{"id":3008,"date":"2022-07-30T15:14:56","date_gmt":"2022-07-30T15:14:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/?page_id=3008"},"modified":"2024-02-19T10:00:17","modified_gmt":"2024-02-19T10:00:17","slug":"different-types-of-microphones","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/different-types-of-microphones\/","title":{"rendered":"different types of microphones"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f84f6c9b\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>The 4 Different Types of Microphones for your Studio<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-contrast-2-color has-text-color\"><strong>There&#8217;s many different types of microphones out there, and it can be daunting when you&#8217;re starting out.<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/microphones-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"Different types of microphones - ribbon, large diaphragm condenser, small diaphragm condenser and dynamic\" class=\"wp-image-619\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/microphones-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/microphones-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/microphones-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/microphones.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:31px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-282e4892\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<div style=\"height:23px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-31021cf7\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Every type of microphone has <em>two<\/em> characteristics.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:26px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>It is one of four different types of microphones:<br><ul><li><a href=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\"><strong>Dynamic microphone<\/strong><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Large-diaphragm-condenser-microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Large-diaphragm-condenser-microphones\"><strong>Large diaphragm condenser<\/strong><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphones\"><strong>Small diaphragm condenser<\/strong><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Ribbon-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Ribbon-Microphones\">Ribbon microphone<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:14px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>It has one of six <strong>polar patterns<\/strong>, which determine where it picks up sound from<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-925510c2\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p><br><a href=\"#Microphones-for-specific-instruments\">Jump to microphones for <strong>specific instruments<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-96420f92\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-01156992 gb-headline-text\"><strong>Polar Patterns<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Imagine you were in your living room, trying to record a vocalist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s roadworks outside, and a crying baby next door. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll need a mic with the right polar pattern to record the singer and leave out that ambient noise.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s 6 patterns to choose from:<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c23e3136\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-529755e9\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-4def6ef5\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4def6ef5\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"#Cardiod\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/cardiod-01.gif\" alt=\"Cardioid mic\" class=\"wp-image-301\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"#Cardiod\">Cardioid<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b1c0ab82\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b1c0ab82\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"#Supercardiod\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/supercardiod-polar-pattern-1.gif\" alt=\"supercardioid polar pattern\" class=\"wp-image-277\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"#Supercardiod\">Supercardioid<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-75efaaa0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-75efaaa0\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"#Hypercardiod\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/hypercardiod-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Hypercardioid microphone\" class=\"wp-image-275\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"#Hypercardiod\">Hypercardioid<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-29805a38\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-c53a9d78\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c53a9d78\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"#Omnidirectional\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/omnidirectional-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Omnidirectional pickup pattern\" class=\"wp-image-278\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"#Omnidirectional\">Omnidirectional<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-62ac9306\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-62ac9306\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"#Lobar\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/lobar-polar-pattern-1.gif\" alt=\"Lobar, or shotgun mic\" class=\"wp-image-280\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"#Lobar\">Lobar<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-be71874d\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be71874d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"#Bidirectional\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/bidirectional-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Bidirectional, or figure of 8\" class=\"wp-image-281\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"#Bidirectional\">Bidirectional<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7bb142bb\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>You can see from the chart that a cardioid mic or a supercardioid pattern would work well for a singer. You can control the ambient noise by simply pointing the microphone directly at them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An omnidirectonal mic would be unsuitable, as it would pick up all that traffic noise too.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6eaa8acb\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Front address vs Side address<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>So far we&#8217;ve looked at the types of mics that pick up sound from the front (called front address). There\u2019s also mics which pick up sound from one side (called side address).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s important to know which type you&#8217;re using to know where to place it.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:16px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1fa4cc7d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-b1ba8917\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-bc4600fc\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bc4600fc\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"390\" height=\"390\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/front-address.gif\" alt=\"Front address mic\" class=\"wp-image-295\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:195px;height:195px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Front address<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-9803ec1e\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9803ec1e\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"390\" height=\"390\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/side-address.gif\" alt=\"front address vs side address microphone\" class=\"wp-image-296\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:195px;height:195px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Side address<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:22px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ea380892\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p id=\"polar-patterns\">Let&#8217;s take a closer look at those polar patterns.  I&#8217;ve made a more detailed guide on the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/microphone-polar-patterns\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/microphone-polar-patterns\">different microphone polar patterns here<\/a>, with examples of specific mics<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-165d3703\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Cardiod\"><strong>Cardioid<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0cd5ed49\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-b075ec9d\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-28770092\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-28770092\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/cardiod-01.gif\" alt=\"Cardioid microphone\" class=\"wp-image-301\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:99px;height:99px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-0a7703b4\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0a7703b4\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>This is the heart shaped pattern you&#8217;ll find on most microphones. It&#8217;s very intuitive \u2013 you point the mic towards the sound you want to record.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-dec4291d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>A cardioid mic only records what it&#8217;s pointing at, excluding sound from the sides and the back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>This makes it suitable for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Recording in a noisy environment, fan noise, traffic noise<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Recording in a room without acoustic treatment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Isolating from other instruments while recording live<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reducing feedback from stage monitors during performance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9ed500ca\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Supercardiod\"><strong>Supercardioid<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-06166a67\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-9305f8e4\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9305f8e4\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/supercardiod-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Supercardioid mic\" class=\"wp-image-274\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:110px;height:110px\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-8124b4e7\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8124b4e7\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The supercardioid is a <em>more focused<\/em> version of the cardioid mic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It rejects even more of the sides, leaving a narrower recording area at the front. But it also picks up a tiny amount from behind the mic. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Use this pattern when you need to exclude more of the room. Or to help reduce feedback in a live setting.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-57863b45\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Bidirectional\"><strong>Bidirectional<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-12aea24c\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-a53324aa\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-a53324aa\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/bidirectional-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Bidirectional polar pattern\" class=\"wp-image-281\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:100px;height:100px\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-0b6b3642\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0b6b3642\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The bidirectional polar pattern is the shape of a &#8216;figure of 8&#8217;.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It records sound equally from the front and back of the microphone, and rejects sound from the sides.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-eca5c5fb\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The bidirectional pattern is suitable for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>2 backing singers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Recording a vocalist with their own acoustic guitar<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Combining with other mics for stereo recording<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:48px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-a5091c1b\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Hypercardiod\"><strong>Hypercardioid<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-2413a3a5\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-6c4466f6\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6c4466f6\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/hypercardiod-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Hypercaordioid pickup pattern\" class=\"wp-image-275\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:103px;height:103px\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-a7621248\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-a7621248\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The hyercardioid lies somewhere <em>in between the cardioid and the bidirectional<\/em> polar patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It picks up sound mostly from the front, but also has a sizeable pick up area at the back. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e935fc77\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Lobar\"><strong>Lobar<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-645b3fe7\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-7f91a295\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7f91a295\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/lobar-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Lobar shotgun pattern\" class=\"wp-image-279\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:120px;height:120px\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-a083a7b9\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-a083a7b9\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>This is the pattern for <a href=\"https:\/\/faqs.aber.ac.uk\/index.php?id=3042\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/faqs.aber.ac.uk\/index.php?id=3042\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">shotgun <\/a>microphones. The lobar microphone can pinpoint a sound source with <em>laser<\/em> <em>like clarity<\/em>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s great for recording from a distance too.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-58f95276\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The lobar\/shotgun is suitable for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Recording in a noisy, crowded environment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Recording dialogue for film and TV<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With a highly directional pattern, make sure to point the mic <em>exactly at the sound source<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it is off axis, the sound quality will be noticeably quieter and of poorer quality.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1298884c\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Omnidirectional\"><strong>Omnidirectional<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-c7515f26\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-ed9b6b7d\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ed9b6b7d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"433\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/omnidirectional-polar-pattern.gif\" alt=\"Omnidirectional polar pattern\" class=\"wp-image-278\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:86px;height:86px\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-f93d5082\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f93d5082\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>An omnidirectional pattern receives sound from all directions. This means you can put it in the centre of a room to record everything. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of microphones produce an open, natural sound.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-31fb6a8a\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>An omni will also pick up the acoustics of the room. Which can be an advantage if you&#8217;re recording in a beautiful old church. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>But problematic if you&#8217;re in an untreated box room<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s not good to use these types of mics in live performance because it&#8217;s impossible to isolate individual instruments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Omnidirectional&#8217;s are also prone to feedback from stage monitors.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-94d638f1\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Different-Types-of-Microphones\"><strong>Different Types of Microphones<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now you&#8217;re familiar with the polar patterns, we can look at the 4 different types of mics for the recording studio:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\"><\/a><a href=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\"><strong>Dynamic microphone<\/strong>s<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Condenser-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Condenser-Microphones\"><strong>Condenser microphones<\/strong><\/a>:\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\"><\/a><a href=\"#Large-diaphragm-condenser-microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Large-diaphragm-condenser-microphones\">Large diaphragm condensers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\"><\/a><a href=\"#Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphones\">Small diaphragm condensers<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dynamic-Microphones\"><\/a><strong><a href=\"#Ribbon-Microphones\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Ribbon-Microphones\">Ribbon microphones<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">But first, let&#8217;s have a quick lesson on how mics work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Microphones respond to sound waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">They convert them into electrical signals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em><strong>But what actually happens inside the microphone?<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:37px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3236779f\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Microphone diaphragm<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Inside every type of microphone is a thin, flexible plate, called a diaphragm.  Sound waves from the air cause the diaphragm to vibrate.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This movement is translated into an audio signal and passed through the cable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s a few ways to make this happen.  And each of the different types of microphones has its own process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s start with the simplest design&#8230;<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:49px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/dynamic-mic-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"The dynamic mircophone\" class=\"wp-image-642\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/dynamic-mic-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/dynamic-mic-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/dynamic-mic-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/dynamic-mic.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1f369e3d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Dynamic-Microphones\"><strong>Dynamic Microphones<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic mics are the slightly rough, but rugged sibling of the microphone family.  The characterful workhorse of the studio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic microphones are simple and effective, most of them with a cardioid or hypercardioid polar pattern.  These types of microphones stand up well to the rigours of live performance.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-a7e6ae00\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#How-dynamic-microphones-work\">How they work<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#When-to-use-dynamic-mics\">When to use them<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Which-one-should-you-buy?\">Choosing a dynamic mic<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:36px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-15fd1a34\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"How-dynamic-microphones-work\"><strong><strong>How dynamic microphones work<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-dynamc-mics-1024x433.gif\" alt=\"How dynamic microphones work\" class=\"wp-image-490\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:512px;height:217px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-dynamc-mics-1024x433.gif 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-dynamc-mics-300x127.gif 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-dynamc-mics-768x325.gif 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-dynamc-mics-1536x650.gif 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The workings of a dynamic microphone<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic mics have small diaphragms made from a type of polyester (called BoPET).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A copper coil is attached to the diaphragm, and inside that coil is a stationary magnet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When the diaphragm vibrates in response to a sound wave, it causes the coil to move. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s also sometimes referred to as a &#8216;moving coil&#8217; microphone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And as the coil moves back and forth (oscillates) across the magnet, it builds up an electrical charge. This charge gets sent via the cable, to the audio interface for amplification.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:45px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-70c317c6\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p><strong>Interesting fact<\/strong>: Dynamic microphones work like speakers in reverse. You can actually use a speaker as a microphone!<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5daf6d28\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"When-to-use-dynamic-mics\"><strong><strong>When to use dynamic mics<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic microphones are the least sensitive of the 4 types of microphones. This makes them particularly suitable for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For loud sounds<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic mics respond well to a reasonably loud and close sound source. In fact recording loud instruments are one of its strengths. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a dynamic microphone for high SPL (sound pressure level) instruments such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>drums<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>guitar amps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>brass instruments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c010e31f gb-headline-text\"><strong>For vocals<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic microphones are versatile, favoured by many vocalists for performing live. And their low sensitivity means these types of microphones are less prone to feedback on stage.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And they can be handheld too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-live-vocal-microphone\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3880\"><strong>What are the best live vocal microphones?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some singers, particularly from the rock and pop world, love dynamic microphones in the studio too. They can impart a<em> dark gritty character<\/em> which you&#8217;ll get from a dynamic mic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Dark overtones<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The frequency range of dynamic mics is well suited to instruments with a strong low to mid presence.  They&#8217;re not so good for trying to capture a delicate top end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But very bright instruments can respond well to these types of microphones, as they&#8217;re good at  toning down any harshness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Room acoustics<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic mics are perfect for recording in a room with sub-optimal acoustics. This is because of their low sensitivity, combined with a cardioid pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of microphones are less likely to pick up the sound of the room, than a condenser, which is much more sensitive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic microphones also the best types of mic for a room with background noise, like the hum of traffic, or an AC unit.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Which-one-should-you-buy?\"><strong>Which one should you buy?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Dynamic mics are significantly cheaper than condenser microphones or ribbon microphones. This is due to their simple design.  They&#8217;re the little sturdy workhorses of the studio. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-b76a91bf\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-87269ae4\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-87269ae4\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"219\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/home-recording-SM58.gif\" alt=\"Types of microphones: Shure SM 58\" class=\"wp-image-141\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:150px;height:177px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shure SM 58<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-805b71c6\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-805b71c6\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re considering your first dynamic mic, take a look at the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm58-review-vocal-mic\/\">Shure SM58<\/a>  or <a href=\"http:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\">Shure SM57<\/a>, which are nearly identical. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The SM58 is popular for live vocals, and the SM57 for instruments.  There&#8217;s also the brighter sounding <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/sennheiser-e835-review-cardioid-dynamic\/\">Sennheiser E835<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/sennheiser-e845-review-budget-supercardioid\/\">E845<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7279d564\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>When choosing your dynamic mic, go for the legendary <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm7b-review\/\">Shure SM7B<\/a> if you have the budget. You&#8217;ll have the option of rolling off the bass, and boosting the midrange. They&#8217;ve become the mic of choice for podcasters and YouTubers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need to record low sounds, like a kick drum or tuba, you&#8217;ll need a bass mic.  The AKG D112 is a dynamic microphone designed to capture the lowest frequencies.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/condenser-mic-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"The condenser microphone in a cradle\" class=\"wp-image-643\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/condenser-mic-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/condenser-mic-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/condenser-mic-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/condenser-mic.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3de2a185\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Condenser-Microphones\"><strong>Condenser Microphones<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The condenser microphone is the sensitive, aristocratic cousin of the microphone family.  With an eye for detail and a penchant for telling the truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of microphones are great at capturing the full frequency of every sound with nuance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#How-Condenser-Microphones-Work\">How they work<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#When-to-use-condenser-microphones\">When to use them<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Large-diaphragm-condenser-microphones\">Large diaphragm condenser mics<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Choosing-a-large-diaphragm-condenser-microphone\">Choosing a large diaphragm condenser<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphones\">Small diaphragm condenser mics<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Should-you-buy-a-small-diaphragm-mic?\">Choosing a small diaphragm condenser<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:26px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1dadcb01\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"How-Condenser-Microphones-Work\"><strong>How Condenser Microphones Work<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-condenser-mic-1024x503.gif\" alt=\"How condenser microphones work\" class=\"wp-image-491\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:512px;height:252px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-condenser-mic-1024x503.gif 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-condenser-mic-300x147.gif 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-condenser-mic-768x377.gif 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-condenser-mic-1536x754.gif 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The workings of a condenser microphone<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Similar to dynamic mics, the diaphragm of most condenser microphones are made from the polyester (called BoPET). But in condenser mics, they&#8217;re lighter, and coated with gold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next to the diaphragm is an electrically charged metal plate. Together, they form a &#8216;capacitor&#8217;. That&#8217;s why these types of microphones are sometimes called capacitor mics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The sound waves cause the diaphragm to vibrate. And the vibration makes it moves back and forth from the stationary plate. This creates an electric charge called a &#8216;capacitance&#8217;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The charge enters some circuitry before exiting as an audio signal. This stage requires 48v power, called &#8216;phantom power&#8217;. It&#8217;s normally delivered through the cable, from the audio interface.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-115477a4\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"When-to-use-condenser-microphones\"><strong>When to use a condenser microphone<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Condenser mics are the natural choice for the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/home-recording-studio\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"93\">home recording studio<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They have very light diaphragms, and respond to the pressure of sound waves with sensitivity and precision.  These types of mics can capture everything across the frequency spectrum, including the subtlest details. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes them ideal for vocals, acoustic guitar and any instrument with detail in the high end.  Recordings with condenser microphones have a sense of air and transparency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-2aaef9bf gb-headline-text\"><strong>Room acoustics<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Condenser microphones picks up every detail, including the size and shape of the room. This could pose a problem if your room hasn&#8217;t been <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/acoustic-treatment\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"722\">acoustically treated<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If this is the case, it might be better to go for a high quality dynamic mic instead.  These types of microphones are less sensitive.  They&#8217;re also less likely to pick up any extraneous noises.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bd1df179\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>USB microphones<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Many modern USB mics are actually condenser microphones.  They receive their power through the USB port of the computer. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0ee4e72b\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a54e48f3\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-1ece6ce6\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1ece6ce6\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"103\" height=\"262\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/blue-yeti.gif\" alt=\"Type of microphone: Blue Yeti\" class=\"wp-image-346\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:75px;height:191px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Blue Yeti<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-480ee770\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-480ee770\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>A really popular USB mic is the Blue Yeti. Its an all-in-one solution, with both microphone and preamp combined. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s sensitive enough to pick up the nuances of the spoken voice, and is well suited for podcasts and YouTube. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b0904f2d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>But I wouldn&#8217;t recommend a USB mic for recording a singer if you&#8217;re looking for broadcast quality.  These types of microphones won&#8217;t deliver the necessary sound quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Condenser microphones are divided into two categories: large diaphragm and small diaphragm.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f2b49e60\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Large-diaphragm-condenser-microphones\"><strong>Large diaphragm condenser microphones<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c0c16786\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>These are the classic looking mics you see in front of singers. These types of microphones give vocals a full sound, and add subtle warmth and sparkle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-mic-for-recording-vocals\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4397\">Which are the best mics for recording vocals?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Large diaphragm condensers are also popular for most instruments.  And they really shine on acoustic guitar and piano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The large diaphragm means more detail can be picked up from the sound source. These types of microphones are highly sensitive and work well with quiet sound sources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Condenser microphones are more fragile and expensive than dynamics.  But if you can only budget for one microphone, it should be one of these. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Multi polar patterns<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most large diaphragm condenser microphones have a <a href=\"#Cardiod\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Cardiod\">cardioid<\/a> pickup pattern, but some allow you to switch between patterns. The Neumann U87 switches between <a href=\"#Omnidirectional\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Omnidirectional\">omni<\/a>, <a href=\"#Cardiod\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Cardiod\">cardioid<\/a> and <a href=\"#Bidirectional\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Bidirectional\">figure of 8 (bi-directional)<\/a> Read the full U87 review <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-u87-ai-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5777\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of microphones are incredibly versatile, as they can be used in so many situations. They&#8217;re expensive, but worth their price for the recording studio. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c414-xlii-review\/\">AKG C414<\/a> is switchable between <a href=\"#Cardioid\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Cardioid\">cardioid<\/a>, <a href=\"##Bidirectional\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"##Bidirectional\">figure of eight<\/a>, <a href=\"#Hypercardiod\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Hypercardiod\">hypercardioid<\/a>, <a href=\"#Omnidirectional\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Omnidirectional\">omnidirectional<\/a> and wide cardioid. It&#8217;s like having 5 microphones to hand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Buying a large diaphragm condenser microphone<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If I was looking for just one microphone for my studio, it would have to be a large diaphragm condenser. Ideally with switchable polar patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-f695171d\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-4af9fd39\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4af9fd39\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"232\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/akg-c414-xls.gif\" alt=\"AKG C414 XLS\" class=\"wp-image-359\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:120px;height:186px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">AKG C414 XLS<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-032044e4\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-032044e4\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>My current go to condenser is an <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c414-xlii-review\/\">AKG C414<\/a>, which I use for almost everything.  It&#8217;s accurate and warm, and sounds good on just about everything. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I really appreciate the switchable polar patterns, all just a flick of the switch away.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll need a <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/microphone-cables-and-stands\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/microphone-cables-and-stands\/\">mic stand<\/a>, and a shock mount to protect your mic from low frequency vibrations.  You&#8217;ll also need an <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-audio-interface\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-audio-interface\/\">audio interface<\/a> with phantom power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\">AKG C214<\/a> at half the price, is also a good option. It&#8217;s cardioid only, but has a similar sound (though brighter) to the C414. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And let&#8217;s not forget the budget friendly <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/rode-nt1-a-review-condenser-vocal-mic\/\">Rode NT1-A<\/a>. It&#8217;s also a large condenser microphone, with a fixed cardioid pattern. It has a low level of self noise and comes with an XLR lead and shock mount. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This mic has an extended and neutral frequency response.  But some users report problems with sibilance, (loud s&#8217;s and t&#8217;s) when recording vocals.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-500df8a1\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-f814e18f\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-e911fa06\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e911fa06\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"176\" height=\"274\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/neumann-u87.gif\" alt=\"Neumann U87\" class=\"wp-image-350\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:141px;height:219px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Neumann U87 AI<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-af828f71\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-af828f71\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re feeling flush, take a look at the legendary <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-u87-ai-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5777\">Neumann U87<\/a>.  It&#8217;s made by Georg Neumann, inventor of the condenser microphone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It sounds fantastic on everything: vocals, piano, guitar and percussion. And you can switch between polar patterns whenever you need to. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ee42e503\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphones\"><strong>Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>These are small thin cardioid mics, sometimes called pencil condensers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The small light diaphragm is able to respond to high frequencies in minute detail. They&#8217;re particularly good at capturing crisp transients (the start of sounds). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes these types of microphones ideal for bright percussion such as cymbals, hi-hat, tambourine and shaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Small diaphragm condensers are very effective as overhead stereo pairs. They can reproduce the sound of a room with an accurate stereo image. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll see them set up over a drum kit, or different sections of an orchestra in a classical recording. Recording an acoustic guitar with a close stereo pair can produce a lovely crisp detailed sound.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e89a62a2\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Should-you-buy-a-small-diaphragm-mic?\"><strong>Should you buy a small diaphragm condenser mic?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b3a6f32\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-f20b0bbf\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-d0cdfa0d\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d0cdfa0d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"98\" height=\"204\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/rode-nt5-pair.gif\" alt=\"Types of microphones: Rode NT5 pair\" class=\"wp-image-351\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:91px;height:189px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rode NT5 pair<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-7e36a6ea\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7e36a6ea\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>You don&#8217;t need one of these microphones if you&#8217;re just starting out. It would be better to go for a large diaphragm condenser mic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if you&#8217;re looking to add to your collection, try a pair of Rode NT5&#8217;s. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6edad4dd\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Or perhaps a single <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-km-184-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"6566\">Neumann KM184<\/a> if you&#8217;d prefer one very high quality mic.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ribbon-mic-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"The ribbon microphone\" class=\"wp-image-644\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ribbon-mic-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ribbon-mic-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ribbon-mic-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ribbon-mic.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e7a11baa\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Ribbon-Microphones\"><strong>Ribbon Microphones<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The ribbon microphone dates back to the golden age of radio, and can be considered a classic retro mic. I&#8217;d describe it as the sensual and sophisticated aunty of the microphone family. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of microphones have a larger than life character, and will add a silky warmth to your recordings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-73864fda\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#How-the-ribbon-microphone-works\">How they work<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#When-to-use-a-ribbon-microphone\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#When-to-use-a-ribbon-microphone\">When to use them<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Should-you-buy-a-ribbon-mic?\">Choosing a ribbon mic<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c6ec4985\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"How-the-ribbon-microphone-works\"><strong>How ribbon microphones work<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:14px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"676\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-ribbon-mic-1024x676.gif\" alt=\"How ribbon microphones work\" class=\"wp-image-492\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:512px;height:338px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-ribbon-mic-1024x676.gif 1024w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-ribbon-mic-300x198.gif 300w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-ribbon-mic-768x507.gif 768w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/inside-ribbon-mic-1536x1014.gif 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The workings of a ribbon microphone<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The ribbon mic works on the same electromagnetic principle as a dynamic mic. But it uses a very delicate strip of corrugated aluminium (or film), instead of a moving coil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This &#8216;ribbon&#8217; is extremely sensitive to the velocity of air particles. Its subtle movements create a minute electrical signal, which is fed to a transformer for bolstering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The output from ribbon mics is generally very low. But some modern ribbon mics also include a preamp stage to amplify the output. They&#8217;re called active ribbon mics, and need phantom power.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3da6462f\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"When-to-use-a-ribbon-microphone\"><strong>When to use a ribbon microphone<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7cb5bf93\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Ribbon mics are probably the warmest and most natural sounding of all the types of microphones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They tend to capture instruments close to how you actually hear them. A wide and flat frequency response, starting very low, naturally tapers off in the highs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of microphones are suited to classical music, and sound great on grand pianos and acoustic guitar. In orchestras, they can really warm up the string and brass sections, which can sound a bit harsh through condenser mics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ribbon microphones are also great as overheads on a drum kit.  Listen out for this sound on some of the Beatles and Led Zeppelin recordings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Proximity effect<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Ribbon mics have a strong proximity effect. This means the nearer they are to the sound source, the more bass they pick up. Radio presenters make use of this by speaking up close to the mic, for a deep and authoritative sound. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engineers also use the proximity effect when they close mic guitar amps for a powerful sound.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3d6f21e9\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Should-you-buy-a-ribbon-mic?\"><strong>Should you buy a ribbon mic?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>You don&#8217;t tend to see many ribbon microphones in home studios.  This is due to the hefty price tag and fear of how fragile they are. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But modern ribbon mics aren&#8217;t as delicate as they used to be. You just need to be careful not to subject them to strong gusts of air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s also the effort (and expense) of making sure your ribbon mic is paired with a suitable preamp.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8bebfb03\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a06fdf60\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-92003a66\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-92003a66\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"134\" height=\"235\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/royer-r-121.gif\" alt=\"Types of microphones: Royer R-121\" class=\"wp-image-356\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:102px;height:179px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Royer R-121<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-51c34724\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-51c34724\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Ribbon mics are typically bidirectional (figure of 8 pattern). Classic models include the Royer R-121, especially for guitar amps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And the classic Coles 4038, which was designed by the BBC in the 1950s for broadcasting.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-365aa664\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Microphones-for-specific-instruments\"><strong>Microphones for specific instruments<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you have a specific instrument you need to record?  Or do you need a microphone for vocals?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;ve suggested some different types of microphones for recording specific instruments.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a97c3618\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-7fb6250e\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7fb6250e\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-recording-vocals\">Recording vocals<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-live-vocals\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Best-microphone-for-live-vocals\">Live vocals<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-voice-overs\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Best-microphone-for-voice-overs\">Voice over<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-ASMR-microphone\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Best-ASMR-microphone\">ASMR microphone<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-acoustic-guitar\">Acoustic guitar<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-guitar-amp\">Guitar Amp<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-c336a8d0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c336a8d0\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#Best-mics-for-recording-drums\">Drums<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-piano\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Best-microphone-for-piano\">Piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-violin\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#Best-microphone-for-violin\">Violin<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-saxophone\">Saxophone<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Best-microphone-for-upright-bass\">Upright bass<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0be38c9d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-recording-vocals\"><strong>Best microphone for <\/strong><strong>recording <\/strong><strong>v<\/strong><strong>ocals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right mic for your voice is imperative for getting good recordings. There&#8217;s three things to consider when choosing a microphone for vocals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>the sonic characteristics of the voice<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>the genre and feel of the music<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>the room acoustics<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-956f35e2\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-744bce32\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Microphones and vocal characteristics<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Every singer or rapper has a unique voice with its own range and style. It&#8217;s about matching the vocal characteristics with a microphone that compliments them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-mic-for-recording-vocals\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4397\">I&#8217;ve made a list of the best mics for recording vocals here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cf851645\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-d0bd1c91\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-02db3708\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-02db3708\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"292\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Shure-SM7B.gif\" alt=\"Vocal mic: Shure SM7B\" class=\"wp-image-367\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:178px;height:152px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shure SM7B<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-e62a6a98\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e62a6a98\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Most vocalists benefit from a large diaphragm condenser for a full bodied, spacious sound. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Go for the best quality you can afford. Both the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM7B<\/a>, or an <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a> will produce a professionally clear and detailed sound.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-893e5e5d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The trick is to experiment, and use what works for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can, book a studio for an hour and ask the engineer to set up an array of mics. Make sure there&#8217;s at least one from each category, the more the better. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Record some solo vocals, and take the recordings home where you can consider what you like and what you don&#8217;t.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-91119479\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Vocal microphones for specific genres<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s some genres which are linked to specific microphone types. Some rock and metal singers like to use dynamic mics in the studio, for a dirty, gritty sound. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And jazz singers sometimes record with ribbon mics to give them the retro sound of a smokey jazz club.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-793e0663\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-2729c591 gb-headline-text\"><strong>Vocal microphones and room acoustics<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>When choosing a mic for vocals, you also have to be aware of the room you&#8217;re recording in.  In many home recording studios, the acoustics are less than ideal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a small room, with no acoustic treatment, look for a low sensitivity cardioid microphone. A cardioid dynamic mic like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm58-review-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3602\">Shure SM58<\/a>, will only pick up the area in front of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It will minimise the sound of the room, and help cut extraneous sounds like distant road traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes the room you&#8217;re recording in will sound great. In an echoey old church, an omnidirectional large diaphragm condenser will capture the full acoustic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;ve treated your recording space with some acoustic panels, use a large diaphragm cardioid condenser like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need some help in choosing a suitable mic, I&#8217;ve made a buyers&#8217; guide: <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-mic-for-recording-vocals\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4397\">Best mic for recording vocals<\/a><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1d931df\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-live-vocals\"><strong>Best microphone for live<\/strong><strong> <\/strong><strong>v<\/strong><strong>ocals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Amplifying you vocals on stage poses some specific challenges &#8211; you need to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reduce sound coming from other performers and stage monitors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce the chance of feedback<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimise handling noise<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure it still works if you drop the mic or get it wet<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7bf72f0f\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-97c73929\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Minising risks while getting the best sound<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>With live vocal mics, you&#8217;re looking for the balance between the best sound you can get, versus minimising the risk of something going wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this reason, most live vocalists choose dynamic mics with a cardioid pickup pattern. The cardioid pattern cuts sound from everywhere but the front of the mic, which reduces feedback and minimises noise from other band members.  They&#8217;re also built like tanks, with a very low risk of malfunction. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b82aff51\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-88f2b30d\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-bb25aa3e\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bb25aa3e\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/shure-sm58-1.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3900\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:178px;height:152px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shure SM58<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-9fdefb90\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9fdefb90\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Cardioid dynamic mic such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm58-review-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3602\">Shure SM58<\/a> have been used on stage for decades. It&#8217;s a workhorse &#8211; robust and rugged.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-37f24656\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The new generation of vocal mics<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Since the SM58 came out way back in 1966, a new generation of condensers have been totally redesigned to stand the rigours of live use.  They&#8217;re not cheap, but if you need the best sound, you&#8217;re probably not expecting the lowest price. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-99d2bc19\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-978c8b14\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-978c8b14\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"644\" height=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/shure-ksm9.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3894\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:178px;height:152px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shure KSM9<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-e9e37a7f\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e9e37a7f\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>My first choice for live performance would be the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-ksm9-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3802\">Shure KSM9<\/a>.  It&#8217;s a condenser mic made for the stage, with a startlingly clear and detailed sound.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9b103bc9\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-voice-overs\"><strong>Best microphone for voice overs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Voice over work can include audiobooks, film narration, video diaries and podcasts.  You&#8217;ll need a microphone that captures the detail and nuance of the talking voice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A large diaphragm cardioid condenser, like the Neumann TLM 103 or <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/rode-nt1-a-review-condenser-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4289\">Rode NT1<\/a> will work well in most situations. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8ef4964e\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What works best with your voice?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can, its best to try out a selection of microphones for your voice, as they all have unique characteristics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have a medium deep male voice. I tried recording a voice over with a Coles 4038, known for its warmth and depth. But instead of that smooth ribbon sound, I ended up with a muddy recording, which I had to fix with EQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My voice sounds much better with the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c414-xlii-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4480\">AKG C414<\/a>, which is a naturally bright condenser mic. I&#8217;ve also used the classic <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-u87-ai-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5777\">Nuemann U87<\/a>, which suits it well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But sometimes you just have to experiment.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:26px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-661cbe0d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-f7955c71\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-6925b2e1\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6925b2e1\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"133\" height=\"134\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Sennheiser-MKH-416.gif\" alt=\"Best microphone for voiceovers: Sennheiser MKH 416\" class=\"wp-image-374\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:162px;height:162px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sennheiser MKH 416<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-fbc6a354\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fbc6a354\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Recently I tried using a shotgun mic (Sennheiser MKH 416) at close range. Even though this breaks all the rules, it was perfect for my voice. It captured the depth, while boosting the presence. There was no need for any extra EQ. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-155fdec8\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>This is also a great mic for excluding the sounds of the room you&#8217;re recording in.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c2d925d0\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Microphone for YouTube and podcasts<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>The speaking voice is one of the easier sound sources to capture without using a high end microphone.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it&#8217;s for zoom, a podcast or a YouTube vlog, a dynamic microphone like the Blue Yeti might be ideal. It&#8217;s a condenser microphone, which plugs directly into the computer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That means no need for a separate audio interface. You can switch between different polar patterns, and it even has an onboard headphone jack.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4fdbccb7\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-ASMR-microphone\"><strong>Best ASMR microphone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for an ASMR microphone, you&#8217;ll need two things \u2013 high sensitivity and a low noise floor. The same applies if you&#8217;re a sound designer and want to record the quietest sounds in detail.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-aaf7a113\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Microphone noise floor<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Every microphone has a certain amount of self generated noise. When you&#8217;re recording very quiet sounds, they have to be amplified to a level at which you can clearly hear them. But when you raise the volume, the noise of the mic also goes up. This is why its important to have a microphone with a low noise floor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Microphone sensitivity<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>The more sensitive the microphone, the more it can pick up the small details and quietest sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But don&#8217;t forget the background sound of the room. Distant sounds you might not even be aware of at the time, can find their way onto your recordings. The solution is to record in a very quiet room. Some ASMR artists only record at night for this reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A microphone sensitive enough for AMSR would be a large diaphragm condenser. Look for one with a low noise floor, like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/rode-nt1-a-review-condenser-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4289\">Rode NT1-A<\/a> or the Sennheiser MKH 416.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>ASMR camera microphone<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for something to plug straight into a camera, you&#8217;ll need to look at battery powered condenser mics.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-9e9af274\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-c279188e\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c279188e\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"165\" height=\"132\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Rode-NTG-VideoMic.gif\" alt=\"Best on camera ASMR mic: Rode NTG VideoMic\" class=\"wp-image-379\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:181px;height:147px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rode NTG VideoMic<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-1722bcb7\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1722bcb7\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Take a look at the Sennheiser MKE400 or the Rode NTG VideoMic.  Bear in mind that these mics rely on the camera preamps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The quality won&#8217;t be as good as if you were using the preamps in a dedicated audio interface.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-017bc325\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-acoustic-guitar\"><strong>Best microphone for acoustic guitar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The acoustic guitar, and classical guitar are relatively quiet instruments. They have a have a lot of subtle detail, much of it in the high frequency range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Stereo guitar recording<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re recording solo guitar, or have a featured guitar part, it&#8217;s worth making a stereo recording. It will widen the sound, and give it a &#8216;larger than life&#8217; depth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A couple of condensers will work best for this.  Use either 2 large diaphragms, 2 small diaphragm, or one of each.  A large diaphragm mic is good for capturing the body of the sound, whereas a small diaphragm captures the high frequency range.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-57f57339\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-32a2aae5\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-d0652991\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d0652991\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Shure-SM81.gif\" alt=\"Best microphone for acoustic guitar: Shure SM 81\" class=\"wp-image-375\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:141px;height:141px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shure SM 81<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-0c2b4c85\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0c2b4c85\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>For small diaphragm condenser mics, consider a pair of Shure SM 81&#8217;s or <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-km-184-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"6566\">Neumann KM 184<\/a>s. For large diaphragm condenser mics, I would use the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>s.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b332981a\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mono recording<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re adding guitar to a busy mix, its probably better to record in mono. It will eliminate any phase problems, and be easier to add to place in a mix. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a condenser mic for a delicate or subtle guitar part.  Or try a dynamic mic, like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM 57<\/a> for energetic and rhythmic playing.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7f2585bf\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-guitar-amp\"><strong>Best microphone for guitar amps<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When recording electric guitar, you can get a great sound by recording the guitar amp. Use a dynamic microphone to ensure a smooth top end. Or try a condenser if you need more brightness in the high end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever mic you use, moving it around will produce very different results. If your amp is open backed, you could even try miking from the back for a warmer sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re using an amp stack, try one mic set a few feet back, to capture what the audience hears. Alternatively, use a separate mic pointing at each speaker cone. This will give you the flexibility to blend the tone while mixing.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5a7bfa6e\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-8c46b322\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-ac172520\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ac172520\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"147\" height=\"167\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Sennheiser-e-609.gif\" alt=\"Best mic for guitar amps: Sennheiser e 609 Evolution\" class=\"wp-image-378\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:163px;height:188px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sennheiser e 609<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-755bce38\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-755bce38\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57<\/a> is a good dynamic mic for recording guitar amps. There&#8217;s also the Sennheiser e 609 Evolution, a dynamic microphone made specifically for recording amps. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8a3b7c49\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>If you want a brighter, more open sound, use a condenser microphone like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/rode-nt1-a-review-condenser-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4289\">Rode NT1-A<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;d like the dark sound of a ribbon microphone, try the Royer R-121. But remember, the low signal of a ribbon mic will need a suitable preamp. The Royer R-121 pairs well with the Vintech Audio 573.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-49f8f9b0\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-mics-for-recording-drums\"><strong>Best mics for recording drums<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s many ways to record a drum kit at home. The type of microphones you choose will depend on the miking technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s important that the room has a reasonable level of acoustic treatment. If that&#8217;s not possible, consider recording electronic drums instead. Or head down to a commercial studio, and bring back the audio files to work with at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Recording drums with one mic<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a minimal approach, often used for recording a jazz drum kit. There&#8217;s many places you could set up that mic, so it&#8217;s worth experimenting until you find a sound you like.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-01de8ef0\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-88ca2989\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-88ca2989\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"170\" height=\"226\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Coles-4038.gif\" alt=\"Mono drum recording: Coles 4038\" class=\"wp-image-382\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:134px;height:178px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Coles 4038<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-dfb7f325\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-dfb7f325\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Use a large diaphragm condenser microphone, such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>. Or for that authentic smooth jazz sound, you could also consider a Coles 4038.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4d59fe9d\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Some microphone placement ideas:<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b8181bea\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<ul>\n<li>Overhead, in front of, or behind the drum kit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Above the snare drum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Centred above the kit, pointing down<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Behind the drummer&#8217;s head<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You could also try a dynamic mic like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57<\/a> for a darker grittier sound. The best single mic for recording drums, in my opinion, would be the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b8c1f45b\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Recording drums with 2 mics<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>An advantage of using two mics to record drums is that you can make a stereo recording. You&#8217;ll be able to capture the natural sound of the drums as you hear them in the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a pair of large diaphragm condenser mics like the Rode NT1s, and try out different placements, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>One mic over the snare drum, the other on the other side of the kit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Once mic in front of the drum kit, the other next to the kick<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Both mics together, angled away from each other at 90 degrees, pointing towards the snare and kick<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s lots of room for experimentation here. You can also try a dynamic mic like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57<\/a>, or a ribbon mic like the Cole 4038 to create a really unique sound.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-eb592883\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Recording drums with 3 mics<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>With 3 microphones, you can make a stereo recording, while adding an extra dynamic mic for the kick or snare. Use a pair of large diaphragm condenser mics as the stereo pair, and a <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57<\/a> for the snare.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-ceb5c542\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-c8212295\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c8212295\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"144\" height=\"156\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/AKG-D112.gif\" alt=\"Kick drum mic: AKG D112\" class=\"wp-image-383\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:118px;height:128px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">AKG D112<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-7af735ee\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7af735ee\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>A great dynamic kick drum mic is the AKG D112, but a <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57 <\/a>would also work.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4a88dfbe\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Another technique is to have a large diaphragm condenser mic in front of the kit, or overhead. Then use two dynamic mics for emphasising both the snare and the kick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try out different combinations, and don&#8217;t be afraid to adjust your playing style to get the best results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Recording drums with 4 mics<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>This was a technique used by the Beatles in their early days, when they had only 4 tracks to record the drums on. Engineer Geoff Emerick, described using one mic for the snare, one for the kick, one for the hi hat, and one overhead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A variation on this would be two condenser mics as an overhead stereo pair, and two dynamic mics emphasising the snare and the kick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Recording pop and rock drums<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Most modern engineers like to use many different types of microphones for recording the drum kit. As well as a spot mic for each drum, there&#8217;s usually a pair of overheads which add some sound of the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This gives the engineer a lot of flexibility to refine the sound in the mix. But it also means a lot of extra work in both recording and mixing. The more mics you use, the more spill and phasing problems to deal with at the mixing stage<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s some of the mics typically used to record a full drum kit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Kick drum<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A dynamic microphone especially designed for low frequencies, such as the AKG D112 or the Sennheiser E602<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Snare drum<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A dynamic mic like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57<\/a>. You can also add a second mic to the underside of the snare to capture the buzz of the snare wires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Tom toms<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A hypercardioid dynamic mic, such as the Audix D2, one for each tom. This will minimise spill from the rest of the kit. Alternatively you could use one microphone with a wide cardioid pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hi hat<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A small diaphragm condenser, such as the AKG C451. This is perfect for capturing the high frequencies and transients of the hi-hats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Overhead and cymbal mics<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This should be a stereo pair of large diaphragm condensers like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/rode-nt1-a-review-condenser-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4289\">Rode NT1<\/a>&#8216;s or the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>s.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-168ad6d2\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-e2fbe12c\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e2fbe12c\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"184\" height=\"237\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Lauten-LA-120.gif\" alt=\"Cymbals and overheads: Lauten Audio LA-120\" class=\"wp-image-386\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:132px;height:170px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lauten Audio LA-120<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-e4783a0a\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e4783a0a\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Or for more detail on the higher frequencies, use a pair of small diaphragm condensers. Suitable mics are the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-km-184-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"6566\">Neumann KM 184<\/a>s or the Lauten Audio LA120s.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f9ce1732\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Remember, these are only my suggestions.  Use them as a starting point to find your own sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to save yourself the effort of trying out all these mics, you could opt for a microphone set. There&#8217;s a microphone pack from AKG, with some classic mics, specifically for recording a drum kit.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4fbd69bf\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-piano\"><strong>Best microphone for piano<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Pianos are notoriously hard to mic up. Much of that is down to the sheer volume and bass of such a large instrument. Room size and acoustics also play a large part in getting a good sound. There&#8217;s also unexpected squeaks and creaks from the pedals and the piano stool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think about recording with a good digital piano instead, or booking a commercial studio for solo piano recordings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I had a 1906 Steinway piano set up in my studio for many years, and got a great sound with a pair of <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/neumann-u87-ai-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5777\">Neumann U87<\/a>s. They&#8217;re top quality large diaphragm condenser mics with a choice of polar patterns. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-3b9f3b3a\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-7b38cbb1\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b38cbb1\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"167\" height=\"210\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/rode-nt55-pair.gif\" alt=\"Recording piano: Rode NT55 pair\" class=\"wp-image-390\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:133px;height:167px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rode NT55 pair<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-454de8ba\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-454de8ba\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>There&#8217;s other cheaper alternatives, like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>s, or more affordable still, the small diaphragm NT55&#8217;s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s also possible to use a pair of dynamic mics, such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm57-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5694\">Shure SM57s<\/a>, for close miking rock or pop recordings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-92c61447\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Dynamic microphones have limited sensitivity, but could work well for a small piano part within a mix.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-85abadf2\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-violin\"><strong>Best microphone for violin<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For a natural, full violin sound, the acoustics of the room play a large part. Violins sound best with the microphone placed a few feet away. Miking too close will pick up the little clicks and scratches that the audience doesn&#8217;t normally hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try a large diaphragm condenser microphone like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c414-xlii-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4480\">AKG C414<\/a>. If you&#8217;re in a great room or hall it can be an omnidirectional to capture the acoustics. But if you&#8217;re in a smaller recording space, it should be a cardioid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use the same mic for recording the viola and cello. As with violins, the sound of the room is as important as the microphone choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-saxophone\"><strong>Best microphone for saxophone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s lots of clip on options for recording saxophones which are designed primarily for recording in a live setting. But to capture the full depth of a saxophone requires a microphone set back a couple of feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A dynamic mic, such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/shure-sm58-review-vocal-mic\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3602\">Shure SM58<\/a> will do a good job recording the saxophone. But if you want to capture the full bright sound, use a large diaphragm condenser mic like the <a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/akg-c214-review\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5130\">AKG C214<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-86f864d3\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-0b4116e0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0b4116e0\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"134\" height=\"235\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/royer-r-121.gif\" alt=\"Best microphone for saxophone: Royer R-121\" class=\"wp-image-356\" style=\"object-fit:contain;width:88px;height:155px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Royer R-121<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-02fba8cb\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-02fba8cb\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>A ribbon microphone, like the Royer R-121 can sound beautiful on a saxophone. It captures the whole frequency range, and smoothes out any harshness.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perfect for that warm silky sound.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9d7ac8b1\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Ribbon mics were the choice of jazz artists long before there were any alternatives around.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4a334542\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Best-microphone-for-upright-bass\"><strong>Best microphone for upright bass<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a combination of 2 mics to get the best recording of an upright bass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first microphone should be a large diaphragm condenser mic like the Neumann U47 FET.  Aim it at the bridge, between the F holes. This will capture the lower frequencies and main body of the bass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a small diaphragm condenser mic higher up on the bass body. This is for capturing that higher frequency detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While mixing, you can adjust the signal of both mics until you get it sounding just right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7e3c3c2f\">\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><em>Education is the key to getting a pro sound.  I&#8217;ve made a guide to help you choose the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-online-music-production-courses\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/best-online-music-production-courses\/\">Best Online Music Production Courses<\/a><\/strong> available<\/em> <em>right now<\/em><\/h5>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-10bf4340\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d52ab48b\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-base-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-base-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Reviews-Editor-Paul-Narang\"><strong>Author: Daren B<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-10aa8ec3\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b1d4d836\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b1d4d836\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"729\" height=\"899\" src=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/belgrade-bandw.jpg\" alt=\"TV composer with home recording studio\" class=\"wp-image-659\" style=\"width:193px;height:238px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/belgrade-bandw.jpg 729w, https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/belgrade-bandw-243x300.jpg 243w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 729px) 100vw, 729px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-fc408449\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fc408449\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p>Daren studied classical piano and composition at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.trinitylaban.ac.uk\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.trinitylaban.ac.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Trinity College of Music<\/a>, at undergraduate and postgraduate level.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/darenbanarse.com\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/darenbanarse.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">His music<\/a> has been performed&nbsp;at the Southbank Centre, Tate Modern, and the Courtauld Institute, and broadcast on BBC Radio 3, Radio 4 and countless TV shows, including The Apprentice, Top Gear and Horizon.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Daren is a former lecturer on the BA Music Course at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gold.ac.uk\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.gold.ac.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Goldsmiths College<\/a>, University of London.  He currently works in London as a composer and psychotherapist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The 4 Different Types of Microphones for your Studio There&#8217;s many different types of microphones out there, and it can be daunting when you&#8217;re starting out. Every type of microphone has two characteristics. Jump to microphones for specific instruments Polar Patterns Imagine you were in your living room, trying to record a vocalist. There&#8217;s roadworks &#8230; <a title=\"different types of microphones\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/soundref.com\/different-types-of-microphones\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about different types of microphones\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3008"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3008"}],"version-history":[{"count":30,"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3008\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6665,"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3008\/revisions\/6665"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3008"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/soundref.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3008"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}