Microphones

Microphones, obviously enough, have to pick up your sounds as accurately as possible, and from the right directions. To do this well in all situations is impossible, so there are different types of mic, which excel at the various tasks they are asked to perform.

The most 'hifi' of the mic types is the condenser mic, used mostly for recording. These mics are powered from the mic preamp, and have delicate capsules, with low-mass diaphragms, to pick up audio. They are divided into two types - the large diaphragm, which offer a more flattering sound -- plus the ability to alter their pickup-patterns and the small diaphragm type, which generally give a more accurate sound. Though these 'rules' are not hard and fast, by the way.

The other main type of mic is the the dynamic mic, mostly used on stage for live purposes. Dynamic mics are more rugged, and have a tighter pickup pattern, to reduce feedback from stage monitors and the sound system. They also suit the close micing of drums and other noisy things on stage. Dynamics do not offer such a good frequency-range as condensers, so they don't pick up much low bass, or the very highest frequencies.

Ribbon Mics are a type of dynamic mic, but as their diaphragms are very light, as in the condenser mics, they respond in a similar way to a condenser, with a very smooth treble. They are rather fragile, too, so are quite a rare beast.

Of course, mics of the 'wrong' sort can be used in artful combinations to achieve the best result - but you get the general idea . . .