Condenser microphones, also called electrostatic microphones, are microphones in which the microphone capsule consists of two condenser plates, one fixed and one moving, separated by insulating material. The main application of condenser microphones is in studio recording. But they can also be used to give lectures, to film and even to sing live on stage. When using a condenser microphone it is important that you do this in an acoustically isolated environment to avoid possible noise, as these are much more sensitive than the dynamic ones.
Here is a guide to condenser microphones that tells you everything you need to know.
It is very important that you get to know all the most important aspects of this product before buying. Below we have listed the main factors for you to help you with your purchase. In addition, we answer the most common questions from users.
A condenser microphone is what exactly?
Electrostatic microphones or Condenser microphones are microphones where the microphone capsule consists of condenser plates which are two in number separated by an insulating material. Out of two plates one plate remains stuck, and the second is mobile. The mobile plate is the membrane of it.
Electrical charge in the condenser differs depending on where it is moved from a fixed plate. An audio signal is generated from electrostatic current resulting from this change. These microphones are generally used for studio recordings.
What are condenser microphones mainly used for?
The main use of condenser microphones is for studio recording. In addition, they can be used for conferences, especially for those with a flexible neck and for tie clip microphones, and for filming. They can also be used to sing live on stage, although the dynamic ones are generally preferred for that.
What are the pros and cons of condenser microphones?
Condenser microphones offer a number of important benefits, including higher sound quality and sensitivity. For this reason, sound engineers prefer this. The downside, though, is that dynamic microphones are more expensive and more fragile.
Benefits
- I especially like the transparent and natural sound it has.
- High-quality audio
- Their frequency response is wider and their response time is faster.
- They provide more sensitivity
Cons
- Higher price than other types of microphones
- Much more fragile equipment
- Certain environmental conditions may have an effect on it
For whom is a condenser microphone best suited?
If you want to have your own studio, whether for television, radio, or record production, you need condenser microphones. For professional sound designers, musicians, audio engineers or operators, a condenser microphone is also necessary.
Condenser microphones come in different types.
There are different categories of condenser microphones, generally aimed at the different purposes for which they can be used. They are available with cable, without cable or wireless, including electret condensers (lapel microphones), cannon, multifunction, large diaphragm and small diaphragm.
Large diaphragm microphones (LDMs) are sensitive and isolate the sounds from the environment. They are particularly suitable for vocal recording. But for recording objects or melodies, small diaphragm microphones (SDMs) are more suitable. Their more sensitive nature and distinctly detailed sound make them ideal for earphones.
What accessories do condenser microphones need?
Condenser microphones require a number of accessories. To begin with, it is important to attach the microphones to an amplifier because the plates require a certain electrical power. However, there are some models that work on batteries.
Other accessories needed are XLR cables and shock springs to connect the microphones to the stands. Tie clip microphones often have handy clips. In order to obtain a much better sound quality, it is of course advisable to use pop filters that weaken the plosive sounds.
A condenser microphone: how to use it?
It’s important to isolate the environment as best as possible when using a condenser microphone so that the interference is minimized. If you don’t have a soundproof room, you can buy an anti-glare screen. Since they are very sensitive, it is also essential that before connecting them to the power supply, it is turned off.
Of course you have to protect them from moisture. In this sense, in addition to helping to purify the voice, the pop filters are best for avoiding the potential saliva splash that can damage the microphone in the long run. Likewise, vibrations should be avoided. To do this, you must have an anti-shock hood.
0 Comments