A pop filter is an acoustic screen, usually circular in shape with stretched mesh, which is placed between the mouth of the speaker or singer and the microphone. Its main purpose is to suppress the unwanted sonic booms that occur when pronouncing so-called plosive consonants such as "p" and "b". When they are articulated, the air stream is suddenly released from the mouth. This stream of air hits the sensitive diaphragm of the microphone and causes an unpleasant low-frequency sound in the recording that resembles a snap or a rumble. The pop filter dissipates this blast of air before it reaches the microphone, but lets the actual sound of the voice through with minimal impact. This ensures a cleaner and more professional sound recording without distracting elements. In addition to this primary function, it also serves to protect the microphone from moisture and saliva that could damage the microphone's sensitive liner over time.