Why Lampify?
Why Lampify?
My name is Gary Osborne, inventor of Lampifier microphones. I'm often asked what's different about these mics. When an ordinary mic is plugged directly into a PA or mixer, problems arise. Plosives such as the letters “p” and “b” cause popping sounds in the speaker and consonants like “t”, “d” as well as sibilants including "s," “sh”, and “ch” can be harsh. Level drops also commonly occur. Lampifier mics have an audio processor inside that automatically removes these sorts of common dynamic problems.
The secret is a new kind of dynamic range compressor that's unlike any other. In fact, in every Lampifier mic there is a tiny “audio bulb” light bulb circuit in the handle which decreases unwanted harshness, pops, drop-outs, and more, creating a silky-smooth response that sounds entirely natural, and yet simultaneously constrains the output to lie within the ideal dynamic range.
Why not just use an ordinary compressor for this? Three critical reasons:
1) First, this would require a knowledgable soundman with significant setup time to properly dial in. By contrast, the Lampifier is fully self-adjusting; it automatically alters its compression ratio and attack/release as needed based on the incoming audio signal. So it's quick and easy.
2) Second, the Lampifier circuit is altogether a horse of a different color. At low volume it acts as a soft compressor. At higher volume it's a limiter. And at very high volume it goes back to operating like a compressor! This complex dynamic interaction creates the Lampifier's characteristically smooth, reduced dynamic range, yet it also simultaneously preserves the intended dynamics. So it's the best of both worlds!
By contrast, standard compression is always "top down," which means dynamics are crushed above a given threshold. This sort of compression is generally hated by singers because it removes the dynamics needed for a compelling performance, causing them to feel as if they are singing into a brick wall. To achieve any desired dynamics, then, they must push overly hard which causes singers to blow out their voice! By contrast, the Lampifier on-board intelligent dynamic reduction system preserves all the essential dynamics so a singer can really work with the sound and control the details of their performance. And what this really means is: Singers love it because it helps them get ideal dynamics AND allows them to hear themselves above the stage mix! Then, to top off a great idea, an adjustable noise gap also further helps reduce stage noise and feedback. So it's truly a win/win all the way around.
3) And finally, the Lampifier circuit is non-digital. The tiny lamp in this circuit is an opto circuit--the same sort of circuitry that is found in the sought after, sweet-sounding analog compressions of years past. So it's smooth and warm, without any added digital conversion noise or harshness.
These three elements, taken together, are a game-changer. But don't take my word for it; try one out for yourself and join the Lampifier Revolution!
For more information, check out the following links:
Technical Overview: How Lampifier works
Read a Lampifier microphone product review by Audio Technology magazine of Australia.