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How to Make a Cheap Pop Filter

Pop filters have a long history in recording studios, and with the growth in the home studio movement, more studio microphones are being used to capture performance. Large diaphragm condenser mics are the favored choice for recording vocals, offering clarity and faithful reproduction. One drawback is their sensitivity to air movement, most commonly the "pop" sound made when the letter "p" is sung. This is precisely where the pop filter comes in, absorbing sound energy and dispersing it before it reaches the microphone.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire hanger
  • Pliers
  • Black pantyhose
  • Black tape
  • Small plastic pliers-style hand clamps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the wire hanger with the pliers on either side of the twist below the hook and discard the hook portion. Bend the length of wire more or less straight. Working from one end, form a circle 5 inches in diameter. Overlap the long end of the wire about 1 inch, and use the tape to secure the loop and cover the cut end of the wire. Bend the remaining wire at a 90-degree angle to form a lollipop shape.

    • 2

      Cut one leg off the pantyhose. Insert the loop of wire into the leg and stretch the material tightly. Cut the material to length and tape around the straight wire at the bottom of the loop.

    • 3

      Bend the remaining straight wire into shape to place the loop about an inch in front of the microphone capsule. Form a hook with the last 2 inches of wire on the straight end to loop over the mic stand. Secure the pop filter with the hand clamps, or permanently install it on the stand, using the black tape.

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Recording Music

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