Questions: Microphone Types and Recording Techniques
4 questions to test your understanding
Score: 0 / 4
Question 1 Multiple Choice
Why do condenser microphones require phantom power (+48V) while dynamic microphones do not?
ACondenser mics use more signal and need extra voltage to amplify
BThe condenser transducer requires an electrical charge on the diaphragm to function, supplied by phantom power
CDynamic mics generate their own power through the moving coil
DPhantom power prevents hum in condenser circuits
Condenser microphones operate on capacitive principles — the diaphragm must be electrically charged (or have a permanently charged electret layer) to produce a signal. Phantom power supplies this voltage through the balanced cable.
Question 2 True / False
True or false: The proximity effect causes a treble boost as a directional microphone moves closer to the sound source.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
Proximity effect causes a bass (low-frequency) boost in directional (cardioid, figure-8) microphones as the source moves closer. This can add warmth to vocals or cause muddiness if not managed.
Question 3 Short Answer
What is the advantage of an omnidirectional polar pattern over cardioid when recording in a well-treated room?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: Omnidirectional microphones have no proximity effect, flatter low-frequency response, and capture the room ambience evenly from all directions. In a good-sounding room, this produces a more natural, open recording.
Cardioid rejection of room sound is useful in noisy or poorly treated spaces, but in great-sounding rooms the ambience is desirable. Omnis also tend to have more extended and accurate frequency response.
Question 4 Multiple Choice
A recording engineer is capturing a loud guitar amplifier at close range. Which microphone type is most appropriate?
AA large-diaphragm condenser — wider frequency response captures all the harmonics
BA ribbon microphone — the figure-8 pattern rejects the room
CA dynamic microphone — handles high SPL without distortion and rolls off harsh high frequencies naturally
DA boundary microphone — placement on the floor captures maximum bass
Dynamic mics like the SM57 are the industry standard for guitar cabs. They handle the high SPL without distortion, have a midrange emphasis that complements guitar harmonics, and are mechanically robust.