Objectives Know the different types of microphones

and the context in which they are used in.

How they work

Dynamic and CondenserDynamic Condenser

Paper diaphragm Gold leaf diaphragm

Robust mic – can occasionally be dropped without ill effects

Also known as capacitor microphones

Generally used for live performances

Because of gold leaf diaphragm, +48 volts is required to boost the signal.

Can cope with high sound pressure

This is known as phantom power.

Does not respond well above 16 kHz (dependant on make and model)

Better build quality so are more expensive.

Not so good at picking up sounds further away from mic.

Tend to be used for studio recording or ambient recording.

Other types of microphonesBlack-electric – Like condenser mics but

contains a battery to supply the +48V (they can also take the phantom power as well though)

Boundary – Used for capturing sound over a large area including the rebounding sound off walls. (omni directional)

Ribbon – Like a dynamic mic but amplified by a transformer designed for the mic.

Contact – Mics that need to be in direct contact with the sauce. Such as pickups used in guitars.

Polar patternsImportant to know which way to point the

microphone.Three main polar patterns – omnidirectional,

unidirectional (or cardioid) and figure of 8.

Omnidirectional

Unidirectional (cardioid)

Figure of 8

Hypercardioid

Shure SM58CardioidDynamicCommonly used for live vocalsFrequency response from 50 Hz

to 15 kHz

Shure PG56CardioidDynamicCommonly used for

bass drums

AKG C 430CardioidCondenserCommonly used for overhead

recording and cymbalsFrequency response from 20

Hz to 20 kHz

AKG C1000SCardioid, hypercardioid (with PPC

1000 mounted)CondenserUsed for all kinds of live recording

and ambient recordingFrequency response from 50 Hz to 20

kHz