Microphones; Condenser; Dynamic - PRESONUS AUDIOBOX USB - V 2.0 User Manual

GETTING STARTED

2.4 MICROPHONES

The AudioBox USB works with many microphones including dynamic, ribbon and condenser
microphones.

2.4.1 Condenser

Condenser microphones tend to generate a high quality audio signal and are one of the most
popular mic choices for today's studio recording applications.
technology, condenser microphones require a power source, which can be provided from a
small battery, external power supply or from microphone inputs as phantom power. The
AudioBox USB sends phantom power over XLR inputs only.

2.4.2 Dynamic

Dynamic microphones are possibly the most widely used microphone type – especially in live
shows. They are relatively inexpensive, resistant to physical damage and typically handle
high sound pressure levels (SPL) very well.
microphones do not require a power source and, in most cases, has no effect on a dynamic
microphone's audio quality or sensitivity.
Dynamic microphones, especially ribbon microphones, tend to generate low output voltages,
so they typically need more preamp gain than a condenser microphone.
Ribbon
Ribbon microphones are a special type of dynamic microphone and get their name from the
thin metal ribbon used in their design. Ribbon microphones have very high quality sound
reproduction qualities – especially higher frequencies sounds. However, they are very fragile
and typically cannot handle high SPL's.
The most important thing to note about Ribbon microphones is that nearly all Ribbon
Microphones do NOT require phantom power.
specifically calls for phantom power, sending phantom power to a ribbon microphone will
destroy it – usually beyond repair.
Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic
In fact, unless a Ribbon microphone
21 | PreSonus 2008
Because of their design