Microphones; Condenser; Dynamic - PRESONUS AudioBox USB User Manual

HARDWARE OVERVIEW

2.3 MICROPHONES

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

2.3.1 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
USB sends phantom power over XLR inputs only.

2.3.2 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. Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic 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
Microphones do NOT require phantom power.
calls for phantom power, sending phantom power to a ribbon microphone will destroy it – usually
beyond repair.
In fact, unless a Ribbon microphone specifically
14 | PreSonus 2008
Because of their design
phantom power.
The AudioBox
Ribbon