Different Types of Microphones - Everything You Need to Know

The Different Types Of Mics And Their Uses

We walk you through the different types of microphones and their common uses. Learn everything you need to get the right mics for your setup.

Different microphone types capture sound in specific ways. Some types are meant for specific instruments, vocal timbres, and other sound sources. Some mics have good noise rejection and directionality for live performance, while others are designed to capture sonic nuances that are needed in Recording Music.

This article will help you understand what the different types of mics are. And how each one is used on stage, in recording music, and in music production.

You'll also learn about the features and specifications of different microphone types. And know how to use them to your advantage. But first, let's answer the most basic question.

What are Microphones and How do they Work?

Microphones capture air pressure changes via a diaphragm, a tiny piece of material that vibrates in response to sound waves. These vibrations are then converted into electrical signals that correspond to the sound waves. These sound waves can then be amplified, recorded, and processed.

These components can be tweaked to capture specific types of sound sources. The variations result in the varying responses and characteristics of the different microphone types.

The Three Main Types of Microphones used in Music

The biggest distinction between microphone types is the transducers they use.

There's no one-size-fits all microphone type. Certain types of mics work better depending on the sound sources being captured. Ambient sound is also a factor in selection. Choosing the right microphone type for different situations will give you better results.

There are three main types of microphones based on transducers:

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic MicIf you're looking for something reliable and versatile, then start with dynamic mics.

Dynamic mics capture sound at high sound pressure levels. This is because of their moving coil magnetic diaphragm design.

You can use dynamic microphones on loud sound sources like bass and guitar amplifiers. Even drum kits can be captured without worrying about unwanted distortion or damage. With the right amount of gain, dynamic mics also work well in quieter settings. Compared to a condenser microphone, they are also great at recording vocals that are more on the aggressive side.

Click here to see which Dynamic Microphones we recommend.

Condenser Microphones

Condenser MicCondenser mics have a thin conductive diaphragm that sits close to a metal backplate. This configuration works like a capacitor wherein sound pressure vibrates the diaphragm. This changes the capacitance to convert sound waves into an electrical signal.

Condenser microphones use capacitance instead of moving coils. This way of capture increases fidelity and sound quality. This makes condenser mics ideal for a home studio setup.

Note that this method of sound capture requires power. so you'll need a mixer or direct box with phantom power (except in cases where batteries are used). Whatever instrument you are trying to record, condenser mics will get the job done so long as the sound pressure levels aren't too high. Remember to handle them with care as they are not as sturdy as dynamic mics.

Click here to see which Condenser Microphones we recommend.

Ribbon Microphones

Ribbon MicRibbon Microphones were very popular in the radio industry. The light metal element used in ribbon microphones allows them to pick up both the velocity and displacement of the air. This allows for improved sensitivity to higher frequencies without harshness. Ribbon mics sound detailed despite the warmer sound signature.

Like dynamic microphones, they don't require phantom power. There are active ribbon microphones in the market that do need phantom power like condenser microphones. Do check if it's an active ribbon microphone before turning on the +48v on your interface or preamp.

Modern production ribbon mics are now sturdier than their old counterparts. They're viable for live multi-instrument recording on venues where noise level is manageable. You can also use ribbon microphones for recording if you're looking for vintage vibe. Combining ribbon microphones with dynamic or condenser mics opens new tonal possibilities.

We recommend the Royer R-121 Ribbon Microphone.

Microphone Polar Patterns

Polar Patterns describe how microphones pick up sound waves. They show which direction mics 'listen' and which positions have less sensitivity. Having a good grasp of polar patterns will help you select the right mics in different situations. Knowing the directionality of mics will help you minimize unwanted noise and bleed.

Cardioid Microphones

Cardioid polar patternWhat is a cardioid microphone? The Cardioid pattern (also called unidirectional) captures everything in front of the capsule. It is less sensitive from other angles. This front-focused pattern lets you isolate the sound source from unwanted ambient sound. It is ideal for situations where you need noise reduction and feedback suppression.

Dynamic microphones like the Shure SM57 are known for their cardioid pattern.

Cardioid mics are the most popular type of microphone polar pattern. They are used in live performances, from karaoke to big arena concerts. Other common uses include miking loud instruments like drum kits and guitar speakers. Note that these types of mics add subtle sound coloration when the source is off axis. This is why mic position when speaking and singing is very important.

Super/Hyper Cardioid Microphones

Supercardioid polar pattern Hypercardioid polar pattern These mics have the same front directionality but have a narrower area of sensitivity compared to cardioids. This results in improved isolation and higher resistance to feedback.

These mics have the same front directionality but have a narrower area of sensitivity compared to cardioids. This results in improved isolation and higher resistance to feedback.

Because of their enhanced ability to reject noise, they are ideal for loud sound sources. They are also good for noisy stage environments and untreated recording rooms. Mic directionality and improved noise rejection are its main advantages over cardioid mics.

On the flip side, back rejection is a bit compromised. You will have to position unwanted sounds like Stage Monitors and drum kits on the dead spot sides.

Omnidirectional Microphones

Omnidirectional polar patternThese are microphones that capture sound waves from all angles. Because of their non-directional design and zero rejection, these mics capture nuances better. And since it captures everything, it produces a more natural sound.

Condenser microphones with this pattern are used in studios and other venues (like old churches) with great acoustics. It can also be used for live recording of multiple instruments, as long as the noise level is low.

The obvious downside is that they lack background noise rejection. And this is the key consideration when you're choosing between cardioid vs omnidirectional mics. They are also prone to monitor feedback, unsuitable for loud and noisy venues.

Figure-8 Microphones

Figure-8 polar pattern This polar pattern follows the "figure 8" shape. This means that it captures the sound of both the front and back while rejecting the two sides. Front and back sensitivity are ideal for stereo recording. They are also great for capturing two or more pre-positioned instruments.

Figure-8 microphones are similar to omnidirectional mics, but with sound rejection on two sides. This polar pattern is used on ribbon mics and some large diaphragm condenser microphones.

Shotgun Microphones

Figure-8 polar pattern Shotgun mics, also called Line and Gradient, has a tube like "gun-barrel" design. This makes their polar pattern even more directional than hyper cardioids. The capsule is at the end of an interference tube, which eliminates sound from the sides via phase cancellation.
This results in a tighter polar pattern up front with longer pickup range.

Shotgun mics are commonly used for film and theatre. They also make great overhead mics for capturing things like singing groups, choirs, and drum cymbals.

Switchable/Multi-Pattern Microphones

These are microphones that can change between different polar patterns. This allows for more positioning options.

Many of today's USB condenser microphones have this feature. They let you switch between patterns by simply flicking a switch. Others provide the same flexibility by changing the mic head.

The advantage that these mics offer is obvious, more positioning possibilities and versatile usage. The downside is that there are more parts that can breakdown. Just remember to be careful when handling these mics.

Diaphragm Sizes

Microphones pick up sounds through their diaphragm, a thin material that vibrates when it comes into contact with sound. This vibration converts sonic energy into electrical energy.

Diaphragm size affects the microphone's performance. It impacts sound pressure level handling, sensitivity, dynamic range, and internal noise level.

There are three main classifications for mic diaphragms, based on the diaphragm's mass.

Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Small Diaphragm Microphone
Small diaphragm condenser microphones are commonly called pencil mics because of their thin cylindrical shapes. Their compact design makes them lighter and easier to position.

Interestingly, they are designed to be stiffer, handle higher sound pressure levels, and have wider dynamic range. Small diaphragm condensers in particular are great for acoustic guitars. Other uses of small diaphragm mics include miking hi-hats, cymbals, and other instruments. Known limitations of small diaphragm mics are increased internal noise, and low sensitivity.

Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Large Diaphragm MicrophoneThe bigger the diaphragm, the more it can sense air vibrations. More vibrations captured, means more of the sonic details are faithfully reproduced.

Unlike small diaphragms that are stiff, large diaphragms move easily. This allows them to detect even faint differences in sound pressure levels. The result is a more transparent and natural sound.

This affinity to High Fidelity has made large diaphragm mics a staple in recording studios. They are the most common configuration used on modern USB mics.

You can use them to record just about anything, from vocals to guitars and other instruments. Just make sure that you keep the volume in check because they can distort when sound pressure level is too high. Most mics used with USB and iPad Audio Interfaces are large diaphragm condenser mics.

Medium Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Medium Diaphragm MicrophoneMedium Diaphragm mics are sometimes called hybrid because they combine the characteristics of small and large diaphragms.

Medium Diaphragm mics combine the characteristics of small and large diaphragms. As such they are often considered hybrids.

They tend to have a fuller and warm sound similar to large diaphragms. But they can also retain some of the high frequency content that small diaphragms could.

These are modern microphones that are gaining reputation in both live and recording situations. You can skip these mics if you already have large and small diaphragm mics to work with.

How are Microphones Used in Music

Here we look at the main purpose each kind of microphone is typically used for. This is a good guide to get you started and once you gain experience with each mic type you'll find additional applications that work for you.

Vocal Mics

Mic for VocalsFor live vocal performances, stage volume can get loud, making feedback suppression important. This is why the best microphone for vocals is a cardioid mic. See our guide to the best mic for singing live.

Recording vocals on the other hand is a different undertaking. It requires more attention to the singer's nuances, and post production processing like a Deesser. As such, the best mic to record singers would be a large diaphragm condenser microphone. If you are going for a more vintage sounding vocal recording, use ribbon mics or go for good old dynamic microphones instead.

Small diaphragm omnidirectional mics and shotgun mics can be used for capturing choirs and singing groups. They are especially useful when choirs perform in venues with great acoustics, like churches.

There are plenty to consider when it comes to vocal mics, including Dynamic vs Condenser Mic options.

Here are our vocal mic recommended lists:

Drum Mics

Mic kit for DrumsBecause acoustic drum kits are naturally loud and punchy, you'll want to go with dynamic microphones for the snare, bass, and toms. Small diaphragm microphones can then be used to capture the nuances of the hi-hat, ride, and cymbals.

There are specialized mics that are fine-tuned to handle the different frequencies and SPLs of each part of a drum kit. You can either get them one by one or go for convenient drum kit mic bundles. In the studio, you can set up an omni or ribbon mic to blend some ambiance into your drum tracks.

Here are the mics we recommend for drums:

Electric Guitar Amplifier Mics

Mic for Electric Guitar AmpsClose miked guitar amplifiers are as loud, sometimes louder than drum kits. They require mics that can handle high SPL. Your best bet is a cardioid or hyper cardioid dynamic mic that is well positioned in front of the amp speaker.

It is worth noting that mic placement substantially changes the resulting sound. You can experiment with different positions until you find what you like. Or you can go with tried and tested positions that have worked for many live performances and recordings.

These dynamic mics are great for recording guitar amps.

Acoustic Guitar Mics

Mic for Acoustic Guitar Unamplified acoustic guitars have a softer sound with immersive nuances. These types of instruments need the fidelity and quality of large diaphragm condenser mics.

You can also go for a well-placed Cardioid condenser mic or Figure-8 pattern ribbon microphone. This will depend on the situation and ambient noise level. Setting up an extra small diaphragm mic will work wonders in capturing the higher frequencies of an acoustic guitar. Keep in mind that good guitar micing is a skill well worth developing.

See which mics we recommend for Acoustic Guitars.

Microphone Gear Guides

These guides explain what you need to consider when buying microphones and show you the mics with the highest Gearank scores:

Microphone Summary

We've talked about the main types of microphones you'll use in various situations, however as you gain experience you'll also learn how to break with convention. If there's anything more you would like to know about microphones then please feel free to ask in the comments below.

Comments

What is the best sort of

What is the best sort of microphone for using for internet chats via messengeer

Hello, Thank you for the

Hello, Thank you for the great article. I am looking to mic an area in an outdoors horse arena. My goal is to be able to have a rider in a good size area (200+ sf) be able to be picked up (speaking/projecting their voice)when they are in that area. I am thinking shotgun but not sure if they cast too narrow an area. It would need to be fairly weather proof and hopefully wireless. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Matthew,

Hi Matthew,

A mid to long shotgun mic would be appropriate for your situation. If you want more directionality, go with the longer one. If you want more environment, get a mid length mic. I recommend the Audio Technica AT8035

-Raphael

I'm looking for a microphone

I'm looking for a microphone/array that will block out noise by the distance from the source. In other words I only want to hear sound that originated under 3 meters from me.

Hi Eitan,

Hi Eitan,

We don't have a guide for this mic type but I think what you're looking for would be a shotgun microphone. They are commonly used in filmmaking to capture a specific sound source in a narrow area.

Here is an instructional video from Shure about Shotgun Mics: How Shotgun Microphones Work

-Raphael

I would like to know what

I would like to know what kind of microphone is suitable for machine-monitoring in a noisy factory?(Strange sound might be made during machine operating incorrectly)

In "Pumped Up Kicks", the

In "Pumped Up Kicks", the singer's voice is sort of distorted throughout the entire song as if it's coming out of a radio, and in the music video, you can see the microphone he is using. I would like to know the name of the microphone/technique being used here. I think it is the same one used in the first part of BTS Jung Kook's "Still With You" before his voice sounds like the normal studio voice. I have hear something about this being a talkbox effect? I don't really know

Hi Ema,

Hi Ema,

I wouldn't base the kind of mic a singer is using on a music video. All I can say is that the voice has been processed in post with plugins or analog gear to have that effect. It's more of a clever application of high cut and low cut with some saturation during the mix.

-Raphael

I'm a journalist which

I'm a journalist which microphone is the best for my work?

Hi Hauwau Allyu,

Hi Hauwau Allyu,

For journalism, a shotgun mic picks up more of your voice and rejects sound that isn't directly in front of it. Live news field reporters use shotgun mics to focus on their voice especially in loud environments.

-Raphael

Which mic will be best for

Which mic will be best for recording vocal and guitar at the same time? Which mic can capture vocal and guitar together with same intensity?

Hello Partha Jana,

Hello Partha Jana,

Condenser mics would be your top pick. As for capturing guitar and vocals together, mic position plays a crucial role as to what you capture.

-Raphael

Thanks for the article!

Thanks for the article!

In an exhibition setting, I want to have the sound of people stepping on a plastic carpet louder. Considering that most of the mics are noise cancellation, I want the exact opposite effect. Which type of microphone could I use?

Thank you!

Hi Sofia,

Hi Sofia,

One type of mic you can try is something called a "boundary mic". It's a floor positioned mic that picks up sound by reflections. I've never tried a boundary mic on carpet but on a flat surface, the proximity of the footsteps becomes more apparent and you can blend that in with another mic placed elsewhere.

-Raphael

i used to lve american made .

I used to love american made .. but there is not any made in usa ... so i changed to made in germany

Hi if I may know. Where does

Hi if I may know, where does boom mic lie and how many types of boom mics do we have?

Don't quote me but I believe

Don't quote me but I believe a boom would be in the shotgun mic category given it's shape and use.

Could you please include all

Could you please include all the different microphones that go with their ideal pick-up pattern?

We publish many microphone

We publish many microphone guides which are based on features such as price, diaphragm size, diaphragm type (dynamic, condenser etc.) and type of connection (USB or XLR), however we haven't had any previous requests to base one on polar patterns (pickup patterns).

Please elaborate on why you want us to make a list based on polar pattern types and we'll consider the request.

I would like to record

I would like to record harmonica against karaoke or backing track. (That will go go a sound card). Output will go to another input of soundcard.Which mic would you recommend?

I am looking for a whole room

I am looking for a whole room mic to to connect to my I phone7 to live stream a church service.

I have a home made studio for

I have a home made studio for recording known as The Legend Gospel studio, I need wireless microphones that I can use for best results of my works.

Hi Maurice!

Hi Maurice!

You've come to the right place! We have a guide up for The Best Wireless Microphones that you can read to check which one suits your studio's needs!

Though wireless mics are usually used live, they're also great studio tools especially when filming livestreams as there won't be any cables lying around the studio area when you stream.

-Raphael

Could you please include all

Could you please include all the different microphones that go with their ideal pick up pattern?

Brilliant piece. Just what I

Brilliant piece. Just what I've been looking for. This article is now saved in my "Bookmarks" header for future reference.

our church is doing drive in

our church is doing drive in church in the Covid epidemic, We are then sending it to facebook live so those at home can listen also. We have a lot of wind here and it sometimes takes over the mic. What kind should we use in this windy environ we live in? Newbee here.

What would be the best

What would be the best microphone for filming doctors on a camera

Sir kindly suggest me a mic

Sir kindly suggest me a mic which is most sensitive mic to capture all types of sounds inclusive with surrounded noise as well with-in the open field.
Note: (Relevant to stumps mics)

Hi,

Hi,
what type of mic would be suitable for live outdoor/indoor choir performance of school aged students?

Recommendations on

Recommendations on microphones for live performances of ensembles?; trying to create more of a coffee house feel. Is there a microphone that would pick up a keyboard, violin player and 3 vocalists?

I am looking for miniature

I am looking for miniature Mike that is sensitive enough to pickup heart beat sound.

Pretty much any microphone

Pretty much any microphone that you can place on someone's chest aught to work - for extra sensitivity go for a condenser rather than a dynamic mic.

Condenser mic is best for

Condenser mic is best for studio recording, but are very fragile. They do however give you the best sound quality overall because they pick up sound in close range and “shut out” ambient sound. I’d say maybe a Lavalier mic would be great for gaming or the ones that come attached to a headphone.

Hi, i've purchased a Sony HXR

Hi, i've purchased a Sony HXR nx5E Camcorder and would like to try both indoor and out door interviewing, i have a shotgun mic with the camera, what would you advise I use to achieve best quality?... thank you. Alan

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF MICS

What are the types of mics which are used to record the Foley Sounds? Either inside or outside the studio.

Hi,

Hi, So helpful. I'm running a club at school that will include foley sound work, radio dramas, and podcast interviews. Three setups. Thinking of two sets of lavalier mics for the interviews going into a laptop or possibly a used H1 or H2 Zoom for field work. Unsure what to get for the radio dramas. Limited budget for sure. Any thoughts? Thanks!

I teach 20 3rd - 5th grade

I teach 20 3rd - 5th grade children to play ukulele and sing each year. At the end of the school year the kids give a recital, but without amplification. This year we have money for a microphone -- what is best for a group of this size? Thanks!

Assuming that you already

Assuming that you already have a PA System to plug your mics into, then I'd usually go with a pair of Cardiod Condenser mics like these from Samson - but you will have to check with your sound technician first to see if your PA System provides phantom power to operate the mics.

If you don't have phantom power then you'll need a couple of dynamic mics. The industry standard is the Shure SM58 however the GLS Audio ES-58-S is a good budget alternative.

I am looking for professional

I am looking for professional quality mic for a youtube channel. I would be grateful for any recommendations or suggestions.

I am really struggling for

I am really struggling for choice of mic. We have a ukulele group and sing and play. Some of us are comfortable on dynamic mics, not scared off by the sound of our own voice. Others, however, well, a little timid. There are 12 of us (more sometimes) our harmonies are great but we need to be able to pick up the overall sound - not sure what kind of mic would be best, only one or two of the ukes have pickups, so we need to mic up some of the vocals and pretty well all of the ukes. What do you suggest?

Hi Hans, I know this is a

Hi Hans, I know this is a long shot but I see that this question was never answered. I have the exact same issue with our ukulele group. Did you find the right equipment to resolve the problem?

Thank you,

Jack H Seacoast Ukulele Players

Hello Jack,

Hello Jack,

It's hard to go wrong with a pair of industry-standard dynamic mics like the Shure SM57. You can also opt for condenser mics like the Neumann KM 184. The tricky part is mic placement, and this will vary based on how you're group is positioned and the venue you are playing.

If you want a more balanced sound for big ensembles - with no ukulele overpowering others - then try positioning a stereo pair at different distances.

You can also close mike the ukuleles, and set up a mic positioned at a distance to add in natural ambiance.

Hope these tips help.

Which mikes only pick up

Which mikes only pick up close (noise cancelling) and which are the ones that pick up everything around?

Microphones don't use noise

Microphones don't use noise cancelling, instead they have different polar patters to determine which directions they pick up sound from.

Cardioid mics pick up sound from in front while Omnidirectional mics pick it up from all directions.

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