Contact microphones are ideal for creating experimental sounds.
They capture vibrations through surface they're touching and sometimes even liquid, making them double as hydrophones. They’re great for recording mechanisms/machines, low-end impacts, and materials that have variable amounts of tension. Examples of this would be slinkies, wires, and ropes.
I’ve used my own contact mic recordings in some of my explosions and city mechanisms in Airborne Empire, some of which you can see in this video.
Here are some things to look out for when recording with one for the first time and handy tips:
Problem: High risk of handling noise
Fix: Fix the mic and its cable with a stable rig or a magnetic item whenever possible. Most contact mics will have a magnet built within them
Problem: Sudden peaking with movement of the mic
Fix: turn your headphone gain lower than usual to not hurt your hearing and be very mindful of moving your mic at all before/after recordings
Problem: Water gets on your recorder by accident when using it as a hydrophone
Fix: Leave the recorder without power in a plastic bag full of desiccant bags overnight Now It's Your Turn
I use a Cjossul for my recordings, but DIY Piezos and LOM’s Geofon (only for low end) are also very popular. Reach out if you have more questions about recording or using your own contact mic!
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