Limelight - Microphone 512 Audio - Free user manual and instructions

Product type	Dynamic microphone
Capsule type	Dynamic
Capsule size	28 mm
Polar pattern	Hypercardioid
Frequency response	50 Hz – 15 kHz
Built-in high-pass filter	100 Hz (12 dB/octave)
Sensitivity	-54 dB (0 dB = 1 V/Pa at 1 kHz)
Impedance	600 ohms
Maximum SPL	138 dB
Weight	350 g
Connector	XLR 3-pin
Power supply	None (passive microphone)
Included accessories	Adjustable swivel mount, carrying bag
Warranty	1-year limited
Recommended use	Podcast, radio, streaming, gaming, recording

Frequently Asked Questions - Limelight 512 Audio

How to connect the Limelight microphone to a computer?

The Limelight uses a 3-pin XLR output. To connect it to a computer, you need an audio interface or a mixer with XLR input and USB output. Plug the XLR cable from the mic into the interface, then connect the interface to the computer via USB.

Does the microphone require phantom power?

No, the Limelight is a passive dynamic microphone. It does not require phantom power (48V). Simply plug it into a standard XLR input.

How to use the built-in high-pass filter?

The high-pass filter is located under the microphone as a small switch. When activated, it cuts frequencies below 100 Hz (at 12 dB/octave), eliminating unwanted rumble and hum without using an equalizer.

What is the best distance from the mouth for recording?

For optimal sound, place the microphone 15-20 cm from your mouth, pointing directly at it. This takes advantage of the hypercardioid polar pattern and captures mainly your voice.

How to reduce pop noises without a pop filter?

You can move the microphone slightly to the side or upward while keeping it pointed toward your mouth. This way, plosives (P, T) are less directed at the capsule. A pop filter remains the most effective solution.

What is the proximity effect and how to use it?

The proximity effect is an increase in bass frequencies when you speak very close to the mic. For a warmer and intimate voice, move a few centimeters closer. For a more neutral sound, move away.

How to adjust the gain on my audio interface?

Speak at a normal distance and gradually increase the gain until the level is audible without distortion. Ideally, the peak level should reach about -12 dB on your recording software. Avoid turning it up too high to prevent picking up ambient noise.

Is the Limelight microphone compatible with all microphone stands?

Yes, thanks to its adjustable swivel mount, it fits all standard microphone stands (5/8-inch thread). It is also ideal for boom poles.

How to clean and maintain the microphone?

Wipe the grille with a slightly damp soft cloth. Avoid solvents. Store the microphone in the included carrying bag to protect it from dust and moisture.

What does the Limelight warranty cover?

The one-year limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, unauthorized modifications, or improper electrical conditions.

USER MANUAL Limelight 512 Audio

Close-up of a black cylindrical microphone with hexagonal grille pattern (no text or symbols visible)

LIMELIGHT USER GUIDE

DYNAMIC BROADCAST MICROPHONE

AUDIO

Whether you're Podcasting, Broadcasting, Streaming, Gaming or Recording, the new Limelight dynamic microphone is your key to studio quality sound – no engineering degree needed.

Designed by engineers with a deep passion for audio, Limelight is easy to use, built like a tank, and ready to help you bring your voice to the world.

So let's get started.

HAVE YOU MET MIC?

Close-up of a metallic microphone with mesh grille and curved base, casting a shadow (no text or symbols visible)

Limelight is an end-address microphone, which simply means that you'll point the business end of the microphone at the sound you're looking to capture.

Close-up of a mechanical component with a central cylindrical opening and four protruding pins (no visible text or symbols)

At the other end, you'll find the XLR connector which allows you to use a standard 3-pin microphone cable to connect Limelight to your audio mixer, interface or portable recorder.

Close-up of two cylindrical mechanical components with internal holes and a small protrusion (no text or symbols visible)

You'll also find a small switch to control the built-in High Pass Filter on the bottom of the mic. This clever little toggle will allow you to cut out unwanted boominess and rumble (if needed) without having to "Fix It In the Mix" later with EQ.

IS THIS A SETUP?

Black mechanical clamp device with circular head and handle (no text or symbols visible)

Limelight includes an adjustable swivel mount to easily position the microphone exactly where you want it. Simply attach the mount to your microphone stand or boom arm, slip Limelight into the mount and use the tightening knob to get everything nice and snug. Be sure not to over-tighten! Use an XLR microphone cable to connect to your mixer, interface or portable recorder and you're good to go.

CHECK ONE. CHECK TWO.

Now that you're up and running, let's take a few moments to talk about how to get the best out of your new microphone. Here are a few tips to help you sound your best:

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Polar coordinate system diagram with angular divisions and concentric circles (no text or labels)

Limelight is a Dynamic Microphone with a Hypercardioid pickup pattern – that means it will primarily “listen” to what it’s pointed at and will largely ignore sounds off to one side or the other. This is a great feature for Podcasters working in the same room with a co-host where each microphone should ideally only pick up one voice. In this case, we suggest placing the microphone 6 – 8 inches from the speaker, pointed at his or her mouth.

CHECK ONE. CHECK TWO. (CONTINUED)

EX-ING YOUR PLOSIVES

Are you worried about popping Ps and tapping Ts? Voiceover pros often use a pop filter in front of the microphone to take care of unwanted popping sounds, and it remains the most foolproof way to handle these noises. 512 Audio makes an affordable pop filter for just that purpose, which is available wherever 512 products are sold.

Pro Tip

If you don't have a pop filter available, you can still minimize popping sounds with a little bit of experimentation. As an exercise, place your hand in front of your face and say the word "pop" over and over. Now move your hand slowly side to side as you speak. While your dog may think you're losing your mind, you'll quickly notice that you only feel the puffs of air when your hand is directly in front of your mouth. Simply move the microphone up or to the side - while still pointing it at your mouth - and you're good to go.

CHECK ONE. CHECK TWO. (CONTINUED)

I'M READY FOR MY CLOSEUP

Close-up of a person's face with a magnifying glass, no visible text or symbols

A wonderful bonus of dynamic microphone design is known as the "Proximity Effect." Not to be confused with a restraining order, the Proximity Effect describes a pleasing boost in the bass or low end of the sound as you move closer to the microphone. This can add a sense of intimacy to a voice and it's a great way to release your inner FM Disc Jockey.

GAIN THE ADVANTAGE

GAIN

Not to be confused with volume, the Gain setting on your mixer, interface or portable recorder can ensure that you're creating the absolute best – and noise free – signal possible. This magical knob controls how sensitive the microphone is and has a dramatic effect on the quality of the sound that you'll get. Set it too low, and no one will ever hear a word you're saying. Set it too high and the microphone will pick up everything from the echo in your room to the air conditioning, your noisy chair, your loud neighbors and the voices in your head. Either way, it's not ideal. So grab the gain knob, speak and listen. As you turn the gain down,

CHECK ONE. CHECK TWO. (CONTINUED)

move the microphone closer to your mouth – the volume will stay the same but the sound will dramatically improve. Once you find your happy medium you'll be on your way.

So take a few minutes and experiment with microphone Direction, Distance and Gain. You are your voice and Limelight can help you sound your best.

SPECS AND TECH

Capsule Type Dynamic

Capsule Size 28mm

Polar Pattern Hypercardioid

Frequency Range 50Hz - 15kHz

High Pass Filter 100Hz (12dB per octave)

Sensitivity -54dB 13dB (OdB = 1V/Pa at 1kHz)

Impedance 600 ohm

Max SPL 138dB

Weight 350g

Dimensions 167.5 x 60.8mm

Included Accessories Adjustable swivel mount & Protective carry bag

WARRANTY STATEMENT

512 Audio warranties this product to be free from defect in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase, for the original purchaser to whom this equipment is registered. This warranty is non-transferable.

This warranty is void in the event of damage incurred from unauthorized service to this unit, or from electrical or mechanical modification. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from abuse, accidental damage, misuse, improper electrical conditions such as mis-wiring, incorrect voltage or frequency, unstable power, disconnection from earth ground (for products requiring a 3 pin, grounded power cable), or from exposure to hostile environmental conditions such as moisture, humidity, smoke, fire, sand or other debris, and extreme temperatures.

512 Audio will, at its sole discretion, repair or replace this product in a timely manner. This limited warranty extends only to products determined to be defective and does not cover incidental costs such as equipment rental, loss of revenue, etc. Please visit us at www.512audio.com for more information on your warranty, or to request warranty service.

This warranty applies to products sold in the United States of America. For warranty information in any other country, please refer to your local 512 Audio distributor. This warranty provides specific legal rights, which may vary from state to state. Depending on the state in which you live, you may have rights in addition to those covered in this statement. Please refer to your state laws or see your local 512 Audio retailer for more information.

DÉCOUVREZ LE LIMELIGHT

UN MICROPHONE DYNAMIQUE DE 512 AUDIO

Close-up of a metallic microphone with a mesh grille and curved base, casting a shadow (no text or symbols visible)

Close-up of a mechanical component with a central cylindrical opening and flange (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of two cylindrical electronic components with internal circuitry (no visible text or symbols)

Black mechanical clamp device with circular head and adjustable arms (no text or symbols visible)

Polar coordinate system diagram with angular divisions and concentric circles (no text or labels)

Close-up of a person's face with a magnifying glass, no visible text or symbols

Dimensions 167.5 x 60.8mm

Accessoires inclus

Close-up of a metallic microphone with a mesh grille and curved base, casting a shadow (no text or symbols visible)

Close-up of a mechanical component with a central hole and flange (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of two cylindrical electronic components with internal wiring (no visible text or symbols)

Black mechanical clamp device with circular head and handle (no text or symbols visible)

Close-up of a person's face with a magnifying glass, no visible text or symbols

Close-up of a metallic microphone with visible grille and shadow effect (no text or symbols)

Close-up of a mechanical component with a central cylindrical opening and flanged ends (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of two cylindrical electronic components with internal circuitry (no visible text or symbols)

Black mechanical clamp device with a circular top and handle (no text or symbols visible)

Close-up of a person's face with a magnifying glass, no visible text or symbols

Close-up of a metallic microphone with mesh grille and curved base (no text or symbols visible)

Close-up of a mechanical component with a central cylindrical opening and flanged end (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of two cylindrical electronic components with internal wiring (no visible text or symbols)

Black mechanical clamp device with cylindrical body and adjustable arms (no text or symbols visible)

0° 3° 2/30° 90°

Close-up of a person's face looking through a handheld device (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of two cylindrical electronic components with internal circuitry (no visible text or symbols)

Black mechanical clamp or bracket device with a circular top and handle (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of a person's face with a microphone, black and white photo (no visible text or symbols)