GB2529069A

GB2529069A - Improved microphone windshield

Info

Publication number: GB2529069A
Application number: GB1513915.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Timothy George Henson; Christopher Woolf
Original assignee: Rycote Microphone Windshields Ltd
Current assignee: Rycote Microphone Windshields Ltd
Priority date: 2014-08-07
Filing date: 2015-08-06
Publication date: 2016-02-10
Also published as: GB201414049D0; GB201513915D0

Abstract

The suspension system comprises means 12 for supporting a microphone 5, and a first suspension device comprising a first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket and three or more first resilient members (7, fig 2a), wherein the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket is held spaced apart from the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more first resilient elements. A second suspension device comprises a second means 23 for receiving part of a windshield basket and three or more second resilient members (27, fig 2b), wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is held spaced apart from the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more second resilient elements. The parts of the windshield basket (fig 4) may be coupled by magnets. One end of the basket is smaller than the other end.

Description

IMPROVED MICROPHONE WINDSHIELD

The present invention relates to a suspension system for use in sound systems, the suspension systems are particularht for use with microphone windshidds.

It is well known that sound is transmitted as tiny changes in air pressure and microphones operate by sensing these changes and converting them into an electrical signal. In considering the way in which the microphone works it is assumed that the changes in pressure due to the original sound source are the only forces that the microphone senses. In fact this is rarely the case and every effort must be made to reduce the effect of external influences which may produce an electrical signal within the microphone that is unrelated to pressure changes due to the original sound source.

Microphone windshields, which comprise a windshield basket that encases a microphone and is covered in a fabric that protects the microphone from the wind but is acoustically transparent, have the unwanted ability to transmit handling noise to the microphone acoustically. This invention is concerned particularly with the isolation of windshield baskets from their primary support, which may be a pole, pistol grip or

stand for example.

It is also important to be abk to control the movement of windshield baskets, which should not be excessive or uncontrolled, in relation to the primary support.

Fnrthermore the svindshidd basket shou'd be quick and easy to take apart and put back together to allow easy access to the microphone within the basket, Accordingly the invention is also concerned with achieving these advantages.

In a first aspect the present invention relates to a suspension system comprising: means for supporting a microphone, and a first suspension device comprising a first means for receiving part of a windshield basket and three or more first resilient members. wherein the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket is held spaced apart from the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more first resihent elements, means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone, and a second suspension device comprising a second means for receiving part of a windshield basket and three or more second resflient members, wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is held spaced apart from the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more second S resilient elements, wherein the first suspension device and the second suspension device are spaced apart.

The suspension system provides a "floating" link between the means for supporting the microphone which is, or is secured to, the primary support for example boom pole pistol grip or stand, and the windshield basket that isolates the basket from the means for supporting the microphone and allows the basket to move independently.

In one embodiment the first suspension device lies in a first plane and the second suspension device lies in a sccond plane. The first and second planes may be parallel and spaced apart.

The presence of a first and second suspension device spaced apart, and in sonic embodiments in parallel planes, increases the control of the movement of the windshield basket, excessive and uncontrolled movement being undesirable.

The first suspension device and the second suspension device are ideally arranged to allow essentially the same freedom of movement.

In one embodiment a centre point of the first suspension device and a centre point of the second suspension device lie on a common axis. The common axis may be a longitudinal axis through the means for supporting a microphone.

In one embodiment the means for supporting a microphone and the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone are rigidly connected to each other.

The means for supporting a microphone may be provided with one or more means to receive a microphone.

The means for supporting a microphone may be provided with means to releasably secure it to a primary support, such as a boom pole, pistol grip or stand. The means for supporting a microphone may be a primary support, such as a boom pole, pistol grip or stand.

In one embodiment the means for supporting a microphone is a microphone chassis provided with a mounting element. The chassis and the mounting element are preferably arranged to be perpendicular to each other.

The chassis may have an elongate portion. The chassis and in particular the elongate portion of the chassis may be provided with one or more means to receive a microphone.

The chassis may comprise two or more parts. The two or more parts may be secured together by any appropriate means such as screws or corresponding male and female press fit parts.

In one embodiment the chassis comprises two parts secured together by one or more screws.

The mounting element may be elongate. The mounting element may be of any suitable cross-section, for example circular, oval, square or rectangular.

The mounting element may be provided with means to releasably secure it to a primary support, such as a boom pole, pistol grip or stand. Thc mounting element may be a primary support, such as a boom pole, pistol grip or stand.

This allows the easy detachment of the microphone and the microphone windshield from, or attachment to, the primary support.

The mounting element and the chassis or a part of the chassis may be a unitary structure.

The means for supporting a microphone may be made from any suitable material, for example a plastic material, a moulded plastic material, a moulded or machined metal or a 3D printed material.

Use of the suspension system of the invention to support the windshield basket ensures that the windshield basket is isolated from the primary support, and any handling noise that is generated by the primary support.

In one embodiment the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the basket screws, or magnets.

In one embodiment the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more magnets. In a further embodiment the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of material to which magnets adhere.

In one embodiment the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more axles protruding therefrom. Each axle may be provided with a rotatable arm mounted thereon. In an alternate embodiment the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more rotatable arms secured to the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket by suitable means such as a screw. In use, in one position the arm acts on the part of the windshield basket received by the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket thus holding the basket in place against the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket. In use in another position the arm does not hold the part of the windshield basket against the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket and thus the basket can be removed from the first means to receive a part of a windshield basket.

The use of rotatable arms allows quick and easy securing of a part of a windshield basket against the first means to receive a part of a windshield basket and also allows quick and easy unlocking of a part of a windshield basket from the first means to receive a part of a windshield basket.

The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone. The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more first resilient elements. The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the chassis or a part of the chassis by the three or more first resilient elements.

The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to a connection dement secured to the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone. The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the connection element by the three or more first resilient elements.

The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is preferab'y suitably sized to be spaced apart from the means for supporting a microphone. The three or more first resilient elements are preferably suitably sized to extend between the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket and the means for supporting a microphone.

The three or more first resUient elements are preferably suitab'y sized, shaped and/or made from a suitable material to allow the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket to move around in three orthogonal planes, for example pitch, yaw and roll. and also move around in the same plane.

In one embodiment the means for supporting a microphone is arranged concentrically within the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket.

In one embodiment the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket comprises a frame. The first suspension device may include a frame having means for receiving part of a windshield basket. The frame may extend partly or fully around a part of the means for supporting a microphone.

The frame having means for receiving part of a windshield basket may extend partly or fully around the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone. The frame preferably extends fully around the mounting element.

The part of a windshie'd basket received by the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket, in one embodiment a frame, is preferably a part of the lower part of the windshield basket or an extension of the lower part of the windshield basket when positioned for use, The first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is compact and located S around the means for supporting a microphone, preferab'y around the mounting clement, for example concentrically around the mounting element. In use the microphone windshield basket extends upwards from the first suspension device meaning that the inside of the basket is free from parts associated with the suspension of the basket. The parts being positioned around the means for supporting a microphone, and in particular the mounting element, means they are less likely to get damaged when the basket is taken apart to insert or adjust the microphone. Also the resultant open space within the basket allows good access to the microphone.

In one embodiment the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone is generally oval in cross section. In this embodiment the frame extends all the way around, for example concentrically afl the way around, the mounting element thereby forming an oval frame.

The frame may comprise a strip of a suitable material, for example a plastic material or a moulded plastic materiaL a moulded or machined metal or a 3D printed material, shaped to extend round part or all of the mounting denient of the means to support a microphone, in one embodiment concentrically round part or all of the mounting element of the means to support a microphone. The strip may have a length sufficient to extend, in one embodiment concentrically, around part or all of the mounting element of the means to support a microphone and be spaced apart therefrom.

The means for supporting a microphone and the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket are held spaced apart from each other by the three or more first resilient elements so that the microphone sits centrally within the basket, A suitable spacing between the means for supporting a microphone and the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket may be 3 to 15 mm, The strip may have a width extending generally paraflel to a longitudinal axis of the mounting element of the means to support a microphone. The width is preferably sufficient to give the required strength to the frame. The width is preferably also sufficient to have means for receiving part of a windshi&d basket.

The strip may have a thickness suitable to give a required strength to the frame.

The strip of material may be of "T" or I" shape when looked at in cross section.

Preferably, in use, the longitudinal axis of the "T" or "I" shape lies parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone therefore corresponding to the width of the strip as discussed above.

In one embodiment the means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the frame may be one or more cut out areas adapted to receive one or more protrusions correspondingly positioned on a windshield basket when in use, In one embodiment the means for receiving part of a windshield basket is the area between the top and bottom of the "I" shaped strip of the frame. In another embodiment it is the area between the top of the "T" shaped strip of the frame and the end of the longitudinal portion of the "T" shaped strip.

In one embodiment more than three first resilient elements may be present, for example there may be 4. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 or more first resilient elements. Preferably there is an even number of first resilient elements, for example 4. 6, 8. 10, 12, 14, 16 or more first resilient elements. Preferably all of the first resilient elements provided are arranged in opposing pairs. Preferab'y there are three or more opposed pairs.

In one embodiment the first resilient elements are spaced around the means for supporting a microphone. Preferably the first resilient elements are spaced around the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone. There may be an even number of first resilient dements arranged in opposing pairs and the pairs may be equafly spaced around the mounting element.

The first resilient elements may be any suitable shape. The first resilient elements may be "S" shaped or they may be "double S" shaped. The first resilient elements are preferably "S" shaped.

The first resilient elements may be provided with dovetail joining lugs on one or both of their ends.

The means for supporting a microphone, for example the mounting element, may be S provided with dovetaU grooves. The dovetail tugs of the resilient elements may be received by the dovetail grooves of the means for supporting a microphone.

The first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket may be provided with dovetafl grooves. The dovetail lugs of the resihent elements may be received by the dovetail grooves of the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket.

In one embodiment the means for supporting a microphone comprises a chassis having two parts and the dovetafled tugs of the resihent ekments are held between the two parts of the chassis.

In one embodiment the frame is suitably sized to surround, for exampk concentrically surround, and be spaced apart from the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone. Thc three or more first resilient elements are preferably suitably sized to extend between the frame, preferably a portion of the frame positioned facing the mounting clement, and the molLnting element of the means for slLpporting a microphone. The three or more first resilient elements are preferably suitably shaped and/or made from a suitable material to allow the frame to move around in three orthogonal planes, for example pitch, yaw and roll, and also move around in the same plane. The resilient dements may be made from any suitable material such as a resilient plastic, preferably with a measure of self-damping.

Stops may be provided to limit planar movement of the frame. The stops may be one or more protrusions on the means for supporting a microphone, for example the mounting element, that contact a part of the first means for receiving part of a windshidd basket, for example the frame, if movement is too great. Alternatively the stops may be one or more protrusions on the means for receiving part of a windshield basket, for example the frame that contact the means for supporting a microphone, for example the mounting element if movement is too great.

The mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone and the means for supporting a microphone are preferably rigid giving a solid structure in re'ation to which movement of the windshield basket can be isolated. They may be a unity structure The means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone may be an elongate arm. The elongate arm may be curved along at least part of its length. The arm preferably has a shape and size that follows the inner surface of a basket so that the inside of the basket is kept clear.

The arm may be detachable from the means for supporting a microphone to allow easy access to the microphone.

The means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone, in on embodiment an arm, may comprise two or more parts. The two or more parts may be secured together by any appropriate means such as screws or corresponding m&e and female press fit parts, In one embodiment means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone comprises two parts secured together by one or more screws.

The means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone may be a ring.

In one embodiment the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the basket, screws or magnets.

In one embodiment the second means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more magnets. In a further embodiment the second means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of materia' to which magnets adhere.

The second means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone. The second means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more second resilient elements.

The second means for rccciving part of a windshield basket may be connected to a connection element secured to the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone. The second means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be connected to the connection element by the three or more first resilient elements.

The second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is preferably suitably sized to be spaced apart from the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone. The three or more second resilient elements are preferably suitably sized to extend between the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket and the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for slLpporting a microphone. The three or more second resilient elements are preferably suitably sized, shaped and/or made from a suitable material to aflow the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket to move around in three orthogonal planes, for example pitch, yaw and roll and also move around in the same plane.

In one embodiment the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone is concentrically arranged within the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket.

Like the first suspension device discussed above the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the second suspension device is compact and its use means that the basket is substantially free from parts associated with the suspension of the basket, which is advantageous for the reasons discussed above.

The second means for receiving part of a windshieM basket may be of generally of the same shape as the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket, The sizes of the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket and second means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be different; in one embodiment the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket may be smaller than the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket.

H

In one embodiment the second means for receiving part of a windshieM basket comprises a second frame having means for receiving part of a windshield basket. The second frame may extend partly or fufly around a part of the means to connect to the S means for supporting a microphone. The second frame preferably extends fully around the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone.

The part of a windshield basket received by the frame of the second suspension device is preferably a part of or an extension of the tipper part of the windshield basket when positioned for use, The frame of the second suspension device may comprise a second strip of suitabk material, for example a plastic material, a moulded plastic material, a moulded or machined metal or a 3D printcd material, shaped to extend round part or all of the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone, for exampk concentrically round part or aH of the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone. The second strip may have a length sufficient to extend, in one embodiment concentrically, around part or all of the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone and be spaced apart therefrom.

The means for connecting the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone and the second means for receiving a part of a windshield basket are held spaced apart from each other by the three or more second resilient ekments so that the microphone sits centrally within the basket. A suitable spacing between the means for connecting the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone and the second means for receiving a part of a windshield basket may be 3 to 15 mm.

The second strip may have a width extending generafly paralle' to a longitudinal axis of the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone. The width is preferably sufficient to give the required strength to the second frame. The width is preferably also sufficient to have means for receiving part of a windshield basket.

The second strip may have a thickness suitable to give a required strength to the frame.

The second strip of niaterid may be of "T" or "1" shape when looked at in cross S section. Preferab'y the longitudina' axis of the "T" or "I" shape lies parall& to a longitudinal axis of the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone.

therefore corresponding to the width of the second strip as discussed above.

In one embodiment the means for receiving part of a windshieM basket is one or more cut out areas adapted to receive one or more protrusions correspondingly positioned on the windshield basket when in use.

In one embodiment the i'neans for receiving part of a windshield basket is the area between the top and bottom of the "I" shaped strip of the frame, In another embodiment it is the area beneath the top of the T" shaped strip of the frame and the end of the longitudinal portion of the T" shaped strip.

In one embodiment more than three second resilient elements may be present, for example there may be 4. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 or more second resilient elements.

Preferably there is an even number of second resilient elements, for example 4. 6, 8, 10. 12, 14, 16 or more second resilient elements, Preferably aD second resiDent elements provided are arranged in opposing pairs. Preferably there are three or more opposed pairs.

The second resilient elements may be any suitable shape. The second resilient elements may be "S" shaped or they may be "double S" shaped, The second resilient elements are preferably "S" shaped.

The second resiDent dements may be provided with dovetail joining lugs on one or both of their ends.

The means to connect to the means for sLipporting a microphone may be provided with dovetail grooves. The dovetail tugs of the resilient elements may be received by the dovetail grooves of the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone, The second means for receiving a part of a windshield basket may be provided with dovetafl grooves. The dovetail lugs of the resihent elements may be received by the dovetail grooves of the second means for receiving a part of a windshield basket.

S In one embodiment the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone compriscs two parts and the dovetailed lugs of the resilient elements are held between the two parts.

In one embodiment the second frame is suitably sized to surround, for example concentrically surround, and be spaced apart from the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone, The three or more second resilient elements are preferably suitably sized to extend between the frame, preferably a portion of the frame positioned facing the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone, and the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone. The three or more second resilient elements are preferably suitably shaped and/or made from a snitable materia' to aflow the frame to i'nove around in three orthogonal planes, for example pitch, yaw and rofl and also move around in the same plane, The resilient elements may be made from any suitable material such as a resilient plastic, preferably with a measure of self-damping, Stops i'nay be provided to hniit p'anar movement of the frame, The stops may be one or more protrusions on the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone that contact a part of the second means for receiving part of a windshie'd basket, for example the frame if movement is too great.

Alternatively the stops may be one or more protrusions on the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket, for example the frame that contact the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone if movement is too great.

The means for supporting a microphone and the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for supporting a microphone are preferably rigid giving a solid structure in relation to which movement of the windshield basket can be isolated. The means for slLpporting a microphone and the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone may be a unitary structure.

The suspension system may include a microphone windshield basket, The suspension system may include a microphone windshield basket cover.

In one embodiment the windshield basket is provided with first means to be received by the first means for receiving pan of a windshield basket of the first suspension device, in one embodiment the windshield basket is provided with one or more protrusions correspondingly positioned to be received by the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket.

The pan of a windshield basket provided with means to be received by the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the first suspension device is preferably a part of or an extension of the lower part of the windshield basket when positioned for use.

A part of the windshield basket may be provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place in relation to the first means for receiving the pan of a windshield basket of the first suspension device, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket, screws or magnets.

In one embodiment the part of the windshield basket may be provided with one or more magnets. In a further embodiment the part of the windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of material to which magnets adhere.

The windshield basket may be provided with means to be received by the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the second suspension device. In one embodiment the basket is provided with one or more protrusions correspondingly positioned to be received by the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket when in use.

The part of a windshield basket provided with means to be received by the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the second suspension device is preferably a part of or an extension of the upper part of the windshield basket when positioned for use.

A part of the windshield basket may be provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place in relation to the second means for receiving the part of a windshield basket of the second suspension device, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as niak or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket, screws or magnets.

In one embodiment the part of the windshield basket may be provided with one or more magnets. In a further embodiment the part of the windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of materia' to which magnets adhere.

In one embodiment the microphone windshield basket is elongate and hollow with a first end portion, a second end portion and a central portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion, the basket comprises two parts that can be secured together wherein one part comprises the first end portion and a first part of the central portion and the second part comprises the second end portion and a second part of the central portion and wherein the first and second parts of the central portion are longitudinal sections of the central portion One or both of the first and second cnd portions may be dome or hemispherical shaped.

The central portion is preferably split into first and second parts of identical size. The central portion is preferably split into first and second parts along a central longitudinal plane.

The split of the basket in the manner set out above gives a Z" shaped join which is simple to align when putting the first and second parts of the basket together.

The first and second parts of the basket may each be provided with magnets to secure them together which makes the ahgning and joining of the parts very quick and easy to achieve.

The first and/or second parts of the basket may be provided with one or more seats to seal the first and second parts together. The seals reduce the potential air flow through the joint, ideally the seal gives at least as good an impedance to air movement as the fabric of the basket does.

In one embodiment the basket is provided with a seal comprising a protruding bead on S one of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead on the other of the first and second parts of the basket.

In one embodiment the basket is provided with a seal comprising a "U" shaped groove provided on one or both of the first and second parts of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the groove when the two parts are brought together.

In one embodiment the basket is provided with a seal comprising a protruding bead on one or more areas of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead on one or more corresponding areas of the other of the first and second parts of the basket: and a "U" shaped groove provided on one or more areas of one or both, preferably one, of the first and second parts of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the groove when the two parts are brought together.

In one embodiment the microphone windshield basket is elongate and hollow with a first end portion and a second end portion and a centra' portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion, wherein when looked at in cross section the first end portion and the second end portion are not the same size and the central portion has sides that are not parallel as they extend from the first end portion to the second end portion.

One or both of the first and second end portions may be dome or hemispherical shaped.

Preferably when looked at in cross section the sides of the central portion are convex as they extend between the first end portion and the second end portion.

The microphone windshield basket shape is ideafly aerodynamic, this mininiises turbulence.

In a second aspect the present invention provides a basket for a microphone windshie'd that comprises two or more parts wherein each of the two parts is provided with one or more magnets that are positioned in use to secure the two parts of the basket together or where one of the two parts is provided with magnets and the other S of the two parts is provided with a material to which magnets adhere positioned to secure the two parts of the basket together.

The use of magnets allows the parts of the basket to be positioned correctly and secured together easily and in one simpk movement. This avoids the need to use complicated arrangements of fastening means such as clips, screws and the like which may first require careful positioning of the parts of the basket to be secured together before they can be fastened.

In a third aspect the invention provides a basket for a microphone windshield that is elongate with a first end portion, a second end portion and a central portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion, the basket comprises two parts that can be secured together wherein one part comprises the first end portion and a first part of the centra' portion and the second part comprises the second end portion and a second part of the central portion and wherein the first and second parts of the central portion are longitudinal sections of the central portion.

The split of the basket in the manner set out above gives a "Z" shaped join which is simple to align when putting the basket together.

The two parts of the basket nmy each be provided with magnets to secure them together which makes the aligning and joining of the two parts very quick and easy to achieve.

The first and/or second parts of the basket may be provided with one or more seals preferably air tight seats. to seal the first and second parts together.

In one embodiment the basket is provided with a seal comprising a "U" shaped groove provided on one or both of the first and second parts of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the grooves when the two parts are brought together.

In one embodiment the basket is provided with a seal comprising a protruding bead on one or more areas of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead on one or more corresponding areas of the other of the first and second parts of thc basket: and a "U" shaped groove provided on one or more areas of one or both, preferably one, of the first and second parts of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the groove when the two parts are brought together.

One or both of the first and second end portions may be domc or hemispherical shaped.

In a fourth aspect the invention provides a basket for a microphone windshield that is elongate with a first end portion and a second end portion and a central portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion, wherein when looked at in cross section the first end portion and the second end portion are not the same size and the central portion has sides that are not parallel as they extend from the first end portion to the second end portion.

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a suspension system according to an S aspect of the invention; Figures 2a and 2b show expanded views of the first and second suspension devices of the suspension system of figure 1 Figure 3 shows a basket for a microphone windshield having a shape in accordance with an aspect of the invention; Figure 4 shows a basket for a microphone windshield comprising two parts in accordance with an aspect of the invention; Figure 5 shows one part of a basket for a microphone windshield provided with one or more magnets in accordance with an aspect of the invention; and Figure 6 shows the suspension system of figures 1 and 2 with a microphone windshield basket to be secured thereto.

Figures 1, 2 and 6 show a suspension system 1 for a microphone windshield basket 2 (shown in figure 6 only). The suspension system 1 comprises a means 4 for supporting a microphone 5 and a first suspension device 3 comprising a first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 and a number of first resilient members 7 (shown in figure 2a), The first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 is arranged. for example concentrically, around the means 4 for supporting a microphone 5. The means 4 for supporting a microphone 5 and the first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 are connected and held spaced apart from each other by first resilient members 7, The means 4 for supporting a microphone S comprises a microphone chassis 8 and a mounting element 9 (shown in figure 2a). The chassis 8 is rectangular in shape and has a first rectangular surface 8a and a second rectangu'ar surface Sb. The rectangular surfaces 8a and Sb arc opposing and parallel and spaced apart from each other by the thickness of the chassis. The mounting element 9 is secured to the second surface 8b of the microphone chassis 8, The mounting ekment 9 is elongate and of generally oval cross section. The mounting element 9 extends perpendicularly from the centre of the second surface Sb of the chassis 8, The chassis 8 and the mounting dement 9 S form a rigid structure, The mounting element comprises two parts. First part 9a is secured to the second surface 8b of the chassis 8. The chassis 8 and the first part 9a of the mounting element may be of unitary construction, Second part 9b may be secured to the first part 9a by screws.

The mounting element 9 is provided with means 10 to secure it to a primary support (not shown), such as a boom pok, pistol grip or stand. The second part 9b of the mounting element 9 is provided with the means 10, The chassis S has two microphone supports 12 mounted spaced apart from each other on its first surface Sa for receiving a microphone 5, The microphone S when received lies approximately parallel to the chassis 8 and the mounting element 9 is therefore approximately perpendicular to the microphone 5, The chassis 8 and mounting element 9 are made from a niouded plastic, The first means 6 for receiving a part of a windshield basket 2 comprises a frame 13 extending around the mounting element 9 and being suitably sized to surround, preferably concentrically surround, and be spaced apart from the mounting clement 9, In figures 1. 2 and 6 the frame 13 is generally oval in shape. having two elongate sides joined by two semi-circular end portions. The mounting element 9 is also of generally oval cross section sized to be concentrically positioned within the first means 6 for receiving part of a windshidd basket 2.

The frame 13 has an inner facing side that in use lies closest to the mounting element 9 and an outer facing side that in use lies furthest from the mounting element. The frame 13 has an upper facing portion that lies closest to the basket in use and a lower facing portion that lies closest to the means 10 to secure the mounting element 9 to a primary support in use, The frame 13 is formed from a strip of material having an "1" cross section.

The material that the strip is formed from is a moulded plastic.

The frame 13 is provided with a number of magnets 14 spaced around its outer facing side The frame 13 is provided with four screws 15 extending from its lower facing side so that each protrudes beyond the outer facing side of the frame. Each screw 15 is provided with a rotatabl mounted arm 16.

First resilient elements 7 are provided extending between the mounting element 9 and the inner surface of the frame 13. The resilient &ements 7 are suitably sized, made of a suitable materia' and positioned to connect the frame 13 to the mounting element 9 and hold it spaced apart from the mounting element such that it can move relative to the mounting element.

The first resilient elements 7 shown in figures 1. 2 and 3 are "S" shaped and are arranged in four opposing pairs. The resilient elements 7 are positioned spaced apart around the semi-circular portions of the frame.

The first resilient elements 7 are provided with dovetail lugs, not shown, at each end.

The inner surface of the frame 13 of the first means 6 for receiving a part of a windshield basket 2 may be provided with dovetail grooves, not shown. The dovetail Jugs of one end of the resihent elements 7 are received by the dovetail grooves therefore securing the resilient members in place r&ative to the frame 13.

The dovetailed lugs of the other end of the resilient elements are held between the first 9a and second 9b parts of the mounting element 9.

Protrusions (not shown) are provided extending from the mounting element 9 or inner surface of the frame 13 to act as stops in the event of too much movement of the frame relative to the mounting element.

S The suspension system further comprises a means 24 for connection to the means 4 for supporting a microphone 5 and a second suspension dcvice 23 comprising a second means 26 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 and a number of second resilient members 27 (shown in figure 2b). The second means 26 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 is arranged around, for example concentricafly around, the means 24 for connection to the means 4 for supporting a microphone 5, The means 24 for connection to the means 4 for supporting a microphone 5 and the second means 26 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 are connected and held spaced apart from each other by the second resilient members 27.

The mcans 24 for connection to the means 4 for supporting a microphone S is an elongate arm that is generally C" shaped. The arm is detachable from the means 4 for supporting the microphone. The arm is provided with a male part (not shown) on a first end that is received detachably by a corresponding female part (not shown) on the mounting element 9. The arm has a straight portion 18 extending from its free second end for receipt of the second means 26 for receiving part of a windshield basket.

The straight portion 18 of the arm has a removable end cap 31.

The second means 26 for receiving a part of a windshield basket 2 comprises a frame 33 extending around a part of the straight portion 18 of the arm and being suitably sized to surround, for example concentrically surround, and be spaced apart from the straight portion of the arm. In figures 1, 2 and 6 the frame 33 is generally oval in shape. having two elongate sides joined by two semi-circular portions. The straight portion IS of the arm is sized to be concentrically positioned within the second means 26 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2.

The frame 23 has an inner facing side that in use lies closest to the straight portion 18 of the arm and an outer facing side that in use lies furthest from the straight portion 18 of the arm 18. The frame has a lower facing portion that fles closest to the suspension device 3 in use and an upper facing portion that lies furthest from the suspension device 3.

The frame 33 is formed from a strip of material having an "I" cross section.

The material that the strip is formed from is moulded plastic.

The frame 33 is provided with a number of magnets 34 spaced around its outer facing side.

Second resilient elements 27 arc provided extending between the straight portion 18 of the arm and the inner surface of the frame 33. The resilient elements 27 are suitably sized, made of a suitable material and positioned to connect the frame 33 to the straight portion 18 of the arm and hold it spaced apart from the straight portion of the arm such that it can move relative to the arm.

The second resilient elements 27 are S" shaped and are arranged in four opposing pairs. The resilient elements 27 are positioned spaced around the entirety of the frame -3, The second resilient elements 27 are provided with dovetail lugs 27a, shown in figure 2b at each end.

The inner surface of the frame 33 of the second means 26 for receiving a part of a windshield basket 2 is provided with dovetail grooves 33a, shown in figure 2b. The dovetail lugs of one end of the resilient elements 27 are received by the dovetail grooves securing the resilient members in place relative to the frame 33.

The dovetailed lugs of the other end of the resilient elements are heM between the straight portion 18 of the arm and the end cap 31.

The first suspension device 3 and the second suspension device 23 are arranged spaced apart from each other with their centres lying on a ongitudina axis that extends through the mounting element 9, The first suspension device 3 and the second suspension device 23 lie in spaced apart and parallel planes.

The chassis 8, the mounting dement 9 and the elongate arm form a rigid structure.

Figure 3 shows the basket 2 which is elongate with a first end portion 200 and a second end portion 201 and a central portion 202 extending between the first end portion 200 and second end portion 201. The first end portion 200 and the second end portion 201 are dome shaped. V/hen looked at in cross section the first end portion and the second end portion 201 are not the same size, the first end portion being larger than the second end portion. When looked at in cross section the centr& portion 202 has sides that are not parallel as they extend from the first end portion to the second end portion.

When looked at in cross section the sides of the central portion 202 are convex as they extend between the first end portion 200 and the second end portion 201, Figure 4 shows the basket 2 for a microphone windshield that comprises two parts, first part 210 and second part 211.

The first part 210 comprises a first cnd portion 200 and a first part 202a of a central portion 202. The second part 211 comprises a second end portion 201 and a second part 202b of a central portion 202. The first and second parts of the central portion 202 are longitudinal sections of the central portion. The central portion 202 is split into first and second parts along a central longitudinal plane.

The split of the basket in the manner set out above gives a "Z" shaped split, meaning the two parts are simple to align when putting the basket together.

The first and second parts of the basket are provided with sealing elements around their edges. shown in more detail at A, B. C and D. to seal the first and second parts together in an air tight manner.

A protruding bead is provided on one or more areas of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead is provided on one or more corresponding areas of the other of the first and second parts of the basket. See details A and B, A protruding bead is provided along the longitudinal edges of the central portion 202a of the first part of the basket. A protruding bead is provided on the edge of the first end portion 200 where it abuts the edge of the central portion of the second part 211 of the basket.

A corresponding groove is provided along the longitudinal edges of the central portion 202b of the second part of the basket. A corresponding groove is provided on the edge of the area where the central portion abuts the edges of the first end portion 200.

In addition a "U" shaped groove is provided on one or more areas of the second part of the basket and a foam rubber strip is provided for receipt in the groove when the two parts are brought together. The "U" shaped groove and foamed rubber strip seal is provided on the edge of second end portion where it abuts the edge of the central portion 202a of the first part of the basket. See detail C and D. Fignre 5 shows the second part 211 of the basket 2 which comprises the second end portion 201 and a second part 202b of the central portion 202.

The "Z" shaped split is visible in this figure and the split through the basket 2 provides a surface 204 around the second part 211. The surface 204 is provided with magnets 205 spaced out a'ong its length.

The surface 204 has a first elongate surface 204a and a second elongate surface 204b extending along the kngth of the central portion of the basket, The first elongate surface is positioned in use at the top of the basket and the second elongate surface is positioned in use at the bottom of the basket.

The surface 204a is provided with an indented area 206 approximately midway along its kngth. The indented area 206 is provided a lip 207 around its edge protruding upwards away from the basket, The lip 207 is provided with magnets 205 along its length.

The surface 204b is provided with an indented area 20S approximateh' midway along its kngth. The indented area 208 is provided a lip 209 around its edge protruding upwards away from the basket. The lip 208 is provided with magnets 205 along its length.

The first part 210 of the basket 2 comprises the first end portion 200 and a first part 202a of the central portion 202 but otherwise comprises the same features as shown in figureS.

In use the microphone 5 is positioned in the microphone supports 12 mounted on tile chassis 8 with the basket 2 removed and the means 24 for connection to the means 4 for supporting a microphone also removed.

The means 24 for connection to the means 4 for supporting a microphone is then put into place in relation to the mounting element 9 of the means 4 for supporting a microphone using the male and female engaging parts provided.

The rotatable arms 16 on the frame 13 of the first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 are rotated about screws 15 until they are clear of means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 of frame 13, The first part 210 of the basket 2 is the secured in place with the lip 207 against the frame 33 of the second means 26 for receiving part of a windshield basket and the lip 209 against the frame 13 of the first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket.

The lips 207. 209 are secured to the frames 33. 13 by means of the magnets provided on the surfaces of the lips and the frames.

The second part 211 of the basket 2 is then secured in place in the same way against frame 33 of the second means 26 for receiving part of a windshieid basket and the frame 13 of the means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket, The second part 211 of the basket 2 is also simultaneously positioned in relation to and secured to the first part 210 of the basket by the magnets 205 provided along the surfaces 204 of the first 210 and second 211 parts of the basket 2.

Once the two parts of the basket 2 are in position secured to each other and to the frames 13 and 33 the rotatable ams 16 on the frame 13 of the first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2 are rotated about screws 15 until they are against the hps 209 of the first and second parts of the basket 2 holding them firniy in place in the frame 13 of the first means 6 for receiving part of a windshield basket 2.

To remove or adjust the microphone 5 the above steps are simply reversed to allow full acccss.

The mounting element can be releasably secured to any primary support of interest for use.

The suspension system described aflows isolation of a basket of a microphone windshield from a primary support. The suspension system described also allows isolation of a basket of a microphone windshield from external influences.

Furthermore the additiona' features of the suspension device and basket that can be provided are good control of movement of the basket, easy and quick positioning and securing of the basket around the microphone allowing its insertion. removal or adjustment in the support to be readily carried out.

Claims

CLAIMS1, A suspension system comprising: means for supporting a microphone. and S a first suspension device comprising a first means for receiving part of a windshield basket and three or more first resilient members, wherein the first means for receiving a part of a windshield basket is held spaced apart from the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more first resilient elements, means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone, and a second suspension device comprising a second means for receiving part of a windshield basket and three or more second resilient members, wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is held spaced apart from the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more second resilient elements wherein the first suspension device and the second suspension device are spaced apart.
2. The suspension system according to claim 1 wherein the first suspension device lies in a first plane and the second suspension device lies in a second plane.
3. The suspension system according to claim 2 wherein the first and second planes may be parallel and spaced apart.
4, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first suspension device and the second suspension device are arranged to allow essentially the same freedom of movement.
5, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding daims wherein a centre point of the first suspension device and a centre point of the second suspension device lie on a common axis, wherein optionally the common axis is a longitudinal axis through the means for supporting a microphone.
6. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the means for supporting a microphone is a microphone chassis provided with a mounting element
7. The suspension system according to claim 6 wherein the chassis and the mounting clement are arrangcd to be perpendicular to each other.
8. Thc suspension system according to claim 6 or claim 7 wherein thc chassis has an elongate portion, optionafly the elongate portion is provided with one or more means to receive a microphone.
9. The suspension system according to any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein the mounting element is elongate.
10. The suspension system according to any one of claims 6 to 9 wherein thc mounting element is provided with means to releasably secure it to a primary support, such as a boom pole, pistol grip or stand.
11, The suspension system according to any one of claims 6 to 9 wherein the mounting element is a primary support, such as a boom pole, pistol grip or stand.
12. Thc suspension systcm according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshi&d basket in place, for exanipk protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the basket, screws, or magnets.
13. The suspension system according to claim 12 wherein the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more magnets.
14, The suspension system according to claim 12 wherein the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of material to which magnets adhere.
15. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more axles protruding therefrom and each axle is provided with a rotatable arm mounted thereon.
16, The suspcnsion system according to any one of claims 6 to 15 wherein the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is connected to the mounting element of the means for slLpporting a microphone by the three or more first resilient elements.
17, The suspension system according to claim 16 wherein the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is connected to a connection element secured to the mounting element of the means for supporting a microphone and the first means for receiving part of a windshidd basket is connected to the connection dement by the three or more first resilient elements.
IS. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket is suitab'y sized to be spaced apart from the means for supporting a microphone, optionally by 3 to 15mm,
19. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the three or more first resilient elements are suitab'y sized, shaped and/or made from a suitable material to allow the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket to move around in three orthogonal planes, for example pitch, yaw and roll, and also move around in the same p'ane.
20, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein there is an even number of first resilient elements, for example 4. 6. 8, 10, 12 14, 16 or more first resilient elements.
21, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first resilient elements provided are arranged in opposing pairs, optionally there are three or more opposed pairs.
22, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first resilient elements are "S" shaped or "double S" shaped, 23, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone is an elongate arm, wherein optionafly the elongate arm is curved along at least part of its length.24, The suspension system according to claim 23 wherein the arm is detachable from the means for supporting a microphone.25, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the basket, screws or magnets.26. The suspension system according to claim 25 wherein the second means for receiving the part of a windshi&d basket is provided with one or more magnets.27, The suspension system according to claim 25 wherein the second means for receiving the part of a windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of material to which magnets adhere.28. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is connected to the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone by the three or more second resilient elements.29. The suspension system according to claim 28 wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is connected to a connection element secured to the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone and the second means for receiving part of a windshidd basket is connected to the connection element by the three or more first resilient elements.30. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket is suitaMy sized to be spaced apart from the means to connect to the means for supporting a microphone, optionally by3to 15mm.31 The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the three or more second resilient elements are suitab'y sized, shaped and/or made from a suitable material to allow the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket to move around in three orthogonal planes, for example pitch, yaw and roll and also move arolLnd in the same plane.32. The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein there is an even number of second resilient elements, for example 4. 6. , 10, 12, 14, 16 or more second resilient elements.33, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second resilient elements provided are arranged in opposing pairs, optionally there are three or more opposed pairs.34, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second resilient elements are "S" shaped or "double S" shaped.35, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the means for supporting a microphone and the means to connect the second suspension device to the means for snpporting a microphone are rigid giving a solid structure in relation to which movement of the windshield basket can be is&ated, 36, The suspension system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the suspension system includes a microphone windshield basket, and optionally a microphone windshield basket cover.37, The suspension system according to claim 36 wherein the windshi&d basket is provided with first means to be received by the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the first suspension device.38. The suspension system according to claim 37 wherein the windshield basket is provided with one or more protrusions correspondingly positioned to be received by the first means for receiving part of a windshield basket.39, The suspension system according to claim 37 or daim 38 wherein a part of the windshield basket is provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place in relation to the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket of the first suspension device, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or feniae parts. to press fit with corresponding parts of the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket, screws or magnets.40. The suspension system according to claim 39 wherein the part of the windshield basket is provided with one or more magnets.41. The suspension system according to claim 39 wherein the part of the windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of materia' to which magnets adhere.42. The suspension system according to any one of claims 36 to 41 wherein the windshield basket is provided with means to be received by the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket of the second suspension device.43. The suspension system according to claim 42 wherein the windshield basket is provided with one or more protrusions correspondingly positioned to be received by the second means for receiving part of a windshield basket.44, The suspension system according to claim 42 or claim 43 wherein a part of the windshield basket is provided with suitable means for securing the part of the windshield basket in place in relation to the second means for receiving the part of a windshield basket of the second suspension device, for example protrusions or cut-outs, such as male or female parts, to press fit with corresponding parts of the first means for receiving the part of a windshield basket, screws or magnets.45. The suspension system according to daim 44 wherein the part of the windshield basket is provided with one or more magnets, 46. The suspension system according to claim 44 wherein the part of the windshield basket is provided with one or more areas of material to which magnets adhere.47, The suspension system according to any one of claims 36 to 46 wherein the S microphone windshield basket is elongate and hollow with a first end portion, a second end portion and a central portion extending between thc first end portion and second end portion, the basket comprises two parts that can be secured together whcrcin onc part comprises thc first cnd portion and a first part of thc ccntral portion and the second part comprises the second end portion and a second part of the central portion and wherein the first and second parts of the central portion are longitudinal sections of the ccntral portion 48. The suspension system according to claim 47 wherein a split of the basket to give the two parts gives a "Z" shaped join.49. The suspension system according to c'aim 47 or claim 48 wherein the first and second parts of the basket are each provided with magnets to secure them together.50. The suspension system according to any onc of claims 49 to 49 whercin the baskct is provided with a seal comprising: a protruding bead on one or more areas of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead on one or more corresponding areas of the other of the first and second parts of the basket; and a "U" shaped groove provided on one or more areas of one or both, preferably one, of the first and second pans of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the groove when the two parts are brought together.51. The suspension system according to any one of claims 36 to 50 wherein the microphone windshield basket is elongate and hollow with a first end portion and a second end portion and a central portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion. wherein when looked at in cross section the first end portion and the second end portion are not the same size and the central portion has sides that are not paraflel as they extend from the first end portion to the second end portion.52. The suspension system according to claim 51 wherein in cross section the sides of the central portion are convex as they extend between the first end portion and the second end portion.53, A basket for a microphone windshield that comprises two or more parts wherein cach of the two parts is provided with one or more magnets that are positioned in use to secure the two parts of the basket together or where one of the two parts is provided with magncts and the other of the two parts is provided with a material to which magnets adhere positioned to secure the two parts of the basket together.54, A basket for a microphone windshield that is elongate with a first end portion, a second end portion and a central portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion, the basket comprises two parts that can be secured together wherein one part comprises the first end portion and a first part of the central portion and thc second part compriscs thc second end portion and a sccond part of the central portion and wherein the first and second parts of the central portion are longitudinal sections of the central portion.55. The basket according to claim 54 wherein thc central portion is split into first and second parts of identical size, optionally thc central portion is split into first and second parts along a central ongitudina1 plane.56. The basket according to claim 55 wherein the split of the basket gives a shaped join which is simple to align when putting the basket together.57, The basket according to any one of claims 54 to 56 wherein the two parts of the baskct arc cach providcd with magnets to sccurc them togcthcr.58, The basket according to any one of daims 54 to 57 wherein the basket is provided with a seal comprising a protruding bead on one of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead on the other of the first and sccond parts of thc baskct.59, The basket according to any one of daims 54 to 58 wherein the basket is provided with a seal comprising a "U" shaped groove provided on one or both of the first and second parts of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the grooves when the two parts are brought together.60, The basket according to any one of daims 54 to 59 wherein the basket is provided with a seal comprising a protruding bead on one or more areas of the first and second parts of the basket and a corresponding groove for receiving the bead on one or more corresponding areas of the other of the first and second parts of the basket: and a "U" shaped groove provided on one or more areas of one or both, preferably one, of the first and second pans of the basket and a foam rubber strip for receipt in the groove when the two parts are brought together.61, A basket for a microphone windshield that is elongate with a first end portion and a second end portion and a central portion extending between the first end portion and second end portion, wherein when looked at in cross section the first end portion and the second end portion are not the same size and the centra' portion has sides that are not paraflel as they extend from the first end portion to the second end portion.62, The basket according to claim 61 wherein in cross section the sides of the central portion are convex as they extend between the first end portion and the second end portion.63. A suspension system substantially as described herein and with reference to the d raw i n g s.64, A basket for a microphone windshield substantially as described herein and with reference to the drawings.