Dynamic and Condenser Broadcast Microphones

DYNAMIC MICROPHONES

Dynamic microphones are highly durable and able to handle very high sound pressure levels, making them ideal for live applications and noisy environments.

If you picture the mic that a singer uses on stage, then you're thinking of a dynamic microphone.
These microphones perform greatly in noisy environments.

Dynamic microphones don’t need to be powered because they generate an electric signal by themselves. They have a small coil inside which is sensitive to sound vibrations. As the soundwaves move the coil, this generates the electrical signal.

Dynamic microphones are robust because the magnets and coil inside them are a little more durable compared to other types of microphones.

The most popular Dynamic Microphone is the Shure SM58. It’s a tough and versatile microphone that works well whether you’re on location or recording at your desk.
When you see a live performance, in most cases SM58 is on the stage.

PRO61 Audio-Technica is another example of a very popular Dynamic Microphone.

CONDENSER MICROPHONES

This type of microphone uses capacitor diaphragm plates instead of a coil and magnets. The plates of the capacitor are powered by a 48V Phantom voltage.
The air sound-waves modify the distance between the two plates of the capacitor and so an electrical signal, that represents the form of the air sound-wave, is generated.

Beyond this physical aspect, the sound produced is much more than just technical performance: the practical thing is that Condenser Mics are more sensitive to smaller vibrations than Dynamic Mics.
They produces a more detailed sound and a much wider frequency response than their Dynamic counterparts. They pick up a very honest and true sound, which allows them to be favoured by Radio Studios around the world.

The shortcomings of large diaphragm condenser microphones are part of what makes them so attractive, especially for vocals and spoken words.
The widening pattern at low frequencies attenuates the proximity effect. In other words, the low frequency response remains beautifully lush, even if the speaker moves.

Large diaphragm condenser microphones shape the sound in a pleasing way – it just feels great to hear your own voice on the headphones.
A good large diaphragm condenser makes you want to sing, want to speak, because you like what you are hearing on the headphones: "it sounds like you".

Rode NT1-A, Electro Voice RE320, AKG P220 are some popular choices for Condenser Microphones: they are exceptionally versatile as industry standard microphones.

SHOCK MOUNTS

Shock mounts are necessary to prevent unwanted sounds in your recording, including movements of the mic, tapping, typing, and other vibrations.

Shock mounts are compatible with specific microphones.
All good quality microphones include their own Shock Mount in the package.

Pop Filters / Microphone Mufflers / Windscreens

You should also use either a pop filter or microphone muffler to protect the mic and reduce the amount of sharp air hitting it.

A muffler is a round piece of foam that fits over the mic, whereas a pop filter is more like a screen that is attached in front.

Pop Filters/Windscreens help protect your microphone from picking up any harsh noises.
For example, when you say the letters b, p, and t, there are bursts of air that the microphone picks up. Adding this piece of equipment helps you keep the audio levels under control, so that those bursts of air do not show up when you are speaking.