Dynamic vs Condenser Mic SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON [Acoustic Guitar]

What are dynamic and condenser microphones?

All microphones operate the same; they convert sound waves into voltage which is then sent to a preamp. However, the way in which this energy is converted is quite different. Dynamic microphones use electromagnetism, and condensers use variable capacitance.

Dynamic microphones (Shure SM-57)

Dynamic microphones turn sound waves into a voltage with the use of a magnet. They essentially work like speakers but in reverse. In a speaker, electricity vibrates the diaphragm, which creates the sound waves. Dynamic microphones on the other hand use sound waves that vibrate the diaphragm and create electricity. This electricity is then increased with the use of a transformer, and sent to the microphone’s output, creating sound.

Condenser microphones (Se2000)

Condenser microphones work on the principle of variable capacitance. In simple terms, they work as a battery. Sound waves vibrate the diaphragm with a magnetic plate that’s behind it. When this happens, it creates a boost of voltage which is sent through a phantom power supply (+48V) to increase it then sent to the output of your microphone. Without this phantom power supply, you’ll have little to no signal since the voltage won’t be boosted. Some condensers can also have a built-in high pass filter, built-in pads, and a switch to change the polar pattern.

PLEASE NOTE: NO EQ OR OTHER AUDIO IMPROVEMENTS WERE ADDED.

In your opinion, which one sounded better: dynamic or condenser microphone?


Thanks for watching my videos

Cesar.