Condenser Microphones
For the best performance, by recording vocals and acoustic instruments live source, are recommended to use condenser microphones. Condenser microphones (also known as the capacitor microphones) are relative more expensive than dynamics, but they are also more sensitive, and can capture high-frequency detail much more accurately. Condenser microphones require power supply to operate, usually 48V phantom power from a microphone pre-amp, or a small battery. Furthermore, are available models with built-in analog to digital (A/D) converter, which can directly connect via usb cable to computer. These not required optional preamp or mixer to operate.
Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
Large diaphragm condenser microphones are used for recording vocals and “deep” sounding acoustic instruments (like acoustic guitar). These in general warm up the recorded sound. Additionally, you will need a pop screen if using a condenser microphone for recording vocals.
Samson C03
The Samson C03 is an affordable dual-diaphragm condenser mic with selectable polar patterns (omni, super cardioid, figure 8). Selectable polar patterns allow you to practice some different miking techniques. Additional this mic has switchable high-pass filter and -10dB pad switch. Shock mount, which can see on a picture, are available optionally.
Samson C03 condenser is suitable for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. Sound is a subjective thing, but in my opinion, it brings out bright tones for recording a guitar and sound warm by vocals.
I would positively suggest this good condenser microphone to everyone, who had just started with recording. Even many of the old doers used it.
Read more about this mic from Samson C03 Condenser Microphone test-review.
Audio Technica AT2050
The Audio Technica AT2050 is multi-pattern condenser microphone maintains precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range of the microphone due to its dual-diaphragm capsule design. In addition, the diaphragms are gold-vaporized for optimum tonal character. Mic has three switchable polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-eight. Equipped with a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad.
Intended for a wide variety of miking applications, including overheads, acoustic instruments and guitar cabinets, it features a large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise. The microphone is good for studio and live sound use on vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitar amps, and more. It features a large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise. Microphone includes a shock mount.
The Audio Technica AT2050 is highly rated condenser microphone.
SE Electronics SE2200a
The SE Electronics SE2200a is a large diaphragm, cardioid, transformer-balanced condenser microphone. Be comprised of a low cut filter, 10dB pad and also comes complete with a rugged aluminium shock mount and flight case. Mic has a gold vacuum plated single-diaphragm, offering relatively low self generating noise and therefore, a better signal to noise ratio.
Manufactured by Chinese company, which offer excellent quality by mild price. The SE2200a is a versatile performer suitable for vocal and acoustic instrument recording. It has won many awards around the world.
The SE Electronics SE2200a is very good condenser, gives clear sound and this mic should be pretty sensitive.
Shure KSM27
The Shure KSM27 is a side-address, large-diaphragm condenser microphone with a fixed cardioid polar pattern. Its ultra thin one-inch-diameter Mylar diaphragm is sputtered with 24-karat gold and feeds a Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier. High-quality electronic components and gold connectors are used throughout. Durable Shure construction features three separate mesh layers that reduce wind and breath noise.
Two small switches on the rear of the KSM27 control a 15 dB pad and two high pass filters: a mild 6 dB-per-octave roll off at 115 Hz and a steeper 18 dB-per-octave cutoff at 80 Hz. This mic is very transparent on vocals and rather bright for acoustic instruments. The brand new model Shure SM27 has similar properties.
The relatively inexpensive KSM27 is a professional condenser mic and this is a great deal for the price.
Compare Properties of Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
| Mic Model | Samson C03 | Audio Technica AT2050 | SE Electronics SE2200a | Shure KSM27 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| View | ||||
| Capsule | 19mm/0.75″ | 20.4mm/0.8″ | 25mm/1″ | |
| Polar Pattern | SuperCardioid/ Fig.8/Omni |
Cardioid/ Fig.8/Omni |
Cardioid | |
| Filters & Pads | low cut/-10dB pad | low cut/-15dB pad | ||
| Frequency Response Hz | 40-18000 | 20-20000 | ||
| Rated Impedance Ohm | 350 | 120 | 200 | 150 |
| Equivalent Noise level dB | 23 | 17 | 17 | 14 |
| Dynamic Range dB | 119 | 132 | 130 | 124 |
| Weight g/oz | 460/16 | 412/14.5 | n/a | 642/22.5 |
| Shock Mount | optional ~40$ | included | included | optional ~70$ |
| Power Supply | Phantom Power 48V | |||
| Price ~$ | 119 | 229 | 299 | 299 |
Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
Small diaphragm condenser microphones are used for recording most acoustic instruments and for recording a live drum set. These have the best transient response, it gives ability to reproduce fast sounds. These sometimes are available paired with, for finer stereo miking.
Samson C02
The Samson C02 is a pencil style small diaphragm condenser microphone that excels in both live performance and recording applications. Accoutered with a linear frequency response for superior reproduction. Microphone is greatly sensitive, it employs a tight cardioid pattern to reduce feedback. A special shock-mounted mic holder is included to minimize noise and provide additional protection. Applications include drums, guitar, piano, strings or even vocals.
Those sold as a pair and this deal includes a carry case & shock-mounted clips. As well a Samson C03 pair is ideal for stereo recordings.
For incredible price this mic pair is extremely suitable for home studio recordings.
SE Electronics SE1A
The SE Electronics SE1A small diaphragm condenser microphone is astonishing value for money. Building on the fixed cardioid capsule. Complete with stand adapter. Great for drums, pianos, and acoustic stringed instruments. The sensitivity is much the same or even higher than as that of other models of mic of a similar type.
In addition, available in a balanced stereo pair with stereo bar and flight case.
This is an ideal compact microphone for instrumental use in recording studios.
Reviews are generally positive.
M-Audio Pulsar II
The M-Audio Pulsar II is a simple end-fire, cardioid microphone, and is equipped with a gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm. M-Audio recommends it for acoustic instruments such as guitar, piano, brass, woodwind and strings. They also suggest using pairs as drum overheads, and for room ambience and most types of hand percussion. The Pulsar II can adapt to many recording and live situations. The high-pass filter reduces low-frequency rumble and the potential for overloading mic preamps with low-frequency signals, also include a 10dB switchable attenuation pad.
By this superb deal, You will get professional small-capsule condenser microphone and additional accessories. Also available paired with. A fine choice for drum overheads, acoustic guitar, piano, woodwinds, and room miking.
Compare Properties of Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
| Mic Model | Samson C02 | SE Electronics SE1A | M-Audio Pulsar II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | ||
| Filters & Pads | high bass/-10dB pad | - | - | Frequency Response Hz | 40-20000 | 30-20000 | 20 -20000 |
| Rated Impedance Ohm | 200 | 300 | n/a |
| Equivalent Noise level dB | 22 | 17 | 16 |
| Dynamic Range dB | 112 | 130 | 144 |
| Weight g/oz | 170/6 | 135/4.5 | n/a |
| Power Supply | Phantom Power 48V | ||
| Price ~$ | 140-pair | 149/399-pair | 149/399-pair |
USB Condenser Microphones
Probably, one of the hotest developments in recent microphone technology has been the USB mic. Samson was a pioneer, while made the first USB studio condenser microphone.
A USB microphone contains all the elements of a traditional microphone. Where it differs from other microphones is its inclusion of two additional circuits: an onboard preamp and an analog to digital converter. The preamp makes it unnecessary for the USB mic to be connected to a mixer or external mic preamp. The A/D converter changes the mic’s output from analog (voltage) to digital (data), so it can be plugged directly into a computer and read by recording software.
However, it can`t use with traditional connections (different preamps, analog mixers, etc).
I think, this is only a good solution for mobile quick plug & record situation. Maybe I have a wrong impression?
HandHeld Condenser Microphones
Handheld Condenser Microphones looked like usual dynamics. These type microphones are designed to bring the studio qualify sound to the stage.
Audio Technica AT2010 is one of the inexpensive handheld condensers, generally these cost more than dynamic microphones.
