#BEST HOME STUDIO MICS PRO#

Condenser mics, which are active, require phantom power to amplify the weak voltage of their lighter diaphragm. External Power – heavier dynamic mic diaphragms generate enough voltage on their own without the need for external power.Sensitivity – the lighter diaphragrams of condenser mics can achieve higher gain, record softer sounds, and capture more high frequency detail than dynamic mics.Gain before Feedback – A dynamic mics allow for higher gain before feedback, which is ideal in live environments where its common to have many mics on many sounds in close proximity.Condenser mics on the other hand, are far more sensitive to weather. Resistance to Moisture – Dynamic mics are also great for on-stage use because they’re highly resistant to environmental changes such as humidity.This is why the stronger diaphragms of dynamic mics are better for loud instruments like drums. At higher Sound Pressure Levels (SPL), they can potentially be damaged. Diaphragm Durability – the lighter diaphragms in condenser mics are more fragile.This is one reason why dynamic mics are usually better-suited for on-stage use. Dynamic mics however, can be dropped on the ground and likely be fine. Durability – condenser mics are quite fragile and can be easily damaged.The very best dynamics mics on the other hand, max out at around $500. Affordability – the very best condenser typically cost several thousand dollars.Well it all comes down 7 key factors: The 7 Key Differences to Know So what exactly determines which type of mic is better for a given job? Many beginners incorrectly assume that condenser mics are somehow better than dynamic mics.īut the truth is, they just have different uses.Ī cliche example of the condenser mic that we’ve all seen, is the pop star recording vocals in the studio.Īn equivalent cliche of the dynamic mic, is the politician or police officer up on the podium, giving a press conference. Virtually all studio microphones fit into 1 of 2 categories: Up next… USB Microphones vs XLR Microphones So for the remainder of this post, you’re going to learn about each of these categories. And even the models within each category still often have signature sounds and features that work better in certain situations.

The reason they have so many is that each category of mic has its own specific purposes. Advanced home studios typically have several dozen.Īnd even the simplest home studios should ideally have at least 5-10.

#BEST HOME STUDIO MICS PRO#

Some pro studios could easily have a hundred or more. Musicians are often surprised to discover how many microphones most recording studios actually have.

Handheld Field Recorders: A Tool for Mobile Studiosįirst up… Why Do Recording Studios Need So Many Microphones?.

Wireless Mics: The Standard Tools for the Stage.Shotgun Mics: The Standard Tool for Video.Boundary Mics: A Specialty Tool for the Studio.5 Other Kinds of Studio Microphones to Know.

Which Studio Mics are Best for Recording Bands?.

Which Studio Microphones are Best for Recording Vocals?.

What Exactly Are Multi-Pattern Studio Mics?.

Microphone Polar Patterns: What You Need to Know.

Ribbon Mics: The Third Type of Studio Microphone.

Condenser Mics vs Dynamic Mics: How They Compare.

Why Do Recording Studios Need So Many Microphones?.

Best home studio mics