The process of recording high quality audio starts off with the choice of a microphone with characteristics relevant to the source. With numerous manufacturers and multiple options, choosing an appropriate microphone can save you much effort. For anyone working in the field of audio production, it’s crucial to understand the various types of microphones and their impact.
The three main types of microphones are condenser microphones, dynamic microphones, and ribbon microphones.
Condenser microphones:
Condenser microphones are perfect when it comes to sensitivity and accuracy. There are two subtypes of condenser microphones – large diaphragm condensers and small diaphragm condensers. Large-diaphragm mics are preferred for vocals, while small diaphragm mics are better for capturing instrumental audio.
These microphones are used in recording studios, for voice-overs, and often for field recordings. Their sensitivity makes them the ideal option for capturing vocal and instrumental audios in controlled environments, as well as ambient sounds in nature.
Dynamic Microphones:
Dynamic microphones are the backbone of the audio industry. The durability of these microphones makes them the perfect choice for recording in difficult environments, adding to their versatility and reliability. Since these do not require external power and can withstand high sound pressure levels, they are extremely convenient for live and field applications. Dynamic microphones are often used in radio and TV broadcasting, due to their ability to handle varying sound levels and reject background noise. They are also the perfect
microphones for guitar amplifiers, drums, and other loud instruments.
Ribbon microphones:
Ribbon microphones are a type of dynamic microphone that are known for their smooth, natural sound reproduction and vintage appeal. These microphones are more fragile and are sensitive to physical shock and high sound pressure levels.
Ribbon microphones are used in recording studios to capture vocals and instruments with a warm, vintage sound. Their unique tonal qualities make them a popular choice in professional studios. As the natural sound of ribbon mics enhances the quality of spoken word recordings, they are an absolute favourite for high-quality broadcasts.
Besides the three main types, there are several microphones designed for specific applications. These are all types of condenser or dynamic microphones, but their unique design purposes give them a separate category.
Lavalier Microphones: These small, discrete microphones clip onto clothing and are widely used in television, theatre, and public speaking for hands-free operation. They have an omnidirectional pickup pattern, which means that they are capable of capturing sound from all directions.
Shotgun Microphones: Shotgun mics are ideal for film and video production, capturing dialogue and sound effects from a distance. They reject sound from the sides and rear, focusing on the subject directly in front
of them.
Multi-Pattern Microphones: Multi-pattern microphones offer selectable pickup patterns, such as cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8, making them versatile for various recording situations. They are often used in studios to adapt to different recording requirements.
USB Microphones: USB microphones allow direct connection to a computer, without requiring an audio interface in between, and make recording convenient, specially for those without a technical background. Their areas of application include home recording, podcasts, and video conferencing.
Boundary Microphones: Their designs allow the capture of sound in a large area, for example, a conference room or a stage in a theatre. They are placed on flat surfaces and are used to record entire rooms without the phase issues caused by sound reflections.
Knowing your gear to deliver the impact you intend to create, is always a good idea. For more detailed info on AV equipment, you can always refer to our blog posts.