Dynamic Microphone

Definition

A dynamic microphone is a type of microphone that uses a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire placed within a magnetic field to convert sound waves into electrical signals. This design makes dynamic microphones highly durable and suitable for high sound pressure levels, making them popular for live performances and recording loud sources like drums and guitar amplifiers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dynamic microphones are generally more robust and can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making them ideal for live sound applications.
2. They do not require an external power source, which simplifies their use in various settings compared to condenser microphones.
3. Dynamic microphones typically have a limited frequency response, making them less suitable for capturing the subtle nuances of certain instruments and vocals.
4. Commonly used dynamic microphones include the Shure SM58 for vocals and the Shure SM57 for instruments.
5. The construction of dynamic microphones allows them to perform well in high-noise environments, as they tend to reject off-axis sounds better than other types.

Review Questions

• How does the construction of a dynamic microphone affect its performance in live sound situations?
  • The construction of a dynamic microphone, which includes a diaphragm attached to a coil within a magnetic field, contributes to its durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. This makes dynamic microphones particularly effective in live sound situations where loud instruments or vocal performances are present. Their robust design minimizes distortion, allowing them to accurately capture sound without being overwhelmed by volume.
• In what ways does the polar pattern of a dynamic microphone influence its use in recording environments?
  • The polar pattern of a dynamic microphone plays a crucial role in determining how it picks up sound from different directions. For example, cardioid dynamic microphones are designed to capture sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This directional characteristic makes them ideal for recording vocals in noisy environments or isolating specific instruments during multi-track recordings.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using dynamic microphones compared to condenser microphones in studio recordings.
  • Dynamic microphones offer several advantages over condenser microphones in studio recordings, including durability, no need for external power, and better handling of high sound pressure levels. However, they typically have a limited frequency response and may not capture the full detail of nuanced performances as well as condensers do. When evaluating which type to use, one must consider the specific needs of the recording session, such as the loudness of instruments and desired tonal characteristics.

Related terms

Condenser Microphone: A condenser microphone uses a diaphragm placed close to a backplate to create capacitance that changes with sound waves, often resulting in a more sensitive and accurate sound capture compared to dynamic microphones.

Frequency Response: Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can capture effectively, influencing its tonal characteristics and suitability for different sound sources.

Polar Pattern: The polar pattern describes how sensitive a microphone is to sound from different directions, with common types being cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional.