What Is A Condenser Microphone?

We all know that we can use the mic for singing, dubbing, and narrating. But do you know that there is a specific type of microphone for these? This is none other than the condenser mic. If you aren’t familiar with this yet, it’s your lucky day! Because in this article, you will learn what a condenser microphone is.

Condenser Microphone Explained

If we need to describe what a condenser microphone is using one word, it would be “splendid”. Why? Because this microphone is very special. Compared to normal microphones, this perfectly record vocals and instruments in great detail. That’s because it is very sensitive even to the lowest frequency sound. If you’re wondering why they call it “condenser”, that’s because it is equipped with a capacitor that effectively converts the sound record into an electrical signal. It is more expensive than other types of microphones because it makes an accurate, balanced, clear, and softer sound. It is often used in studios because of its powerful built.

How it Works

Now that it is clear what a condenser microphone is, it’s time for you to learn how it works to fully understand its purpose. When the microphone is activated, it sends the recorded sound in the capacitor which is placed inside the mic. The diaphragm will then detect the changes in the air pressure. While the soundwave triggers the diaphragm, then this capacitor will convert it into an electric signal then travels to the speaker to be heard. It has more polar power compared to other mics and it is equipped with two switches that can affect the pattern of the sound between omnidirectional, unidirectional, and bidirectional. It can cancel sounds on the sides and back if needed.

Types of Condenser Microphones

You already know what a condenser microphone is. But are you familiar with its other types? We added some descriptions below to help you familiarize their purpose and characteristics.

• Large Diaphragm Condenser – this type of condenser may not be good in recording high-frequency sound but it is exemplary in recording low and mid-low. They are ideal to use in large instruments like all types of guitars, violin, mandolin, ukulele, fiddle, cello, and other stringed instruments. You can often see them at concerts, jams, and orchestra.
• Small Diaphragm Condenser – this type of condenser is also known as pencil condensers because it is narrow in style. This is ideal in recording high-frequency sound but not with low and mid-low frequency. They are perfect to use on woodwind instruments like flute, clarinet, and more. They can also be used in acoustic guitars, other instruments in an orchestra, hi-hat and cymbals.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that microphones are essential in many ways. They are essential in concerts, jams, orchestras, recordings, dubbing, and event in narrating. And now that you know what condenser microphones are, you know where you can use them and their primary purpose. You can enjoy your recordings with a crisp and clear sound.