Sound: Microphones

Here is a little post looking at different types of microphone. I will be looking at Transducer types which differ by the way they pick up the sound and translate it to an electrical signal.

1. Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic microphones include a diaphragm, a magnet and a voice coil. There is a magnetic field around this coil and it's movement in this magnetic field generates the electrical signal that relates to the sound that has been picked up. Dynamic microphones are considered economical and rugged. They can handle high sound pressure levels and are for the most part unaffected by extreme temperatures or humidity.

2. Condenser Microphones










Condenser microphones are based on an electrically-charged diaphragm/ back-plate assembly which forms a sound sensitive capacitor. When the diaphragm moves due to sound, the space between the diaphragm and the back-plate changes, so altering the size of the capacitor. This variation in spacing allows the electrical signal. All condenser microphones must be powered: either by batteries in the microphone or by phantom power. Condensers are more sensitive and can provide a smoother, more natural sound, particularly at higher frequencies, however this sensitivity can make it harder to use effectively.

3. Ribbon Microphones














A ribbon microphone is similar to a dynamic microphone in that it uses a thin electrically conducting ribbon placed between the poles of a magnet. Ribbon microphones are typically bi-directional. They can pick up sounds from in front of the microphone and from behind but not from the side.