STUDIO PROJECTS B3 User manual

Studio Projects is manufactured and marketed under the direction of
PMI AUDIO GROUP
23775 Madison Street, Torrance, CA 90505
voice [phone] Facsimile [phone]
toll-free USA [phone]
Email [email protected]
Studio Projects® Instruction Manual
• Professional Studio Microphones
• Ultimate professional build quality
• Pressure-gradient transducer
• Transformerless circuitry (B1 & B3 Only)
• Large diameter pressure gradient capsule
employing 3 um gold sputtered mylar diaphragms
visit our web site at studioprojectsusa.com
B SERIES MICROPHONES
• Ultra low-noise FET Preamplifier (B1 & B3 Only)
• Dual Triode “6072” hand tested tubes (TB1 Only)
• Dedicated power supply (TB1 Only)
• Heavy duty road case (TB1 Only)

INSTRUCTION BOOK CONTENTS
What is Studio Projects.....................................................................................................2
Description, Care...............................................................................................................2
Operation, Problems..........................................................................................................3
Connecting up, Using Studio Projects, Specification......................................................4
Origins and manufacture..................................................................................................4
Applications.....................................................................................................................4
B1..................................................................................................................................5
B3......................................................................................................................................6
TB1..................................................................................................................................7
WHAT IS STUDIO PROJECTS?
There are many microphone brands on today’s market, and German microphones are the most
sought after. Studio Projects was created to offer a better microphone for a better price to meet a
need in today’s market. Studio Projects was designed with German engineering in mind. We offer
German quality and sound for a fraction of the cost. The proof is in the listening. By using custom 3
um capsules and WIMA components, Studio Projects competes both in quality build, and sonic perfor-
mance with those famous German brands.
Studio Projects has partnered with 797 Audio, a leading manufacturer in China for over 50 years.
We like them so much, we put their name on all of our microphones. As a result of this partnership,
our quality is unmatched, as our partner has a vested interest in Studio Projects, mainly their name!
PMI Audio Group is a leading distributor of professional audio products.
Having many years of experience with microphones, Studio Projects was created to provide a quality
product at an affordable price. This will be evident as soon as you plug them in. Studio Projects
will continue to bring quality products to market.
DESCRIPTION / CARE
Although the “mylar” membrane on the capacitor is more robust than the gold foil used by the
original German designs of the 1930s, it is extremely fine and liable to damage if mishandled.
There are two safety factors that MUST be remembered when handling these microphones:
1) Keep the microphone dry.
2) Avoid wind or air blasts directly onto the capsule.
3) Avoid shaking the microphone. The B series uses a floating isolation mount that houses
the capsule. The housing eliminates vibrations but is not a stiff mount. Shaking will cause a
knocking or mechanical sound inside your microphone and should be avoided.
All electronic equipment should be kept dry, but it is even more important to avoid any damp
conditions when using high quality condensor microphones. Damp can cause partial short
circuits in the polarizing voltage, this will cause crackling noises and low output. The most
important instruction for condensor microphones is NEVER blow at the capsule. Damage
caused by blast of air on the capsule are often permanent and require the complete
replacement of the capacitor element (capsule). Never use the microphone in the open air
without substantial wind protection.
ELECTRICAL FEATURES
The B1 & B3 is a “transformerless microphone”. With transformerless technology, the usual
output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. The B1 & B3 ensures good common
mode rejection, and prevents RF interference, that may influence the balanced audio signal.
The B1 & B3 when compared to other microphones have very low noise and is capable of
handling sound pressure levels up to 137 dB without distortion.
OPERATION
The B1, B3 and TB1 are capable of handling high sound volume levels so they can be used
safely close to musical instrument amplifiers, however, the B3 is best suited for those high volume
applications. If the amplifier sound is very loud, this may overload the microphone amplifier.
Simply adjust the level to the microphone or reposition it. It is a very low noise microphone and
suitable for vocal recording to the highest quality. All “B” Series are more suited for critical vocal
recordings, strings, overheads, Broadcast, and production use. Experimentation is critical for
optimum performance. Microphone placement is crucial to a proper recording.
All “B” Series are addressed from the front, marked with the Studio Projects logo. The large
diaphragm capsule inside the headgrille has a very smooth frequency response, therefore the
acoustic information is not affected in its tonal quality when recorded by the microphone. The
microphone maintains an excellent response reproducing all transient material of music and
speech without coloration.
PROBLEMS
Should any microphone accidentally become damp and fail to operate properly (start crack-
ling, or go very quiet) then place it in a warm and very dry environment for 24 hours. The ideal
environment is an airing cupboard. Studio Projects are extremely resistant to physical dam-
age, but if the microphone fails to work after being dropped, it should be returned in adequate
packing to the supplier. A double test and inspection system means that manufacturing faults
are non-existent but should any fault occur, it will be repaired (or replaced) free of charge
excepting where the fault has been caused by physical damage.
MY MIC CLIP DOES NOT FIT ON MY STAND
There is a brass insert where you screw the clip into your stand. The insert is for a European
mic stand that uses a smaller end than we do in the USA. Take a dime, quarter, or something
else, unscrew it. It will then fit your stand.
MY CLIP DOES NOT HOLD MY MIC IN PLACE
To adjust the tension screws, remove the round plastic covers on each side at the bottom of
the clip. Use your thumb and forefinger to carefully “pull” off the cover to reveal a silver screw.
Do not twist or pry the cover off as there is a small plastic stud that holds it in place. Just
tighten both screws and replace the covers.
32

B1
The B1 is a high quality true condensor pressure gradient microphone
with an FET impedance converter. It is a large diaphragm microphone
with a cardiod polar pattern and a 3 um capsule for natural reproduction
of the vocal and instrument range. The B1 uses a transformerless circuit,
that features extremely low noise and wide dynamic range. The B1’s
polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle. Signals
coming from the side are reproduced accurately and without any
coloration. The microphone capsule is immune to typical interference
and outside contamination.
B1 SPECIFICATIONS
Sensitivity: -34dB,(0dB=1V/Pa)
Polar pattern: Cardioid.
Frequency response: 20~20000Hz.
Noise level: 12dB-A (IEC651).
S/N ratio: 82 dB.
Max. Output: 3.3V 0.5% THD @1000Hz at 1KOHM load impedance.
Max. SPL: 137 dB
Power requirement: 48 +/- 4V, 3mA.
Accessories: Mic Clip clamp, Foam Windscreen.
CONNECTING UP
Using a high quality balanced and screened(shielded) audio cable, connect the B1 or B3
microphone to the microphone amplifier input and switch on the 48V phantom power. NOTE,
the microphone will not operate unless 48V phantom power is provided. The microphone
should be powered up for at least one minute before it will operate correctly as the polarizing
voltage on the capsule needs to stabilize. Some background noise is possible during the first
few seconds after switch on. Keep the gain controls on the microphone amplifier or mixer well
down as the output from the microphone is high (as most capacitor microphones). For the TB1,
use the supplied cable to hook the microphone and power supply together. Use a balanced
and screened(shielded) audio cable to connect to a mic amplifier. DO NOT USE A PHANTOM
POWER SOURCE FOR THE TB1. The TB1’s supply powers the mic.
USING STUDIO PROJECTS MICROPHONES
Studio Projects is a high quality true condensor pressure gradient microphone with FET
impedance converter. (NOTE, this is NOT an electret microphone).
The capacitor element is manufactured to the classic ‘center electrode’ design which provides
smooth extended frequency response without low frequency boominess. Quality is further
enhanced by using dynamic feedback actually at the capacitor element. This original
technique eliminates distortions which can occur when using this type of microphone for high
volume levels. The capacitor membrane is microfine 3 um ‘mylar’ with gold sputtering, voltage
polarized by phantom power. The polar response is linear over a wide incidence angle, so signals
coming from the side are reproduced without coloration.
The B1 & B3 are more sensitive to sounds from the front than from the rear when used in the
CARDIOD pattern. The front of the microphone is indicated by the Studio Projects logo. To
get the best quality, be sure the sound source is in line with the front of the microphone. For
vocals, a ‘nylon’ pop shield is recommended. AVOID using foam plastic ‘pop’ shields. These
may be effective at stopping ‘popping’, but can also affect the working of the microphone so
the sound is dulled. To get that classic early capacitor microphone sound, the singer should
sing across the front of the microphone at a distance of 6” to 24” from the microphone.
The B3 is a Multi-Pattern microphone that provides Cardiod, Omni, and Figure Eight patterns.
These multiple patterns allow the user more flexibility in their recordings. The Omni pattern
picks up sounds uniformly from all over the capsule, while Figure 8 rejects sounds from the
sides (left/right). Using these patterns correctly will give the user a wide variety of recording
applications.
ORIGINS AND MANUFACTURE
Studio Projects Microphones are manufactured in Beijing, China by 797 Audio to a specification
created by Studio Projects, Torrance, California. All Studio Projects microphones are inspected
and tested at the factory, then inspected and tested again at PMI Audio Groups facility prior to ship-
ping. Studio Projects microphones meet the requirements of electronic equipment sold both in
the USA, Canada, and the European Union. All Studio Projects products are CE Approved.
APPLICATIONS
• Close miking of instruments with high sound pressure levels
• Announcer’s mic for broadcasting/dubbing
• Home recording and project studios
• Vocalist recording
• Spot mic for: wind instruments, strings, percussion and guitar amps.
5
4

TB1
The TB1 is a high quality condenser pressure gradient microphone with an hand
selected 6072 “Dual Triode” tube for that sought after classic warm sound. It is
a large diaphragm Cardiod only mic. The TB1 uses a 3 um capsule for thick
warm natural reproduction of the vocal range. Features extremely low noise
and wide dynamic range.
The TB1’s polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle. Signals com-
ing from the side and rear are reproduced accurately and without any coloration.
The microphone capsule is immune to typical interference and outside contami-
nation. The microphone is supplied with a power supply, dedicated 7pin XLR
cable, and heavy duty road case, & AC cord.
TB1 SPECIFICATIONS
Type: Single Large Diaphragm Vacuum Tube
Condenser Microphone
Sensitivity: 25mV/Pa (-32db re 0dB=1V/Pa).
Max. Output: 500mV rms (@1000Hz,<1% THD).
Max. SPL: 120 dB SPL(@1000Hz,<1% THD).
Noise Level: 16 dB-A.
S/N ratio: 78 dB
Power requirement: DJ-8 Power Unit.
Current: 200V 1mA, 6.3V 150mA.
Accessories: Mic Clip clamp, Power Supply, Power Cable,
Mic Cable (7 Pin, 5m) and an Aluminum
Carrying Case.
76
B3
The B3 is a high quality true condensor pressure gradient microphone with
an FET impedance converter. It is a large diaphragm microphone with three
selectable polar patterns, Cardiod, Omni, and Figure Eight. The B3 uses a 3 um
capsule for natural reproduction of the vocal range. The B3 uses a transformer-
less circuit, that features extremely low noise and wide dynamic range.
The B3’s polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle. Signals
coming from the side and rear are reproduced accurately and without any col-
oration. The microphone capsule is immune to typical interference and outside
contamination.
B3 SPECIFICATIONS
Sensitivity: 14/16/18mV/Pa
(Omni/Cardioid/Figure 8)
(-37/-36/-35dB @1000Hz)
Polar pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure 8.
Max. Output: 2.5V rms @1000Hz,<1% THD.
Max. SPL: 137 dB SPL (Cardioid) @1000Hz,<1% THD.
Noise Level: 14 dB-A (Cardioid).
S/N ratio: 80 dB.
Impedance: <50 OHMs
Power requirement: 48V +/-4V.
Current: 2.5mA.
Accessories: Mic Clip clamp, Foam Windscreen
10dB pad and low cut (high pass) filter are included on back of unit

STUDIO PROJECTS LIMITED WARRANTY
THIS PRODUCT IS FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY
PMI Audio Group warrants that all products will be free from defects in material or workmanship:
A: For a period of (1) one year from the date of purchase (hereinafter the labor warranty period),
PMI Audio Group will repair or replace this Product if determined to be defective. After the expiration
of the labor warranty period, the Purchaser must pay labor charges.
B: In addition, PMI Audio Group will supply, at no charge, replacements for defective parts for a
period of (one year) from the date of purchase. During the labor warranty period, to repair the
Product, Purchaser must return the defective Product, freight prepaid, or deliver it to PMI Audio
Group Service Center. The product to be repaired is to be returned in either its original carton
or a similar package affording an equal degree of production. PMI Audio Group will return the
repaired Product freight prepaid to the Purchaser. PMI Audio Group is not obligated to provide
Purchaser with a substitute unit during the warranty period or at any time.
CONDITIONS
1. Notification of claims: Warranty Service: If Purchaser discovers that the Product has proven
defective in material or workmanship, then written notice with an explanation of the claim shall
be given promptly by Purchaser to PMI but all claims for warranty service must be made within
the warranty period. If after investigation PMI determines that the reported problem was not covered
by the warranty, Purchaser shall pay PMI for the cost of investigating the problem at its then
prevailing time-and-materials rate. No repair or replacement by Purchaser of any Product or part
thereof shall extend the warranty period as to the entire Product. The specific warranty on the
repaired part only shall be in effect for a period of ninety (90) days following the repair or replacement
of that part or the remaining period of the Product warranty, whichever is greater.
2. Exclusive Remedy: Acceptance: Purchaser’s exclusive remedy and PMI’s sole obligation is
to supply (or pay for) all labor necessary to repair any product found to be defective within
the warranty period and to supply, at no extra charge, new or rebuilt replacements for defective
parts. If repair or replacement fails to remedy the defect, then and only in such an event, shall
PMI exchange to Purchaser a new or reconditioned unit. Purchaser’s failure to make a claim as
provided in paragraph 1 above or continued use of the product shall constitute an unqualified
acceptance of such Product and a waiver by Purchaser of all claims thereto.
3. Exceptions to Limited warranty: PMI shall have no liability or obligation to Purchaser with respect
to any Product subjected to abuse, improper use, negligence, accident, modification, failure of
the end-user to follow the operating and maintenance procedures outlined in the users manual,
attempted repair by non-qualified personnel, operation of the unit outside of the published
environmental and electrical parameters, or if such products original identification (trademark, serial
number) markings have been defaced, altered, or removed. PMI excludes from warranty cover-
age, Products sold AS IS and/or WITH ALL FAULTS and excludes used products which have
not been sold by PMI to the Purchaser. PMI also excludes from warranty coverage consumables
such as fuses and batteries, etc.
4. Proof of purchase: The dealer’s dated bill of sale must be retained as evidence or the date of
purchase and to establish warranty eligibility.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
EXCEPT FOR THE FORGOING WARRANTIES, PMI HEREBY DISCLAIM S AND EXCLUDES
ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR LIMITED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY/OR ALL
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT ABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND/OR
ANY WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO ANY CLAIM OF INFRINGEMENT THAT MAY BE PROVED
IN SECTION 2-312(3) OF THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE AND/OR IN ANY COMPARABLE STATE
STATUE. PMI HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTY THAT THE PRODUCT IS
COMPATIBLE WITH ANY COMBINATION OF NON-PMI AUDIO PRODUCTS PURCHASER MAY
CHOOSE TO CONNECT TO THE PRODUCT.
LIMITATION ON LIABILITY
THE LIABILITY OF PMI, IF ANY, AND PURCHASER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR
DAMAGES FOR ANY CLAIM OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER, REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY
AND WHETHER ARISING IN TORT OR CONTRACT, SHALL NOT BE GREATER THAN THE ACTUAL
PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT WITH RESPECT TO WHICH SUCH CLAIM IS MADE. IN NO
EVENT SHALL PMI BE LIABLE TO PURCHASER FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COMPENSATION,
REIMBURSEMENT OR DAMAGES ON ACCOUNT OF THE LOSS OF PRESENT OR
PROSPECTIVE PROFITS OR ANY OTHER REASON WHATSOEVER.
OWNERS REGISTRATION CARD
TO BE COMPLETED AT TIME OF PURCHASE
Name ____________________________________________________
Date of Purchase ____________________________________________________
Serial Number ____________________________________________________
Dealer’s Name ____________________________________________________
RETAIN FOR YOUR RECORDS
PLEASE DISPATCH AND RETURN YOUR REGISTRATION TO
STUDIO PROJECTS WITHIN 14 DAYS OF PURCHASE

Place
Stamp
Here
STUDIO PROJECTS
DISTRIBUTED BY PMI AUDIO GROUP
23775 Madison Street
Torrance, California 90505 USA
PRODUCT REGISTRATION INFORMATION
PLEASE FILL IN THE BELOW SECTIONS AND RETURN
Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Telephone Number: email Address: Model Purchased: Date Purchased: Serial Number: Dealer: Comments:
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