In this article, we will provide you with key information to understand and choose wisely the microphone or microphones you might need, whether on stage, in the studio, or in a home studio. Like the cartridges of vinyl turntables, speakers, or headphones, microphones are transducers, that is, energy converters. Acoustic energy, the sound, hitting the diaphragm is converted into electrical energy. This energy is then amplified and sent to a speaker or headphones, faithfully reproducing the original signal.
Letâs start in this first part by discussing dynamic microphones and ribbon microphones. We will soon complete this overview in a few days by covering condenser, electret, and USB microphones.
How does a microphone work?
There are many ways to convert sound into electrical energy, but two main methods are most widely used today: the dynamic type and the condenser or electrostatic type (to be covered in part 2). Microphones using these technologies are the ones most commonly found in studios, on stage, in radio, or video production. We will also see that there are other types of microphones sought after for specific sound recording needs. Choosing a microphone is very important because it is almost always at the start of the audio production chain. If the microphone cannot faithfully capture the sound source, without noise or interference, then no downstream system can produce quality sound.
The dynamic microphone
It is also called a moving coil dynamic microphone, due to its operating principle. The sound pressure hits the microphoneâs diaphragm. This diaphragm is physically connected (by adhesive) to a coil of wire. The movement of the assembly occurs around a magnet capable of producing a strong magnetic field. An induced current is then created in the coil, proportional to the sound pressure exerted on the diaphragm. The name dynamic comes from the fact that this type of microphone can produce a current without requiring external power. Dynamic microphones are known for their robustness and reliability, making them excellent companions for live performances. Their output level is high enough to work directly with most microphone inputs on mixing consoles and sound cards, while providing an excellent signal-to-noise ratio. They require no regular maintenance, and with just a little care, they retain their performance for many years.
Did you know đ€?
A speaker works in the opposite way to a dynamic microphone: the electrical signal from the amplifier enters the coil mechanically connected to the speaker diaphragm and disturbs the magnetic field created by the magnet. As it moves, the diaphragm produces vibrations that generate sound. This means a speaker is also a dynamic microphone; some intercom systems use this capability!
This is certainly one of the most well-known and widely used live vocal microphones worldwide. Indestructible, reliable, ergonomic, it has won over all singers thanks to top audio fidelity, a clear and smooth sound, never harsh. It is also suitable for miking a guitar amp, although sometimes its little brother, the SM57, is preferred for that purpose due to its shape. In short, a versatile microphone!
The ribbon microphone
Its operation is similar to that of a dynamic microphone, except that the moving coil (which it does not have) is replaced by a thin ribbon suspended in the magnetic field of a magnet. It does not require power to operate. The lightness of the moving part allows for high sensitivity and excellent response in the high frequencies, but its very low impedance (around an Ohm) requires a high-quality preamp. Moreover, it is relatively fragile, which limits its use almost exclusively to the studio, where it is often appreciated for its ability to record classical music, thanks to a sound that seems softer than with dynamic or condenser microphones.
The preamplifier electronics of the SF-2 use phantom power, a welcome gain compared to its predecessor, the SF-1. Its output level is equivalent to that of a condenser electrostatic microphone, allowing it to connect to all popular preamps. Its use is ideal for recording all orchestra instruments, including vocals.
