Heil Sound PR-31BW Microphone User Manual

Introduction

The Heil PR-31BW is a large diameter, short body microphone designed for capturing cymbals and toms, as well as being versatile for other instruments and vocals. Developed in collaboration with FOH engineer Bob Workman, this microphone offers the benefits of the PR-30 in a more compact form factor, making it suitable for mounting to toms and for capturing cymbals from underneath, as well as from overhead. Its design minimizes pickup of unwanted sounds from nearby sources, ensuring clear audio capture. It is also capable of handling high sound pressure levels without overload.

Package Contents

Upon opening your Heil Sound PR-31BW microphone package, please ensure all components are present:

• Heil Sound PR-31BW Microphone

No other accessories are included in the standard package. Additional mounting options are available separately from Heil Sound.

Setup and Connection

The Heil PR-31BW microphone utilizes an XLR connector for audio output. Follow these steps to set up your microphone:

1. Mounting: Secure the PR-31BW to a microphone stand using a compatible microphone clip or shock mount (not included). Its short body design is ideal for precise placement on drum kits for toms or cymbals, or in other confined spaces.
2. Connection: Connect a standard 3-pin XLR cable (not included) to the XLR output on the base of the microphone.
3. Input Device: Connect the other end of the XLR cable to an input on your audio mixer, amplifier, or PA system. The PR-31BW is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power.
4. Positioning: Position the microphone appropriately for the sound source. The PR-31BW features a unidirectional polar pattern, meaning it is most sensitive to sounds coming from directly in front of it, and less sensitive to sounds from the sides and rear.

Figure 1: Front view of the Heil Sound PR-31BW microphone. This image shows the compact design and the XLR connection point at the base.

Figure 2: The PR-31BW microphone mounted on a stand, demonstrating its compact size and suitability for various placements.

Operating Instructions

The Heil PR-31BW is a versatile microphone suitable for a variety of applications. Its design ensures excellent sound isolation and clarity.

• Instrument Miking: Ideal for cymbals and toms due to its short body, allowing for precise placement in tight spaces. It can be positioned from underneath cymbals or above toms. The microphone's design helps prevent bleed from other drums or instruments.
• Vocals: Can be used for vocal applications, providing clear and articulate sound reproduction.
• Amplifiers and Cabinets: Excellent for miking guitar cabinets and brass horns. Its robust design can handle high sound pressure levels without overload.
• Other Applications: Also suitable for piano and can even fit inside Leslie speaker cabinets for unique sound capture.

Always monitor your audio levels to prevent clipping and ensure optimal sound quality. Experiment with microphone placement to achieve the desired tonal characteristics for your specific sound source.

Figure 3: Another view of the PR-31BW on a stand, highlighting its compact form factor.

Figure 4: Side view of the PR-31BW, illustrating its short body design which is beneficial for tight miking situations.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Heil PR-31BW microphone.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the microphone body. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
• Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in a protective case or bag to prevent dust accumulation and physical damage.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the microphone or subjecting it to strong impacts, as this can affect its internal components and sound quality.
• Environment: Keep the microphone away from extreme temperatures, high humidity, and direct sunlight.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Heil PR-31BW microphone, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Sound Output:
  • Ensure all cables are securely connected at both the microphone and the input device.
  • Verify that the input channel on your mixer or interface is selected and its gain is appropriately set.
  • Test with a different XLR cable to rule out a faulty cable.
  • Confirm that the input device is powered on and functioning correctly.
• Low or Distorted Sound:
  • Check the gain settings on your mixer or interface. Too low gain will result in weak signal, too high can cause distortion.
  • Ensure the microphone is positioned correctly relative to the sound source.
  • Inspect the microphone grille for any obstructions or damage.
• Excessive Background Noise:
  • Confirm the microphone's unidirectional polar pattern is correctly oriented towards the desired sound source and away from noise sources.
  • Check for ground loops or interference from other electronic devices.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, contact Heil Sound customer support for further assistance.

Specifications