Types of Microphones: How to Know Which Mic You Need

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Microphones are transducers, meaning they convert sound waves from the environment into electrical signals that devices can interpret and reproduce. And just as musical instruments differ in their tonal qualities, so too do microphones in how they capture sound. The different types of mics include:

Dynamic mics

Dynamic mics are robust workhorses, often seen in live concert settings. 

• How they work: Dynamic microphones use the principle of electromagnetic induction. They consist of a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire, placed within the magnetic field of a magnet. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, the coil moves within the magnetic field, producing an electrical current that mirrors the sound’s characteristics. Owing to this simple yet sturdy design, dynamic mics are durable and can handle high sound pressure levels (SPL).
• Cost: You can find entry-level options such as the Behringer XM8500 for around $20–$30, offering decent performance for beginners or budget-conscious users. On the high end, the Shure SM7B, a favorite among broadcasters and podcasters, retails for approximately $400. 

Condenser mics

Condenser mics are more sensitive and detailed, frequently chosen for studio recordings. 

• How they work: Condenser microphones have a diaphragm placed very close to a backplate, forming a capacitor. When sound waves strike the diaphragm, the distance between the diaphragm and the backplate changes, varying the capacitance and producing an electrical signal. These mics require a power source to maintain an electrical charge between the diaphragm and the backplate, which can come from batteries or phantom power supplied by mixers. This design offers a broader frequency response and greater sensitivity than dynamic mics, making condenser mics ideal for capturing detailed sounds. 
• Cost: The budget-friendly Behringer C-1 can be found for as little as $50, while the Neumann U 87, revered in professional recording studios worldwide, might set you back around $3,000. 

Ribbon mics

With their delicate and vintage character, ribbon mics are often used for their warm and natural sound. 

• How they work: Ribbon microphones feature a thin ribbon—often made of aluminum—suspended between two poles of a magnet. Sound waves cause this ribbon to vibrate within the magnetic field, generating an electrical signal. Ribbon mics offer a high degree of sensitivity and an impressively flat frequency response, capturing sound with an authentic warmth.
• Cost: The MXL R144 is a relatively affordable option at about $100, but if you’re eyeing the Royer R-121, a studio darling, be prepared to spend around $1,500.

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A microphone’s polar pattern, often referred to as its pickup pattern, dictates the direction from which the microphone is most sensitive to sound. This affects how a microphone captures audio in relation to ambient noise or other sound sources in its environment. The most common patterns are cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional.

• Cardioid: Cardioid microphones primarily capture sound from the front, with a heart-shaped pattern that rejects sound from the rear. This makes them ideal for isolating specific sound sources in noisy environments, such as a vocalist onstage or a podcast host in a room with background noise. 
• Omnidirectional: Omnidirectional microphones, as the name suggests, pick up sound equally from all directions. They are great for capturing a natural ambiance or when the sound source’s exact position is unpredictable. However, they can also pick up unwanted ambient noise. 
• Bidirectional: Bidirectional microphones capture sound from the front and rear, but reject it from the sides, making these mics perfect for face-to-face interviews.

Selecting the right polar pattern is crucial for achieving the desired sound quality. For instance, while recording a roundtable discussion, an omnidirectional mic might be preferred to capture everyone equally. In contrast, for a solo vocalist, a cardioid pattern would be better suited to isolate their voice from other instruments or audience sounds. The polar pattern not only influences sound quality but also plays a pivotal role in the ambiance, depth, and spatial representation of recordings.

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Selecting the ideal microphone type hinges on your specific use case, environment, and desired sound quality. 

• Live performance: If you’re delving into the world of live performances or need a rugged mic for on-the-go situations, a dynamic microphone will be your best bet due to its durability and capability to handle loud sound sources without distortion. 
• Live studio recordings: For studio recordings, especially vocals or delicate instruments, a condenser microphone offers detailed and clear sound. Its sensitivity captures the nuances of performances, making it a go-to for professional recordings. However, if you’re striving for that warm, vintage, and natural sound, especially in studio settings, a ribbon microphone can be an unparalleled choice, though it demands careful handling due to its delicate nature.
• Podcasting: The realm of podcasting and broadcasting often sees a mix; dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B are industry favorites because they reject ambient noise. Still, some podcasters prefer the detail of condenser mics in controlled environments. 
• Voiceovers and film: Lavalier or lapel mics—low-profile, often clip-on mics—are typically condenser mics, offering discreet audio capture for voiceover and film. Meanwhile, shotgun mics, which can be condenser or dynamic, use super-cardioid patterns that allow them to excel in focusing on a sound source from a distance. 

Your choice should balance the microphone’s inherent characteristics with the environment and context in which you’ll be using it. Assessing your needs, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each mic type, and considering your budget will guide you to the perfect match for your audio endeavors.