A microphone is an essential tool that almost every sound professional needs. Although we use it for a straightforward function which is converting sound waves to electrical waves, figuring out which one to buy can be a daunting process.
With the different options available in the market, picking the right mic for the job is integral to achieving professional audio quality.
Dynamic, condenser and ribbon microphones are the most popular. This article focuses on dynamic and condenser mics, which are different in how their diaphragm interacts with the rest of the circuitry to generate the electrical signal. This difference mainly impacts two technical characteristics: the output level and the frequency response.
Dynamic mics tend to have low output levels, which means that the quiet sounds reproduced from the mic would need to be amplified. Condenser mics, on the other hand, require less amplification.
Frequency response identifies the range of frequencies, the tones, that a mic can reproduce. Condenser microphones have a smooth frequency response which makes them suitable for high-quality sound reproduction.
The rest of this article aims to make your next mic purchase an easy task. The best way to do this is by understanding how dynamic and condenser microphones work, their main characteristics, and the best ways to utilize them.
Before digging deeper into the technicalities, take a minute to think about what you want from your next microphone. Having this in mind will help in identifying the required specifications in your brand new mic.
Dynamic Mics
The dynamic microphones are the oldest and most primitive. They are commonly used on stage because of their durability and ability to operate independently from a power source.
How Does A Dynamic Microphone Work?
The diaphragm of a dynamic microphone is attached to a metal coil located inside a magnetic field. When the sound waves hit the diaphragm, it vibrates that coil forming an electric current that mimics the sound waves.
Characteristics Of Dynamic Microphones
- Durable.
- Tolerant to heat and humidity, which makes it suitable for the outdoors.
- Capable of capturing high volumes without distortion.
- Efficient in eliminating background noise.
When To Use A Dynamic Microphone?
Dynamic microphones are excellent for capturing intense sounds, such as the sounds emitting from guns and explosives. Similarly, musicians use it to record the sounds coming from drums, guitar amplifiers, and other loud musical instruments.
Besides using them outdoors and during live performances, podcasters and interviewers use dynamic microphones to record vocals when smooth and accurate reproduction is not required.
Recommended Dynamic Mics
Shure SM7B
- Price range: $500
- Pick-up Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 50 to 20 kHz
Electro-Voice RE Electro-Voice RE-20
- Price range: $550
- Pick-up Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 45Hz-18kHz
Shure SM57
- Price range: $150
- Pick-up pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 40Hz – 15 kHz
Condenser Mics
A condenser microphone is a more delicate piece of equipment used to record accurate sounds, practically in a studio setup. Since it is more complicated than its dynamic counterpart, condenser mics tend to be more expensive.
How Does A Condenser Microphone Work?
Suspended to a fixed plate charged with a power source, the diaphragm movement against the charged field converts the sound waves to electrical energy.
The electricity applied to the plate, usually from phantom power or a 9v battery, gives the microphone the ability to produce crisp and clear sounds.
Characteristics Of Condenser Microphones
- Capture clear and detailed sounds.
- Smooth frequency response.
- Provide a higher output level, which eliminates the need to amplify the sound using a mixer.
- Great for quiet sounds due to their high sensitivity.
When To Use A Condenser Microphone?
With their ability to handle complex sounds with a wide range of frequencies, condenser mics are ideal for voiceovers, singing, and capturing sounds from instruments like acoustic guitars.
Additionally, condenser microphones have a great capability of recording the atmosphere of the room. For this reason, many drummers like to use them as overhead mics for their drum sets.
Recommended Condenser Mics
Audio-Technica AT2035
- Price range: under $200
- Pick-up Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 45Hz-18kHz
Rode NT1
- Price range: Above $250
- Pick-up Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 20Hz – 20kHz
Neumann TLM 103
- Price range: Above $1500
- Pick-up Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Conclusion
Whether it is a condenser or a dynamic, each type has its advantages and disadvantages. While a dynamic microphone works perfectly in rough environments, a condenser microphone is powerful at reproducing crisp and delicate sounds.
As a state-of-the-art recording studio, Mello keeps a close eye on the latest gadgets in the industry, as we always attend to our client’s needs with the best tools in the market. If you are looking to use our facility to create your next track or looking for advice about building your home studio, reach out to us, and we will gladly share our equipment and expertise with you.
