Word for the Day Archive

ORTF

A stereo recording method created by the French national broadcast system to simulate the directional perspective of human ears. Similar in approach to the more conventional X-Y configuration, two microphones are placed in front of a sound source. The mics are spaced 17 cm (about 6 3/4") apart, at an angle of 110 degrees. The ORTF method provides good mono compatibility and stereo imaging, but captures little of the room's ambience (this may or may not be a good thing, depending on the room you are recording!) Try this mic setup the next time you are recording a small ensemble, choir, orchestra, or even a solo acoustic instrument, it works quite well. For those who just HAVE to know what the acronym ORTF stands for, the answer is: "Office de Radiodiffusion-Television Francaise"...