Technology
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Types of Microphones?

Ken Black
Ken Black

There are a number of ways to classify the different types of microphones. They are often distinguished by the directional pattern, in which they pick up sound, or by the type of transducer they have. Another common way, though it may be considered too general for most purposes, is to categorize them by portability, or simply according to their specific purpose.

Among the most general ways of classifying microphones is to look at one of two categories - wireless and wired units. Those that are wireless can transmit their signal to an amplifier with a wireless receiver, usually a radio frequency. Transmission requires an on-board power source, usually a standard battery. Some types use rechargeable batteries. With a wired microphone, both the power and the audio signal must be transmitted through a cable.

Most webcams and laptops include a built-in microphone, but a desktop microphone can be used for voice chats and conferences when they don't.
Most webcams and laptops include a built-in microphone, but a desktop microphone can be used for voice chats and conferences when they don't.

As mentioned previously, microphones are also classified by the directional pattern. This is very helpful information for those who need the capability of picking up sound or ignoring sound from specific directions. The most common directional microphone is the cardioid, which picks up sound in mainly a 180-degree half circle. There is also a small spot directly behind the microphone where sound can be picked up. The uni-directional microphone picks up sound only from one direction and the omnidirectional picks up sound in all directions.

A cardioid microphone is designed to reduce the sound of ambient noise.
A cardioid microphone is designed to reduce the sound of ambient noise.

In addition to these major types of microphones, there are other directional options as well. Usually, they are a variation of one of the types already mentioned. For example, there is the super or hyper cardioid, which can pick up sound very well from directly in front or directly behind. A bin-aural, or bi-directional microphone can do the same thing, but from either side. This is especially useful for producing stereo recordings.

The narrow shape of a shotgun microphone and its orientation when mounted make it appear shotgun-like.
The narrow shape of a shotgun microphone and its orientation when mounted make it appear shotgun-like.

The other common way to classify types of microphones is by differentiating the various transducers. Capacitor mics, for example, use DC electricity to polarize internal plates, which are used to convert sound to energy. Dynamic microphones, by far the most popular choice, make use of a coil within a magnetic field. The sound vibrates the coil which produces the energy. Electret microphones use a plastic piece that carries a permanent charge as the transducer, and ribbon microphones use a very thin piece of aluminum for the transducer.

Different types of microphones may be used in a wide variety of situations. For example, dynamic, cardioid units are commonly used for live performances. Ribbon mics are used for studio recording, where there is less chance of them becoming damaged. Bidirectional microphones may be used in radio and television studios.

Discussion Comments

Melonlity

It seems that just a few years ago, a good microphone cost a lot of money. These days, a great USB microphone that is bidirectional can be picked up for $100 or less. Those are easy to set up on a computer, the good ones can produce crystal clear sound and they are used by podcasters and other people wanting professional sounding audio on a budget.

Isn't technology wonderful?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Most webcams and laptops include a built-in microphone, but a desktop microphone can be used for voice chats and conferences when they don't.
      By: exopixel
      Most webcams and laptops include a built-in microphone, but a desktop microphone can be used for voice chats and conferences when they don't.
    • A cardioid microphone is designed to reduce the sound of ambient noise.
      By: Leo
      A cardioid microphone is designed to reduce the sound of ambient noise.
    • The narrow shape of a shotgun microphone and its orientation when mounted make it appear shotgun-like.
      By: soundsnaps
      The narrow shape of a shotgun microphone and its orientation when mounted make it appear shotgun-like.