What is the 'Proximity effect'

The Proximity Effect

When a sound source gets close to a cardioid microphone, the bass frequencies in the sound can be boosted/exaggerated making a more 'boomier' bass. What are the effects of this?

Effects

Singers often used the proximity effect without realising! Just by bringing the microphone closer to their lips, it gives the sound a more intimate tone. However, depending on how much the sound is being projected, the bass boosting of the proximity effect can be bad as it can make words harder to understand on the ear and if the microphone is continuously moved from the sound source, it can give the sound and unnatural feel.

To avoid proximity effects, stay between 6-12 inches away from the microphone. This prevents the diaphragm of the microphone being overloaded, therefore giving the sound and unarticulated feel.

Uses

This effect would come in use for my interview part of my project as I shall be using a similar microphone to this when I record my interview in the studio booth. I shall be wary not to get to close to the microphone to give my voice as well as my interviewee more clarity in what they're saying. Also, I will try not keep myself in the same position throughout the interview so the sound of my voice does increase in volume or bass from moving closer in towards the microphone or vice versa