How many microphones are recommended for a square table that is 4 feet or smaller with four people?

For a square table that is 4 feet or smaller with four people, the recommended number of microphones is three. This approach is based on ensuring that each participant can clearly be heard without the need for excessive adjustment or movement of the microphones.

Having three microphones allows for strategic placement: one microphone can be positioned in the center of the table to capture the voices of the individuals seated directly in front of it, while the other two can be placed at opposite ends or sides of the table. This setup enhances audio pick-up from all speakers, reducing the chances of any participant's voice being missed or muffled, which can happen with just one microphone. It also helps in minimizing background noise and focusing on the conversation taking place among the four individuals.

Using more microphones can improve sound quality and clarity, facilitating better communication and ensuring that the recorded material is high quality, which is vital in a digital court reporting context. Therefore, three microphones provide an effective balance between coverage and practicality for a small group seating arrangement like this.