Condenser microphones are common studio staples for miking vocals and instruments, although they require an additional power supply and nearly invariably cost more than a comparable dynamic microphone.
Condenser microphones catch sound by vibrating an extremely sensitive diaphragm. These types of microphones are the most versatile recording studio microphones, as they can record almost any instrument. They're a little more delicate and sensitive to sound than dynamic mics, so they're ideal for capturing vocalists and acoustic instruments. Shock mounts that use elastic bands to suspend condenser microphones are commonly used.
Condenser microphones are divided into two categories: large-diaphragm condenser mics and small-diaphragm condenser mics. Large-diaphragm mics take up more low-end sounds, and small-diaphragm mics pick up more high-frequency sounds. For example, you could record vocals with a large-diaphragm condenser microphone and acoustic guitars with a small-diaphragm condenser microphone or as drum overheads to pick up cymbals with a small-diaphragm condenser microphone.
How Do Condenser Microphones Work?
High-frequency pickup is the purpose of condenser microphones. A capacitor is included in the microphone's internal components to help with this. The diaphragm and backplate, as well as a condenser capsule that sits between them, make up the capacitor. Sound pressure causes the diaphragm to vibrate against the backplate when acoustic sound waves reach it. The voltage between them fluctuates as a result of this. This oscillation provides an electrical signal by imitating the pattern of the incoming sound waves. The audio stream is amplified thanks to an additional power supply that amplifies it.
3 Pros of Condenser Microphones:
Condenser mics are ideal for capturing high-quality sound in the studio.
1. Wide-frequency response:
Refers to the microphone's ability to catch a wide range of decibels. Condenser microphones can pick up subtle, nuanced sounds with greater precision thanks to their wide frequency response.
2. Superior transient response:
The mic's ability to record and reproduce crisp, high-frequency sounds without distortion is referred to as transient response. When contrasted against dynamic microphones, small-diaphragm condenser microphones have an excellent transient response, allowing them to deliver higher sound quality.
3. Omnidirectional polar patterns:
Are excellent for micing a complete orchestra or choir, while they are not suitable for micing individual people or instruments on stage. The omnidirectional polar pattern, or pickup pattern, of these mics, allows them to pick up sounds from any direction.
3 Cons of Condenser Microphones:
There are several compelling reasons to use a dynamic microphone rather than a condenser microphone.
1. They Are Not Well Suited for Live Performances:
Condenser mics are fantastic for picking up fine, nuanced sounds, but they're not great for taking up loud sounds, which is why they're not ideal for live performances. Loud sounds might overpower the condenser capsule, generating jumbled and distorted sounds.
2. They Are Costlier:
While there are several less priced condenser mics on the market, the high-quality sound will require a significant investment.
3. Relies on External Sources of Power:
Condenser mics use phantom power from an audio interface or preamp, therefore they require an additional power supply. An XLR connection connects the preamp to the microphone, which transmits a 48-volt signal directly to it. When recording in a home studio, this is usually not a problem; however, dynamic mics do not have this constraint.
If we are very familiar with the film of the video production process; then we would doubtless understand how significant sound is to quality production. This is why it is necessary that we not only invest in sound equipment; but also ensure that such sound-production equipment gives you the top-notch quality that is necessary to make the project a successful one.
