DYNAMIC vs CONDENSER MICROPHONES

Struggling to decide between a Dynamic or Condenser microphone for your next project?

​Capturing pristine audio requires the right tool for the job. Choosing between dynamic and condenser microphones can be tricky. This guide breaks down their key differences to help you select the perfect mic for your project, whether it's live sound, public address, studio recordings, or anything other pro/commercial sound system applications. 

*This guide illustrates general characteristics just as a reference which cannot be applied to models, so it is high recommended to check the datasheets and supplemental technical materials of each model for having accurate understanding.

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Construction

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Not all microphones are created equal. This section dives into the inner workings of microphones, exploring the key differences between dynamic and condenser microphone construction. Understanding how they capture sound will help you choose the right mic for your needs.

​Dynamic Microphone
Dynamic microphones use a moving coil of wire within a magnetic field. Sound waves vibrate the coil, generating an electrical current. It's essentially a miniature speaker working in reverse! This clever design is why some intercom systems can even use a single transducer for both speaking and listening, simply by flipping its function within the amplifier circuit.

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​Condenser Microphone
Condenser microphones use a thin diaphragm and a fixed plate charged with electricity. Sound waves vibrate the diaphragm, changing the capacitance between the plates, which creates an electrical signal.

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Differences in Key Features

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Now that we've explored their construction, let's delve into the practical differences between dynamic and condenser microphones. We'll compare factors like connectivity, durability, sensitivity, and frequency response to help you pick the perfect mic for any situation.

​Connectivity (Power Source)

• Dynamic microphones are directly connected to audio signal control equipment such as mixers, preamplifiers or DSP (digital signal processors) via microphone input.
• Condenser microphones are connected to microphone input of audio signal equipment where a phantom power can be supplied. If the device is not equipped with a phantom power supply function, an additional phantom power device is needed. 

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​Durability

• Dynamic microphones are known for their rugged construction. They can withstand rough handling, making them suitable for live performances, outdoor events, and recording in less controlled environments. If durability is a priority, dynamic mics are a solid choice.
• Condenser microphones are more susceptible to moisture and temperature changes or physical impacts due to their precision components. They require careful handling.

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Sensitivity
The sensitivity varies depending on the model, but there's a common trend to be aware of...;

• Dynamic microphones are are less sensitive because of their heavier diaphragms and coil systems. They can handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) without distortion.​
• Condenser microphones are highly sensitive due to their lightweight diaphragms. They excel at capturing subtle nuances and low-level sounds, while having lower maximum SPL causing distortion by loud sounds.

Want to delve deeper into "Microphone Sensitivity"? This article provides a comprehensive exploration.​​​

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Frequency Response

• Dynamic microphones often have a rolled-off frequency response. This means they might emphasize certain frequencies, typically the mids, where vocals and the core of instruments reside. Imagine a standard camera photo - it captures the main subject clearly but might not show finer details in the highlights or shadows.
• Condenser microphones generally have a flatter frequency response. This means they capture all the audible frequencies (bass, mids, highs) more evenly across the spectrum. It's like having a high-resolution image where you can see all the details clearly.​​​

Value	Connectivity (Power Source)	Durability	Sensitivity	Frequency Response
Dynamic Microphones	Direct connection to microphone input ​(No power supply)	More robust with their ​rugged construction	Less sensitive but they can handle high SPLs	Rolled-off frequency response (typically the mids, where vocals and the core of instruments reside)
Condenser ​Microphones	Direct connection to microphone input equipped with phantom power supply or to phantom power supply device ​(​Phantom power required)	More delicate and ​susceptible to moisture and temperature changes or physical impacts due to their precision components	Highly sensitive but they have lower SPL capacity causing distortion by loud sounds.	Flatter frequency response capturing all the audible frequencies (bass, mids, highs) more evenly across the spectrum.

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Suitable Applications

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Discover the ideal applications for dynamic and condenser microphones, tailored to leverage the unique strengths and characteristics of each type.

Dynamic Microphones
​- Live Performances
- Public Speaking
- Broadcast Journalism
- Miking Instruments
​- Paging announcements (Public Address)
- Intercom (as both a microphone and a speaker for two-way communication)

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Condenser Microphones
​- Studio Recordings
- Overheads and Room Miking
- Voiceovers and Podcasts
- Acoustic Instruments
​- Ambient sound recording and monitoring
- Conferencing (e.g. in-ceiling or table-mount boundary mics)

Ready to Dive Deeper into Microphone Sensitivity?

In order to select the right microphone, it is also important to understand the factor "microphone sensitivity".​
Check out this article for a more in-depth exploration of this important audio concept!