Summary of Microphone Technology -------------------------------- I. Base technology * Dynamic Microphones Same idea as a speaker, but in reverse: instead of a coil current moving a magnet inside it, a vibrating magnet generates a coil current. Not super-sensitive, but very durable. Usage: - often used for stage vocals (classic Shure SM57/58) - best for handling sudden, intense sound pressure levels. * Condenser Microphones Two capacitor plates are placed very close together, and sound waves vibrate them. As the distance between the plates changes, a small current is generated. These mics are incredibly sensitive, and most "high quality" mics are of this type. Usage: - for extremely sensitive, accurate studio recordings. II. Diaphragm size * Large: - best for picking up low frequencies - warmer, fuller sound - best for vocals - for intense sound pressure, use large-diaphragm _dynamic_ mic (bass slap, kick drum) * Small: - best for picking up mid & high frequencies - very dry sounding - good for acoustic guitars, cymbals, etc. - for instense sound pressure, use small-diaphragm _dynamic_ mic (snare, tom) III. Pickup pattern * Cardioid: heart-shaped pattern, tends to ignore sound from behind. * Super-cardioid: exaggerated cardiod, picks up even less rear sound. * Hyper-cardioid: for maximum isolation between sound sources. * Omnidirectional: gathers all room sound from all directions. * Figure-8: picks up sound equally front & back, for mic'ing duets.