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June 09, 2020

The Different Types of Microphone and Their Uses

By TMC



With the many types of microphones available in the market, it can be difficult to choose the best microphone that suits you.

Remember that each type of microphone is designed to perform specific functions. For instance; live recording, music production, and ambient voice recording. For a comprehensive list of microphones, their uses, prices and applications, check the best microphones on Microphone authority.



In this article, we will look into the different types of microphones and their functions. This will make it easy for you to narrow down your options and settle for the best microphone for your task. Read on to know more.

Dynamic Microphones

The dynamic microphones are the most common microphone in sound recording due to their durability, affordability, and production of fantastic sound.

Dynamic microphones depend on electromagnetic induction. It uses a portable induction coil, which is suspended in a magnetic field. Sound waves vibrate the diaphragm. This vibration moves the magnet within the coil and this produces a small current.

The ability of these microphones to handle high sound pressure levels makes them the best choice for recording loud sources like drum kits, bass cabs, guitar, and live performances.

Condenser Microphones

These microphones use capacitance instead of moving coils to produce sound signals. They comprise of a slim conductive diaphragm that is located near a metallic plate.

When sound waves vibrate the diaphragm, it leads to a change in capacitance to produce sound signals.

Condenser microphones are classified into two;

  1. Large-diaphragm condenser microphones
  2. Small diaphragm condenser microphones

 As their names suggest, their difference is based on the size of the diaphragm.

Condenser microphones are very sensitive and can record tones of voices that other microphones cannot. For this reason, these mics work best in auditory environments where there are no reverberations.

Condenser microphones are normally used in studios and laboratory recordings.

The small-diaphragm microphone is used for instruments with many details, that is, violin and guitar while the large diaphragm microphone is best for vocals. 

However, the large-diaphragm microphone is preferential since it can be used for both vocals and instruments.

Ribbon Microphones

These mics have been widely used since the 1920s. They were popularly used in studios. They were loved because they could and they still can offer warm and more detailed sound.

These microphones use an ultra-thin metal ribbon suspended in a magnetic field as a diaphragm. This allows them to collect velocity and air displacement. Hence, they are more sensitive to high frequencies.

However, ribbon mics are a bit fragile and thus they should be handled with care. Any mishandling such as falling the mic down can destroy the ribbon.

The ribbon microphone operates on one rule: Never supply it with 48V phantom power! This will fry the ribbon and ruin the microphone instantly.

Ribbon mics are used in studios that want a warm vintage.

Crystal Microphones

In this technology, a crystal material is attached to the diaphragm. When the diaphragm vibrates, the crystal produces a signal. When the crystal is compressed, a current is produced.

Crystal mics are used together with vacuum tube gadgets like the tape recorders.

They are also used to amplify sound in phonic instruments as contact microphones.

USB Microphones

 USB microphone contains the necessary wirings that enable one to connect to a USB port while recording. 

They also have a headphone that helps you to listen while still recording. It is very easy to do a set up with this mic since only a few pieces of equipment are involved.

USB mics are convenient for investigative reporters and court reporters who want to record interviews and statements. They are mainly used to make quality recordings on computers, phones, or tablets.



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