This clip presents two simultaneously captured field recordings, made on two different microphone arrays, set up side by side, to compare their ability to render a natural soundscape. 

The first example was recorded on a SASS unit modified to mount a pair of Sennheiser MKH20 omni microphones.

The second was made by an Iso-binaural array - a pair of independently baffled omnis facing 180º on a T-bar. It does not have the front/back discrimination that limits binaural in real world nature soundscape situations, where sound comes from all around. This rig is directionally neutral, yet renders lovely wide stereo. 

Microphones in this rig were Audio Technica 3032s, and description of the rig can be found here:
https://www.listeningearth.com/blog/iso-binaural-soundscape-microphone-array

Both recordings were made on Sound Devices 7 series recorders. The recording is of birdsong from east Gippsland, Australia. Distant vehicles and wave wash provide some spacial context. The recordings have been balanced for ambient volume, but otherwise unprocessed. The raw wav file may be downloaded for critical listening. 

My assessment of this trial is that the SASS creates a subjectively wider stereo image, probably due to its 'wings', however the Iso-binaural array is more balanced without any muffled sound sources as it has no rear 'shadow'. Considering the irregularities of sound in natural environments, the differences discernible are relatively slight, and far less than other stereo mic arrays I am familiar with. Both these rigs do a very fine job. The Iso-binaural is light, compact, versatile, simple to make, inexpensive, and may be a worthy option for any field recordist wishing to explore soundscapes.

There is another example of this mic array here:
https://soundcloud.com/listeningearth/iso-binaural-stereo-microphone-array-demonstration

Comparison of field microphone arrays: SASS vs Iso-binaural

David Elliott Johnson is a successful songwriter, drummer, and producer. His song writing has landed him Top 10 hits around the globe. Most recently Blake Shelton’s recorded “Over” landing at #1 for two straight weeks on both the US and Canada Billboard charts. As a 3rd generation drummer he has shared the stage with musical legends Bruce Springsteen, Don Henley, Sheryl Crow, and Tito Puente, to name a few. Starting his production career in the late 80′s, in the Latin Jazz genre, led him to albums featuring Nestor Torres, Herbie Hancock, and Larry Coryell on the Verve label. His productions continue to create a solid foundation for established recording artists and develop new talent for Domestic and International markets. David has also made a name for himself with some of the biggest names in film and television embracing his variety of musical visions and arrangements. The majority of his music is composed, performed, and produced by himself in his production facility located in the beach community of historic St Augustine, Fl.

David Elliot Johnson - Creativity in Music: Soul and Success

St. Augustine Symposium

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