Condenser Vocal Mic
August 9th, 2010Condenser Microphones – Everything You Need to Know
Condenser Mic’s: The Brief History
The first high quality wide range condenser microphone was developed by E.E Wente at Bell in the early 1900′s. Condenser means capacitor, an electronic component which stores energy in the form of an electrostatic field. The microphone uses a capacitor to convert acoustical energy into electrical energy.
The condenser microphone is more commonly found in recording studios, due to its great vocal recording quality which isn’t usually found in any other type of microphone. Due to the fact that they used to be the most expensive microphones on the market, condenser microphones weren’t often used for recording music in home recording studios.
But now, due to companies like Editors Keys and Rode making affordable recording equipment, condenser microphones are a lot more accessible to everybody, no matter what budget or quality of recording studio you have, whether it be a professional studio or a home studio. Don’t be fooled into thinking that paying hundreds or even thousands of pounds is what you need to do to get the best quality condenser microphone. There are some excellent microphones out there, for example the Editors Keys SL600 which is under ￡150, gives you the same quality of recording as microphones worth well thousands of dollars.
What Makes a Good Condenser?
There are many factors to look at when dealing with condensers to make sure you get the best for your budget. Look for a mic with a large diaphragm; anything above 20mm will help towards good vocals. A hyper cardioid pattern and gold diaphragm condenser are all things too look out for in addition to a good frequency response rate (between 20-18,000hz is perfect for home recording).
The Present Day Home Recording
Up until recently, condensers were only available with an XLR connection, making recording more difficult for home users, with out use of additional sound cards and adapters. Condenser mics are now are available with a USB connection and built in sound card, allowing you to get perfect studio quality sound straight into your computer.
Many people are confused about the differences between condenser microphone and dynamic microphones. Condenser microphones have a flatter frequency than that of dynamic microphones, which makes them more suited to recording vocals and instruments as they are more sensitive, as opposed to dynamic microphones which are less sensitive and mainly used for live performances. Condenser microphones are quite fragile and accidents like dropping them or screaming into it can cause permanent damage (be gentle with it).
About the Author
Ningbo Tongxin Microphones offers the best variety of quality Condenser Microphone for Studio, Podcast, USB, Instrumen, Conference, Broadcast and Field Recording.
AKG ELLEC Female Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone AVGIANT
Audio Technica AT2020 Large-Diaphragm Microphone with Pop Filter and Cable $109.00
This specially priced package has been designed by recording engineers based on what they find the most useful items for recording. With these added items you are ready to record right out of the box. (1) Pop guard to eliminate “pops” from the vocalists breath. (1) Cable, plug right in….
Click here to learn more about Audio Technica AT2020 Large-Diaphragm Microphone with Pop Filter and Cable
TASCAM DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio $449.99
The Tascam DP008, an 8-track digital Portastudio recorder, is small enough to fit into a guitar case. The DP008 features eight tracks with built-in mixing, dedicated knobs for volume and pan for each track, plus a reverb send knob for the built-in reverb effect. The DP008 Portastudio recorder has two XLR microphone inputs with phantom power, a guitar level input and even built-in stereo mics so yo…
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Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone $146.00
A fixture in the music business, the Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone can bee seen everywhere you look. From small clubs to 100,000 seat stadiums the Shure SM57 is renowned by everyone from legendary performers to the latest up-and-comers. What you may not have seen are the thousands of Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphones at work behind the scenes in professional recording studios ar…
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Snowball Bundle, USB Mic & Tripod Kit – White $72.85
Blue Microphones Snowball Microphone – 40 Hz to 18 kHz – Wired – Desktop – USB…
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Nady MPF-6 6-Inch Clamp On Microphone Pop Filter $12.00
Nady 6 inch clamp onpop filter pop filter -pop filter for vocal microphones -designed for professional vocal recording environments -includes boom and microphone stand clamp……
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Shure Sm86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic $179
The Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic gives you all the advantages of Shure’s SM line with condenser mic clarity. It’s ruggedly built to handle touring, with a frequency response tailored for clear reproduction of vocals. The cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise and feedback. The SM86 has a built-in 3-point shockmount for minimizing handling noise and a 2-stage filter for reducing breath noises and pops. It requires phantom power.Condenser capsule provides studio-quality soundRugged design handles the abuses of touringTailored frequency response for clear reproduction of vocalsCardioid polar pattern minimizes unwanted background noiseWorks excellently with both stage monitors and in-ear personal monitorsBuilt-in 3-point shockmount minimizes handling noise2-stage filter reduces wind and breath pop noise
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Shure PG42 Vocal Condenser Microphone $199
The Shure PG42 condenser utilizes a large cardioid diaphragm made to be highly sensitivity helping to clearly reproduce performances accurately. A -15dB switchable attenuator and a high pass filtering switch allows you to give some adjustment to the sound as it comes in making it a dependable mic for a variety of voices and vocal styles. The Shure PG42 includes a Shock Mount and Carrying Case.
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Nady PCM-100 Classic Condenser Mic $99.99
The Nady PCM-100 Classic Condenser Mic is perfect for broadcasting and stage vocal use. It is versatile in the studio, too. The Nady PCM-100 mic features a high-quality electret condenser element, cardioid polar pattern, and a smooth frequency response tailored for vivid vocal reproduction with a perfectly positioned presence peak. Switchable low-cut filter. Integral mic holder mount. Comes with foam-padded plastic carrying case. Requires phantom power.
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Nady Pcm-100 Classic Condenser Mic $99.99
The Nady PCM-100 Classic Condenser Mic is perfect for broadcasting and stage vocal use. It is versatile in the studio, too. The Nady PCM-100 mic features a high-quality electret condenser element, cardioid polar pattern, and a smooth frequency response tailored for vivid vocal reproduction with a perfectly positioned presence peak. Switchable low-cut filter. Integral mic holder mount. Comes with foam-padded plastic carrying case. Requires phantom power.Perfect for broadcasting and stage vocal use Versatile in the studio High-quality electret condenser element Cardioid polar pattern Smooth frequency response with a presence peak tailored for vocals Switchable low-cut filter
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MXL V69XM Tube Condenser Mic $399
Internally wired with world-class Mogami cable, the MXL V69XM is a versatile vacuum tube condenser microphone with a 32mm capsule and transformer-balanced output for extremely high levels of tonal quality. The MXL mic is a perfect complement to analog and digital recording devices and will give you superb vocal and instrument reproduction for years to come.
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Mxl V69xm Tube Condenser Mic $399
Internally wired with world-class Mogami cable, the MXL V69XM is a versatile vacuum tube condenser microphone with a 32mm capsule and transformer-balanced output for extremely high levels of tonal quality. The MXL mic is a perfect complement to analog and digital recording devices and will give you superb vocal and instrument reproduction for years to come.Transformer-balanced output for smooth sound12AT7 dual triode vacuum tubeUpdated grill design complements capsuleComes with shockmount, power supply, 15′ 7-pin Mogami cable, 15′ XLR Mogami microphone cable, cleaning cloth & flight case3-year warranty/1-year tube
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Electro-Voice Pl84 Handheld Condenser Mic $129.99
The PL84 handheld condenser mic delivers a high performance blend of a tight yet warm low end, smooth and musical midrange, and crisp yet silky high frequency content. Ideal for vocal styles requiring the finesse and articulation of a condenser, coupled with a forgiving and musical cardioid polar pattern for expressive mic techniques. The PL84 seriously challenges the performance characteristics of competitive condenser models costing twice as much.Element Type: Self-BiasedFreq Response: 50 Hz – 20,000 HzPolar Pattern: CardioidSensitivity: 3.5 mV/PaImpedance: 200 ohmsConnector: 3-pin, XLR-typeAccessories Included: Stand adapter with Euro-thread adapter, Soft zippered gig bag
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Electro-Voice Pl84s Handheld Condenser Mic With Switch $99.99
The PL84S handheld condenser mic with an on/off switch delivers a high performance blend of a tight yet warm low end, smooth and musical mid range, and crisp yet silky high frequency content. Ideal for vocal styles requiring the finesse and articulation of a condenser, coupled with a forgiving and musical cardioid polar pattern for expressive mic techniques. The PL84S seriously challenges the performance characteristics of competitive condenser models costing twice as much.Element Type: Self-BiasedFreq Response: 50 Hz – 20,000 HzPolar Pattern: CardioidSensitivity: 3.5 mV/PaImpedance: 200 ohmsConnector: 3-pin, XLR-typeAccessories Included: Stand adapter with Euro-thread adapter, Soft zippered gig bag
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Blue enCORE 300 Condenser Live Vocal Microphone $181.09
The Blue enCORE 300 Condenser Vocal Performance Microphone has with its roots in Blue’s legendary tuned condenser studio microphones. The enCORE 300 mic’s Aria Condenser Capsule is hand-selected and tuned for open, detailed, and present sound that is as well-suited to the stage as it is to the studio. Blue’s engineers matched the enCORE 300 mic capsule to a custom-designed phantom power circuit. Together they provide a rapid and powerful sound that is an ideal match for powerful vocals. The enCORE 300 microphone’s unique reinforced chassis design mounts the capsule for optimal performance. The result is isolation from handling noise and vault-like protection.
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Audix Usb12 Usb Condenser Mic $149
The Audix USB12 is a miniaturized USB condenser microphone used for recording voice and acoustic instruments directly into a computer. Known for its clarity, excellent transient response, SPL handling, and ease of operation, the USB mic is designed to naturally capture and reproduce vocals and instruments with stunning detail. The USB12, which is characterized with a uniformly controlled cardioid polar pattern, provides excellent isolation and control at the sound source. With a smooth and accurate response over a frequency range of 50 Hz – 16 kHz, the USB12 sits on top of a stable desktop base and can be quickly and easily adjusted to any position. The USB microphone has a 16 bit sample resolution and supports 44.1k and 48k sample rates for both playback and recording. This high definition condenser mic features a push-to-talk button with the option of ‘steady on’ or ‘momentary on’ as well as a headphone jack for real time monitoring and a bass roll-off filter to control unwanted low frequency signals. The USB12 microphone comes with a 6 ft USB cable, matt black finish, and field replaceable capsule. Flexible Gooseneck Design Records directly into a computer via USB Port Studio sound Quality “Plug and Play” Mac and PC Compatible 16 Bit Sample Resolution Supports 44.1k and 48k sample Rates 12 mm High resolution Condenser Capsule Push to Talk – ‘Steady on or Momentary On’ Bass Roll-off Filter Headphone Jack for Real time Monitoring Applications: Vocal recording Instrument recording Podcasting Live chat, IP communication Medical/Legal reporting Internet telecommunication Conferencing
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Neumann KMS105 Pro Stage Condenser Mic $699.95
Designed with superlative vocal reproduction in mind, the KMS 105 brings Neumann quality to the demanding sound reinforcement environment. With its supercardioid polar pattern, low self noise, and uncolored off-axis pickup, the KMS 105 complements in-ear monitor systems.
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Shure Pg42 Condenser Mic With Cable And Stand $209
This Shure vocal mic pack gives you a side-address microphone for lead vocals, the Shure PG42, as well as a Musician’s Gear MS-220 tripod microphone stand and a 20′ Gear One XLR mic cable.Shure PG42 Vocal Condenser MicrophoneSpecifically engineered for vocal reproduction, the Shure PG42 side-address condenser microphone features a large cardioid diaphragm tailored with high sensitivity to clearly reproduce refined performances. A -15dB switchable attenuator and a high-pass filtering switch guarantees Shure quality for every lead vocal application. The PG42 vocal mic also Includes a shock mount and carrying case.Musician’s Gear MS-220 Tripod Microphone StandThe MS-220 Tripod Microphone Stand has a thread adapter and tubular legs. Its adjustable height from floor to top thread is 35″ to 61-7/8″. The 30-1/4″ fixed boom is not adjustable.Gear One’s XLR Mic CableFor serious-minded musicians, Gear One’s XLR cables have the strength and durability to withstand more than everyday use. Since your cable is your sound, this XLR mic cable’s superior wiring allows your signal to be quiet, eliminating frustrating hums, buzzing, and crackles.Shure PG42 Condenser MicrophoneLarge diaphragm capsule provides wider dynamic range for clear highs and strong lowsVoice-tailored frequency response specifically engineered to reproduce the subtle nuances lead vocal performancesHigh-pass filter for additional control of unwanted low-end signal-15dB switchable attenuator for additional SPL versatilityShock mount included for additional setup stabilityCarrying case included for additional protection during storage or transportMusician’s Gear MS-220 Tripod MicrophoneThe MS-220 Tripod Microphone Stand has a thread adapter and tubular legs. Its adjustable height from floor to top thread is 35″ to 61-7/8″. The 30-1/4″ fixed boom is not adjustable.Gear One XLR Microphone CableFor serious-minded musicians, Gear One’s XLR cables have the strength and durability to withstand more than everyday use. Since your cable is your sound, this XLR mic cable’s superior wiring allows your signal to be quiet, eliminating frustrating hums, buzzing, and crackles.
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Mxl Lsc-1 Live Series Condenser Mic White $199.95
Part of MXL’s Live Series Collection, the LSC-1 is a specially designed live/stage condenser microphone that outshines ordinary live mics in performance and tonal clarity. Sturdy outside, versatile inside, 3 interchangeable capsules create 3 polar patterns (cardioid/omni/hyper-cardioid), so owning the MXL LSC-1 condenser mic is like owning 3 different mics in one. The result of world-class engineering and manufacturing the MXL LSC-1 designed to provide you with outstanding performance and exceptional value.Excellent vocal clarity in large or small venuesInterchangeable capsules for 3 mics in oneDesigned for today’s new artists with today’s new equipmentInternally wired with MogamiApplications: Vocals, percussion, instruments
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Mxl Lsc-1 Live Series Condenser Mic Black $199.95
Part of MXL’s Live Series Collection, the LSC-1 is a specially designed live/stage condenser microphone that outshines ordinary live mics in performance and tonal clarity. Sturdy outside, versatile inside, 3 interchangeable capsules create 3 polar patterns (cardioid/omni/hyper-cardioid), so owning the MXL LSC-1 condenser mic is like owning 3 different mics in one. The result of world-class engineering and manufacturing the MXL LSC-1 designed to provide you with outstanding performance and exceptional value.Excellent vocal clarity in large or small venuesInterchangeable capsules for 3 mics in oneDesigned for today’s new artists with today’s new equipmentInternally wired with MogamiApplications: Vocals, percussion, instruments
Click here to learn more about Mxl Lsc-1 Live Series Condenser Mic Black
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