International photographer (Jan-Dec 1934)

February, 1934 The INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHKK Tivcnty-seven dress system comprises a two-stage transformer-coupled amplifier, which is provided with power from the alternating-current light line by a rectifier, a double-button carbon microphone, and the small horn on the stage wall. A tap switch in the metal box that houses the amplifier provides limited control of the amount of amplification. The quality of reproduction of this system is rather poor. The general arrangement of the apparatus may be seen in the accompanying diagram, which is republished from last month. All circuits in the monitor room, and all circuits connecting the monitor room with other portions of the recording system, are wired to connection blocks at the back of the metal frame that supports the jack bay. By this arrangement of connection blocks, it is not difficult to cut in on any portion of the monitoring circuit without disturbing the wiring of the equipment itself. New apparatus may be substituted for apparatus that is giving trouble, and circuit alterations can be made with ease. By means of "patch cords" and the jacks of the jack bay, less permanent changes can be made in the recording circuit and auxiliary apparatus, such as wave filters and attenuators, can be quickly added without disturbing the wiring at the connection blocks. Duties of the Monitor Man The monitor man usually calls for a sound rehearsal before the shooting of each scene, or perhaps for more than one rehearsal ; but if the scene is a short one and the action not involved, he may be able to secure his recording level while the director is making the dialogue rehearsals. The less time consumed by the monitor man in arranging the placing of the microphone and in sound rehearsals, the more thoroughly he will meet the approval of the director. The monitor man is in direct charge of the sound crew, so far as production activities are concerned ; and the whole responsibility for the quality of the recorded sound rests on him. Skill and experience and the cooperation of the other workers on the picture are his allies. Even though the photography of a scene is satisfactory, the sound record may not be ; and several takes may be necessary to produce a pleasing sound record. The actual control of the operation of the sound department during the shooting of a picture devolves on the microphone man ; for he is on the stage, and so in the most How the striped sticks are clapped together to provide starting marks on the sound picture films. Courtesy RKO Radio Pictures. Photo by Fred Hendrickson. convenient situation for the operation of the signal system that directs the starting and stopping of the recording machines. Actually, the monitor man gives the orders, but it is the microphone man who is responsible for the operation of the signal lights. Sound Stage Technique An intercommunicating telephone and a system of colored signal lights assist the microphone man in coordinating the activities of the other divisions of the sound department with the action taking place on the sound stage. He receives his instructions from the monitor man through the telephone system and through a small loud speaker mounted on the wall of the stage. These instructions are for the placing of the microphones, and for their movement during the take to follow the action. By means of the signal lights, the microphone man warns the recording room when to make ready for a take, and again when to start the motor system. He then calls for silence; and, at the flashing on of a red light turned on by the recording men, he calls, "Speed !" (Continued on Page 29) FAXON DEAN Francais Deutsch. Espanol. There's A Lot Of Activity At Hollywood's Bargain Spot Quick turnovers keep buyers and sellers busy. If you want anything photographic, or have something to sell, join our regular patrons. SERVICE ATTENTION COURTESY • •• Prompt Service on Rentals Night or Day CAMERA SUPPLY CO., LTD Phone GL 2404 Nite Phones: No. Hollywood 1271— GLadstone 6583 Cable Address "CAMERAS" All Codes 1515 CAHUENGA BOULEVARD HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA Please mention The International Photographer when corresponding with advertisers.