There are two primary options available for microphones on the market. However, it might be challenging to discern between the Condenser vs Dynamic Mic for Streaming & Podcasting.
Condenser and dynamic microphones each have advantages and disadvantages, so before making a purchase, you should think about your surroundings and the intended use of the microphone.
How Dynamic Microphones Work
Dynamic microphones function by sensing vibrations in sound waves passing through a diaphragm positioned within a magnetic field. An electronic signal is produced by the coil attached to the diaphragm vibrating in response to sound.
Sounds difficult? Let’s make this simpler.
Features
- Due to size, frequently utilized in gaming headsets
- able to tolerate loud volumes without distortion
- produces an audio signal that is “rougher” and of lower quality, yet it is still the industry standard for gaming headsets and some desktop microphones.
- may possess “smart” features like noise suppression and other helpful settings
How a Condenser Microphone Work
Condenser microphones are made to enable the conversion of acoustic energy to electrical energy. Typically utilized in recording studios, high-end live streaming systems, and by gamers that need better speech transmission quality.
Features
- incredibly clear, rich in detail, and with excellent audio
- Excellent sensitivity to low-frequency (quiet, low-volume noises)
- Great for role-playing games, voice acting, singers with experience in professional audio, etc.
- Occasionally extremely sensitive to background noise (with the exception of our Leviosa Mic, which has been calibrated to block out the majority of background noise).
Real-World Differences
Dynamic Microphones
These microphones have a simple construction, which makes them rugged and capable of handling loud sound signals well. They also exhibit good background noise rejection. However, they have relatively low sensitivity and may lack a full frequency response, imparting a distinct broadcast sound.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones have a more natural sound, a wider frequency response, and a higher sensitivity or output level, but because of their intricate design, they can be more delicate. They can, however, be overdriven to produce extraordinarily loud noises, and the internal electronics produce some noise.
Durability of Dynamic Microphones
Moving coil microphones are more resilient to various forms of wear and tear due to their generally more robust design. One well-known example of a virtually indestructible device is the Shure SM58. This microphone has been dropped numerous times, but despite its dented windscreen and minor scratches, it still sounds pretty much the same as it did when my client originally purchased it.
Durability of Condenser Microphones
While some condenser microphones—like the Shure SM81—are more resilient than others, most of them need to be handled more carefully because dropping them could alter their sound.
Sensitivity and Noise of Dynamic Microphones
In general, I would say that a dynamic microphone can handle higher input levels because of its larger mass. A microphone’s sensitivity indicates the electrical output that can be anticipated at a specific sound pressure level.
In the audio community, there’s a general consensus that dynamic microphones are preferable for individuals in untreated spaces. The theory goes that dynamic microphones somehow pick up less noise from the surroundings because they are intrinsically less sensitive than their condenser counterparts. Surprisingly, many smart people in the audio space give this advice.
Sensitivity and Noise of Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones have an advantage over dynamic microphones when it comes to capturing relatively quiet sources because they are typically more sensitive. Whereas dynamic microphones are passive, condenser microphones’ active circuitry will occasionally produce self-noise. This does not imply, however, that there will be more noise overall from the condenser microphone. Given that dynamic microphones are less sensitive than condenser microphones, a condenser microphone may provide a lower noise floor because less preamp gain is needed. Self-noise becomes less significant as the signal level entering the microphone increases.
Advantages of Dynamic Microphone
- Dynamic microphones have relatively simple to make and are therefore can be more economical.
- They can provide excellent sound quality and good specifications in all areas of microphone performance.
- You can also get nice and close to a dynamic mic and take advantage of a phenomena called the proximity effect which gives you that classic intimate radio sound with a nice low-end.
- Dynamic microphones can handle extremely high sound levels: it is almost impossible to overload a dynamic microphone. Dynamic mics are generally less sensitive by design and there are some benefits to this, for example they’re more forgiving if there are sudden outbursts of volume.
- Dynamic microphones are relatively unaffected by extremes temperature or humidity and can have long durable lifespan. They are more rugged in construction, sturdy and resilient to rough handling.
- Dynamic mics also tend to pick up only what is directly in front of the grill. So, if you have loud co-hosts or a noisy space, you’ll pick up less of them and therefore have a cleaner recording.
- Dynamic mics do not require Phantom power.
Advantage of condenser microphone
- The diaphragm which is the moving member in case of condenser microphone of a condenser microphone has a very low mass compared to the high coil mass in case of a dynamic microphone. The diaphragm can move more easily and quickly in tune with the sound waves. Condenser microphones, therefore, offer superior sound quality.
- Condensers have the widest frequency response and the best transient response and can pick up sudden bursts of sound energy if placed sufficiently away. They can get overloaded if sound source is too close and too loud.
- Condenser microphones usually offer much higher sensitivity.
- Condenser microphones have a more transparent sound and when used a little further away from your mouth would deliver a natural conversational tone. This can be very pleasant to listen to.
Disadvantages of Dynamic microphone
- They are less sensitive by design.
- Heavy microphone diaphragm and wire coil limits the movement of the assembly, which in turn restricts the frequency and transient response of the microphone.
- Generally dynamic microphones are not as suitable for recording instruments, especially with higher frequencies and harmonics, such as a violin.
- Dynamic microphones do not usually have the same flat frequency response as condenser microphones. Instead they generally have a tuned frequency response for particular application depending on the design of diaphragm and coil.
Disadvantages of condenser microphone
- Condenser microphone increases the likelihood of picking up sound from co-hosts and the room in general. If you are using a condenser mic, you’ll need to be more mindful of how many people are talking at any time and make sure the room is extremely quiet.
- Condenser microphone are better suited for acoustically traded room.
- Condenser microphones are not as sturdy as dynamic microphones and need to be handled carefully and taken good care of.
- Condenser microphones can be more expensive. At same price a dynamic mic can be better sounding than a condenser mic. However, at higher price points, condenser mics can really shine.
Examples Dynamic Microphone
The Shure SM7B is known for needing a lot of preamp gain to make up for its very low sensitivity. We have tested all the Dynamic Mics and came up with The Best Dynamic Microphones. Check them out!!
Examples Condenser Microphone
The Audio-Technica AT2020 has to be one of the Best under Condenser Mic in the audio world, and it’s easily one of the best condenser mics under $100 specially For podcasters, streamers, and musicians alike. We have tested all the Dynamic Mics and came up with The Best Condenser Microphones. Check them out!!
USB Condenser Mics
USB Condenser Mics can also be an option for streamers and podcasters. They look so cute to be honest. A USB condenser mic that’s highly popular among content creators, including podcasters and streamers, due to its ease of use and multiple polar patterns. To know more Read this Blog.
Polar Patterns
The polar pattern of a microphone describes how it reacts to sounds coming from different angles.
Omnidirectional Polar Pattern
The omni pattern is equally sensitive to pressure waves coming from all angles.
Compared to all other polar patterns, the omni pattern has the best bass response, the flattest frequency response, and the least sensitivity to handling or wind noise.
It sounds great in well-recorded time-based stereo environments.
Because of its increased directivity in picking up very high frequencies, the signal at these frequencies experiences stronger side rejection (this effect changes the omni into figure-8 at the 16 kHz mark).
An omni polar pattern may not produce a pleasing outcome on recordings made in a poor sounding room.
Feedback can be a problem in most live scenarios when the picked-up signal is monitored and replayed through the PA.
Cardioid Polar Pattern
The most sensitive point of the most widely used polar pattern is 180°, and the least sensitive point is at 0°.
For the majority of recording applications, you can’t go wrong with this.
Due to the cardioid pattern’s ability to cancel out surrounding noise such as noisy fans and poor room acoustics, it is simple to obtain a dry signal.
Multiple Polar Patterns
There are many different polar patterns available for both dynamic and condenser microphones; some condenser microphones even offer multiple polar patterns that can be chosen to fit different scenarios. Lewitt LCT640TS and Austrian Audio OC818, for instance, have figure-eight, omnidirectional, and cardioid pattern options.
Budget Considerations
Condenser microphones are typically more expensive to manufacture than dynamic microphones. If money is really tight, you’ll probably get a lot more value out of a dynamic microphone than a condenser microphone at the same price.
Price Comparison
For example, the Shure SM58 and the Audio-Technica AT2020 both cost about $100. It’s difficult to directly compare these mics because they all have pros and cons, however I believe a $100 dynamic microphone will last far longer than a $100 condenser microphone. Even though I now possess several more expensive microphones, I still use and will continue to use the Shure SM58 for years to come due of its remarkable endurance and versatility. However, since I have more options for mics, I rarely find myself going for the AT2020 because there aren’t many situations where it’s still the best choice.
Choosing the Right Microphone
Dynamic Microphone
Ideal for live situations due to their durability, ability to handle loud noises, and good background noise rejection. They are also suitable for achieving a standard broadcast sound.
Condenser Microphone
Suited for controlled environments like studios, where there is audio treatment and control over the sound going into the microphone. They provide a more natural sound and are less concerned with background noise.
condenser vs Dynamic Mic: Which One Is Better for Streaming?
A condenser mic is an excellent option because it will provide better sound quality if you’re broadcasting from a treated room or studio with minimal to no background noise. In terms of proximity to your mouth, they are also more accommodating than dynamic microphones, allowing you a bit more mobility.
When using a condenser mic, an external pop filter and shock mount will help to greatly reduce harsh plosives and noises like table bangs and bumps. However, they are fairly big and may impede a large portion of your image if put too close to the camera. Internal shockmounting on dynamic microphones, such as the PodMic and Procaster, protects against plosives, bangs, and bumps without the need for an additional shockmount or pop filter.
For environments that are more susceptible to sound reflections, dynamic mics will offer superior isolation from background noise as well as keyboard and mouse clicks when gaming and will keep the focus on you. They are also better at handling loud sound peaks without distorting, so if you find that you have a wide dynamic range when streaming, they will be a better choice for a consistent sound.
condenser vs Dynamic Mic: Which One Is Better for Podcasting?
DYNAMIC MICROPHONES
The superior sound quality of a condenser microphone is its primary advantage. They are utilized in the best audio recordings, including voiceovers and singing, for this reason. On an mp3 podcast recording, though, the quality difference is not great enough to justify the additional expense.
Add to it the fact that it can sound bad in some situations, and we have an obvious winner.
My recommendation is quite simple: if you’re doing a podcast, go with a dynamic mic instead than a condenser mic. A dynamic microphone is a great choice for podcasting.
So what did we learn?
Here’s a concise comparison table based on what we have learned:
| Feature | Condenser Microphone | Dynamic Microphone |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Superior in treated rooms with minimal background noise | Better isolation from background noise, ideal for untreated rooms |
| Mobility | More accommodating with distance from the mouth | Requires closer proximity for optimal sound capture |
| Noise Handling | Requires external pop filter and shock mount to reduce noise | Built-in shock mounting (e.g., PodMic, Procaster) reduces plosives and bumps |
| Image Obstruction | Large size may obstruct the camera view | Typically smaller and less intrusive |
| Handling Loud Peaks | Can distort with sudden sound peaks | Handles loud peaks better without distortion |
| Ideal Use Case for Streaming | Best for studio environments with controlled acoustics | Great for noisy environments, gaming setups, or streams with sound peaks |
| Podcasting Recommendation | Provides top audio quality, but not essential for mp3 podcasts | Recommended for podcasts due to consistent performance and affordability |
Conclusion
For podcasters or streamers, the choice of microphone involves considerations like proximity effect, durability, and form factor.
If the main goal is to address noise in your signal, a condenser microphone with low self-noise and high sensitivity, set in a cardioid polar pattern, is the best option. However, always prioritize the sound quality. Listen to the microphones and choose based on the sound they produce.
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