Other Goodies

Some people might think we're nuts, but the truth is we didn't really start out to create the all-around nicest mic bag we've ever seen. It just sort of happened that way. All we really wanted was a nice little zipper pouch to bundle with our adapter kits. We thought that sounded pretty simple. But after rejecting about a dozen pretty dismal (but not particularly inexpensive) options from several vendors, we finally concluded that if we wanted this done right, we were going to have to do it ourselves. So we set about designing a custom zipper pouch truly worthy of a top-of-the-line measurement microphone or any of the other small, hideously expensive widgetry that people in this line of work need to carry in their travels. The result was the Rational Mic Bag, made of backpack-grade, water-resistant nylon canvas on the outside, with a padded lining and soft, durable nylon fabric on the inside. It can accommodate larger measurement mic's such as a full-sized Earthworks M30 or M30BX (we checked), swallow a USBPre with room to spare or gobble up our entire Adaptamania! audio adapter kit and still pack flat. Our mic bag is perfect for protecting, cameras, music players, DVRs, external hard drives, direct boxes... even microphones from the rigors of frequent travel. It also features thoughtful details like a sewn-in web loop for tethering and large, silk-screened handwriting area for labeling, so that you don't have to guess what's inside. Learn More

Introducing “The 7 Bad System Dwarves”

Seven little gremlins who like nothing more than to give your sound system their own distinctive voice. Sure, they're friendly enough when encountered as a balanced group, but hanging out with any one of them for too long can drive you to distraction - or worse. Don't be fooled by their diminutive stature and (sometimes) cute appearance - these little offenders have a long rap sheet filled with everything from simple charges of disturbing the peace to more flagrant offenses like system hijacking and mix vandalism. Until today you've only heard them, but now, in the interest of community service, your pals at Rational have unmasked them and stuck them on a t-shirt where you can get a good look at them. And we’ve even included a handy reference scale to give you their last known whereabouts. Think of this as the post office wall for system tuning offenders. So without further ado, meet the fellas… Learn More

Think of it as body armor for your measurement microphone(s), or any other prized possession of similar size that you need to protect from harm and the elements. Our MICro Case accommodates one or two of most of the mic's we sell, but is compact enough to fit in your backpack, shoulder bag or briefcase without evicting the rest of your gear. Constructed of ABS plastic for high impact strength, even at low temperatures, this case is shock-resistant, crush-resistant, air tight, dust-proof and actually submersible to 100 feet. It even floats — a definite nice-to-have if you work near water or routinely swim to your jobs. Inside dimensions are approximately 8" x 2" x 1" (200 x 50 x 25 mm). Accommodates most measurement microphones up to ~7.6" (193 mm), maximum length. Will not fit a standard Earthworks M30. Learn More

Sound Systems: Design and Optimization

Modern Techniques and Tools for Sound System Design and Alignment

by Bob McCarthy An essential reference on sound reinforcement system design and optimization from one of the most widely respected engineers in the field, this book is aimed at the field professional as well as consultants and students. Written in a clear, concise and easy-to-read style and illustrated throughout with full-color screen shots, illustrations, diagrams, measurement plots and models, McCarthy's unique guide reveals the proven techniques to ensure that your sound system designs can be optimized for maximum uniformity, clarity and subjective sound quality. A must-have addition for the bookshelf of anyone serious about sound system design and engineering. Learn More