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Whether you use a microphone for recording music, podcasting, or live sound production, the right type of microphone is essential in order to capture the best possible sound.
In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of microphones available and how to choose one that best suits your needs. We’ll cover topics such as main types of microphones, polar patterns, diaphragm sizes, when to use each type of microphone and how to make sure you select the right one.
Let’s dive in!
The Main Types of Microphones
When discussing microphones, there are three main types to consider: condenser microphones, dynamic microphones, and ribbon microphones.
All three types have their applications in different recording scenarios and can be used to achieve great results in audio production.
Condenser Microphones
A condenser microphones sensitive diaphragm allows you to capture high-quality audio with great sound quality, giving you the ability to pick up more nuances and subtleties than other types of mics.
Here are some of the most important features that make condenser mics so useful for recording:
- A thin membrane stretched over a capacitor which vibrates when sound waves hit it, producing an electrical signal that can be recorded.
- High sensitivity allowing for accurate reproduction of sound frequencies.
- Great sound quality due to their ability to pick up more subtle details in recordings.
- Professional recording capabilities with the right setup and techniques.
With these traits, condenser microphones provide a reliable way to get studio-level recordings without investing in expensive equipment or professional studios.
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are renowned for their robust build and incredible sound quality. Many of them are able to handle sound pressure levels up to 134 dB – louder than a jet engine! They are ideal for live sound applications as well as studio recordings, and don’t require phantom power or preamps.
The ability to record in stereo is also possible with dynamic microphones, allowing you to capture the full breadth of an instrument’s sound without needing additional equipment or extensive soundproofing. This makes them the perfect choice for drums and acoustic guitars.
Dynamic mics also have a higher output level than other types of microphones which allows them to be heard clearly even in noisy environments.
Ribbon Microphones
Ribbon mics offer a unique, warm sound that’s perfect for capturing delicate nuances in your performance without sacrificing audio quality. The low noise floor of ribbon mics helps to minimize background noise, allowing you to focus on specific sounds or instruments when recording.
This also adds an ambience effect to your recordings, creating a more realistic feel than other types of microphones.
Furthermore, the exceptional sound quality of these mics allows them to pick up even the most delicate details with great accuracy and clarity.
With their vintage tones and superior audio quality, ribbon mics are an ideal choice for recording acoustic instruments or any other situation where you need to capture subtle sounds without compromising on quality.
Microphone Polar Patterns
A microphone’s polar pattern is the shape and directionality of its “pickup area”- the area where the microphone most efficiently picks up sound signals.
The different types of microphone polar patterns are:
Cardioid Microphones
A cardioid microphone is a great choice for any situation where you need to focus on a sound source and reduce background noise. This type of microphone has an acoustic polar pattern which is focused in the front direction with reduced sensitivity from other angles.
The cardioid pattern captures everything in front of the capsule, making it ideal for live performances, recording loud instruments such as drums or guitar speakers, karaoke or large concerts where noise reduction and feedback suppression is required.
Dynamic microphones like the Shure SM57 are known for their excellent cardioid pattern characteristics; however, they offer subtle sound coloration when off-axis which must be taken into account when setting up mics correctly.
Super/Hyper Cardioid Microphones
Moving on from Cardioid Microphones, Super/Hyper Cardioid Mics are an even more specialized type of microphone. These mics have the same front directionality as cardioids but feature a narrower area of sensitivity, providing improved isolation and higher feedback resistance. They are perfect for louder sound sources and noisy environments, though their back rejection is slightly decreased.
For those looking to take their audio recordings to the next level, here’s a quick overview of what Super/Hyper Cardioid Microphones can offer:
• Improved noise rejection
• Enhanced ability to isolate sound sources
• Improved feedback resistance
Omnidirectional Microphones
If you’re looking to capture audio from every direction, omnidirectional microphones are the way to go. These mics have a non-directional design and zero rejection, allowing them to pick up nuances in sound better than directional mics.
They are perfect for recording natural sounds in studios and other venues with great acoustics, as well as live recordings of multiple instruments with low noise levels. However, they don’t do well in loud or noisy environments since they lack background noise rejection and can be prone to feedback.
Figure-8 Microphones
Figure-8 mics are great for capturing both the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides, making them perfect for stereo recordings or multiple pre-positioned instruments. They’re suited to a variety of applications, including vocal and instrument recording, broadcast audio, video production, and live sound reinforcement.
Here are some other advantages of figure-8 microphones:
- They have excellent front/back rejection which minimizes bleed from other sources.
- They produce an accurate representation of sounds coming from both directions.
- Their directional capabilities allow you to record in less than ideal acoustic environments without having to worry about unwanted room reflections or noise.
- The figure 8 pattern is also useful for isolating specific audio elements within a mix.
Shotgun Microphones
Shotgun mics are the go-to choice for film and theater, providing a highly directional polar pattern up to 30dB of rejection at 180Р’В°. The tube-like ‘gun-barrel’ design of these microphones gives them even more directionality than hyper cardioids, making them ideal for capturing sound from a particular direction with a long pickup range.
The interference tube also eliminates off-axis sounds via phase cancellation, resulting in an improved signal to noise ratio.
Shotgun mics are capable of producing excellent audio quality with minimal background noise when used properly. They make great overhead mics for capturing singing groups, choirs, and drums cymbals as well as other sound sources that need to be picked up from afar.
With their directionality capabilities and long pickup range, shotgun mics provide filmmakers and theater techs reliable results each time.
Switchable/Multi-Pattern Microphones
Transitioning from Shotgun Microphones, Switchable/Multi-Pattern Microphones provide an even greater level of versatility. You can easily switch between polar patterns to get the sound you need in any situation and for any purpose.
These types of mics have become increasingly popular because they offer a lot of options in terms of positioning and recording techniques. With these mics, you can record multiple sources simultaneously by switching the mic pattern.
You can use the Cardioid pattern which is perfect for recording vocals or instruments that need a focused sound. The Omni pattern is great for capturing room ambience or instrument ensembles that require a wide stereo image.
The Figure-eight pattern is great for capturing two separate audio sources such as choir members or two guitarists playing together.
You can change the directionality and focus of the mic with ease. Adjust the pickup angle to pick up more or less off-axis sounds depending on what you’re trying to record.
You can position your mic closer or farther away from your source without having to move it around as much due to its flexible polar pattern selection capabilities.
Easily adjust gain levels due to its adjustable sensitivity settings which allow you to capture subtle nuances in quieter sounds while avoiding distortion when recording louder sounds like drums or amplified guitars.
Switchable/Multi-Pattern microphones are incredibly versatile tools that give you control over every aspect of your recordings, no matter what type of music you’re creating!
Diaphragm Sizes
You may have heard the terms ‘small diaphragm condenser microphone,’ ‘large diaphragm condenser microphone,’ and ‘medium diaphragm condenser microphone’ when researching microphones.
It’s important to understand the differences between these three types of microphones when making a purchasing decision, as each type has its own unique characteristics.
Small diaphragm models are great for capturing sound in tight spaces, while large diaphragms are better suited for capturing sound in larger rooms. Medium-diaphragm models offer a bit of both with a balance between size and sensitivity.
Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Small diaphragm condenser mics are great for capturing acoustic guitars and other instruments, but don’t forget they have higher internal noise and lower sensitivity than other types of mics. These microphones are designed to be stiffer, with a wider dynamic range, so they can handle higher sound pressure levels.
They’re also small in size, making them lightweight and easy to position. This makes them an ideal choice for recording hi-hats, cymbals, or any instrument that requires more accuracy in its sound capture.
The advantages of using small diaphragm condensers include a greater level of detail when recording audio due to their wide frequency response. They can also provide a clearer and more accurate representation of the source material than large diaphragm mics. However, one disadvantage is increased internal noise and low sensitivity, which may limit their ability to pick up certain sounds at a distance or when used outdoors. The added cost of these microphones is another downside that should be considered before purchase.
Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Large diaphragm condenser mics bring clarity and richness to your recordings, capturing every nuance of sound with stunning accuracy. These microphones have larger diaphragms than small diaphragm condensers, which helps them sense air vibrations more effectively. As a result, they can reproduce sonic details faithfully.
Additionally, they move easily due to their large size, allowing them to detect even faint sound pressure levels. This gives you a transparent and natural sound that is ideal for recording vocals, guitars, and other instruments.
When using these mics with USB or iPad Audio Interfaces, make sure to keep the volume in check to avoid distortion.
Medium Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Medium diaphragm condenser mics offer the perfect blend of warmth and accuracy, delivering a full-bodied sound with plenty of high frequency detail. This makes them ideal for both recording and live applications.
With their combination of large and small diaphragm characteristics, these mics produce a warmer sound than small diaphragms, while still retaining some of the higher frequencies found in small diaphragms.
The result is a full-bodied tone that captures all the nuances within your audio source without compromising quality or clarity.
Furthermore, these mics can easily handle high SPLs (Sound Pressure Level) without any distortion or coloration to your signal. So if you’re looking for an all-in-one mic for studio and stage applications alike, then medium diaphragm condensers are definitely worth considering!
When to use each microphone type?
When it comes to microphones, the type you choose depends on what instrument or sound source you’re trying to capture.
Vocals are best suited for dynamic mics, as they tend to have a fuller sound than condensers.
For capturing piano sounds, condenser mics are ideal since they pick up more detail and clarity.
Acoustic guitar should be recorded with a combination of condenser and dynamic mics so that the full tonal range of the instrument is captured.
Bass can also benefit from using both types of mics: one with a tighter low frequency response and one with a wider response.
And finally, drums should be recorded using several dynamic mics placed around the drum kit in order to get an accurate representation of the overall sound.
Vocals
When it comes to recording vocals, different mics bring different flavor – as the saying goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”Dynamic microphones are great for genres like rock, metal and anything of a more aggressive nature. They tend to emphasize higher frequencies and add warmth or sweetness to the sound.
Condenser microphones are better suited for pop music that requires more balanced and controlled vocals. They usually have a wider frequency response with sharp highs and clear mids.
Ribbon microphones are best reserved for vintage genres like jazz or blues since they provide a warm tone that adds character to the vocal track. Ultimately, when choosing which microphone type is best for vocals, you must consider the singer’s range in relation to each mic’s capabilities.
Piano
Now that we’ve discussed vocals, let’s move on to recording piano.
When it comes to recording a piano performance, you have two microphone options: dynamic or condenser. Dynamic microphones are ideal for rock or boogie-woogie recordings with an upright piano because they’ll capture the percussive nature of the instrument while still capturing its melodic qualities.
Condenser microphones are best for ballads on a concert grand as they can highlight the full frequency range of the instrument. Depending on your desired sound, you can choose between large-diaphragm and small-diaphragm condenser mics – both will do the job well.
Whichever type of microphone you choose, make sure to place them at least one foot away from the piano in order to avoid overloading them with sound.
Acoustic guitar
The joyous sound of an acoustic guitar is best captured with small-diaphragm condenser microphones, giving you a bright and clear tone. These mics boast high-end clarity and a low-end roll-off to accurately capture the natural sound of the instrument.
Additionally, they offer superior signal-to-noise ratio which can help reduce unwanted noise from other instruments in the mix or even within the same track. The versatility of these types of microphones make them perfect for recording any type of acoustic guitar playing style, whether it’s fingerstyle, strumming, flatpicking or percussive playing.
With their ability to pick up subtle nuances in performance as well as their extended frequency response range, small diaphragm condenser microphones are definitely worth considering when looking for a microphone that will give you the perfect tone for your acoustic guitar recordings.
Bass
You need a low-end dynamic microphone to capture the rich, deep tones of a bass amp, creating an immersive soundscape that can transport you right into the grooves.
Low-end dynamic microphones are specifically designed for this purpose and offer superior durability and robustness, as well as an impressive low-end bump instead of a roll-off.
When it comes to recording bass amps, these types of microphones have several advantages:
- Durability: they can withstand harsher environments than other mics
- Insensitivity: they don’t pick up external sounds
- Robustness: they provide good feedback rejection
- Low-end bump: gives added depth to recordings
On the other hand, large-diaphragm condenser microphones also offer great sound quality but may not be suitable for certain playing styles or upright basses. They benefit from having greater signal clarity and wider frequency response compared to low-end dynamic mics. Ultimately, it’s up to you as a musician or producer to decide which type best suits your needs.
Drums
Experience the full sonic range of your drum set with a variety of microphones that’ll bring your drums to life! Whether you’re using just one room mic or close-miking individual drums, you need the right microphone for the job.
A large-diaphragm condenser should be used when you’re using a single room mic; this’ll capture all the nuances of your kit and create a big sound. For close-miking individual drums, a dynamic microphone should be used for the snare and each of the toms, while a low-end dynamic microphone should be used for the kick drum. The hi-hat should be recorded with a small-diaphragm condenser.
If you use overhead microphones, they should also be small-diaphragm condensers in order to capture all those subtle details that can add depth and character to your recording. With these tips in mind, you can ensure that your drum recordings sound professional and punchy every time!
Strings
Capturing the delicate nuances of strings requires careful microphone selection, as each instrument demands its own unique approach. When recording strings, two types of microphones should be considered: condenser and ribbon.
Condenser microphones are often preferred due to their accurate sound reproduction; their diaphragms come in a variety of sizes depending on the type of stringed instrument being recorded.
Ribbon microphones, though less accurate than condensers, can add a vintage character to recordings.
Dynamics:
- Condenser mics have higher sensitivity and wider frequency response than ribbon mics.
- Ribbon mics capture more low-end frequencies than condensers.
Tonality:
- Condenser mics provide a crisp sound with plenty of detail.
- Ribbon mics provide a warmer sound with more natural harmonics.
Durability:
- Condenser mics are typically more durable than ribbon mics as they don’t require external power sources or specialized wiring setups.
- Ribbon mics are fragile and need to be handled with care during setup and takedowns for recording sessions.
Horns
When recording horns, it’s important to carefully consider the type of microphone used, as their large dynamic range can easily overwhelm a sensitive mic.
Generally speaking, large-diaphragm condenser microphones are best suited for capturing horns due to their wide frequency response and ability to accurately capture all of the nuances in the sound.
Ribbon microphones also work well for horns but tend to add a bit more character to the sound.
It’s important to remember that when using either of these mics, positioning and distance need to be considered in order to get the best results.
By adjusting these factors accordingly it is possible to achieve a balanced recording that captures both the power and detail of horns with clarity and accuracy.
Podcasting
When it comes to podcasting, you’ll need to determine which type of microphone is right for your project.
You may be familiar with dynamic microphones, which are great for producing a warm sound when dealing with one-voice and one-microphone scenarios.
But if you’re looking for more versatility and have live guests in the same room, condenser microphones offer polar patterns that can pick up sound from various directions.
Many USB microphones are also condensers so this could be an advantage too.
In either case, both dynamic and condenser microphones come with their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks depending on what kind of podcast you’re producing.
Streaming
For streaming, condenser microphones are often the go-to choice due to their abundance and quality of capture; however, dynamic microphones may be a better selection for their ability to cancel out unwanted noise. Dynamic mics have a greater signal-to-noise ratio and offer superior sound isolation. They can also handle loud noises without distorting the incoming audio signal.
The other advantage of using dynamic microphones is that they will make your stream sound more professional as they produce a sound that is crisper and cleaner than condenser mics. Additionally, these mics can handle extreme volumes without distortion or feedback. This makes them ideal for gaming streams where you need to capture loud screams or intense noises from the game itself.
All in all, dynamic mics offer great flexibility when it comes to streaming and are well worth considering if you’re looking for an upgrade in audio quality.
Choosing the Right Microphone
To ensure your recordings are of the highest quality, it’s essential to choose the right microphone for your project.
Researching the different types of mics available and their application in various settings can help you make an informed decision.
Condenser and dynamic microphones offer higher sensitivity than ribbon mics, making them more suitable for capturing transient detail. However, environmental factors such as sound reflection should also be taken into consideration when deciding which type of mic is best suited for your needs.
Additionally, budget constraints and compatibility with existing equipment are important factors to consider when selecting a microphone. User reviews or consulting with industry professionals can also provide valuable insight on what type of mic will work best for your project.
Taking the time to evaluate these criteria can help ensure that you’re choosing the right microphone for optimal recording results.
Conclusion
Now that you have an understanding of the different types of microphones, polar patterns, and diaphragm sizes on the market, it’s time to decide on the right one for your needs.
Consider what you’re recording and how you want to capture sound. For example, if you’re recording a podcast in a small room with several people speaking at once, then a cardioid microphone with a large diaphragm size would be ideal.
However, if you’re recording a solo acoustic guitar performance, then an omnidirectional microphone with a small diaphragm size would be more suitable.
No matter what type of audio recording project you have ahead of you, there is likely a microphone that can help achieve your desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best microphones for recording vocals?
For recording vocals, the best microphones are condenser mics. They offer superior sound quality for close-up recordings, with a high level of detail and clarity. Condensers can capture more subtle nuances in a voice, making them ideal for capturing vocal performances.
What is the difference between dynamic and condenser microphones?
You may think that all microphones are the same, but dynamic and condenser microphones have distinct differences. Dynamic mics are rugged and require no power source, whereas condenser mics require external power to operate. Dynamic mics capture lower frequencies more accurately than condensers, providing a warmer sound. Condensers can pick up higher frequencies with greater detail and clarity for crisp audio.
What is the most affordable microphone for a beginner?
For a beginner, the most affordable microphone is likely an entry-level dynamic mic. It’s cost-effective and great for recording vocals or instruments with minimal background noise.
What is the best way to clean a microphone?
To clean your microphone, first switch it off and disconnect it from any power source. Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water to gently wipe away dirt or debris. Avoid using rubbing alcohol or other harsh cleaners as they can damage the microphone’s surface.
What type of microphone should I use for live performances?
You should use a dynamic microphone for live performances. It’s able to capture sound from all directions while resisting feedback and distortion. Its sturdy design makes it ideal for being used in unpredictable environments.
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