Mic Microphone
Condenser Mics – The Best Microphone Over-All
When it comes to choosing a studio recording microphone, it can be a bit confusing. Some are better than others for vocal and instrument recording. Lets take a gander at a few of the options.
If you are on a low budget, there are still many choices out there for you. But first, let us look at the different types of recording microphones. There are 3 different kinds most used in the recording studio: dynamic, condenser and ribbon mics. All three serve a specific purpose. However, one is best for all around recording and specializes in vocal as well as acoustic instrument recording.
The condenser is the king of microphones. These mics can vary in size and price rather dramatically. There are two types of condenser microphones, small diaphragm and large diaphragm. Large diaphragm condenser mics are best for recording vocals, where as the small diaphragm condenser mics are best used as drum overheads or instrument recording. Condensers with a large diaphragm are also used in a variety of other ways, and are employed more often than are the small diaphragm. It all depends on the sound that the engineer is looking for.
Condenser mics can differ drastically in cost. There are condensers available from very moderate prices, to very expensive prices. The more the microphone costs, likely the better sonic quality. A very popular set of condensers is the MXL 991 package set. This microphones set, specifically for recording, has a moderate price tag and comes with two mics for adjustability. There is one large diaphragm condenser, and one small diaphragm condenser in the MXL package. Even though these are not the premiere microphones available, they nevertheless get the job done.
One of he most popular of studio mics is the Neumann U87. This mic has a price much higher than many others, but is a must-have in every major recording studio. The Neumann U87 is most often used for vocalists. The basis for the extra expense of the U87 is because of the care taken in crafting them as well as a superior design. Each microphone possesses an individual sound characteristic. The Neumann U87 catches the truest sound, and with a smooth, warm quality. Getting the true sound and subtleties of a singer’s voice is mandatory when using the most expensive mics.
A number of condensers are also more versatile in a recording setting. Often condenser mics are multi-patterned, meaning they have options as to how and where the microphone picks up sound.
There are basically 3 types of patterns to choose from: Figure 8, Omni-directional and Cardioid. All of these patterns capture sound in different ways. Cardioid is more direct, great for vocals and instruments. Omni is capturing sound from all around the mic, great for choirs. Figure 8s are a mixture of the other two patterns, capturing sound from all around, but in a more focused fashion than the omni pattern.
While there are other microphones to choose from, the condenser is the best all around vocal and instrument studio-recording mic. Condensers microphones outshine the qualities that others just can’t. If you are looking to purchase a studio mic for vocal and instrumental recording, the condenser is surely a great place to start.
About the Author
Bruce is a renowned recordist, film composer and producer. Through his experience Bruce is and expert on
microphones
for home recording,
studio recording
and stage performance. Check out his site where you’ll find information and great deals on microphones. You can also visit the site for his projects at Excello Recording in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
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