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From professional artists to podcasters, the right microphone makes all the difference in getting the best sound. This is why a condenser microphone is a preferred tool for recording music and audio by professionals and amateurs alike.
If you’re looking for the right condenser microphone for your small business, take the time to find out how you’ll be using it, what you’ll be recording, and how often you’ll be using it. Condenser mics are not as durable as dynamic mics, so you have to be careful.
What is a condenser microphone?
Condenser microphones use electrostatics or capacitors to convert acoustic energy into electrical signals. It consists of two condenser plates, one fixed and one movable, separated by insulation. The floating plate allows the operation of the diaphragm of the microphone.
Because of their sensitivity to loud sounds, condenser microphones capture a wider range of frequencies and have the ability to reproduce the speed of an instrument or voice. These are some of the reasons why sound engineers and musicians prefer to use these microphones.
10 Condenser Microphone Picks in 2023
These condenser microphones on Amazon are from the top brands in the world. You will find that these types of microphones can be relatively cheap and very expensive. While there are cheaper and more expensive units, these cover a reasonable price range.
Cardioid condenser microphones Rode NT1-A-MP
Top pick: Rode has made a name for itself with high quality and affordable condenser microphones. As a premium option, this microphone features a large 1″ gold-plated diaphragm capsule with a maximum SPL of 137 dB SPL. Additional features include a cardioid polar pattern, ultra-low noise and self-noise of only 5dB (A) and can be used as a stereo pair.
Cardioid condenser microphones Rode NT1-A-MP
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AKG C214 Professional large diaphragm condenser microphone
Runner up: When it comes to microphones, AKG is an established brand recognized by professionals. C214 is particularly well known. It’s a large 1″ diaphragm condenser with wide dynamic range and ultra-low noise with high output sources up to 156Db Spl. You also get a switchable 20Db attenuator and bass cut filter along with integrated suspension.
AKG C214 Professional large diaphragm condenser microphone
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Audio-Technica AT2035 cardioid condenser microphone
The best value: Audio-Technica is also a solid brand in the category. It gets the best value because of the brand, the quality of the product and the great price for a large cardioid diaphragm condenser microphone. The microphone has a built-in 3-pin XLRM type connector, dynamic range (typical): 136 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL and a frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz.
Audio-Technica AT2035 cardioid condenser microphone
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Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone
Neuman has high end condenser mics that cost a lot more than this unit. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have any potential. A large diaphragm with cardioid directional characteristics, high maximum SPL (144dB), 11dB sound sensitivity and presence boost above 6kHz to help vocals shine in the mix round out some of the many features.
Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone
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Sennheiser e 965 Large Diaphragm Condenser Handheld Microphone
With 75 years of business, Sennheiser is known for its quality products. This large handheld diaphragm microphone features an alternating pickup pattern (cardioid / hypercardioid). You also get a low-cut switch, a pre-attenuation switch (-10 dB) and a capsule that mounts on vibrations. In addition, Sennheiser gives you a 10-year warranty.
Sennheiser e 965 Large Diaphragm Condenser Handheld Microphone
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Blue Baby Bottle SL XLR Cardioid Condenser Microphone
The Blue Baby Bottle SL XLR Cardioid Condenser Microphone can be used for recording, streaming, podcasting, gaming and more. This is a large diaphragm unit that provides broadcast quality with XLR connection, high pass filter, -20dB pad, precise cardioid design and brass back plate design.
Blue Baby Bottle SL XLR Cardioid Condenser Microphone
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Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone
The SM81 is a unidirectional condenser microphone for wide frequency response, low noise and distortion characteristics and very low RF sensitivity. It features a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, a cardioid polar pattern, and a 0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switch.
Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone
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LCT-440-Pure Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
This is a pure, large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers true full recording. Features include a Gold-Layered 1; true condenser capsule, cardioid design, 133 dB dynamic range and 1,000 ohms load impedance.
LCT-440-Pure Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
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MXL 770 Multipurpose large diaphragm condenser microphone
The MXL 770 offers professional sounds and capabilities for analog and digital recording at a consumer price. You get a condenser microphone with 6 micron, 20 mm. gold-scattered diaphragm, FET preamplifier, 20 Hz – 20 kHz frequency response and 150 ohms impedance.
MXL 770 Multipurpose large diaphragm condenser microphone
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Marantz Professional Condenser Large Diaphragm USB Microphone
Since 1953, Marantz has been manufacturing audio products. The MPM-1000U is an affordable, large diaphragm condenser microphone that can be used for everything from podcasts to recording. Features include a directional cardioid polar pattern, coated in pure aluminum, a 14 mm diameter condenser capsule, and a frequency response of 20–17,000 Hz.
Marantz Professional Condenser Large Diaphragm USB Microphone
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What to look for when buying a condenser microphone
There are many technical issues to consider when purchasing a condenser microphone. And that largely depends on how and where you are going to use it. With that in mind, be sure to check out all of these features and see if they apply to how you want to use the microphone.
Large Aperture: A large diaphragm is typically 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This makes it more sensitive, thus providing improved low frequency response.
Small Aperture: Typically less than 1 inch in diameter, a smaller diaphragm offers greater accuracy and improved high-frequency response. This makes it more suitable for recording instruments with greater detail, such as acoustic guitars and pianos.
High sensitivity: The high level of sensitivity of these microphones is what allows them to pick up the smallest nuances of a sound. That’s why they’re perfect for studios.
Extended frequency range: Look for ranges that best suit the recording you are about to make. A typical frequency response range is between 20 and 20,000 Hz, but this varies by manufacturer and microphone.
Polar Patterns: You should choose between cardioid, hypercardioid, bidirectional and omnidirectional. This means that you choose the directionality of the microphone that best suits the recording. By receiving sound from a specific direction or from multiple sources at once.
Phantom Power: Condenser microphones usually require phantom power to operate, which is a type of electrical current sent through the microphone cable from an external source, such as an audio interface or mixer.
Solid State or Tube Electronics: Condenser microphones can have solid-state or tube electronics. Solid-state microphones are generally more affordable and produce clear, transparent sound. Conduit microphones on the other hand offer a warm, natural sound and smooth, even response preferred by professionals.
Low Distortion: High quality condenser microphones have low distortion. This allows them to capture audio without adding unwanted artifacts or coloration to ensure a clean, natural recording.
FAQ
What is the difference between a condenser and a dynamic microphone?
Condenser microphones use a capacitor to convert sound waves into electrical signals so that they are more sensitive to sound thus producing a wider range of frequencies. Dynamic microphones use a moving coil, making them more durable and handle higher sound pressure levels.
What types of condenser microphones are there?
Condenser microphones are available in large-diaphragm and small-diaphragm designs. While the large diaphragm microphone is mainly used for vocal studios as well as any instrument recording where a deep sound is required. The small aperture on the other hand is more suitable for capturing clear and natural sounds without additional effects.
Why is diaphragm size important in a condenser microphone?
The size of the diaphragm determines the performance at higher frequencies and the accuracy of the sound it produces.
What are the connectivity options for condenser microphones?
You have the choice of USB condenser microphones or XLR condenser microphones.
What are the disadvantages of a condenser microphone?
Condenser microphones are fragile and require a power supply. These two shortcomings can be a problem when working on a live stage and in locations with limited power.
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