If you're a musician who craves impeccable sound quality during live performances, you need the right instrument microphone. Look no further than the Shure SM57. This powerhouse mic is renowned for its exceptional versatility and durability. Whether you're strumming a guitar or belting out vocals, the SM57 delivers clear, precise sound every time.
But the SM57 is just the beginning. In this article, we'll explore the top 15 instrument microphones that will take your live performances to the next level.
Shure SM57
You should consider using the Shure SM57 microphone for live performances due to its versatile and reliable performance. The Shure SM57 is a legendary microphone that has been a staple in the music industry for decades. It's known for its exceptional sound quality and durability, making it the perfect choice for live performances.
One of the key benefits of the Shure SM57 is its ability to handle high sound pressure levels. This means that even in loud and energetic live environments, the microphone will faithfully capture the sound without distortion. Whether you're playing in a small club or a large concert hall, the Shure SM57 will deliver consistent and clear audio.
Additionally, the Shure SM57 is built to last. It features a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of touring and frequent use. The microphone's durable design ensures that it can handle accidental drops, bumps, and other mishaps that often occur during live performances.
Furthermore, the Shure SM57 is highly versatile. It's commonly used for miking instruments such as guitars, drums, and horns. Its tight polar pattern helps to isolate the sound source and reduce unwanted background noise. This makes it an ideal choice for capturing the nuances and details of different instruments in a live setting.
Audio-Technica AT2020
When it comes to live performances, you can't go wrong with the Audio-Technica AT2020 microphone. Designed specifically for live performance applications, this microphone offers a range of features that make it a top choice for musicians and sound engineers alike.
Here are four reasons why the Audio-Technica AT2020 stands out:
- Superior sound quality: The AT2020 delivers crystal-clear audio reproduction, capturing every nuance of your instrument with exceptional detail and accuracy. Its wide dynamic range ensures that even the subtlest nuances in your performance are faithfully reproduced.
- Versatility: Whether you're a vocalist or a guitarist, the AT2020 is a versatile microphone that can handle a wide variety of instruments. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures excellent off-axis rejection, minimizing unwanted background noise and feedback.
- Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of live performances, the AT2020 features a rugged construction that can handle the demands of the road. Its metal grille and sturdy housing provide added protection against accidental drops and bumps.
- Affordability: Despite its impressive performance, the AT2020 is surprisingly affordable. It offers professional-grade sound quality at a price that won't break the bank, making it a popular choice among musicians of all levels.
Sennheiser E906
Continuing the exploration of instrument microphones for live performances, let's now delve into the Sennheiser E906 and its exceptional qualities.
The Sennheiser E906 is renowned for its exceptional build quality, making it a top choice for professional musicians and sound engineers alike. It features a rugged metal construction that ensures durability and longevity, even in the most demanding live performance environments.
When it comes to microphone placement techniques, the Sennheiser E906 offers versatility and precision. Its unique design allows for three different positions: flat, angled, and side-address.
The flat position is ideal for capturing the full frequency range of instruments such as guitars and drums, while the angled position provides a more focused sound by emphasizing certain frequencies. The side-address position, on the other hand, is perfect for capturing the sound of guitar cabinets or percussion instruments.
Additionally, the Sennheiser E906 has a supercardioid pickup pattern, which means it effectively rejects unwanted sounds from the sides and rear. This ensures excellent isolation and minimizes feedback issues during live performances.
With its exceptional build quality and versatile microphone placement options, the Sennheiser E906 is a reliable choice for capturing the true essence of your instrument in a live setting.
AKG C414
When it comes to sound quality, the AKG C414 stands out among instrument microphones. Its precise and transparent sound reproduction captures every detail, making it a favorite among musicians and sound engineers alike.
The C414's versatility and adaptability allow it to excel in a wide range of applications, from capturing vocals to miking up instruments in a live performance setting.
Sound Quality Comparison
Comparing sound quality is essential when choosing an instrument microphone for live performances. The AKG C414 excels in this aspect, with its advanced technology ensuring accurate sound reproduction and capturing every detail and nuance of your instrument's performance.
Here is a breakdown of the AKG C414's sound quality features:
- Wide frequency response: The C414 covers a wide range of frequencies, from the deep lows to the crisp highs, ensuring a full and balanced sound reproduction.
- High sensitivity: With its high sensitivity rating, the C414 captures even the subtlest nuances of your instrument's sound, adding depth and clarity to your performance.
- Low self-noise: The microphone's low self-noise ensures that unwanted background noise is minimized, resulting in a clean and clear sound.
- Versatile polar patterns: The C414 offers multiple polar patterns, allowing you to choose the best microphone placement for your specific instrument and performance environment.
With its impressive sound quality features, the AKG C414 is a top choice for live performances. It delivers exceptional sound reproduction and captures the true essence of your instrument.
Versatility and Adaptability
How does the AKG C414 demonstrate its versatility and adaptability for live performances?
The AKG C414 is renowned for its exceptional versatility in various live sound applications, thanks to its adaptable features and microphone placement techniques.
With nine selectable polar patterns, including omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-eight, the C414 can be easily adjusted to suit different instruments and performance settings.
Its wide frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz ensures accurate reproduction of instruments across the entire spectrum.
The C414 also offers three different attenuation levels and three switchable bass-cut filters, allowing for precise control over the microphone's sensitivity and low-frequency response.
Additionally, the microphone's high SPL capability of up to 158dB makes it suitable for capturing loud instruments without distortion.
Popular Among Musicians
The AKG C414 continues to gain popularity among musicians for its exceptional versatility and adaptability in live performances. Musicians prefer the AKG C414 for its ability to capture the true essence of their instruments, providing a clear and detailed sound reproduction.
Here are four reasons why the AKG C414 is highly regarded by musicians for live performances:
- Wide frequency response: The AKG C414 offers a wide frequency range, allowing it to capture the full spectrum of sound produced by different instruments.
- Multiple polar patterns: With selectable polar patterns, including cardioid, figure-8, and omnidirectional, the AKG C414 can adapt to different recording situations and achieve optimal sound pickup.
- High SPL handling: The microphone's high maximum sound pressure level (SPL) handling capability ensures that it can handle even the loudest instruments without distortion.
- Extended dynamic range: The AKG C414 has an extended dynamic range, enabling it to reproduce both the softest and loudest sounds with precision and clarity.
The AKG C414's live performance benefits and musician preferences make it a top choice for capturing instruments on stage with exceptional quality and versatility.
Neumann U87
You can achieve exceptional sound quality with the Neumann U87 instrument microphone for your live performances. This microphone is renowned for its versatility in studio recordings and its durability and reliability on stage. The Neumann U87 is a condenser microphone that offers a wide frequency response and a smooth and natural sound reproduction. It is designed to capture the nuances and subtleties of instruments with great accuracy.
One of the standout features of the Neumann U87 is its three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This allows you to tailor the microphone's pickup pattern to suit different instruments and performance styles. The microphone also features a high-pass filter and a 10dB attenuation pad, providing additional control over the sound.
Here is a comparison table of the Neumann U87 and its top competitors:
| Microphone Model | Frequency Response | Polar Patterns | Sensitivity | Maximum SPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neumann U87 | 20Hz – 20kHz | Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8 | 20mV/Pa | 127dB |
| Shure SM58 | 50Hz – 15kHz | Cardioid | 2.9mV/Pa | 94dB |
| AKG C414 | 20Hz – 20kHz | Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8 | 23mV/Pa | 138dB |
| Sennheiser e935 | 40Hz – 18kHz | Cardioid | 2.8mV/Pa | 150dB |
| Audio-Technica AT4050 | 20Hz – 18kHz | Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8 | 25mV/Pa | 145dB |
As you can see, the Neumann U87 offers a wider frequency response and higher maximum SPL than its competitors, making it a top choice for capturing the full range of instruments in a live performance setting. Its versatility, durability, and reliability make it a trusted microphone among musicians and sound engineers alike.
Electro-Voice RE20
For capturing the rich and warm tones of instruments in live performances, the Electro-Voice RE20 microphone is a top choice. Designed specifically for live performance applications, the RE20 offers a range of features that make it a versatile and reliable option for capturing instrument sounds on stage.
Here are four reasons why the Electro-Voice RE20 should be considered for your live performances:
- Superb sound reproduction: With its dynamic element and a frequency response tailored for instruments, the RE20 delivers exceptional sound reproduction. It captures the nuances and details of instruments with precision, ensuring that the audience hears every note clearly.
- Directional polar pattern: The RE20 features a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up sound primarily from the front and rejects unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for live performances, as it helps to isolate the instrument and reduce feedback.
- Built-in pop filter: The RE20 incorporates an integrated pop filter that effectively minimizes plosive sounds, such as 'p' and 'b' sounds, without affecting the overall sound quality. This ensures a clean and professional sound during live performances.
- Durable construction: The RE20 is built to withstand the rigors of live performances. Its robust construction and internal shock mount protect it from handling noise and vibrations, making it a reliable choice for touring musicians and performers.
Royer R-121
Moving on to another top choice for instrument microphones in live performances, let's discuss the Royer R-121. Known for its versatility and exceptional sound quality, the R-121 is a ribbon microphone that has gained popularity among musicians and sound engineers alike.
The versatility of the R-121 lies in its ability to capture a wide range of instruments with incredible accuracy. Whether you're recording electric guitars, brass instruments, drums, or even vocals, the R-121 delivers a natural and transparent sound reproduction that captures the true essence of the instrument.
One of the standout features of the R-121 is its sound quality. With its high SPL capabilities and extended frequency response, this microphone is able to capture even the most delicate nuances of an instrument's sound. The R-121's figure-8 polar pattern ensures excellent off-axis rejection, minimizing unwanted bleed from other instruments on stage.
Additionally, the R-121's robust construction and design make it a reliable choice for live performances. Its ribbon element is protected by a stainless steel ribbon transducer, ensuring durability and longevity even in the most demanding touring environments.
Beyerdynamic M160
The Beyerdynamic M160 is a highly versatile instrument microphone known for its exceptional sound quality. Whether you're recording vocals, drums, or guitars, the M160 delivers a clear and detailed sound reproduction that captures every nuance of the performance.
In comparison to other microphones, the M160 stands out for its ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it an excellent choice for capturing loud instruments in live performances.
Versatility of M160
You can maximize the versatility of the M160 (Beyerdynamic M160) by using it with a wide range of instruments in live performances. This microphone is incredibly suitable for live performances due to its unique design and exceptional audio quality.
Here are four reasons why the M160 is a versatile choice for instrument miking:
- Double Ribbon Design: The M160 features a double ribbon design that allows it to capture sound from both the front and back of the microphone. This bidirectional pickup pattern makes it ideal for capturing the sound of instruments with complex harmonic content, such as acoustic guitars and pianos.
- Extended Frequency Response: With a frequency response ranging from 40Hz to 18kHz, the M160 can accurately reproduce the full range of frequencies produced by a variety of instruments. This makes it suitable for miking everything from drums and brass instruments to strings and woodwinds.
- Compact Size: The compact size of the M160 makes it easy to position in tight spaces, making it suitable for miking instruments on crowded stages. Its small form factor also allows for discreet placement, ensuring that it doesn't obstruct the performer or the audience's view.
- Durable Construction: The M160 is built to withstand the rigors of live performances. Its rugged construction and sturdy metal housing make it resistant to handling noise and capable of withstanding the demands of touring musicians.
Sound Quality Comparison
When comparing sound quality, the M160 (Beyerdynamic M160) shines in its ability to capture the nuances of different instruments in a live performance setting. Its exceptional sound reproduction makes it a versatile microphone that can be used in various genres. Whether you're playing a soft acoustic guitar or a heavy metal drum set, the M160 delivers excellent clarity and detail.
The microphone's unique double ribbon design allows it to capture a wide frequency range with incredible accuracy. It effectively captures the warmth and depth of low frequencies, while also reproducing the crispness of high frequencies.
When it comes to pricing, the M160 offers excellent value for its exceptional sound quality. Its competitive price point makes it an attractive option for both professional musicians and audio enthusiasts.
Audix I5
Having a versatile and reliable instrument microphone is essential for capturing the full range and nuances of your live performances, and the Audix I5 is a top choice among professionals in the industry. Here's why:
- Exceptional Live Performance Features: The Audix I5 is designed specifically for live performances, making it an ideal choice for musicians on stage. Its rugged construction ensures durability, withstanding the demands of the road. The microphone's cardioid pickup pattern helps to isolate the sound source and reduce feedback, allowing for clear and focused audio reproduction.
- Wide Microphone Frequency Response: The Audix I5 boasts a frequency response of 50Hz to 16kHz, making it suitable for a wide range of instruments. Whether you're playing drums, guitar, brass, or vocals, this microphone captures the full spectrum of frequencies with precision and accuracy.
- Enhanced Instrument Clarity: With its tight and focused pickup pattern, the Audix I5 ensures that the sound of your instrument remains clear and distinct. It captures every detail, from the subtle nuances of your playing technique to the rich harmonics of your instrument.
- Versatile Application: The Audix I5 isn't limited to just one instrument. It can be used on a variety of sources, including snare drums, guitar cabinets, brass instruments, and even vocals. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for any live performance setup.
Shure Beta 52A
While discussing instrument microphones for live performances, it's important to consider the Shure Beta 52A. The Shure Beta 52A is a dynamic microphone specifically designed for capturing low-frequency instruments such as bass drums and bass guitar amps. Its unique features make it a reliable choice for professional musicians and sound engineers alike.
One of the key benefits of the Shure Beta 52A in live performances is its ability to reproduce low-frequency sounds with exceptional accuracy. With a frequency response tailored for deep bass, it captures the full impact and punch of bass drums and bass guitar amps, providing a rich and powerful sound.
Another notable feature of the Shure Beta 52A is its supercardioid polar pattern. This pattern ensures excellent off-axis rejection, meaning it will capture the sound of the intended instrument while minimizing unwanted noise from other sources on stage.
The Shure Beta 52A also features a built-in dynamic locking stand adapter, which provides secure mounting and allows for easy positioning. This eliminates the need for additional accessories and ensures a stable and reliable setup during live performances.
Neumann KM184
When it comes to versatility in sound, the Neumann KM184 microphone is a top choice. Its wide frequency response and natural sound reproduction make it suitable for capturing a variety of instruments, from acoustic guitars to pianos.
Not only does it excel in live performances, but its reliable construction ensures durability for long-term use. Additionally, its exceptional recording capabilities make it an ideal choice for studio applications, delivering pristine audio quality that captures every detail of your performance.
Versatility in Sound
If you're looking for a versatile instrument microphone for your live performances, consider the Neumann KM184. This microphone offers exceptional sound versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of live performance applications.
Here are four reasons why the Neumann KM184 stands out in terms of sound versatility:
- Neutral Sound: The KM184 delivers a natural and transparent sound reproduction, making it ideal for capturing the true essence of your instrument without coloration or distortion.
- Extended Frequency Response: With a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, the KM184 captures the full range of your instrument's sonic nuances, from deep lows to sparkling highs.
- Switchable Bass Roll-Off: The microphone features a switchable bass roll-off filter that allows you to reduce low-frequency rumble and proximity effect, ensuring clarity in your live performances.
- Excellent Off-Axis Rejection: The KM184 exhibits exceptional off-axis rejection, minimizing unwanted ambient noise and feedback, allowing you to focus on your instrument's sound.
Reliable and Durable
To continue the discussion on the Neumann KM184's versatility in sound, let's now explore its reliability and durability for live performances.
When it comes to instrument microphones, reliability is a crucial factor to consider. The Neumann KM184 certainly delivers in this aspect. Its solid build quality ensures consistent performance, making it a reliable choice for professionals.
Additionally, the KM184's durability is worth noting, particularly in outdoor settings. Constructed with robust materials, it can withstand the rigors of live performances, even in challenging environments.
Whether you're playing in a crowded indoor venue or performing at an open-air festival, the KM184's durability ensures that it will continue to produce high-quality sound without compromising its performance.
While affordability may be a concern for some, the KM184's reliability and durability justify its price, making it an excellent investment for musicians and sound engineers alike.
Ideal for Recording
Continuing the discussion on the Neumann KM184's versatility in sound, let's now explore how it's also ideal for recording with its exceptional quality and performance. When it comes to recording, the Neumann KM184 offers several advantages that make it a top choice for professionals.
Here are four reasons why it excels in the recording studio:
- Accurate and detailed sound reproduction: The KM184 captures the nuances of your instrument with precision, delivering a clear and transparent sound that faithfully captures the original source.
- Low self-noise: With its low self-noise level, the KM184 ensures that unwanted background noise is minimized, allowing for cleaner recordings.
- Versatile polar pattern options: The microphone's cardioid polar pattern provides excellent isolation, while its switchable pre-attenuation pad and high-pass filter allow for flexibility in various recording situations.
- Compact and easy to position: The KM184's compact size makes it easy to position and maneuver, allowing for optimal placement to capture the desired sound.
Telefunken M80
When using the Telefunken M80 for live performances, you can expect exceptional sound quality and versatility.
The sound quality of the Telefunken M80 is truly outstanding, capturing every nuance of your instrument with crystal clarity. The microphone is designed to reproduce the natural tone and timbre of the source, ensuring that your performance is accurately represented in the live mix. The M80's frequency response is carefully tailored to provide a balanced and transparent sound, allowing your instrument to cut through the mix without any harshness or distortion.
In terms of durability, the Telefunken M80 is built to withstand the rigors of the stage. Its rugged construction and high-quality components make it a reliable choice for professional musicians. The microphone's sturdy design ensures that it can handle the demands of touring and live performances without any issues.
Whether you're playing in a small club or a large concert venue, the Telefunken M80 will deliver consistent and reliable performance night after night.
Rode NT5
Now, let's delve into the Rode NT5, a versatile instrument microphone that complements the exceptional sound quality and durability discussed earlier.
The NT5 stands out for its versatility, making it a popular choice among musicians and audio engineers alike. Here's a comparison between the NT5 and other instrument microphones:
- Frequency Response: The NT5 boasts a wide frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz, capturing the full range of your instrument's sound with clarity and accuracy. This allows for a natural and balanced sound reproduction.
- Polar Pattern: With a cardioid polar pattern, the NT5 focuses on capturing sound from the front while rejecting unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for recording instruments in live performances or studio settings.
- Compact Design: The NT5's compact and lightweight design makes it easy to position and mount on various instruments, such as acoustic guitars, pianos, and drums. Its small size also allows for discrete placement in tight spaces.
- Interchangeable Capsules: The NT5 offers interchangeable capsules, allowing for different polar patterns to suit different recording situations. This versatility makes it adaptable to a wide range of instruments and musical styles.
AKG D112
Let's talk about the AKG D112, a highly acclaimed instrument microphone known for its exceptional features.
This microphone is a popular choice among musicians and sound engineers for live performances due to its ability to capture the true essence of instruments with precision and clarity.
Its robust build and low-frequency response make it particularly suitable for capturing the deep tones of bass drums and other bass-heavy instruments on stage.
AKG D112 Features
You can find a range of impressive features in the AKG D112 microphone. This versatile microphone is designed specifically for live performances, ensuring exceptional sound quality in any setting.
Its features include:
- Large diaphragm: The D112 is equipped with a large diaphragm that captures low frequencies with precision and clarity, making it perfect for bass instruments such as kick drums and bass guitars.
- Integrated windscreen: The microphone comes with an integrated windscreen that eliminates unwanted noise caused by plosives and wind, ensuring clear and clean sound reproduction.
- Built-in EQ switch: With a built-in EQ switch, the D112 allows you to easily adjust the microphone's response to match the characteristics of different instruments, enhancing its versatility.
- Rugged construction: The D112 is built to withstand the demands of live performances, with a robust construction that can handle the rigors of touring and stage use.
Popular Instrument Microphone
Continuing with the discussion on the AKG D112 features, let's delve into why this microphone is a popular choice among musicians and audio engineers for live performances. The AKG D112 is renowned for its exceptional sound quality and durability, making it an ideal instrument microphone for a wide range of applications. Its impressive frequency response captures the full spectrum of sound, from deep lows to crisp highs, ensuring accurate and natural reproduction of the instrument's tone. Additionally, the D112's cardioid polar pattern effectively reduces unwanted background noise, allowing for clear and focused recordings. When it comes to instrument microphone selection, the D112 is often favored for its versatility and reliability. To maximize its performance, proper microphone placement techniques should be employed, such as positioning the microphone close to the instrument's sound source and adjusting the angle for optimal sound capture.
| Feature | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Exceptional frequency response | Accurate and natural reproduction of instrument's tone |
| Durability | Robust construction | Long-lasting performance |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Reduces unwanted background noise |
| Versatility | Suitable for a wide range of instruments | Flexible in various live performance scenarios |
| Reliability | Consistent and dependable performance | Ensures a seamless and uninterrupted performance |
Live Performance Suitability?
The AKG D112 is well-suited for live performances due to its exceptional sound quality, durability, and versatility. When it comes to live performance benefits, the AKG D112 offers several advantages. Here are four reasons why this microphone is highly suitable for live performances:
- Superior sound quality: The AKG D112 captures the full range of your instrument's sound with precision and clarity, ensuring that every note is heard with accuracy.
- Robust construction: Built to withstand the rigors of live performances, the AKG D112 is designed with durability in mind. Its rugged construction can handle even the most demanding stages and touring environments.
- Versatile microphone placement: The AKG D112's cardioid polar pattern allows for flexible microphone placement techniques. Whether you prefer to position it close to the instrument or further away, the D112 delivers consistent and reliable results.
- Excellent feedback rejection: With its excellent feedback rejection capabilities, the AKG D112 minimizes the risk of unwanted feedback, allowing you to focus on your performance without worrying about technical issues.
Audio-Technica AE3000
Ranked as one of the top instrument microphones for live performances, the Audio-Technica AE3000 offers exceptional audio quality and versatility. When it comes to live performance sound quality, the AE3000 excels with its transparent and accurate reproduction of instruments. Its large diaphragm and low-noise design ensure that every nuance of your instrument's sound is captured with precision and fidelity. Whether you're playing a guitar, drums, or even a brass instrument, the AE3000 delivers exceptional clarity and detail.
One of the standout features of the AE3000 is its microphone adaptability. With a wide frequency response and high SPL handling capabilities, this microphone can handle a variety of instruments and sound sources. Its cardioid polar pattern provides excellent off-axis rejection, minimizing unwanted background noise and feedback. The AE3000 also features a switchable 10 dB pad, allowing you to accommodate high sound pressure levels without distortion.
Not only does the AE3000 deliver outstanding sound quality, but it's also built to withstand the demands of the live performance environment. Its rugged construction and durable materials ensure that it can handle the rigors of touring and regular use. Additionally, the microphone's compact size and lightweight design make it easy to position and transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Instrument Microphones Be Used for Both Live Performances and Studio Recordings?
Yes, these instrument microphones can be used for both live performances and studio recordings. They deliver high quality sound in different acoustic environments, ensuring a professional and versatile audio experience.
Are These Microphones Suitable for Both Vocals and Instruments?
Are these microphones versatile enough to capture both vocals and instruments? The sound quality comparison and their ability to adapt to different musical genres make these microphones suitable for any performance setting.
Do Any of These Microphones Require Phantom Power?
Yes, some of these microphones do require phantom power. It's important to consider the pros and cons of using phantom power for instrument microphones and choose the right one for your specific instrument.
Can These Microphones Be Used With Wireless Systems?
Yes, these instrument microphones can be used with wireless systems. They have a wide range of frequencies that they can capture, making them compatible with various wireless systems for live performances.
How Do These Microphones Compare in Terms of Durability and Build Quality?
When it comes to durability and build quality, these microphones are like tanks, built to withstand the rigors of the stage. And their sound quality and performance? Simply outstanding, delivering crisp, clear audio every time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, after carefully examining and comparing the top 15 instrument microphones for live performances, it becomes evident that each microphone has its own unique qualities and strengths.
From the versatile and reliable Shure SM57 to the high-quality and precise Neumann U87, musicians have a wide range of options to choose from based on their specific needs.
Ultimately, selecting the right instrument microphone can greatly enhance the live performance experience and ensure the best sound quality for the audience.
