Tutorials; Condenser Microphones; Microphone Types; Condenser - PRESONUS STUDIOLIVE 24.4.2 Owner's Manual

Owner's Manual

Tutorials

8.0

Microphone Types

8.1

8.1.1 Condenser

8.1.2 Dynamic

8.1.3 USB Microphones and Other Types

The StudioLive works with most types of microphones, including
dynamic, ribbon, and condenser microphones.
Condenser microphones generally capture sound with excellent fidelity and
are one of the most popular microphone choices for studio recording and,
increasingly, for live performance as well. Condenser microphones require
a power source, which can be provided by a small battery, an external
power supply, or phantom power, which is usually provided by a mixer,
preamplifier, or direct (DI) box. Phantom power is sent over the same mic
cable that carries the audio signal; the term derives from the fact that there
is no visible power cord, and the voltage is not perceptible in the audio path.
The StudioLive sends 48 VDC phantom power from the XLR inputs only.
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. Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic microphones
typically do not require a power source. In most cases, phantom power
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 condenser microphones.
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 capture sound with very high fidelity—especially higher
frequencies. However, they often are very fragile (many newer models
are less so) and typically cannot handle high sound-pressure levels.
Most ribbon microphones do not require phantom power. In fact, unless a
ribbon microphone specifically calls for phantom power, sending phantom
power to a ribbon microphone can severely damage it—usually beyond repair.
There are many microphone types available, and as technology increases, it is
very likely more will be developed. One type of microphone to emerge recently
is the USB microphone. These may be dynamic or condenser mics, but many of
them have built-in preamps and need drivers to work with computers. Because a
USB microphone is, in effect, an audio interface, we recommended that you not
use them with the StudioLive, as the likelihood of conflicting drivers is great.
If you are using a new or nonstandard type of microphone (e.g.,
Tutorials 8
Microphones 8.1
117