A dynamic microphone is often used in live situations. One of the best known dynamic microphones is the Shure SM58. The way a dynamic microphone works is kind of the same way as a dynamo works (that’s where the name comes from). Sound waves enter the microphone and move the membrane. A coil is connected to this membrane and as it moves over a magnet, a signal is created that is transported out of the microphone. This system is very durable and hard to break, which makes it outstanding for live situations.
1 – Sound waves | 2 – Membrane | 3 – Coil | 4 – Magnet | 5 – Signal
Source: Bax-Shop
Without going in too much detail, the pros of a dynamic microphone are that it is relatively affordable, very durable and hard to break.
One of the biggest cons is that as the coil is connected to the membrane, the membrane has to big quite thick and is therefore hard to move. This results in a smaller frequency range.
Condenser microphone (studio)
In a studio situation, a condenser microphone is the way to go. As with the dynamic microphone, the sound waves move the membrane. This is a much thinner membrane, which results in a broader range of frequency pick-up. The distance between the membrane and the backplate creates a certain voltage, translated in a microphone signal. As this voltage has to be actively induced, a battery or phantom power (+48v) is required.
1 – Sound waves | 2 – Membrane | 3 – Backplate | 4 – Battery | 5 – Resistor | 6 – Signal
Source: Bax-Shop
The biggest pro of a condenser microphone is the frequency pick-up range, which makes it excellent for studio recordings. The biggest cons of a condenser microphone are that it is more fragile than a dynamic microphone and it’s more expensive.
