard. -d
-----------------------------
Subj:
Mics Sound Great
Date: 12/11/01 5:16:50 PM Pacific
Standard Time
From: mxxxx.sssssssss@exxxs.com.au
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hi
Leonard,
I've
done some recording with the DSM mics and the sound exceeds
my
expectations. The clarity and definition is fantastic. They
certainly are
sensitive. Nature sounds are unbelievable.
When we were listening to the recording, my wife was telling
my daughter to
be quiet so we could hear the results, except that she was actually
recorded speaking on the tape. The sound is so lifelike.
I also recorded some acoustic guitar at a range of about 15
feet, and it's
the best sounding recording of an acoustic guitar that I have
ever heard.
Hope
you have a great Christmas.
Milton
Mxxx
Sxxxxxxx
Xxxxx Energy
**********
"It's not strength that matters, it's focus." - Bruce
Lee.
<<
Subj: Happy Conductor
Date:
98-06-09 02:49:43 EDT
From: (Frederick )
Reply-to: Axxx@prodigy.net
To: GuySonic@aol.com (Leonard Lombardo)
Dear Leonard,
Recorded a local choral group with the DSMs on Sunday eve.
Played the
tapes back for the conductor today in his office. He flipped
out! He
immediately called a friend who's been recording the group for
years and
started to discuss the problems they've been having in getting
a
good-sounding recording. They recently hired - perhaps he
volunteered - a
professional recordist who's in demand in the Rock industry to
see if they
could get a better sound. He has made some recordings with
which they've
been quite happy. The conductor said that maybe they have
to re-think
their approach - that what he heard on my tapes was much closer
to what he
hears when he's up there on the podium. He wants me to get
together with
their recordist as soon as possible. Do I smell a sale or
two? I'll keep
you posted.
Remember our discussions about Patent sub-licensing?
I may be closer to
some venture capital than I was the last time we spoke.
Let's talk. Call
between
10:00 PM & 11:00 PM, or 8:30 AM & 10:00 AM and we'll chew
the fat. Just
had a great internet idea that might make some money (but I'm
not about to
discuss it in a piece of email). One of my venture capital
guys likes it!
Hope all is well on your end.
Best regards,
Frederick
P.S. I think I already told you that I like your web site,
didn't I?
>>
Hello Federick & Audrey,
Thank for the kind words on the web site and also news of the
good impression you've made.............. there are quite a few
choral groups & several composers working with choral groups
that seem very pleased with DSM use for their work. One
is using and SBM-1 and DSM-GUY head mounted system to good use.
========================
Subj: DSM mics
Date: 12/6/01 12:42:15 PM Pacific
Standard Time
From: Enekezara
To: GuySonic
Dear Leonard,
I purchased your DSM mics to use for field
recording in Africa last year. I have returned from my trip and
wanted to let you know the mics were terrific! The recordings
came out really nice, and it was very convenient to use. I am
now in London doing my PHD in ethnomusicology.
I
have put some of the recordings in the Brittish Library( like
our Library of Congress) sound archive. They are very interested
in your mics and I gave them your web site. I am also doing presentations
of my fieldwork and recommending your mics to everyone. Hopefully
you will get contacts from this- I really believe your mic set
up is the easiest to use and gets the best results.
Here is a pic from me in the field using the mics to record
a traditional ceremony in Ghana.
Stay in touch,
James Burns
=======================================
<<
Subj: Ornette Coleman!
Date:
98-06-19 14:33:11 EDT
From: (Corey)
Sender:
To: guysonic@aol.com
Hi Leonard,
Hope all is well with you, and that you're selling lots of mikes.
We've
gotten so much feedback from that review -- people seem to really
be psyched
about getting into recording. We're going to cover quite a bit
of home
studio recording gear this year in Audio, and your mikes will
be featured
prominently when we use them in the course of a project.
I got a call from Ornette Coleman the jazz legend last night --
his keyboard
player is a reader of mine -- and Ornette wants to try the DSM
mikes with
the intention of buying them if they work out for him. It sounds
like he
really dug the review and wants to try recording his own stuff
by himself,
and he's intrigued by the DSMs. If you're cool with sending him
a pair (plus
power supply, as I'm guessing he doesn't have a modded DAT with
your phantom
upgrade) plus a bill, that would be great -- and who knows, you
might get a
very cool endorsee. His shipping address:
Ornette Coleman
St.
NY, NY 100XX
Again, thanks for the use of these DSM mikes, Leonard, and I hope
you're
getting some good mileage from the Audio review. Talk to you soon
--
Best,
Corey G
Audio
>>
Hello
Corey,
Yes, your DSM review generated about 200-250 circled reader
requests for and at least 3-5 dozen actual sales so far.......
this is a remarkable response ... and more people who were
originally prompted by that fine article, are finally getting
around to call in an order even at this late date......... a lasting
impression on the ease of personal sound recording was made for
sure.
I now have a high content (low eyecandy) web site .... listed
below........ that also includes .MP3 downloadable DSM recordings
of different material collected over the years. Let others
know about this sometime.
I would be very motivated to work with Ornette on getting a DSM
system up and working ......... for him (or his keyboardist).........
however, I need to talk to whomever is going to be attempting
this as most have only studio type experience and will not be
very good at making the transition to ambient style recording.........
this has been an uphill battle for many years now trying to work
with those of close mic'ing and multitrack mentality.
Just giving a mic to them is a good recipe for disappointment
as their technique and ability to work within ambients are exceedingly
poor.......... they've not learned how to listen (or trust their
ears) for the acoustical mix of instruments and ambient space........
being musicians helps this considerably as they've not necessarily
learned all the standard (poor) mic techniques as sacred techno
gospel.
Please......... Have whomever give me a call sometime or supply
a contact phone........... Jazz is what prompted this mic invention.......
it would be great to see it being utilized more to best benefit
for this music style at least. A portable DAT deck
is almost a necessity to allow full flexibility to work within
different spaces of opportunity........... they should be willing
to invest in getting a TCD-D100 or PCM-M1 if really serious in
succeeding at this............. A jazz musician/composer of low
profile..... Jim Dukey......... has geared up with a complete
system including the GUY head mount........ his results have been
astonishing.......... occasionally works at Skywalker doing orchestral
work....... his results seem a step better than their best within
the same environment...... their recording equipment cost is about
$250,000 (at least)........!!!!!!!!
Sony has been shipping both the TCD-D100 and PCM-M1 decks that
have none of the limitations of the D8 models........... a truly
great and unexpected event....... both decks are identical, but
the M1 is a pro version without SCMS and some accessories supplied
with the consumer version....... dual 20 bit A/D and the SBM-1
mic preamplifier design........ full editing........ seperate
line & heavier phones output jacks........ full +4 dbu pro-level
line input without clipping and much more..... give it a look
for including in your review............. MOD-2 upgrade of these
models is $85........... I stock these now at $850 with upgrade........audibly
improved to where using the SBM-1 is much less attractive ........
this new deck is at least 80% of the SBM-1 in audible quality
improvement over just using the D8 (which is very good).
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard Lombardo
=============================================
<<
Subj: dsm6 mics
Date:
98-07-15 14:16:06 EDT
From: Jxxxxx1
To: GuySonic
My buddy Johnny Bxxxn has some of your DSM 6 mics and I use them
occasionally, like last nite, with my d100. I was 15'-20'
back from the second stage at the Gov't Mule set at HORDE last
nite, with the -20db switch set. I run the levels kind of
hot, between -6 and -2db. The vocals and guitar were okay,
but the bass and drums were terribly distorted. Popping,
etc. and the tape was not above "0".
The same thing happened at a joe satriani show a couple months
ago. I ran the levels much lower though, around the -12db
range with -20db pad, and the distortion is awful-guitar,
bass, drums. I didn't hear it through the stacks, so it's
on the tape only. Again about 15-20' from the stage, centered
between the stacks.
He doesn't have the bass roll-off mod, and said that last nite
at mule I needed to be out of what I perceived to be the sweet
spot because it was too loud for the mics to handle. I don't
like the distant sound that results from being too far back.
I've been following the posts on datheads re:levels and settings,
and I know to use -0 for soft, -20 to medium/loud, and I was wondering
about going line in or any other suggestions.
Thanks for making a really useful and good product, and thanks
too for any help you may offer.
Brian M
>>
Hello Brian,
I tried to look up John Colin's set and I have no found record
of this particular set.......... his original invoice number may
help find the calibration sensitivity of this set........ John's
music tastes included Rock and Rock'a'billy venues when he purchased
the mic in 1995?......... however, make sure you are not using
the limiter...... just use the manual setting which I assume you
are anyway.
The other issue (other than this set being too sensitive for an
overly loud show?) is that John's D7 has been upgraded to properly
power the DSM with the MOD-2 upgrade to Sony's Plug-in-Powering
feature. The D100 has far too little current available...............
needs to be upgraded with the MOD-2 ($85) so that the mic is operating
properly. You cannot use the line input.......... for two
reasons........ one: no mic powering feature exists with line
input....... two: the DSM is designed with very low output and
matches the deck's mic input only............ line level input
demands a much higher output and self powered mic to work at all.
Rock shows in general have been getting much louder with the use
of higher power amps and more efficient PA speakers...........
mic sensitivity for current Rock Concert venues has been lowered
to reflect the times......... see my web site and DSM mic chart
page for the different DSM-6 Mic sensitivity ranges and suitable
recording situations for each.
I do have a series of mic powering adapters, ones that just properly
power the mic (with or without the MOD-2) and models that do this
with Bass reduction for reducing the exagerated bass more common
in rock venues these days. The PA-6LC2 gives
the most useful 65 cycle bass reduction (can be switched off for
full bass sounds) and will power the mic properly.............
this may solve the distortion problem providing the mic is not
overly sensitive....... which I feel its not likely to be.
Let me know if any of this makes sense............ see if John
has that original invoice & number somewhere......... and
the mics Serial number is on the cord........ let me know that.....
I can also do a less effective search based on the serial number
if the invoice number cannot be found.
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard Lombardo
----------------------------------------
<<
Subj: Satisfied customer
Date:
98-07-21 16:04:28 EDT
From: (Michael C)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hey Leonard,
I bought the Sonic Studios dsm6/L from you back in early June
and I just
wanted to let you know that i'm very happy with it. I've
taped a few
different shows with it, both theatre and ampitheatre and i'm
happy with the
results at both. The best part about the recording(aside
of coursde from the
sound quality of the music)is the balance they allow between the
music and the
audience noise. I've tried other mics that either allow
the audience to
interfere with the recording, or cut the audience out to such
an extent that
you wouldn't even believe the trecording was live.
However you were right about the bass. While i've had no
problems with it at
a theatre or club show it does tend to be a little overpowering
at the bigger
shows. You can expect my order for one of your bass rolloff
filters in the
near future.
Sincerely,
Michael Cxxxts
----------
>>
Hello
Michael,
Thank you for taking the time to tell me how it's going with
the new mics......... I appreciate hearing about what they are
doing well for you....... and about your affirmation about the
concert bass being generally too heavy for good recording balance.
I noticed that I didn't know what deck you're using......... probably
are using a D7 or D8? without upgraded mic power........... this
will make the louder concert bass a bit less tight sounding anyway.
If you want the option of having bass rolloff and also turning
this off, then the PA-6LC2 ($165) will properly power the
DSM mics with an AA cell AND has an ON/OFF switchable 65 cycle
bass reduction filter. This sounds like a good addition
to get the most out of any mini-deck with your present mic set.
Let me know, ....... when you're ready.......... or any questions
about the available options.
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard Lombardo
----------------------------------------
Subj:
I am Never Going To Doubt You Again Leonard
Date:
11/2/98 3:07:20 PM Pacific Standard Time
From: (Sol)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Leonard,
The club where Grover Washington played Saterday night, The Blue
Note,
is in Greenwich Village on 3rd street right off 6th Ave.
When I made
reservations I was not thinking that saterday the 31st was Halloween.
On Halloween night there is a parade several miles long along
6th
avenue. It was estimated that there were 1 million people
along
the parade route. It took my companion and I one half of
an hour
to push our way through the crowd from the subway station at 3rd
street and 6th avenue to the Blunote which was a half block away.
The show was scheduled to go on at 9PM sharp. It didn't
start until
9:45 PM. Several of Grover's musicians got caught up in
that
parade route crowd also. I had the preamp and the PA-10PFC
in the
inside left pocket of my leather Detroit Lions football jacket.
I
had the WMD6C in a small attache case as I entered the club.
I also
had 5 Stanley Turrentine cassette and a pair of Sony headphones
in
the attache case. In case someone had asked about the cassette
recorder
I was prepared to say that I had to listen to some music
while waiting for the show to start.
The first seats we were shown were two rows from the stage, direct
center and equidistant between the two speaker stacks that were
on
either side of the stage. That was the perfect location
for recording.
However, I turned those seats down because I feared that Grover
or
one of his musicians might look down and spot that green ready
light
on the preamp that was just inside my leather jackets. The
tables
we were sitting at were perpendicular to the stage. We had
to turn
our heads at a 90 degree angle to look at Grover and his musicians.
I accepted seats that were two rows behind the first seats that
we
were
offered. I had my companion sit directly to my right so
as
to block the view that Grover and his musicians had at my open
leather
jacket.
We sat down and ordered drinks (non-alcoholic beer). I took
out the
WMD6C and the Stanley Turrentine tapes and the Sony Headphones
and
placed them on the table. I put the headphones on and plugged
it
into the headphone jack of the WMD6C and pretended to listen to
Stanley Turrentine. Back at home I had loaded the WMD6C
with a blank
tape.
Near showtime I placed the WMD6C on my lap. I reached from
under the
bottom of my jacket and pulled down the patch cord and plugged
it into
the line-in jack of the WMD6C. I then connected the DSM6
to the PA-10.
I then looked inside my jacket and turned on the preamp.
The lights were dimmed just prior to showtime. The announcer
said
over the PA system that flash photography, video and audio recording
were forbidden. I said to myself, "You got to catch me Jack".
The preamp was set at 40db and the recording level at 7.
At the first
sound of music I glanced at the vu meter on the WMD6C and almost
had
a heart attack. The vu meter was totally RED from top to
bottom. I
thought, "goddamn, Leonard was right. Live music sound is different
from the sound of a train". I quickly turned the recording
level down.
I reached into my jacket without looking at the preamp and moved
the
db button to the extreme left to 20db. I then turned the
recording
level back up to an acceptable level. I couldn't see exactly
where
the recording level was since there was not enough light.
I had
a very bright small flashlight with me but didn't use it.
I glanced
at the vu meter from time to time during the one hour and twenty
minute
show and everything looked cool. At the 45 minute mark I
had to turn
the tape over. I fumbled with the tape about a whole minute
before
I could get it out of the WMD6C and turn it over. During
this time
I also managed to move the noise level indicator from type c to
type
b. I was able to, in the dark, move it back to tye c before
pressing
the record button.
The show was great. Grover and his musicians turned the
place out.
I am still not sure if it was worth the $50.00 cover and $5.00
minimum.
Next friday, on November 6 (my birthday), Grover is appearing
in
New Haven Conneticut. The ticket prices are just $18.00.
However,
I think the place in New Haven is a lot larger than the Bluenote.
The Bluenote can only hold several hundred people.
At the first chance I got I looked at the recording level.
It was set
at 10. Does that sound right Leonard? We got home
around 1 AM.
I then proceeded to listen to the tape. It sounded great.
I listened
to it 4 times straight in it's entirety. I could make copies
and sell them for $15.00 apiece. I am not going to do that
though.
You've looked over the specs for the preamp Leonard. How
can it be
improved?
Sol >>
Hello Sol,
Wow! What a story! Happy for you that it turned
out well.
Probably better to not display having any audio equipment at all
as this may catch the attention of security that keeps an eye
out for any type of equipment as many portable cassette player
machines can also record these days. Having everything already
plugged in, checked out, and ready to record before walking
in is easier on the nerves.
I would not suggest altering the preamplifier as this would void
the warranty. Performance should be much better than what's
inside the D6C deck. Get some more experience with the stock
unit. Changing the gain switch to 20, 33, 48 db might be
better if you find not enough gain in 20 and find 40 too much
a jump.
I'd need a better detailed copy of the schematic as the fax is
too coarse to tell the component values clearly.
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard Lombardo
----------------------------------------
<<
Subj: Splendid.
Date:
12/10/98 12:27:21 PM Pacific Standard Time
From: (Jason )
To: guysonic@aol.com
Leonard,
The mics came today. I put them on and walked straight to
one of our
music halls. My friend the harpist was there on concert
harp. These
little wonders sound amazing. She listened to the recording
I made
and was very impressed with the tonal quality. (We also tried
placing
the mics inside the harp. She'd like to know if you could
make her a
single channel pickup mic for surface mounting inside the sounding
chamber. It would need to terminate with a lo-z balanced
1/4 TRS plug
to run into her pre-amp. What do you think? I don't
know what the
SPL is inside.) My one quib is my (I think) puny pre-amp in the
mini-disc recorder. I had to crank it way up (even though
she was
playing at concert volume) to get much gain and ended up with
quite a
bit of noise. Any suggestions?
I'll continue to experiment. Let me know when you get the
COD.
Again, thank you so much.
Jason
>>
Hello
Jason,
The floor harps recordings I've done were in less than 1000
Sq. Ft room and nestled into an alcove of the larger room.
A DSM-6S/M mic with almost 5 db less gain (than your present model)
was used for those sessions at a distance of no more than 3 feet
from the harp. Noise was barely noticeable in the quiet
times using a good preamplifier
Harp is not a loud instrument and for best recording with no or
little noticeable noise, much closer than 12 foot distance is
recommended. Try distances within 6 ft. especially when
in a very large room.
I can supply a single or dual channel mic for trying inside the
harp. The pickups should be mounted by the rubber loops
and suspended (not touching anything) within the body in some
manner yet undetermined.
A dual channel would allow either a stereo type output, or a choice
of two different Mono sounds from choosing one or the other inside
mic placement as preferred for particular arrangements.
A harpist can also wear these mics, but the downside is that fingering
sounds and other noises are bound to be also recorded with this
method. Worth a try as different harpists have variations
on fingering sounds that may work out well if extraneous sounds
are controllable.
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard & Debbie Lombardo
==============================
<<
Subj: mic
Date:
1/22/99 5:47:59 AM Pacific Standard Time
From: RxxL@compuserve.com (Rxxxl E. x)
Sender: .com (Rusxxxll )
To: GuySonic@AOL.com (Leonard)
Leonard,
Thanks
for your call. I'm still up in Canada (until the end of
next week). I tried to call you yesterday but your number
doesn't work
from up here. The mics and the Lite-GUY are working fantastic.
I used
them for all ten of the albums songs for drum ambience and I've
been
experimenting using them for electric guitars. I am not
sure if I got the
best sensitivity model. I havn't had any problems overloading
the mics and
there have been times I wished I could see quite a bit more level
out of
them. Also, I still havn't used them to record into my mini-disc,
I have
only used the mini to xlr adapter (which hasn't had any of the
potential
noise problems you warned me it might have). All of the
recording so far
has been through my Hardy Pre-Amps. I'll look forward to
hearing from you
soon.
Cheers,
RUSS LONG
>>
Hello
Russ,
Thank you for the welcome good news of how the mic system
is working for you so far.
A 2 or 4 db higher gain DSM-6S/H or EH model might seem better
for doing some work. The concern is with SPL handling and
if the noise level of the medium gain mic is getting in the way
too much for some purposes. External mic preamplifier
gains set at 20 or 30 db are usually optimal, but most preamps
seem to only provide 20 or 40 db selections
Gong through the Hardy preamps and into the DA-P1 line inputs
would seem to eliminate any potential ground loop problems with
DA-P1 mic stages for sure.
If you need to try a higher gain model for any reason, please
let me know.
Best Regards in Sound & Music Recording,
Leonard & Debbie Lombardo
----------------------------------------
Subj:
Ignacio from Uruguay.
Date:
9/9/01 7:23:03 PM Pacific Daylight Time
From: xxxx@guia-mercosur.com (Ignacio xxx)
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Hello
Leonard,
I
think you remember me, i´m Ignacio, from Montevideo, Uruguay,
i bought
from you the DSM-6S/L to use with my Sony Minidisc MZ-R70.
Do you remember? i had a battery box from Sound Professionals
and we didn´t
know if the mics worked fine with the 9 volt system.
So this e-mail is for telling you the info after tape some shows.
1)
The mics connected to the battery box and the battery box to
the LINE IN
of the minidisc does not work. The Minidisc record near 10 secs.
and start
again and again recording only 10 secs..... It not work with
the mics.
2)
Now i use your mics connected directly to MIC IN of the minidisc
and it
not overload as my Coresound. Your mics have lower input so
are the best
for me.
At
the moment i´m very very happy, haw can i tell you what
i think about
your mics, are the best, the thing i was looking for, aftyer
tape shows in
Clubs and Stadiums i test them and are really GREAT!!!!! I´m
100% satisfied
with your product. One of my best recordings is in a Megastore
very near to
the speakers is near a Soundboard quality. The mics capture
the sound you
heard crystal clear without distortion.
I think the only problem is the wind with the mics, i use the
foam from the
headfones and put in the mics a piece of it. It work very well
without
distort the sound.
So,
thats all,
My
best regards
Ignacio.
----------------------
Subj:
DSM in Africa!
Date: 10/22/01
7:48:50 AM Pacific Daylight Time
From: lxxxxxn@cpinternet.com (xxxxxxx)
Reply-to: lxxxxn@cpinternet.com
To: GuySonic@aol.com
Dear
Leonard,
In August, I was looking into doing some recording of Masai
tribal music in Africa and I needed equipment that would be
easy to manage.
After
viewing your web site I decided to give a ring your way and
inquire about the DSM microphone system. 
Being
strictly a studio sound guy, I had many questions about portable
sound recording and found your experienced advice very helpful.
In fact, I decide to go with your system.
One month later I was living in mud and dung huts and walking
all over the Rift Valley, with my DSM microphones and Sharp
MD-MT 90. 
Not
only was I able to capture the Masai music with remarkable accuracy
but I was able to do it with absolutely no difficulty.
The
WHB wind screen headband was an invaluable device for my situation.
It was able to protect the microphones from numerous sand storms,
being sat upon and keeping moderate winds out of my recordings.
Whether it was a large group of people or an old woman singing
milking songs, listening back, I close my eyes and it feels
like I am right there! I really could not believe it at first,
but the proof is in the sound quality.
Thank you for all your assistance.
Hans Johnson
Duluth, MN
GET
"music of the Masai" CD
by
Hans
Johnson
DOWNLOAD
2.6 Minute, High quality VBR MP3 (~5 MEG) / This is a 6
Sample Clip Compilation from the CD's 15 selections
--------------------------
Subj:
Mics
Date: 10/23/01 11:00:36 AM
Pacific Daylight Time
From: Rxxxxx@ci.south-pasadena.ca.us (Rxx xxxxx)
To: GuySonic@aol.com ('GuySonic@aol.com')
Leonard,
Just
wanted to thank you for the quality microphones that I purchased
from
you. I bought the DSM-6S/L mics and have them mounted inside
a loose weave
Panama hat. The results from the first few recordings that I
have made have
exceeded my highest expectations. How can something so small
capture so
much sound? I must admit that I felt that the mics were a bit
pricey when I
first purchased them. After hearing the results of my on location
recordings I know now that they are worth every cent that I
paid for them.
The only limitations I see are with the quality of the sound
system that you
record from. There seem to be no limitations with the microphones.
Thanks
once again for a quality product backed with good old fashion
service
