The Different Types Of Mics Explained

The most popular microphones and their uses

When it comes to recording guitars, drum vocals, and other acoustic instruments at home, or in the studio, you want the best sound all the time. But to get it you will need to select a good quality microphone.

Before you run out and buy a bunch of microphones, you should get a little idea of ​​how you're going to use them, you should get the best from your mic.

The tricky part is figuring out which ones you need because not all microphones are used for the same thing. If you are asking yourself what are the different types of microphones and should be struggling then check first microphone features and mic test via online.

which type of microphone you need to record drums, guitars, and vocals, fear not, we are here to help Huh.

What are the types of microphones?

There are two main microphone types that you will be using in a studio or recording environment, namely condenser mic and dynamic mic. There is a third type, also called a ribbon mic, but these are less common and are generally used only by professionals.

Condenser Mics

1.Model for recording acoustic guitars or vocals

2.Perfect for accurate recording and capturing subtle nuances

3.acoustic guitars or pianos

4.They need a power supply

5.Highly sensitive to breathing and "popping"

Condenser microphones are very sensitive and because they use a conductive diaphragm that produces audio signals from vibrations with sound signals and capacitance, they are susceptible to distortion at high levels Are, so guitars are ideal for turning off amps.

You will often see a conductor microphone with a popper stopper or "pop shield" filter when someone is recording vocals in front of them. This is to prevent excess pressure of air from vibrating the microphone. You get a far more natural and transparent recording with condenser microphones because they are very sensitive.

Dynamic Mics

1. Dynamic microphone is a good all-rounder microphone that can be used for vocals, recording drums, and guitar amps

2.It does not require a power supply

3.They are very low cost

4.The most common types are Shure SM57 and Shure SM58

Overall a dynamic microphone is a stronger and more reliable microphone option for those who play live, guitar at a higher level, or record their vocals and rotate their mics because if you leave them If they are, they will not be okay.

They make a lot of noise before they start to distort, so for a heavier guitar and more aggressive tone in a live setting, this microphone is for you.

The technical bit is that these microphones use a moving coil magnetic diaphragm to produce audio signals and can handle high sound pressure levels (SPLs). You can study more about these microphones in our very in-depth blog.

Ribbon Mics

1.Highly sensitive microphone

2.Great for vocals, piano, strings, woodwind, and choirs

3.Perfect for recording multi-instruments in a studio or room

4.Often described as more vintage vibes

5.Can be pretty expensive

Ribbon mics are for recording connoisseurs (and those who don't have the extra money), and often those who want a vintage-sound vibe for their recordings. Ribbon mics have an ethereal ability to record the entire room beautifully, record-high notes associated with woodwind or strings, and relay more ambient sounds.

These features make these microphones very popular with those who wish to record a wide range of acoustic instruments professionally. With a myriad of different microphones, we highlight some of the best microphones as follows and what you will use to record them.

Dynamic microphones for voice and amplifiers and all-purpose recording

The Shure SM57 microphone is an industry-standard mic that should be in your studio. They are extremely durable and are perfect for recording high volume and percussive instruments such as guitar amplifiers, snare drums, and even vocals.

It is a safe bet that any album you own uses one of these very inexpensive microphones.

Another industry standard comes as the Shure SM58 microphone.

Ideal for musicians and frequent recorders, the lattice grille, windshield, and sturdy construction ensure that this mic will not only stand the test of time but will happily take any abuse you throw at it.Ideal for floor toms, vocals, and even bass amplifiers.

Condenser mics specifically for vocals and acoustic guitars

The SE X1 S Condenser Microphone is a professional standard condenser mic with an affordable price. It is a no-nonsense microphone for recording studio-quality vocal and acoustic instruments, and is built to last!

The rigid steel grille protects the hand-built large-diaphragm, the gold-spouted capsule, and the electronics inside. As far as condenser mics go, you want to start from here.

Microphone Specifications

Frequency Response

The measure of continuity with which it translates a given sound pressure level to a given audio signal level at different frequencies.

Pickup Pattern/ Polar Pattern / Polar Response

The way an element reacts to sounds coming from different directions. Several different types of patterns include ubiquitous, cardioid, hyper-cardioid, and figure eight.

Sensitivity

A measurement of the output level at a specific SPL level.

Maximum SPL

The most SPL a microphone will accept before distorting.

Match / Impedance

The total AC resistance equivalent to the current flow will be "seen" in the output of the microphone. Ideally, a microphone should be connected to a load whose input impedance is approximately ten times greater than the mic's source, or output impedance.

Other Useful Terms

Balanced Connection

A three-wire system: two different wires carry the signal - inverse polarity related to each other - and the third is the gradient, which is again connected to the ground. Balanced connections are almost regularly used for low impedance mics. A balanced system is more immune to noise.

Unbalanced Connection

It is a couple of wire systems: one wire carries the audio signal, and the other (called a shield) is connected to the ground, or electrical reference point.

Proximity Effect

An increase in low-frequency response when a microphone is too close to the sound source. This is an inherent feature of directional microphones.

Low cut filter / Bass Roll-Off

Trim down, or "roll-off" the low-frequency response of a microphone.

Phantom Power

A system that is sent below the mic line to provide a polarizing voltage for the condenser microphone. Most of today's consoles will generate phantom power.

Mic Pad

Typically, a switch on the mic or on the console input will efficiently reduce the output of the mic by a predetermined amount, typically 10dB. Mic preamps with high output mic signals use mic pads to avoid overload.

Typically, a switch on the mic or on the console input will effectively reduce the output of the mic by a predetermined amount, typically 10 GBB. Mic preamps with high output mic signals use mic pads to avoid overload.

Final thought

We talk about different types of microphones. You can experience it for your perimeter. However as you gain experience, you will also learn how to choose right microphone for you.

Of course, for anything to do with music, there are no hard and fast rules for recording techniques. Some microphones are designed with special sounds and functionality in mind, but when it comes to recording your music, use them as much as possible.