Many years back (2001 to be precise - scary!) I published a design for a simple mic clip to hold lavalier mics to flute heads.
Flute player William Bajzek has just been in touch to share a further development - he’s used a 3D printing service to make some! You can see William’s clip in action here:
And the full story at:
http://www.mcgee-flutes.com/mic-clip.html
Terry
And, in a further development, William is now making them available. See link above.
Terry
Terry, what is the material of the clip? Can it be switched between different barrels? or can one get a clip per barrel, customised, and switch the mic easily while standing upfront in a session?
And for those seeking mics, may I recommend (kindly referenced by Terry),
http://www.microvox.demon.co.uk/products.htm
I have just bought a swan-neck flute mic with mini-psu, and despite having to put it through an old guitar practice amp, the sound is amazing. No breath pick-up, no key clicks, and truly acoustic, natural sound.
The only slight drawback is the velcro strip fastening- though flexible, it feels insecure- although I have used it twice, once with my Trad jazz band, and once in a Bebop jam session, and it’s been fine..
The sock on the mic came off- easily fixed with a length of cotton.
I made my original from delrin, but any similar flexible plastic (nylon, polythene, etc) would do. I don’t know what William uses, but it obviously has to be something that is printable.
http://www.shapeways.com/materials tells you what that company can work with. I note that sterling silver is one of them. Need a replacement Long F key for your Rudall & Rose? Just make a drawing and start printing…
Remember we used to say “Stop the world, I want to get off”? I suspect 3D printing will be one of those watershed moments.
Terry
We’ll surely see musical instruments made with 3D printing sooner rather than later.
At least until someone can do a 3D printing from Playboy…
Best wishes.
Steve
Already there. A while ago.
http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2012-10-11/the-worlds-first-3d-printed-guitar
Conor
I didn’t know they featured flutes in Playboy…
Terry
Hello,
These 3D-printed mic clips look interesting. Does anyone have an STL file they wouldn’t mind sharing?
A quick search on thingiverse turned up this one, which is for a Böhm flute but might be a good starting point to adapt for a simple-system flute. I have never used a CAD program, but changing two diameters (for the flute head and the microphone) seems like a gentle enough way to learn it. This other one looks closer to the pictures posted here and on Terry’s website.
Thanks!