There’s nothing worse than starting a new recording project just to find out that the sound is bad, don’t you think?! Creating content that the audience will enjoy and adore is closely related to the type of instruments you use, and one of them is the recording microphone. Whether you are a filmmaker, music maker or just a vlogger, having the right microphone can contribute to having a successful outcome. In other words, these tools can literally bring your project to life.
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What Is a Recording Microphone?
As the name suggests, these mics are designed for recording, and they have proven great at capturing subtle audio details.
What Kind of Mic Is Good for Recording?
Nowadays, you can choose from several types of mics for recordings, all of them providing you with different benefits.
Dynamic
These are considered the go-to recording microphones for studios because they aren’t that sensitive and can record different sounds. They can simply work wonders. They are quite an affordable option which is another reason why they are the most commonly used option in record studios. These mics are designed to convert any sound waves to an electric signal thanks to electromagnetic induction. The diaphragm within the capsule of this mic is linked to a conductive coil so when the sound hits to the diaphragm, it starts to vibrate. As a result, the coils start to move in a magnetic field and provide AC voltage.
It is said that these microphones produce rougher frequency response, however, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t okay for being used. In fact, they are perfect for being used in studios as they also won’t distort even when recording loud sources.
Considering the fact that this mic is less sensitive and more rough, this makes it perfect for being used outdoors when doing outdoor concerts, when having a conference or when giving an interview.
Condenser
This recording tool consists of a thin diaphragm that is placed near a metal backplate. Practice shows that these recording microphones are great for recording in the studio because they use capacitance instead of moving coils and this is great for having improved sound quality.
Generally, these mics have a wider frequency range of about 20Hz to 20 000 Hz, a sensitive and detailed sound and lower input sensitivity. When investing in a professional type of microphone of this kind, you should know that it can record both vocals and voice, as well as acoustic instruments.
Ribbon
It is said that this mic belongs to the dynamic types of mics, however, it is known as a separate one because of its sound and the way it works. The ribbon mic has an extended rectangular diaphragm which is made from thin aluminium and two magnets located at its ends, so once the sound gets to it, it vibrates and creates an electrical charge. A great number of these mics are considered to be bi-directional, but regardless of this, all types of ribbon mics are here to deliver a warm and smooth tone. They are delicate and are perfect for digital recording.
This mic can get detailed audio while rejecting any noise and off-axis sound. This makes them perfect for recording in any kind of cabinet and choirs in larger spaces. Thanks to their bi-directional feature, they can be used in both radio and TV shows as well as for podcasts.
Which Microphone to Choose for a Specific Instrument?
Before choosing anything, keep in mind that different instruments require different mics for recording.
Drums
Those of you playing on drums would probably benefit a lot from using dynamic mics. That’s because drums are loud and they need a mic that will match their intensity, noise and strength.
Vocal
If your special power is to sing, then you will probably benefit a lot from using ribbon and condenser mics. That’s because they are able to capture the vocal’s clarity and smoothness without a problem.
Acoustic Instruments
Given the fact that these instruments are sensitive, you should opt for a condenser mic because they seem ideal for capturing their warm and deep acoustic sounds.
Wind Instruments
These instruments are designed to produce more complex and highly sensitive sounds, so it is best if you use an all-rounder mic for the purpose. If possible, choose one that has a smaller diaphragm for better results.
String Instruments
String instruments like mandolin, violin, cello, and harp are perfect for being matched with condenser mics. Ideally, you should look for ones with small and large diaphragms.
Electric Guitar
In order to meet the instruments’ high sounds, it would be better to choose a dynamic mic for the purpose.
Bass
Practice shows that deep and heavy bass could be perfectly captured with dynamic mics. These mics seem perfect for capturing the deep and dark bass sounds.
