Types of Vocal Microphones and Their Uses
Dynamic Microphones Dynamic microphones are a great choice for solo singers or speakers. These microphones use a diaphragm, voice coil, and magnet to turn a sound wave into an audio signal. They capture sound within a medium frequency range. This means that it will not pick up as much background noise or feedback. They are durable and will take being dropped on the ground, which makes them very user friendly. Dynamic microphones can handle high sound levels before they distort. Good uses for dynamic cardiod microphones are singers or speakers who are holding their own mic and drum sets. Dynamic microphones are: 1. Durable 2. Can take high volume of sound before distorting 3. Reduce ambient noise 4. User-friendly 5. Affordable Condenser microphones Condenser microphones are often used in recording studios to record very high quality, pure sound. The sensitivity of condenser mics make them good for picking up the details of a studio vocal. They have thinner diaphragms with an electrically charged backplate. If you rub your clothes in front of a condenser mic, the mic will pick up the sound of the fabric. I've seen people use studio condenser microphones to capture live performance groups, but I would not recommend it, because these microphones are less durable and may break when dropped. They are also more sensitive to extreme temperatures. Condenser microphones require something called phantom power to operate. You will need a mixing board or interface with 48v phantom power to use a condenser mic. They can be more expensive than the dynamic microphones, but if it suits your needs then it is well worth purchasing the correct microphone rather than trying to save money. Condenser microphones: 1. Offer greater detail 2. Have a wide dynamic range 3. Need phantom power (48v) 4. Can be expensive What Mic to Use for Indoor Choirs and How to Place Your Mics Use several overhead condenser mics to amplify the sound of a choir. Mics should be placed 2-3 feet above the head of the tallest singer and 2-3 feet from the front row of singers. If using three microphones the two microphones located at the outer edge of your group should be 6-9 feet from the center microphone. This is a good use for the condenser microphone in a vocal performance setting. It creates a smooth warm sound. These microphones normally stay up, so may not be broken from the stage tear down and handling of the mics. Don't overdo the amount of mics, or you will get feedback. Omnidirectional Microphones Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound equally from every direction. This type of microphone is good to use when recording a large group of instruments or people. It is not the best pick for live performance when we would want to block out the sounds of the audience. Bidirectional Microphones
Bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and back of the microphone. This type of mic is best used to pick up both the audience and speaker. This mic could be used for a duet. Ribbon microphones are naturally bidirectional. Try not to get overwhelmed by the choices of microphones available. Think about what is right for your group. Every performance has its own special needs. Click the link to learn some quick tips for smooth rehearsals before a concert.
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Angela BondMusic Teacher/ Musician/ Owner of Plum Rose Publishing Categories |