Introduction
The BOYA BY-BM6060L is an extended super-cardioid shotgun microphone designed for professional audio capture in various scenarios, including interviews, Electronic News Gathering (ENG), studio productions, and documentaries. Its advanced design focuses on capturing clear, directional sound while minimizing unwanted background noise.
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your BY-BM6060L microphone to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Product Overview
Components and Structure
Familiarize yourself with the main components of the BY-BM6060L microphone:
Figure 1: BOYA BY-BM6060L Microphone Structure. Labels include Microphone boom, Power indicator, High-pass filter switch, 3-pin XLR output, Shock mount, Fur windshield, Foam windscreen, and 24-48V phantom power or 1.5V AA battery compartment.
- Microphone Boom: The main body of the microphone, housing the condenser capsule.
- Power Indicator: Illuminates to show power status.
- High-Pass Filter Switch: Used to activate the 150Hz low-cut filter.
- 3-pin XLR Output: Standard professional audio output connector.
- Shock Mount: Reduces handling noise and vibrations.
- Battery Compartment: Holds a 1.5V AA battery for alternative power.
What's in the Box
The BOYA BY-BM6060L package includes the following items:
Figure 2: Package Contents. Includes the BY-BM6060L Microphone, Foam Windscreen, Fur Windshield, Shock Mount, and Zipper Bag.
- BY-BM6060L Microphone
- Foam Windscreen
- Fur Windshield
- Shock Mount
- Zipper Bag
Setup
1. Powering the Microphone
The BY-BM6060L can be powered in two ways:
- 24-48V Phantom Power: Connect the microphone to a device (e.g., audio interface, mixer, professional recorder) that supplies 24V or 48V phantom power via an XLR cable. The microphone will draw power directly from the connected device.
- 1.5V AA Battery: If phantom power is not available, insert one 1.5V AA battery into the battery compartment located on the microphone body. Ensure correct polarity (+/-) when inserting the battery.
Figure 3: Battery Compartment. Insert a 1.5V AA battery for power when phantom power is not used.
2. Mounting the Microphone
Attach the microphone to the included shock mount. The shock mount helps isolate the microphone from physical vibrations and handling noise, ensuring cleaner audio recordings. The shock mount can then be attached to a boom pole, camera shoe mount, or stand.
3. Connecting to a Recording Device
Connect the microphone's 3-pin XLR output to your recording device (e.g., camera, audio recorder, mixer, audio interface) using a standard XLR cable. Ensure the connection is secure.
Figure 4: 3-pin XLR Output. This is the standard professional audio output.
The BY-BM6060L is compatible with DSLRs that have a 3.5mm microphone socket, but this requires an appropriate XLR to 3.5mm audio cable (sold separately) and may require an adapter for phantom power if the camera does not supply it.
Figure 5: Compatibility. The microphone can be used with DSLRs (with appropriate cables) and professional audio interfaces/recorders.
4. Wind Protection
Use the provided foam windscreen or fur windshield to reduce wind noise during outdoor recordings or in environments with air movement.
- Foam Windscreen: Suitable for indoor use or light breeze to reduce plosives and minor wind noise.
- Fur Windshield: Recommended for outdoor use in windy conditions to significantly reduce wind noise.
Figure 6: Wind Protection. Choose between the foam windscreen and fur windshield based on environmental conditions.
Operating Instructions
1. Activating the Microphone
Once connected and powered (either via phantom power or AA battery), the power indicator light on the microphone will illuminate, indicating it is ready for use.
2. Using the High-Pass Filter
The BY-BM6060L features a switchable 150Hz high-pass filter. This filter helps to reduce low-frequency noise such as rumble, air conditioning hum, or traffic noise, which can often degrade audio quality. To activate the filter, slide the switch to the "150Hz" position. For full-range audio capture, set the switch to the "Flat" position.
Figure 7: High-Pass Filter Switch. Use to cut low-frequency noise at 150Hz.
3. Optimizing Sound Capture with Super-Cardioid Pattern
The microphone utilizes a super-cardioid polar pattern, which is highly directional. This means it primarily picks up sound from directly in front of the microphone, significantly reducing sound from the sides and rear. For best results, always point the microphone directly at your desired sound source.
Figure 8: Super-Cardioid Polar Pattern. Demonstrates the directional pickup pattern, focusing on the sound source directly in front.
4. Application Scenarios
The BY-BM6060L is versatile and suitable for a wide range of professional audio recording applications:
- Filmmaking: Capturing dialogue and ambient sound on set.
- Interviews: Clear voice recording for one-on-one or group interviews.
- Documentaries: Capturing authentic audio in various environments.
- Electronic News Gathering (ENG): On-location reporting and news coverage.
- Live Streaming: Enhancing audio quality for broadcasts.
- Studio Use: Professional voiceovers and instrument recording.
Figure 9: Multi-Scene Application. Examples include outdoor shooting, film shooting, interviewing, live streaming, and ENG.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the microphone body. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in its provided zipper bag to protect it from dust, moisture, and physical damage.
- Battery: If using AA batteries, remove them when the microphone will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage and damage.
- Handling: Handle the microphone with care. Avoid dropping it or exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity.
Troubleshooting
- No Sound Output:
- Check if the microphone is properly connected to your recording device via the XLR cable.
- Ensure phantom power is enabled on your recording device, or that a fresh AA battery is correctly inserted.
- Verify that the input level on your recording device is set appropriately and not muted.
- Test with a different XLR cable if possible.
- Distorted or Low-Quality Sound:
- Ensure the microphone is pointed directly at the sound source.
- Check for proper gain staging on your recording device to avoid clipping (too high input) or excessive noise (too low input).
- If recording outdoors or in windy conditions, ensure the foam windscreen or fur windshield is properly installed.
- If experiencing low-frequency rumble, activate the 150Hz high-pass filter.
- Microphone Not Recognized by Device:
- Confirm that your recording device supports XLR input and phantom power (if using it).
- If connecting to a DSLR, ensure you are using the correct XLR to 3.5mm adapter cable and that the camera's external mic input is enabled.
Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications of the BOYA BY-BM6060L microphone:
Figure 10: Technical Specifications.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Super-Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz-20,000Hz |
| Sensitivity | -32±3dB (0dB=1V/Pa@1KHz) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 80dB |
| Output Impedance | 200Ω |
| Power Requirements | 24-48V phantom power or 1.5V AA battery |
| Output | 3-pin XLR |
| High Pass Filter | 150Hz |
| Size | φ22*381mm |
| Weight | 171g (6 oz) |
| Certification | FCC, CE |
| Construction | Alloy-aluminum |
User Tips
- Cables Not Included: Please note that essential audio cables (such as XLR to XLR or XLR to 3.5mm) are typically sold separately. Ensure you acquire the appropriate cable for your specific recording device and setup.
- Battery Life: When using AA battery power, always carry spare batteries, especially for long recording sessions, to avoid interruptions.
- Monitor Your Audio: Always monitor your audio with headphones during recording to catch any issues (e.g., distortion, low levels, unwanted noise) in real-time.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official BOYA website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
