FAQs

KLOVER MiK 26 parabolic microphone on the sidelines of the 2014 Super Bowl
What type of microphone element can I use in the KLOVER MiK 09?

The KLOVER MiK 09 requires an omnidirectional lapel (lavaliere) microphone. Omni-directional microphones capture sound from a 360-degree pattern around the microphone. This pickup pattern allows these microphones to capture the sound energy reflected from the outer edges of the parabolic dish. This sound energy may be ignored with a more directional pickup pattern.

How do I focus the KLOVER MiK 09?

Each parabolic microphone has a specific focus point. The microphone element must be placed at this focus point in order to provide the maximum performance from the unit. The focus point of the KLOVER MiK 09 is 1 1/8″ behind (inside) the rear surface of the aluminum frame. The square tab at the bottom of the dish can be used as a setup guide if it is 1 1/8″ wide.

Please refer to the video in the “Assembly Video” for a detailed explanation of the focusing process.

How large is the KLOVER MiK 09?

Please see the dimensions in the “Specifications” page.

How heavy is the KLOVER MiK 09?

Please see the dimensions in the “Specifications” page.

Is the KLOVER MiK 09 fragile?

No. We have designed all the Klover MiK products to take the abuse of everyday use. The only critical portion of the Klover MiK is the inside surface of the parabolic dish. We suggest transporting the Klover MiK 09 with the dish attached to the aluminum frame to reduce any chance of scratching the inside surface of the dish. Using a case or carrying bag for additional protection when transporting our parabolic microphones is also suggested.

What type of microphone element can I use in the KLOVER MiK 16?

The KLOVER MiK 16 requires a microphone with an omnidirectional or wide-cardioid pickup pattern. A small diaphragm condenser (pencil) mic may be used between 3/4 and 7/8 inches in diameter. In addition, a lapel (lavaliere) microphone up to 5/16 inches in diameter may be used with the included mic adapter tube.

Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from a 360-degree pattern around the microphone. Wide-cardioid microphones have a pickup pattern that goes beyond 180 degrees. Both of these microphones capture the sound energy reflected from the outer edges of the parabolic dish. This sound energy may be ignored with a more directional pickup pattern.

How do I focus the KLOVER MiK 16?

Each parabolic microphone has a specific focus point. The microphone element must be placed at this focus point to provide maximum performance from the unit. The focus point of the KLOVER MiK 16 is 1-1/8 inches behind (inside) the rear surface of the mic mount hub or 1-1/2 inches behind the front face of the collector dish.

A label on the face of the collector dish includes a line that is 1-1/8 inches wide for adjusting the focus.

Please refer to the video in the “Assembly Video” for a detailed explanation of the focusing process.

How large is the KLOVER MiK 16?

Please see the dimensions in the “Specifications” page.

How heavy is the KLOVER MiK 16?

Please find the product weight in the “Specifications” page.

How do I mount a lapel microphone in a KLOVER MiK 16?

The KLOVER MiK 16 is shipped with an “adapter tube” that fits inside the center hub of the microphone yoke and has an inside diameter that is significantly smaller. The most common method of mounting a lapel microphone inside this tube is to wrap the mic cable with soft foam rubber before locating the mic inside the tube. When the foam expands, it centers and retains the mic.

We are currently shipping a plastic microphone clip that snaps on the outside of the lapel microphone and then slips inside the adapter tube.

Is there any difference in the audio performance between the four models of the KLOVER MiK 16?

No. The four models of the KLOVER MiK 16 are functionally equivalent. The way that the dish is supported is the only physical difference.

What type of microphone element can I use in the KLOVER MiK 26?

The KLOVER MiK 26 requires a microphone with an omnidirectional pickup pattern. A small diaphragm condenser (pencil) mic may be used between 3/4 and 7/8 inches in diameter. In addition, a lapel (lavaliere) microphone up to 5/16 inches in diameter may be used with the included mic adapter tube.

Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from a 360-degree pattern around the microphone. This allows them to capture the sound energy reflected from the outer edges of the parabolic dish. This sound energy may be ignored with a more directional pickup pattern.

How do I focus the KLOVER MiK 26?

Each parabolic microphone has a specific focus point. The microphone element must be placed at this focus point to provide the maximum performance from the unit. The focus point of the KLOVER MiK 26 is 2-1/4 inches behind (inside) the rear surface of the mic mount hub or 4 inches behind the front face of the collector dish.

A label on the face of the collector dish includes a line that is 2-1/4 inches wide for adjusting the focus.

Please refer to the video in the “Assembly Video” for a detailed explanation of the focusing process.

How large is the KLOVER MiK 26?

Please see the dimensions in the “Specifications” page.

How heavy is the KLOVER MiK 26?

Please find the product weight in the “Specifications” page.

How do I mount a lapel microphone in a KLOVER MiK 26?

The KLOVER MiK 26 is shipped with an “adapter tube” that fits inside the center hub of the microphone yoke and has an inside diameter that is significantly smaller. The most common method of mounting a lapel microphone inside this tube is to wrap the mic cable with soft foam rubber before locating the mic inside the tube. When the foam expands, it centers and retains the mic.

We are currently shipping a plastic microphone clip that snaps on the outside of the lapel microphone and then slips inside the adapter tube

Is there any difference in the audio performance of the KLOVER MiK 26 and the KLOVER MiK 26-TE?

No. These two models are functionally equivalent. The only difference between the two models is the shape of the flat flange on the front surface of the parabolic dish. The shape of the “TE” model allows the dish to be rotated slightly to fit within a waterproof (Pelican style) shipping case. It also allows the unit to fit in a slightly smaller shipping container, which reduces its shipping cost.

Why do I have to be more precise in aiming the KLOVER MiK than with the Big Ears I used in the past?

The Big Ears, which has been widely used for many years, did not provide a true parabolic dish. The dish was more similar to a hemisphere than a parabola.

This shape provided a wider, less focused pickup pattern than a dish with a true parabolic. This shape also provides less defined, less crisp audio.

Why do I have to be more precise in aiming the KLOVER MiK than with the Big Ears I used in the past?

The Big Ears, which has been widely used for many years, did not provide a true parabolic dish. The dish was more similar to a hemisphere than a parabola.

This shape provided a wider, less focused pickup pattern than a dish with a true parabolic. This shape also provides less defined, less crisp audio.

Why do the handles of the KLOVER MiK 26 move slightly?

Some operators will notice the flexibility of the handles. This flexibility is the result of our patented construction method that isolates the handles from the dish itself. Products that mount the handles directly to the plastic dish often generate unwanted noise from the movement of the handles. The isolation of the handles from the dish allows the handles to move slightly but keeps any stress placed on the handles from being transferred to the plastic dish, which would cause the dish to create noises such as creaks and pops. While it may initially seem uncomfortable to operators accustomed to the older design, they adjust quickly.

The microphone yoke (support bar) is also isolated from the dish to eliminate any noise created by the movement of the mic yoke.

Why do you build your handles out of carbon fiber?

First, carbon fiber is very light and strong. Second, and more importantly, when a carbon fiber tube breaks, it turns into small weak strands. Handles made from PVC are strong, but when they do break, they create very sharp, jagged edges, which basically create a spear. Handles made from metal tubes or plates are so strong that they will not bend or fail until they have done serious injury to the operator or athlete that may have collided with them.

Parabolic microphones are involved in many collisions during the course of a sports season. We take the safety of operators and athletes very seriously and have done all we can to provide the safest products possible.

How can I mount the KLOVER MiK 26 so I don’t have to hold it for long periods of time?

If the KLOVER MiK 26 will be stationary for long periods of time, we suggest the use of one of our mounting accessories. The Monopod Mount replaces the rear crossbar of the handle assembly. It allows the entire unit to be mounted on top of a tripod or monopod while still allowing the unit to be aimed by the operator.

We also offer a pole-mounted version of the KLOVER MiK 26 for permanent installations. This custom version replaces the handle assembly with brackets that will mount the dish to a pole while allowing for adjustment about the horizontal and vertical axes.

Is there anything that can be done to reduce operator fatigue?

Our first recommendation is to mount the KLOVER MiK on top of a monopod by replacing the rear crossbar of the handle assembly with a Monopod Mount. Placing the KLOVER MiK on top of a monopod takes the weight of the parabolic off of the operator’s shoulders and allows the operator to simply “point” the parabolic in the proper direction. We feel this also improves the operator’s safety as the operator can simply let the parabolic fall to the ground if a collision with a player is imminent, instead of having to run from the collision with the parabolic still around their neck.

A second option, though untested, is to combine the proper use of the neck strap, as demonstrated in the “Proper Operation” video (under “Assembly Videos”), along with the use of a Bicep Curl Belt to provide support for the operator’s elbows.

What microphone element can I use in the KLOVER MiK parabolic microphone?

Please see the Frequently Asked Questions tab at the bottom of the individual product page. We do, however, have a few general guidelines:

  • We suggest using a water-resistant microphone, such as the Countryman B3, if your parabolic mic will be used outdoors.

  • Lapel microphones tend to be “bright” or slightly biased toward high frequencies. If weight is not an issue, a small diaphragm condenser (pencil) microphone will usually provide a flatter audio curve.

  • Microphones with a higher sensitivity will provide greater range.

  • A microphone with minimal internal electronic noise (self-noise) is highly recommended.

Do the KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones come with a microphone element, or do I need to supply my own?

We’ve designed our parabolic mics to allow users to use whatever microphone element they might like, so we do not include the electronics with our parabolic mics. We believe this provides our customers with the maximum performance and flexibility. We do, however, offer kits/packages that bundle the parabolic microphone with the required electronics.

I’m not getting any signal from the parabolic microphone. What do I do?

The most common reason for not receiving any signal from the parabolic is not providing the proper power to the microphone element. If you are using a microphone with an XLR connector, check if the microphone requires “phantom power .”If your microphone requires “phantom power,” verify that the device you are plugging your microphone into is providing the required “phantom power” voltage (usually between 12 and 48 volts). If you are using a microphone with a 3.5mm TRS connector, check if the microphone requires “plug-in power .”If your microphone requires “plug-in power,” verify that the device you are plugging your microphone into is providing the required “plug-in power” voltage (usually between 3 and 10 volts).

What is the real range of the KLOVER MiK?

There are many factors involved. The attenuation of sound, the natural loss of energy as it passes through the air, is affected by frequency, temperature, and humidity. In addition, the amount of energy reflected or absorbed by the surface between the sound source and the microphone also affects the amount of sound energy that reaches the microphone. Another factor that has to be considered is the “signal-to-noise ratio.” In other words, how loud is the audio source you want to capture compared to the ambient noise you don’t want to capture? A parabolic microphone will amplify all sound energy (of equal frequencies) by the same factor. So you may be able to capture a conversation from 500 feet in a nearly silent environment, but it won’t be possible if the conversation is taking place next to a highway. The parabolic will not be able to separate the sound of the human voices from the road noise.

Considering all those factors, we have captured conversation from more than 500 feet in quiet situations (relatively empty football stadium) using our 26-inch parabolic. In similar cases, we have captured conversations from more than 250 feet with our 16-inch parabolic. In the quiet environment of a wedding service, we have had customers capture wedding vows from 50 feet away. If you are interested in capturing high-frequency sounds, such as bird noises, the range will be even greater.

What does the pickup pattern look like for your parabolic microphones?

The simple answer is that the pickup pattern looks like a cone. The best audio will be captured within a cone that extends 10 to 15 degrees on either side of the axis of the dish. This provides a circular area with a diameter approximately half the distance of the dish. In other words, at 100 feet, you will have a pickup pattern that is a circle about 50 feet in diameter. However, as the frequency increases, the range will increase, and the pattern will become smaller. Please refer to our test curves under the “Test Results” tab at the bottom of the individual product pages.

Can I hear someone speak who is not facing the parabolic microphone?

Yes, to an extent. We’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much conversation can be captured when the speaker is not facing directly toward the parabolic. While the maximum sound energy is available when the speaker is facing the parabolic collector, it (pressure waves) radiates out from the side of the speaker’s head as well as directly forward. In addition, the sound energy is often reflected off a nearby person or object toward the parabolic.

Don’t parabolic microphones make the audio sound “tinny”?

Lower frequencies are absorbed more than higher frequencies. That is a fact that cannot be ignored. However, the loss of low-end response for parabolic mics is not nearly as bad as some would have you believe. We have a short video that was shot during the setup of an outdoor music event. The low frequencies of the music (being used to set up the audio system) were picked up quite well by a 9-inch parabolic.In addition, nearly every mixing board and video editing software package will allow you to add base and reduce high-end frequencies to equalize the audio input from the parabolic mic to suit your taste.

Most audio experts, including people we respect very highly, would tell you that a 9-inch parabolic will not capture (amplify) any audio below 2,000 or 3,000 Hertz. The white papers and formulas that we have found in our research would confirm this belief. However, if this were true, very little of the human voice would be picked up by a 9-inch parabolic, and the low frequencies of bass would certainly be below this threshold. Our second sample video demonstrates that this is not the case, as it shows how well the small parabolic mic captured the low-frequency sounds generated by WWII aircraft.

Our theory is that most of the research on parabolic reflectors relies on the properties of electromagnetic waves, particularly the wavelength of those waves. These waves apply to satellite dishes or antennas but not to audio. A parabolic microphone captures pressure waves, not electromagnetic waves, so the wavelength is not relevant in the same way as it is to electromagnetic (radio) waves.

As mentioned above, we cannot ignore the way that various frequencies react differently when reflecting off a surface. Parabolic collectors (microphones) do a better job of amplifying higher frequencies than lower frequencies. In order to provide a more natural sound, we have joined forces with Countryman Associates to create a microphone that is specifically equalized to match the acoustic characteristics of the KLOVER MiK 09 parabolic collector. The equalization also works exceptionally well with the KLOVER MiK 16, giving each a flatter, more natural sound than when used with a standard lavaliere microphone element. Find out more about our Equalized Mic here.

Can I use a parabolic mic to record music?

We do not recommend using a parabolic microphone for recording music. As mentioned throughout our website, parabolic microphones do have a bias toward high frequencies, so the music will not sound “pure.”

Can I use a parabolic microphone with a P.A. (sound reinforcement / public address) system?

Yes and No. Because parabolic microphones are so sensitive, feedback is a huge challenge. Great care must be taken with the location of the parabolic mic relative to the speaker.Mounting the parabolic at an angle to any flat surfaces, such as walls, will help to reduce this feedback.

Can I listen through walls or windows with a parabolic mic?

No. Despite what you may have seen on television or in the movies, that’s not possible. You must have a clear path between your subject and the parabolic to capture the sound energy.

Can I use a parabolic mic to listen to my neighbors?

Yes and No. While our parabolic microphones will probably capture audio from your neighbor’s yard, you will be taking a huge legal risk if you do so. If you record a private conversation, you are in danger of being accused of eavesdropping on the conversation and wiretapping. Our parabolic mics are intended for broadcast, sound reinforcement, and law enforcement/security applications.

What is your warranty/return policy?

Klover Products Inc. Limited Warranty Policy warrants all products to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase unless otherwise stated.

If your KLOVER MiK doesn’t provide the great audio you expect, return it within 30 days for a full refund. The product must be in like-new condition to qualify for a full refund.

Please see full details on our “Terms & Conditions” page.

Do you have dealers?

Yes. A list of dealers is on our “Dealer and Rentals” page.

Can I rent a KLOVER MiK for a project?

Yes. A list of rental locations is on our “Dealer and Rentals” page.

How long does it take for my order to ship?

Typical order processing times are detailed at the bottom of the “Cart” and “Checkout” pages.

How long will shipping take?

The estimated delivery for the available shipment methods is listed on the “Cart” and “Checkout” pages. These estimates do not include customs clearance for international shipments. Typical order processing times are also detailed at the bottom of the “Cart” and “Checkout” pages.

Do you ship outside of the United States?

Yes. While we have a dealer network (listed on our “Dealer and Rentals ” page), we can ship directly to our customers. The shipping cost quoted on our “Cart” and “Checkout” pages does not include any broker fees, import duties, tariffs, etc., for international shipments. The customer is responsible for all such costs.

Can Your Mic Reach As Far Your Lens?

"Sad Sam the Cameraman" mascot for KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones.
We will be closed from February 22 to February 29.  We will hold all orders until March 1 for processing.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may cause.