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Dynamic Versus Condenser Microphones

By Bruce Hathaway

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Published: 24May2011
Word count: 798
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When you are recording in a studio or performing live, selecting the best microphone technology design for your recordings or stage performance can be one of the most challenging parts of the recording process or live performances. Today, there are two major types of microphones that are used by both amateurs and professionals. These are condenser and dynamic microphones. If you are looking for information to help you better understand these designs and help you figure out which type is best for you, this article may be able to help.

If you have ever been inside a professional or educational recording studio, you have probably come across both condenser and dynamic mics. However, you have probably encountered far more condenser models than dynamic models, since they are far more popular within the studio setting. When it comes to live onstage sound, dynamic types are usually used.

There are many differences between dynamic and condenser microphones. Their internal and external parts differ as well as their prices, sound qualities, and the way that they are powered. Typically, condenser models will cost more than their dynamic counterparts.

In terms of sound quality, the condenser mic provides more robust sound with a greater level of clarity. Because of its design, it is able to pick up a broader frequency range, which means that it can pick up sounds that occupy the low, mid, and high frequency ranges better than a dynamic mic is able to. Due to its ability to pick up a larger frequency range, the condenser models are widely used for studio recordings and onstage sound for instruments, such as the cello and other stringed instruments that produce a wide range of sounds.

Condensers are fairly fragile, so they are generally not suited to onstage performances or recording very loud sounds, such as high volume amplifiers. They also require their own power source, which is known as phantom power. Depending upon your studio setup, this power can be provided via a number of different methods. For example, if you own a mixing desk with XLR microphone inputs, it may also provide onboard phantom power at the push of a button. Alternatively, if you are connecting to an audio interface, this may also have onboard phantom power available at the push of a button. If you do not have any devices that provide power, it is possible to purchase an external phantom power supply for your mic.

There are two major types of condenser mics, which are large and small diaphragm microphones. Large diaphragm models will be better able to pick up low frequency sounds, such as deep voices or the upright acoustic bass, because of their larger design. Because of their ability to boost the bass frequencies, many people say that large diaphragm models produce a warmer tone. Small diaphragm models, on the other hand, are great for picking up a range of frequencies quite evenly, and should be used for any instruments that produce tones in the high frequency ranges, such as violins.

Dynamic microphones generally do not pick up sounds as accurately as condenser models do. They also tend to boost sounds in the lower frequency ranges. However, their lower costs make them extremely popular amongst home recording musicians on tight budgets. Additionally, their rugged exteriors and interiors make them ideal for recording onstage. These models are somewhat moisture resistant, which makes them a good choice for live vocals where a pop shield is not being used, and they can also withstand high sound levels, which makes them suitable for loud guitar amplifiers, vocals, and certain parts of the drum kit.

There are some expensive dynamic models available on the market today from the major microphone manufacturers. Although these are not nearly as expensive as boutique condenser types, they may still provide a noticeable improvement in the overall quality of the sound as well as a reduction in the noise that is transmitted from the microphone to your recording devices. Your cables, however, will also affect the amount of unwanted noise that is recorded especially when running a long length form mic to the recording console.

Although a dynamic mic is not as accurate as a condenser model, it can still be used for studio recordings. In fact, many recording technicians will use a combination of both condenser and dynamic microphones when recording individual drums on a drum kit. Some performers also prefer the sounds of their vocals through dynamic models due to the limited frequency range. When setting up your equipment, it may be useful to test both microphone technology design types with your vocalist and instruments to find out which you prefer.

Bruce has achieved a lifetime of producing and engineering at his studio in NY. He is a microphone expert with extensive knowledge of dynamic and condenser microphones for vocals, instrument, wireless, USB mics and more. Follow the links to view his site.

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