Dynamic vs Condenser USB mic

[byllsong]

Hi, I was just looking up USB microphones on the Internet, and came across Dynamic USB and Condenser USB mic. What's the difference? I want to record vocals direct to my computer. Thanks, Billy

[freeman]

Your gonna probably end up with both those mics eventually anyway, as you can't have to many mics. I'd get the condenser first.Heres a link, the most important paragraph is the very last.http://www.crownaudio.com/mic_web/tips/mictip1.htmJust my 02.Joe

[byllsong]

Hey Freeman, Thanks again. I'm probably gonna have someone bring one from Miami. It's frustrating not to have physical access to a major music center. Billy

[mewman]

Hi Billy,There is a great resource for technical questions like this called the Sound Reinforcement Handbook, written for Yamaha by Gary Davis and Ralph Jones. Published by Hal Leonard, ISBN # 0-88188-900-8.The difference between the Dynamic mic and the Condenser mic is in their construction. A Dynamic mic has a flexibly mounted diaphragm that is coupled to a coil surrounded by a magnet. The movement of the diaphragm, caused by sound vibration, creates electrical current which is then translated to sound. Condenser mics are constructed differently. They feature a gold-coated diaphragm mounted above a back plate. This forms a capacitor (or condenser). Without going into detail too much, a condenser requires that an external power source be applied to the diaphragm in order for it to work. Traditionally, this is the function of "phantom power". Because the condenser mics components are not loaded down by a coil, as in the dynamic mic, they are more sensitive. They also are easier to damage if you drop them!Other than the difference in character of sound, the dynamic mic is basically more sturdy than the condenser, which is why you will see them used by folks on stage more. That's not to say they are not used by studios, though. Lots of record have been made using Sure SM57's which are a good example of a commonly used dynamic mic. Personally, I think if you are looking for a good vocal mic, a decent quality condenser is a better choice.As far as the USB part of your question. That is the style of interface to the computer. Whether or not the Condenser mic can be powered by the USB port is a question you have to ask your dealer!Good luck!

[slideboardouts]

I'd go with the condenser first especially if you are looking to do mainly vocals, but you will probably need to get a dynamic as well eventually. I'd probably start with an SM57 for a dynamic mic.I'd also suggest getting microphones with XLR connections instead of USB and running them through a tube pre and a decent firewire or USB audio interface. That will give you a much better sound, especially with vocals.-Steve

[byllsong]

Thank you Mewman & Slideboardouts This forum is like info-gold. I am becoming more educated the more I read. I didn't realize the was so much on this site. It's like an information mall; lots of stores with lots of good (no food court?). Again, thanks to all.Billy