User Manual
pollination
8
Exploring Sonic Signatures
Scientists studying the behavior of the Bumblebee were astonished to discover that the species exhibited certain chameleon-like traits, not
normally seen in nature. Extensive research led to the identification of three distinct characteristics, called Sonic Signatures. These allow the
Bumblebee to adapt quickly to any environment, thus bypassing years of evolutionary change.
The Bumblebee employs powerful on-board processing to create not one, but three separate sonic personalities—Music, Voice, and Neutral.
Developed by professional studio engineers, applying these personalities to your recordings can enhance the harmonic spectrum and maximize
separation, resulting in recordings with greater impact and clarity.
Music mode expands the harmonic field for shimmering highs and a deep, rich bottom. Supporting instruments, such as acoustic guitars and
pianos, will have greater detail and presence yet reserve center stage for the star.
Voice mode shines a spotlight on the artist! Advanced processing techniques, borrowed from broadcast professionals, move the vocalist to the
front of the stage while minimizing level variations and sibilance. The result is a vocal that commands attention.
Neutral mode applies no additional sonic processing to the naturally sweet and accurate sound. Use this mode when you want to add your own
custom audio processing. So let’s get started! Here’s a swarm of Tricks & Tips to help you get the most out of your Bumblebee.
Music Production
Part of the joy—and challenge—of recording instruments and voices is that they each have unique personalities, so a placement strategy that
works for one may not work so well for another. Often, even a small adjustment to the mic’s angle or distance from the source can make a world
of dierence in the results. We’ll provide you with some starting points, but don’t feel limited. Use your ears, and let your creativity soar!
Vocals
Sonic Mode: Vocal
Start with the microphone at lip level and position the vocalist 4 to 5 inches (10 – 13 cm) away. For more intimacy and presence, move in—as close
as 1 inch (2.5 cm), if needed. This won’t overpower the mic, but always use the supplied Honeycomb pop filter. The filter helps control breath
pops and also protects the diaphragm.
Experiment with dierent angles. Aiming directly at the mouth provides the most clarity and articulation. A slight upward tilt adds head tone and
projection. A downward tilt adds warmth and softens the top end.
For background vocals, move the singers in as close as possible, and switch the Bumblebee to Music mode. The extended harmonic range will
add warmth and air to the voices, while allowing harmonic space for the lead.