Dynamics vs. Condenser Mic: What's the Difference (PGOA 1.2)

On episode 1.2 of PGOA, I talk about the differences between Dynamic and Condenser microphones, share what I believe to be the pros and cons of each, and then spent a lot of time discussing and demoing the contentious topic of “Do dynamic mics reject more noise than condenser mics”?

THE DIFFERENCES

Condenser microphones are active and will require phantom power, while MOST Dynamic mics are passive and do NOT require phantom power (there are very few active dynamics that will require phantom power.)

Condenser microphones also typically have a much higher sensitivity (or output a much louder signal) compared to their passive dynamic counterparts. This means that you’re not going to need to worry much about preamps available gain or noise level with condensers. Also, if you’re micing quiet sound sources at a distance, condensers would likely be the route to go.

Condensers also tend to sound more natural than dynamics, because they pick up sounds that cover the entire human hearing range of 20Hz - 20kHz, while dynamics typically roll off some higher frequencies.

Dynamic microphones have a simpler construction than condensers which makes them more able to be rugged. So if you’re tough on your gear, dynamics may offer a better option.

Dynamic microphones do a great job at handling loud sound sources (drums, loud guitar cabinets), while some condensers have a relatively low MAX SPL which means if a sound gets too loud it will distort.

DO DYNAMICS REALLY REJECT MORE BACKGROUND NOISE?

It has been said for years, and I have even repeated it that “dynamic microphones do a better job at background noise rejection than condensers.” Generally I believe this still holds true, but I don’t necessarily think it comes down to the fact that they are dynamic or condenser microphones, I believe it comes down to the polar pattern and the frequency response.

Additionally, because dynamics typically have a lower sensitivity (output a quieter signal) than condensers, people tend to use them closer to their mouth which will improve the signal-to-background-noise-ratio, which may also contribute to this idea that dynamics are better at background noise rejection.

It’s important to point out that there will be dynamics and condensers that are great at background noise rejection while others are terrible at it. That’s why it’s essential to listen to demos of the mics you’re researching so you can identify if a mic is good or bad at this rejection.