KopyKatica Eyeball Microphone Isolation Device

This Instructable shows how a very ordinary foam ball can be turned into a very useful and effective audio treatment device. I do hope that you make one and enjoy the results.

Step 1: The Original Device.

If you are into audio recording, especially of voice overs then you may have heard of the Kaotica Eyeball.

This amazing device is placed directly over a microphone to create an effective studio quality sound treatment.

UK voice over artist Peter explains it very well in this YouTube clip.

Step 2: Making the Instructables Version

If you want to make the KopyKatica version of the Eyeball then you will need a few basic tools and the not-so-basic hole cutter set.

Something like this: Typical item available at Amazon

Step 3: Oh... and One of These

Yes... a foam football (oops that is a Soccer ball for my US friends)

Here is another example from Amazon

A 20 cm version is ideal.

Step 4: First Measure Your Mike

I measured my condenser microphone diameter to ensure a snug push fit.

Step 5: Marking Out

I first produced a hole template and then marked out the hole on the ball.

I was very carefull to ensure that it was 'square' with the axis of the ball.

Step 6: The Hack an Slash Method

Frankly this is how I started and it is NOT the way to do it ...not at all.

I tried hacking out the core using knives and even hot wires, but the result was HORRIBLE.

Then I thought ...if you need a big hole.... what about using a big hole drill...

Step 7: A Hole Better Way

Yes, who would think that a tough hole drill designed for plasterboard (Drywall), would be able to cut a neat hole in a squishy foam ball.

With some trepidation I set it up....and switched on...

Step 8: Plan Diagram

I have added this plan from my notebook to clarify the hole drilling, after a question was asked in the comments.

I do hope this is now clear but please feel free to ask for further information if you need it.

Step 9: Going In...

It sank into the foam like butter...

Ideally I would have used a pillar drill and a sphere clamping device.

In fact I used my arms and the 'wife clamp' method.

(Mrs G deserves a special mention for keeping her nerve as the hole cutter whizzed around between her hands).

Step 10: Deep and Wide

Success was happily achieved.

The hole was very neat and correct.

Step 11: Better Black

The football markings were just not right for my 'studio' and so I decided to spray it.

I did a test first on the cut out plug to make sure that the paint did not adversely effect the foam.

All went well and so I proceeded to empty an entire can onto the surfaces...outside and inside.

Step 12: A Photographic Challenge

These are the best images I could manage, since taking a picture of a black hole in a black ball is not what the camera likes to do.

Step 13: Cosy Mike

And...here is my microphone all tucked up in it's new ball of silence.

Step 14: Lookin' GUDD!

I was VERY pleased with the finished appearance and it certainly does not look 'home made'.

Step 15: The Sound of Silence

I have made a few test recordings with the KopyKatica and can report that it certainly makes a positive difference.

I switched on a radio in the background and then recorded a few minutes of speech into the mike both with and without the KopyKatica.

The result was remarkable.

With the device on there was definitely less audible background sound.

The main benefit seems to be in the improvement to the sound of the voice. I feel that it adds depth and clarity.

I cannot compare the effect with the real device since I cannot afford one, but if you do voice recording, then I can definitely say that it is well worth making one of these and judging for yourself.

It may not perform exactly the same as the real thing but it still looks good.

Even if you have to buy a set of hole cutters and the ball there is still a substantial saving over the $200 cost of the Kaotica Eyeball.

Enjoy the 'sound of silence'.