Introduction to
Microphones
What is a Microphone?
Microphones are a type of transducer:
a device which converts energy from one form to another
Two general types of mics
Dynamic mics
Condenser mics
Two general types of mics
Dynamic mics- No power required- Magnetic diaphragm acts like a sail – generates
electricity via a magnet- Only react to strong sounds- Rugged, short range, low sensitivity
Condenser mics
Two general types of mics
Dynamic mics- No power required- Magnetic diaphragm acts like a sail – generates electricity via a
magnet- Only react to strong sounds- Rugged, short range, low sensitivity
Condenser mics- Don’t create electricity – use charge from battery source- More sensitive, greater range, much more fragile
Mic Types
Handheld
Shotgun
Lavaliere (Lav)
PZM (Pressure Zone Mic)
PICKUP PATTERNS/DIRECTIONALITYOmnidirectional
- Picks up 360-degrees
PICKUP PATTERNS/DIRECTIONALITYCardioid
- Picks up in heart-shaped pattern
PICKUP PATTERNS/DIRECTIONALITYUnidirectional (or Hypercardioid)
- Picks up in forward/shotgun-type pattern
PICKUP PATTERNS/DIRECTIONALITYBi-directional
- Picks up in figure-8 pattern/equally both sides
MIC CONNECTIONSXLR
- Three-pin
MIC CONNECTIONS1/4”
- Also called “Headphone”
MIC CONNECTIONS1/8”
- Also called “Mini”