CONDENSERMICROPHONES
CONDENSER OPERATION Condenser microphones, also called
electrostatic or capacitor microphones, convert sound into electricity using electrostatic principals.
They have two plate elements, one moveable and one fixed.
The moveable plate is given an electrical charge from a power source, creating electrostatic energy between the plates.
They have two plate elements, one moveable and one fixed.
The moveable plate is given an electrical charge from a power source, creating electrostatic energy between the plates.
Cross-Section of a Typical Condenser Microphone
OPERATION CONTINUED
Sound waves vibrate the movable plate.
As the distance between the two plates changes, the amount of stored electricity changes.
CONDENSER MICS ARE SENSITIVE Condenser mics are very sensitive, and
can respond quickly and accurately to sound.
INSIDE A CONDENSER MICROPHONE
The signal out of the capacitor is small and must be pre-amplified or boosted.
Since capacitors require a charge, condenser microphones require a power source from a battery or phantom power.
These Microphones need power
NOT TOO MUCH SOUND PRESSURE They are used in situations where they
are not subjected to much sound pressure.
Sound pressure level history
CONDENSER MICS Because condenser mics can handle
high frequencies well, they are used in musical applications – in the string section of an orchestra for example.