Microphones Part 1 - Types of Mics
Let's move on from sound board basics and look at another crucial area of your sound system - microphones.
Basically, a microphone is a transducer which detects sound signals and produces an electrical image of what it "hears". This signal can be manipulated by adjusting the signal as it goes through a sound board on it's journey to the speaker, however, using a microphone of the proper type and of adequate quality is crucial. Your audio will never be any better than your mic. Quality is very important, but contrary to popular belief - ALL MICS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL.
In future weeks we will get into Directional Patterns, Impedance & other selection criteria, but for today, let's look at some of the different TYPES of mics and how their construction effects frequency response and may lead to additional purchases.
Dynamic
In a Dynamic Mic, sound moves through a cone. The attached wire moves in the field of a magnet which produces a voltage creating an image of the pressure variation. These mics are usually low in cost, but lack the clarity and frequency response of others. If you have a low budget, a dynamic mic may be your best bet, however, don't rush out and buy the cheapest one you can find. I suggest purchasing a quality Shure or EV mic. I have used both in my ministry and can vouch for their quality.
Ribbon
In a Ribbon Mic, the air movement caused by the sound moves a mettalic ribbon in a magnetic field which generates an imaging voltage between the ends of the ribbon. These mics tend to have a warmer tone and accents the lower range in the mix when miked closely. These mics can be much more difficult to EQ due to the accentuation of the lower range when the mic is close to the source and are never recommended for outside use.
Condenser
In a condenser Mic, sound pressure changes the spacing between a thin metalic membrane and a plate in the back of the microphone. When mixed with an external power source, the plate is charged, which images the pressure. These mics have the best frequency response but are usually quiet expensive and require an external power supply (i.e. Phantom Power)
Basically, a microphone is a transducer which detects sound signals and produces an electrical image of what it "hears". This signal can be manipulated by adjusting the signal as it goes through a sound board on it's journey to the speaker, however, using a microphone of the proper type and of adequate quality is crucial. Your audio will never be any better than your mic. Quality is very important, but contrary to popular belief - ALL MICS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL.
In future weeks we will get into Directional Patterns, Impedance & other selection criteria, but for today, let's look at some of the different TYPES of mics and how their construction effects frequency response and may lead to additional purchases.
Dynamic
In a Dynamic Mic, sound moves through a cone. The attached wire moves in the field of a magnet which produces a voltage creating an image of the pressure variation. These mics are usually low in cost, but lack the clarity and frequency response of others. If you have a low budget, a dynamic mic may be your best bet, however, don't rush out and buy the cheapest one you can find. I suggest purchasing a quality Shure or EV mic. I have used both in my ministry and can vouch for their quality.
Ribbon
In a Ribbon Mic, the air movement caused by the sound moves a mettalic ribbon in a magnetic field which generates an imaging voltage between the ends of the ribbon. These mics tend to have a warmer tone and accents the lower range in the mix when miked closely. These mics can be much more difficult to EQ due to the accentuation of the lower range when the mic is close to the source and are never recommended for outside use.
Condenser
In a condenser Mic, sound pressure changes the spacing between a thin metalic membrane and a plate in the back of the microphone. When mixed with an external power source, the plate is charged, which images the pressure. These mics have the best frequency response but are usually quiet expensive and require an external power supply (i.e. Phantom Power)
As with any purchase, planning is crucial. In the following weeks I would strongly suggest taking an inventory of what mics you currently have and how they are used. Also keep in mind any additional uses you have in mind for your mics. Hopefully by the time we complete this segment you will have a better understanding of what you need to make your church audio reflect God's message as best as you can.
Until next time,
Shawn
posted by onevoice at 9:38 AM
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