How To Power A Condenser Microphone

Condenser microphones are mostly found in studios. It produces louder quality output, but its sensitivity for background noises make it suitable for indoor recordings. If you use a condenser microphone, you will need an additional power source. How to power condenser microphone can be answered in this article.

Phantom Power Defined

Phantom power is the electric power conveyed into microphone wires to operate microphones that comprise active electronic circuitry. Phantom power can be given by microphone preamplifiers, mixing consoles, audio interfaces, and standalone phantom power supplies.

Condenser microphone needs require outside electric sources for it to function due to its active electronic components. Whereas on the other hand, the dynamic microphone has passive electronic components that don't require phantom power.

Let's Power a Condenser Microphone

Here are three options to choose from on how to power condenser microphone.

Option 1. 48V phantom power. Purchase a 48V phantom power. There are a lot of variety available in the market. Once you have one, connect it with an XLR cable to your condenser mic to supply it with enough electric power.

Option 2. Vacuum tube. Buy a vacuum tube increase electric signals released by the microphone capsule. This option is not commonly used, but it is useful in producing pure sound output. The vacuum tube is also cheaper compared to 48V phantom power since it has its own power supply.

Option 3. Electret. An electret is a dielectric unit that can either be connected to the backplate or the diaphragm. It gives a consistent power supply on batteries. An electret is a common option for microphones in phones, laptops, as well as other tech gadgets.

Safety Measures In Using Phantom Power Supply

Here are some safety measures to remember when phantom power.

• Always make sure to turn off the phantom power supply when you connect the microphone. This is a safety measure to avoid short circuits and damage your microphone.
• Get a phantom power supply that can sufficiently provide power to your condenser microphone. Otherwise, it would defeat the purpose of why you are using one.

How To Take Care Of Your Condenser Microphone

Here's how you can take care of your condenser microphone.

• Store the microphone properly when not in use. Put it in a plastic bag or any sealed container. Doing this can prevent dust from getting into the microphone. 
• Make use of pop filters every time you record vocals. Pop filter reduces sibilance and it also blocks saliva from coming into the microphone.
• Stand 6 inches away from the mic when you are recording and slightly bend the microphone. Doing this will help eliminate microphone pops and plosives.
• Always remember not to turn on your power supply for a vacuum tube condenser mic before attaching the mic.

Conclusion

If you want to start your recording, may it be for your vlog voice-over or podcasts, invest in a condenser microphone. It is inexpensive and a good start for your home recording.