When might a sound engineer prefer a microphone with a narrow pickup pattern?

A sound engineer might prefer a microphone with a narrow pickup pattern primarily to reduce feedback in a live setting. A narrow pickup pattern allows the microphone to focus on sound coming from a specific direction while rejecting sounds from other angles. This is particularly beneficial in environments where there are multiple sound sources or when using loudspeakers that could generate feedback. By minimizing the reception of unwanted sounds, the microphone helps to maintain clearer audio quality and reduces the likelihood of feedback loops, which can create disruptive high-pitched noises.

In contrast, using a microphone with a wide pickup pattern could capture more ambient noise and sounds from various directions, increasing the chances of feedback when in proximity to speakers. This focused approach not only enhances the clarity of the intended sound source but also helps in managing the overall sound mix during live performances.