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Frequently Asked Questions
Compatibility – Suitability – Usability
- Q: Will my old pre-Modular Suspension work with a new Windshield?
- A: Yes, but you will need to request an “old-style” filler strip. When we changed to the Modular Suspension, we took the opportunity to rationalise the Suspension to metric screws and metric hole spacing. That includes the holes in the filler strip.
- Q: Is the Modular Suspension suitable for more than one microphone?
- A: One of the benefits of the Modular Suspension is that it comes supplied with a variety of clips and o-rings making it possible to adapt your suspension for many different microphones.
- Q: What purpose do the numbers on the bar and hoops of my Modular Suspension serve? A: The Modular suspension can be set up in a wide variety of ways, and the numbers identify the various hole positions (and even the hoop directions). This makes it simple to reset a particular configuration – and also to explain to others (including Rycote) how it is set up.
- Q: I can’t find my microphone or camcorder on your list.
A: We continuously strive to maintain current and accurate lists of commonly used professional audio equipment; however occasionally we miss one out; please contact us, with the name and dimensions of your microphone and we will be happy to advise on product availability. - Q: What is the difference between a Windshield and a Softie?
A: Windshields allow the entire microphone to be suspended in a protected environment. This gives the ultimate in windnoise suppression. Softies are a simpler, push-on design which, though still very effective, are primarily aimed at those for whom robustness is a priority. - Q: Can I use a Hi Wind Cover in conjunction (ie, underneath) with a Windjammer?
A: Yes. However, as you add more covers – even Rycote ones – you must expect some reduction of sound quality (mostly HF), but this may well be quite acceptable compared to wind roar. - Q: At what wind speeds are Softies and Windshields effective?
A: Wind speed figures are averages over a certain time; whereas, what ruins a recording is the momentary peak that causes a “blast”- and wind can be a fairly steady blow from one direction, or turbulent gusts from everywhere. The criteria for “noise” also vary with use. For music one “putter” of wind could be very annoying, but for a gritty news report in a storm, one only cares if it is intelligible. So, correlating effectiveness with wind speed is all but impossible – but with the right mic, the right user, and the right Rycote successful recordings have been made in full gales.
Spares
- Repairs - Care
- Q: Are spares available?
- A: Yes, spare clips, o-rings, washers, etc. can all be obtained through your regular Rycote outlet. Whenever possible, we do try to be able to provide spare parts for older versions of our products; however, if you have products that are very old we cannot always guarantee this.
- Q: My black filler strip sticks and is difficult to slide into my Windshield.
- A: The flexible PVC used for the filler strip can become deformed or sticky on its surface. Make sure the white plastic washers are in the correct positions and that the strip is not damaged. Wipe a trace of silicone oil (WD40 or similar) onto the sliding surfaces.
- Q: Someone has sat on/slammed a car door on/run over with a car/set fire to my Windshield. Is it possible to repair a damaged Windshield?
- A: It is possible to replace the removable end cap. However, due to the manufacturing process, sadly we are unable to make repairs to damaged Windshields.
- Q: What is the best way to clean a Softie and/or Windjammer?
- A: Both Softies and Windjammers are supplied with a Hair Brush, customers often think that we are joking by including this; but it is actually very important to keep the synthetic fibres as free from tangles as possible to ensure the best possible performance from our products. If your Softie or Windjammer is in a really bad state, see below. Softies should be dry brushed thoroughly to remove as much dirt and debris as possible, and to remove any matting that may occur. You should never submerge your Softie in water as this may damage the product. Windjammers may be hand washed in cold water with a very mild detergent and then allowed to air dry naturally. After drying, they will need to be brushed out to remove any tangles or matts and to keep the fur fibres in good condition.
- Q: Can I treat my Windjammer with water repellent to make it waterproof?
- A: The Windjammer material is already treated with a very fine layer of Scotchguard, but adding any further quantities can result in a crackling noise being heard. Water repellents may also seriously degrade the HF transparency of the backing, so we really would not recommend it
Stereo
- Q: Can I fit a Stereo MS Pair in a Mono Windshield?
- A: This is something we do not normally recommend. Most standard microphone designs fitted side by side will severely reduce the free air space between capsule and windshield, which is essential for good windnoise suppression. There is also a risk of the microphones crashing against the windshield. Slender single shank MS designs can be used in Mono windshields and the small “compact” or “remote capsule” microphones can be fitted into Mono Extended Ball Gags, where a small envelope has a priority over the windnoise suppression levels.
- Q: Do you make a Windshield suitable to hold an XY Pair?
- A: We do make a Windshield for “compact” or “remote capsule” microphones in an XY configuration. For standard designs of microphone and short shotgun types, an XY configuration windshield would be the size of a beach ball, and impractical.
Problem
Noises
- Q: I hear creaking noises when I move the microphone.
- A: Creaking is often a sign of a damaged basket. The joints can split after long use and as the separate parts move you hear a creak. Take the windshield off and check it very carefully.
- Q: I hear rattling noises when I move the microphone.
- A: Rattling is usually associated with metal parts moving. Listen to the microphone – no suspension, just in your hand. Tilt it and make sure it has no loose screws. Then check the XLR connector.
- Q: I hear bangs and thumps when I move the microphone.
- A: Make sure everything on the suspension is fixed correctly and the screws are tightened. Check that the cable is not touching the windshield anywhere. Check that you have a high pass filter in circuit somewhere.
- Q: But why do I need a high pass filter? I want all that lovely bass!
- A: You want the bass but you do not want the infrasonic signals that cause severe limiting in the preamplifier. Many microphones have their own permanent in-built HPF, some have a switchable one and some rely on you fitting one elsewhere. For microphones on poles, you have to start to roll-off the sound below about 60Hz.
- Q: In cold weather my microphone seems to be more susceptible to handling noise.
- A: When it’s cold most cables become much stiffer and can conduct a lot of mechanical noise. Have you got a Connbox fitted? Connboxes use a very thin, lightweight cable to provide maximum isolation.
- Q: I usually fit a foam windgag inside my Rycote but someone said that was a bad idea. Why?
- A: Foam windgags are OK (though not very efficient) by themselves but they work on a different principle to a cavity windshield. Fitting them inside a Rycote makes the basket less effective.
- Q: I have to work in windy conditions but I need a really small windshield. Does Rycote make one?
- A: The size/efficiency of a windshield is largely dictated by physics. For similar types of structure, a bigger windshield will always suppress wind better.
