How to Choose A Condenser Microphone
There's an awful lot of options out there, so we’ve put together this guide to help you choose a condenser microphone! Whether you're completely new to the topic or you simply want to learn more, we've got you covered!
To the uninitiated, the world of microphones can be a confusing one. Condenser and dynamic microphones are the two main terms that you’ll hear when the topic of mics comes up, but what do they mean and what’s the difference? In this guide we’re going to run through the fundamentals of the first group, condenser mics, which are commonly used for studio recordings due to the additional sensitivity they bring, though they can be used live too of course!
To make everything as easy as possible for you, we’ve broken this guide down into 3 main sections: A quick guide on the key details, a section on the brands to look out for and a final in-depth section that goes into much more detail.
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Anderton's 5 Minute Guide to Condenser Mics
We’ve broken down everything you’ll need to know to help you pick a great condenser mic and packed it into a quick 5 minute read. We’ve included: what it is, what it does, and what you’re paying for. If you’re interested in finding out more, check out our in-depth final section.
What is a Condenser Mic?
Condenser mics have a more complex interior than a dynamic microphone and can capture more of the fine detail of an audio source. This is because the diaphragm of a condenser can follow sound waves more accurately than a dynamic mic. This additional sensitivity you get using a condenser means you’re able to pick up extra subtleties in your recordings, whether it’s a gentle acoustic guitar piece or an intimate vocal take. The better the mic, the more natural your recording will sound.
What difference does the Diaphragm/Capsule make?
To put it simply, a microphone capsule (which contains the diaphragm) is the part responsible for capturing the sound. This is the most important part of the microphone and generally speaking: the better the capsule, the better the microphone. The materials that are used to build this, including precious metals used for their conductivity, are of course a factor in the price of a microphone and worth considering.
Some microphones are tuned by hand and are tested extremely thoroughly, this ensures that the quality of the mic is very high, and the build quality is consistent across all products. This greater attention to detail helps to show off the finer points of what you’re recording, be it the nuances of vocals or the tone of a guitar.
How does a microphone’s build process affect the cost?
Some brands, especially those with a long history, manufacture their mics in much the same way as they always have, with some even still doing it partly by hand. This attention to detail means that the quality is often superb, though that extra time taken to build is represented in the price.
Other brands favour production on a more industrial scale which has its own benefits, such as consistency thanks to factory testing, much greater availability and generally a more affordable price.
The time spent tuning and testing the frequency response of a microphone - ensuring it responds as intended - can also be reflected in the cost of the product. Some brands test their products by hand to make sure that their mics perform consistently and reliably, others may use electronic testing methods.
Build and test conditions are worth bearing in mind for some people when deciding on a purchase, but don’t let it dictate your choice! You can find great products of all varieties from a wide range of brands who all do things slightly differently.
What other things should I watch out for?
A microphone’s polar pattern dictates where the microphone will pick up the sound from. Typically, all condenser microphones use a cardioid pattern, which is suitable for most situations when recording. Some microphones will offer a different pattern, or even various patterns, which gives you more options and greater flexibility when recording but does come at an increased cost.
You can often find pads built in, which lowers the sensitivity of the microphone which can be useful for dampening a loud singer or guitar amp, for example. Some mics also include a roll off, this removes unwanted low-end frequencies before recording, helping to remove room noise and making it easier to mix!
Essential microphone accessories often include mic cradles which stop sounds such as stomps from the floor being picked up, resulting in less unwanted low frequency rumble in your music which means a cleaner recording. A pop filter is also crucial in cutting back plosive pops from your recordings. Often microphones will include at least one of these when you buy them, but it’s certainly worth looking out for as spending the extra on these can do a lot for the quality of your recording!
This is just a quick overview of condenser mics and the key points you should bear in mind, but if you want more then check out the complete guide below for more details on everything discussed in this section and more!
The Best Condenser Mic Brands on The Market
Now more than ever, there are a load of microphones to choose from, each with something different to offer.
There are of course heritage brands that continue to produce microphones made to the same standards that they have been built to for decades, like Neumann and AKG who have been building mics for over 70 years! Some brands like Austrian Audio combine the best of both worlds with classic microphone manufacturing techniques while implementing modern features like app control.
There are also brands that have taken advantage of modern production techniques meaning their products are more accessible than ever! Even though they haven’t been around for as long, companies like Behringer, Rode, Aston and sE Electronic have had to compete against the long established brands and still found great success. These brands have had to show determination to keep their standards high and maintain quality against the well-established competition.
Some microphone characteristics are inherent to certain brands and people will always be drawn to them for this reason. Whether it’s the tonality or attention to detail, there are multiple reasons people love certain brands and mics and because of these modern technological advancements, some companies such as Warm Audio have even been able to bring classics back to life and back into the 21st century!
Some brands like Townsend Labs even utilise digital technology to fit the best of both worlds into one microphone through modelling, which we will discuss in more detail below!
AKG
AKG was founded in 1947 in Vienna and within months, the first AKG microphones were being used in radio stations, theatres, and Jazz-Clubs. Then, in the early fifties AKG made a breakthrough with several new products, including the world’s first high quality condenser microphone. To this day, AKG continue as a world-famous name for high-quality microphones within the pro audio world.
Aston
Founded in 2015, Aston are a UK-based microphone manufacturer. Their mics have become modern classics and are the choice of countless high-end studios and A-list artists, while remaining affordable for the home-based musician and producer.
Austrian Audio
Austrian Audio opened its doors in 2017 following the closure of the AKG factory and engineering facility in Vienna and set out to create something new and respectful to its heritage. The new company started with a core team of previous AKG designers and engineers and today they produce several critically acclaimed headphones and microphones, such as the revolutionary multi-pattern, dual-output, large-diaphragm condenser microphone: the OC818.
Behringer
Behringer believe in producing life-changing products at a price point that gives anyone the ability to fulfil their musical dreams. Founded in 1989, as a fledgling musician and sound engineer, Uli Behringer couldn’t afford the necessary equipment for his own studio. Initially building products just for himself, he soon began supplying them for his friends, too. Thus, Behringer was born, along with its philosophy to continue to produce products at prices that everyone can afford.
Lewitt
Formed in 2010, Lewitt assembled a team of audio experts and a decade later, they stand as one of the world’s fastest-growing microphone brands. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, Lewitt distinguish themselves from the competition by focusing on the user and their workflow and manage to develop high-end products without technical limitations.
Neumann
Neumann are a staple in the world of high-end microphones. Founded in 1928, many products introduced in the history of the company have become milestones of professional audio technology. Although Neumann microphones certainly are not cheap, professionals know that they are worth the cost from the amazing results they produce and are often a mainstay in many studios.
RØDE
With 50 years of experience behind them, RØDE is an Australian-owned and operated company with a passion for innovation and a dedicated commitment to making incredible audio accessible to everyone. From the start, they’ve been revolutionising everything from home studio recording to podcasting with iconic products that continue to have an impact.
sE electronics
As a brand on the rise, sE condensers have been seen in the hands of artists and engineers such as Amy Lee (Evanescence), Andy Meyer (FOH - Justin Timberlake), Devin Townsend, and many other industry legends. If you're looking for the perfect first microphone or even expanding an already extensive mic locker, sE have a wide selection to choose from!
Sontronics
Launching in 2005, the Sontronics name has become a global reference for class-leading microphones featuring a signature smooth high-frequency response. With a reputation for exceptional value for money and outstanding customer support, along with the added benefit of a lifetime warranty, Sontronics are a great option for taking your recordings to the next level!
What Are Some of the Most Common Polar Patterns?
Cardioid Polar Pattern
This is the most used polar pattern and is most sensitive to sound coming from 0° (Directly into the mic) and is least sensitive at 180° (the opposite direction to the way the mic is facing). This means you can’t really go wrong using this for most recording applications. You’ll easily record a clean, dry signal as the cardioid pattern rejects a lot of background noise.
Omni Polar Pattern
The omni (Omnidirectional) pattern has the same sensitivity to sound coming from any direction. This polar pattern has no proximity effect and a natural bass response. It is also the least sensitive to handling or wind noise. Some consideration should be made when using this pattern. It can be perfect for certain applications where you want to capture everything going on, but in most live situations feedback can be an issue.
Figure of 8 Polar Pattern
The Figure-of-8 pattern has its highest sensitivity at 0° and 180° (front and back of the mic) and is least sensitive at 90° and 270° (to the left and right of the mic). This means it’s a great choice for various recording situations, such as a live duo vocal performance with a singer on either side of the mic. It’s also great if you need to reject sound coming from either side (90° or 270°) of a certain source.
What is 48 Volts Phantom Power?
Condenser mics are active, meaning they require power to function. Most audio interfaces will have a ‘48v’ switch somewhere near the audio inputs, which will send 48 Volts of phantom power to whatever is plugged in so that it’s powered up and ready to go.
Other Features for Microphones
Pads
A mic pad is a passive switch that reduces the mic signal strength. Active mics, such as condensers, often have built-in pads which reduce the capsule load so that the microphone to record louder sound sources without being overloaded. Other pads may just reduce the mic's overall output.
Roll-off Switch
Some microphones feature a roll-off switch, which looks a bit like a broken line. This is a high-pass filter which reduces the volume of low frequencies picked up by the mic. This can be very useful if you're getting a lot of unwanted muddy, low-end frequencies in your recording.
Pop Shield/Filter
A pop shield or pop filter is a screen that serves as a protection for microphones. It’s the shield that helps lessen or eliminate the popping sounds made when air moves at a fast speed through the microphone from plosives during recorded speech and singing. It can also keep saliva off the microphone.
Shockmount/Cradle
A shockmount is used to mount your mic onto a stand or boom arm. It’s built in such a way that the microphone is protected from contact while using any suspensions. Contact with a microphone creates a low-frequency rumble which is best to avoid. It’s a great safety net for making sure nothing knocks your mic and making sure your mic doesn't pic up rumbles from the ground, which could spoil your perfect take.
Manufacturing Process
Certain brands of microphones are known for having distinct sounds and different ranges of mics will give a different tone or character to your recording, meaning your choice of microphone will leave its own subtle mark on the track.
Different manufacturers produce their microphones in different ways. Some brands design and produce everything themselves in-house, while others may outsource parts of the process. Some brands such as Behringer produce their mics on an industrial level, this benefits users as it means costs are kept down and products are often readily available. Other brands such as Austrian Audio are known for building theirs by hand, which can often result in a high level of attention to detail and a product that is built with precision and accuracy. These factors can often play a part in the quality and character of a microphone meaning you may find you prefer the result of one method over another.
Why Do Some Microphones Have Their Own Sound?
Like all audio electronics, tone and character is all about components used and the design of a product. Each brand will have their own unique methods of construction and manufacture, meaning their mic isn’t going to be identical to the next brand’s mic and so they’ll likely have some `differences. Try out a few different microphones for the same recording situation to see which one suits you!
What Does Microphone Modelling Mean?
Most mics are one-trick ponies, giving you a very particular tone or character. Different mics are favoured or considered better than others for specific recording purposes, a modelling microphone however is designed to emulate many different microphones. This means you’re able to choose virtually which mic style you want for your recording from the comfort of your DAW, without having to switch any microphones physically. This can open a lot of avenues for experimentation and exploration of sounds.
What Is The Difference In Diaphragm Size?
Large diaphragms are usually 1 inch or above in diameter, whereas small diaphragms are generally under ¼-inch. This is a general rule however, there are examples of mics with diaphragms under 1-inch which behave like a large diaphragm condenser.
What is SPL and Why Does it Matter?
SPL stands for sound pressure level. A microphone’s ‘max SPL’ level refers to how much sound pressure level it can take without distorting. To make sure you’re getting a clean, crisp recording, you want to make sure your microphone can handle the volume it’s receiving without distorting. Many older condenser mics were limited in terms of SPL handling, but many new models can handle enormous levels!
Tube or Solid State?
Solid state technology makes use of diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits. Solid state technology is generally less expensive and less fragile than its tube counterpart and has its own strengths such as live usage.
Some mics use valves (or tubes) as part of their internal circuitry, like in tube guitar amps. Valve mics are generally used for recording voice and instruments in a studio setting and many users favour them due to their unique and distinctive sonic characteristics.
Valves affect tonality and headroom; however, they can be susceptible to distortion. Each valve will behave differently and sometimes this extra grit can add colour and character to a recording. As is often the case, it’s about finding the settings and tone that suits what you’re doing so don’t be afraid to try things out! Valve mics are generally a bit more complex internally than other mics and so they can often be more expensive than their solid-state counterparts.
XLR & USB
The two main ways to connect a microphone are via USB or XLR connections. You’ll often hear things like ‘XLR mics are more professional’ but the reality is both are used in a variety of pro setups. Almost every device in a studio or stage can connect via XLR and the 3-pin XLR cable is the most common variant. It’s an analogue connector, which means you’ll need to connect to an audio interface before entering the digital world. XLR connections are standard across a wide range of pro audio gear meaning compatibility across all your equipment, which is always useful.
On the other hand, the main advantage of a USB microphone is its ease of use. They have an integrated analogue-to-digital converter meaning you don’t need an audio interface and can plug straight into your device. They’re a great option for online communication and other plug-in-and-play scenarios.
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