dynamic microphones, stage microphones

 

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Condenser mics
Dynamic
Ribbon Microphones
Stereo Microphones
Boundary Microphones
ADK A-51TL
AEA R84
AKG C414
AKG D12
AKG D112 E
AMS 250 Soundfield
Audio Technica 4047SV
Beyer M201
Blue Mouse
Rode NT5
Sennheiser MD441
Shure SM7B
 

Dynamic microphones

Dynamics microphones are generally seen as live or stage microphones and Condenser mics as studio recording mics, though there is a broad cross over and you will find that every recording studios in the world has a few dynamic mics for particular applications. Dynamic microphones are pretty tough and can take big sound levels without distorting, making them great for live vocals, sticking in front of a Marshall cab and especially pointing at drums. As in all microphones, sound pressure moves an element in the mic creating a small electrical current and in different designs this is achieved in different ways. In dynamic microphones a small movable induction coil, positioned in the magnetic field of a permanent magnet, is attached to a thin diaphragm and when sound vibrates this diaphragm the movement produces a small current through electromagnetic induction and the principle is in fact pretty much the same as in a loudspeaker, only reversed.

Recording

This circular diaphragm has produced the classic microphone shape but in the other dynamic microphone type, Ribbon microphones, the diaphragm is replaced by a stretched ribbon of aluminium producing a generally larger, longer design. Normal dynamic microphones don’t need any external power supply, they are fairly cheap to manufacture, pretty tough and resistant to moisture, and for this reason they are widely used on-stage by singers. The vast majority of dynamic mics on the market have a cardioid or Hypercardioid pattern which picks up sound from directly in front of the mic and rejects sound from the sides and rear, characteristics which make them eminently suited for live vocal work where separation from the rest of the musicians is needed. However there are some omni pattern dynamic stage mics such as the Audio Technica AT804 and omni dynamic mics like the Shure SM63 are popular in ENG and field recording work. As technology has advanced and new materials have been developed, so the difference in quality between dynamic and condenser mics has narrowed and the traditional price differential between the two types has all but vanished. However don't be tempted to think that because you can get a cheap Chinese condenser mic for the same price as a SM57 that you dont need a SM57. Try miking a drum kit and discover why the classic dynamic mics like the SM57 and Sennheiser 421 are considered classic dynamic microphones for a good reason.

 
 
 
 
Microphones and recording 2008. Dynamic Microphones