Condenser Microphones

What is a condenser microphone? 

Condenser microphones like the Imperative Audio Lucent Multi-Pattern Condenser Mic are perfect for recording vocals and a wide range of instruments in the studio. Each microphone brand and model offer unique characteristics and can be ideally suited to vocalists, voice-over artists, content creators, and instruments like woodwind, brass, acoustic guitars and overhead microphones for drum cymbals.  While condenser microphones have a faster output, they are also more sensitive to loud sounds. 

We stock a wide range of condenser microphones from brands including Neumann, Shure, RODE, Audio Technica and Imperative Audio. 

How does a condenser microphone work? 

The term ‘condenser’ refers to two components inside the microphone that together form a ‘capacitor’. These two components consist of a stationary back plate and a diaphragm comprised of two suspended lightweight metal plates which are highly sensitive and conductive. 

When sound waves encounter the diaphragm the sound pressure causes it to vibrate against the back plate. Consequently, this leads to fluctuations in voltage between the plates, which mimics the pattern of incoming sound waves and generates an electrical signal.  

As this signal on its own is not strong enough to produce an output an external power supply, commonly known as phantom power is then used to amplify the audio signal, capturing higher frequencies and providing an amplified sound. 

Do condenser microphones need phantom power? 

Phantom Power is commonly delivered by DC (Direct Current) power which is needed to drive the active circuitry inside the condenser microphone. Condenser microphones are usually powered by 48v Phantom Power which is delivered via an XLR cable connected to a stand-alone microphone preamp, mixer or audio interface which provides the DC power needed to activate a condenser microphone. 

What’s the difference between large and small diaphragm condenser mics? 

Condenser microphones are some of the most versatile microphones around. They often come with small diaphragms and large diaphragms which can be used for different applications. 

Large-diaphragm condenser microphones such as the RODE NT1 5th Generation Silver Studio Condenser Microphone typically have a diaphragm with a diameter of 1 inch (25.4mm) or greater are more commonly used for recording vocals and some acoustic instruments as they deliver a more colourful sound. They’re very sensitive and pick up a lot of low-end frequencies due to a less consistent pickup pattern.  

Small-diaphragm condenser microphones typically have a diaphragm with a diameter of half an inch (12.7mm) or less with an extended low and high frequency response, this means they are great for capturing higher high-end frequencies and lower low-end frequencies. They are also capable of handling more sound pressure (SPL) before distorting and peaking. Small diaphragm condensers tend to be applied to recording instruments, such as cymbals, percussion, acoustic guitar, woodwind and brass instruments and any other instrument that requires a great deal of detail to be captured by the microphone. 

Are Condenser Microphones Better Than Dynamic Microphones? 

Neither a Condenser Microphone nor a Dynamic Microphone are better than the other as it is all dependent on applications and situations. Condenser Microphones have a wider frequency response and dynamic range, so can pick up more in a quieter room, like the Warm Audio WA-14 Condenser Microphone, perfect for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. Whereas Dynamic Microphones are more proficient for live sound as they are robust and much less likely to be damaged by peaking from loud sounds.  

We’re here to help, so please contact us if you have any questions.