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Piezo mics


The piezo mic is two thin layers of metal, with a layer
of ceramic between.  Typically 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter,
and less than a millimeter thick.  When the element flexes,
a tiny amount of electricity is generated.  A pre-amp is
needed.

As far as I know, they work best on large, flat surfaces
that resonate with the sound.  The prime example is the
front of an accoustic guitar.  A flute probably won't work.

However, what is so cool about them is that they are cheap
if you make your own, which is pretty easy.  Buy the bare
element, or disassemble a Radio Shack buzzer, attach the
wires, and you've only spent a couple bucks.  Stick it to your
instrument and see what happens.  Try different spots, and
wire two together for fun.  I plan to embed a couple
inside a hollow body kalimba I'm building.


I originally found via Google some long posts from an
guitar discussion group on the topic, but much instruction
isn't needed because it is so easy.

Yours in rhythm,
Steve

>Date: Mon, 30 Sep 2002 21:28:44 -0700
>From: "David Auker" <DavAuk@Hevanet.com>
>To: Loopers-Delight@loopers-delight.com
>Subject: Re: CALL for WATER SOUNDS

>This piezo mic stuff sounds fascinating!  I did check out:
>http://www.floraberlin.de/soundbag/sbdownloads/piezos.pdf
>which has a lot of the basics.  Any further suggestions on 
>websites for a piezo disk mic primer?  They look appealing
>for the novice electrician (me).

>To what level of mic sophistication can they be taken...like, 
>could I attach one to my flute?

|:  David  :|

> >How about sticking a contact(piezo) mic to the side of the
> >tank?

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