Dynamic Microphone

Definition

A dynamic microphone is a type of microphone that uses a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire, placed within the magnetic field of a magnet, to convert sound waves into electrical signals. Known for their durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, dynamic microphones are commonly used in live sound situations and for recording loud sound sources. Their design makes them less sensitive to background noise, making them ideal for various audio applications, including interviews and voice-over work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dynamic microphones are particularly robust and can withstand rough handling, making them ideal for live performances.
2. They generally require no external power source, as they generate their own electrical signal through the movement of the diaphragm within the magnetic field.
3. Dynamic microphones have a limited frequency response compared to condenser microphones but excel at capturing high sound pressure levels without distortion.
4. They are less prone to feedback issues in live settings because they are usually designed with cardioid or supercardioid polar patterns.
5. Common applications for dynamic microphones include vocals, guitar amplifiers, drums, and public speaking events due to their reliability in high-volume scenarios.

Review Questions

• Compare the dynamic microphone with other types of microphones in terms of sensitivity and usage scenarios.
  • Dynamic microphones are less sensitive than condenser microphones, making them better suited for high-volume situations like live performances and loud instruments. In contrast, condenser microphones are preferred in studio settings where capturing subtle nuances is crucial. The durability of dynamic microphones allows them to handle rough environments without compromising performance, while condensers often require careful handling and may need external power sources. Overall, dynamic microphones shine in live applications while condensers excel in controlled recording environments.
• Evaluate the advantages of using dynamic microphones for voice-over recording compared to other microphone types.
  • Using dynamic microphones for voice-over recording has specific advantages like their ability to reject background noise due to their directional polar patterns. This feature minimizes the pickup of ambient sounds in less-than-ideal recording environments. Additionally, dynamic mics handle higher sound pressure levels well, reducing the risk of distortion when recording loud voices or exclamations. While condenser microphones might capture more detail, dynamic mics provide a more focused sound that can be beneficial when clarity and impact are paramount.
• Synthesize how the characteristics of dynamic microphones influence their placement techniques in various recording scenarios.
  • The characteristics of dynamic microphones dictate specific placement techniques based on their directionality and sound rejection capabilities. For instance, in live settings where feedback is a concern, placing the mic closer to the sound source and angling it away from monitors enhances clarity while reducing unwanted noise. In voice-over recording, positioning the mic at an optimal distance can help capture the full tone of the voice without introducing plosives or sibilance. Understanding these dynamics allows for more effective microphone placements across different scenarios, maximizing audio quality while addressing potential challenges.

Related terms

Condenser Microphone: A type of microphone that uses a diaphragm placed close to a backplate, forming a capacitor, which requires an external power source to operate. They are more sensitive and can capture a wider frequency range.

Frequency Response: The range of frequencies that a microphone can pick up effectively, often expressed as a range in Hertz (Hz). Different microphones have different frequency responses affecting how they capture sound.

Polar Pattern: The directional sensitivity of a microphone, indicating how well it picks up sound from different directions. Common polar patterns include cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional.