What is the primary purpose of using a shock mount with a microphone?

The primary purpose of using a shock mount with a microphone is to isolate the microphone from physical vibrations and mechanical noise. A shock mount is a device that suspends the microphone within an elastic framework, typically using rubber bands or other flexible materials. This suspension prevents vibrations from the microphone stand, floor, or other nearby objects from being transmitted to the microphone capsule. These vibrations can cause unwanted low-frequency rumble, thumps, or handling noise in the audio recording. By decoupling the microphone from these sources of vibration, the shock mount helps to ensure a cleaner, clearer audio signal, free from distracting noise. For example, if a speaker accidentally bumps the microphone stand during a presentation, the shock mount will absorb most of the impact, preventing a loud thump from being recorded.