Types of microphone

Question 1

Dynamic microphone-How they work

Answer 1

A diaphragm attached to a coil moves within a magnetic field, converting sound waves into electrical signals

Question 2

Characteristic of dynamic microphones

Answer 2

Durable
Can handle high sound pressure levels (SPL)
No external power needed (No need for phantom power)
Less sensitive to quiet, subtle sound

Question 3

Sound characteristic of dynamic microphones

Answer 3

Warm, focus on mid range due to limited high-frequency response

Question 4

Uses of dynamic microphones

Answer 4

Live sound applications
Loud sources like drums, guitar amplifiers and vocals in high-pressure environments

Question 5

Condenser microphone-How they work

Answer 5

Uses a capacitor (condenser) to convert sound into an electrical signal.
Requires external power (phantom power) to operate.

Question 6

Characteristic of large diaphragm condenser microphones

Answer 6

More sensitive to subtle sound detail
Smoother high frequencies
Wider frequency response

Question 7

Sound characteristic of large condenser diaphragm microphones

Answer 7

Warm, full, rich tone
Also add a slight colour to the sound

Question 8

Use of large condenser microphones

Answer 8

Vocals
Acoustic instruments
Overhead for drums
Room ambience

Question 9

Characteristics of small diaphragm condenser microphones

Answer 9

Wide frequency response, particular in the high frequencies
Fast transient response (Accurately capture the sharp, sudden changes in sound)

Question 10

Sound characteristics of small diaphragm condenser microphones

Answer 10

Natural, sharp, accurate sound
Bright high frequencies

Question 11

Use of small diaphragm condenser microphones

Answer 11

Acoustic instruments (Guitar & piano)
Drums: Hi-hat and overheads

Question 12

Ribbon microphone-How they work

Answer 12

A thin ribbon of metal suspended in a magnetic field moves when sound waves hit it, creating an electrical signal

Question 13

Characteristic of ribbon microphones

Answer 13

Warm, smooth sound with excellent high-frequency detail
More fragile than dynamic and condenser mics
Historically used in vintage recordings, but modern designs are more durable

Question 14

Sound characteristics of ribbon microphones

Answer 14

Warm, smooth sound in general
Soft high frequencies with a more relaxed, natural sound
Deep, rich low-end frequencies

Question 15

Uses of ribbon microphones

Answer 15

Great for brass, strings, and room ambience
Used for vintage sounds or smooth vocal recordings