As many buyers are confused about how to select a proper microphone, today we would like to list some differences between dynamic and condenser microphones.
What are dynamic and condenser microphones?
All microphones operate the same; they convert sound waves into voltage which is then sent to a preamp. However, the way in which this energy is converted is quite different. Dynamic microphones use electromagnetism, and condensers use variable capacitance. I know this sounds really confusing. But don’t worry. For a buyer, this difference is not the key point for your choice of dynamic or condenser microphones. It can be neglected.
How to differentiate the two kinds of microphones?
The easiest way is to see the difference from their appearance for most microphones. From the below picture you will get what I mean.
Which microphone is best for me?
it depends. Of course, mic placement, the type of room (or venue) you’re using them in, and what instruments can certainly play a large role. Below I will list some key points for your reference when you make a decision.
First, Sensitivity:
It means “sensitivity to sound.” Generally, condenser microphones have higher sensitivity. If there are many small sounds, condenser microphones are easier to receive. The advantage of high sensitivity is that the details of the sound will be collected more clearly; the disadvantage is that if you are in a space with a lot of noise, such as the sound of air conditioners, computer fans or cars on the street, etc., it will also be absorbed, and the environmental requirements relatively high.
Dynamic microphones can take a lot of signal without being damaged due to their low sensitivity and higher gain threshold, so you’ll see these used in many live situations. They’re also really good studio mics for things like drums, brass instruments, pretty much anything that’s really loud.
Second, polar pattern
One key thing to think about when getting a microphone is what polar pattern it has because the way you place it can have an effect on the tone as well. Most dynamic microphones will usually have either a cardioid or super cardioid, whereas condensers can have pretty much any pattern, and some may even a switch that can change polar patterns!
Condenser microphones usually have a wider directivity. Everyone should have experience when listening to speeches. If the microphone accidentally hits the sound, it will produce a big “Feeeeeee”, which is called “Feedback”. The principle is that the sound taken in is released again, and then taken in again to form a loop and cause a short circuit.
At this time, if you use a condenser microphone with a wide pickup range on the stage, it will easily produce feedbcak wherever you go. So if you want to buy a microphone for group practice or stage use, in principle, buy a dynamic microphone!
Third: Connector
There are roughly two types of connectors: XLR and USB.
To input an XLR microphone into a computer, it must have a recording interface to convert the analog signal into a digital signal and transmit it to it via USB or Type-C. A USB microphone is a microphone with a built-in converter that can be directly plugged into the computer for use. However, it cannot be connected to a mixer for use on stage. However, most USB dynamic microphones are dual-purpose, that is, they have both XLR and USB connectors. As for condenser microphones, there is currently no known model that is dual-purpose.
Next time we will tell you how to choose a microphone in different situations.
Post time: Apr-07-2024
