Microphone Types & Further Information:

Here at Terralec we stock an impressive range of microphones covering all aspects of the entertainment industry from theatre to broadcasting, vocal to instrument we really do have a mic for almost any application. In addition we stock a wide range of accessories such as wind shields and microphone clamps.

Microphones all work in different ways and have different pick up patterns. Below we have provided you with some information that may help with your mic selection. Should you require any further information or advice on any of the microphones or their suitability please do not hesitate to contact us.

Condenser Microphones - Work using sound wave vibration to change the distance between two charged plates inside the microphone. These require a power supply often provided by microphone inputs as Phantom Power. These mics are very popular for use in recordings due to the high quality signal they produce.

Dynamic Microphones - Use a small movable induction coil attached to the diaphragm, positioned in the magnetic field of a permanent magnet. These are resistant to moisture and are very robust due to the nature of their design. Popular for use on stage due to their robust build and low handling noise.

Pick Up Patterns:

Following is a brief explanantion of the pick up patterns for some of the most popular types of microphone.

• Omnidirectional - Picks up equally from all around the mic.

• Cardioid - Picks up best in front rejects noise further from the front.

• Super Cardioid - Same as the Cardioid with a tighter area of front sensitivity and tiny lobe of rear sensitivity.

• Shotgun - This is the most directional with all the sensitivity at the front. This is very useful for location recording, audio recording when filming and general outside broadcasting.

• Bi-Directional - Receive sound equally from front and back.

• Boundary - This type is omni-directional, sometimes with a bias towards the front. Can be placed on a table or floor for amplifying meetings or actors in a theatre.

• Lavalier - Sometimes known as a tie clip or lapel microphone, these normally have a cardioid characteristic.