In this FAQ, we will answer the most common questions asked when using and troubleshooting microphones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The polar pattern is the sensitivity of sound being picked up from different directions surrounding the microphone. It\u2019s essentially the \u201clistening area.” Not all microphones diaphragms are built the same so the polar pattern for each can be different. This ultimately affects how the microphone sounds and also how much sound is picked up. Learn more in Polar Patterns Explained<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The main difference between a dynamic and condenser microphone is how they work. Dynamic microphones turn sound waves into a voltage with the use of a magnet; it\u2019s like a speaker but in reverse. Condensers, on the other hand, work on the principle of variable capacitance. In simple terms, they work like a battery. Learn more about how dynamic microphones work<\/a>, and how condenser microphones work<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Phantom power (+48v) generates the DC voltage required to power a condenser microphone. Most modern mixers and audio interfaces include a +48V switch, but there may be times where the use of an external phantom power supply<\/a> is used. Learn more in our article \u201cWhat is Phantom Power<\/strong><\/a>\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Plugging or unplugging a condenser microphone in when +48v is engaged (known as \u201chot-plugging\u201d) can cause damage to your microphone. It\u2019s like changing a lightbulb while the light switch is on. Due to the significant voltage spike when connecting or disconnecting, you will hear a loud pop which is harmful to speakers and in some cases, can potentially damage the microphone. The best practice is to turn phantom power on after you plug it in, and turn phantom power off before you unplug it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dynamic microphones are safe to operate with phantom power (+48v). There are a few times where you can potentially damage a dynamic microphone; specifically, passive<\/strong> ribbon microphones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you turn your levels up, there could be several reasons why the microphone is so quiet. For example, while interfaces and mixers have a +48V <\/strong>switch, some of the more budget-friendly devices may not provide a full 48 volts. This leads to an underpowered microphone producing low output. Here are some things to double-check.<\/p>\n\n\n\n XLR to XLR cables are preferred, but if you\u2019re in a bind, you can use XLR to \u00bc\u201d cables on some microphones. They must be balanced TRS cables<\/a>, and your mixer or interface needs to be set to Line. \u00bc\u201d TRS connections can\u2019t transfer phantom power so you won\u2019t be able to use a condenser microphone using an XLR to TRS cable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Passive microphone preamps like the CL-1<\/a> and DM1<\/a> require phantom power for them to work. Don\u2019t worry though! They don\u2019t transfer the phantom power into your mic so there won\u2019t be any risk of damage. Of course, be sure to check the cable connections, as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To get the best sound out of your microphone when singing, you generally want to have it at least three inches away. The closer to the microphone you get, you\u2019ll begin to notice the proximity effect<\/a>. This leads to a lot of boominess and distortion. Learn more about proper microphone technique<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wind noise is a specific type of handling noise<\/a>. A variety of different sources can cause this. It could be a damp capsule, bad cable, or even a lack of a windscreen. Here are some tips to help reduce handling noise.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat\u2019s the difference between a dynamic and condenser microphone?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s phantom power?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Will I damage my condenser microphone if I unplug it before turning phantom power off?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can you damage a dynamic microphone if you\u2019re using phantom power?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why is my microphone so quiet?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can I use an XLR to \u00bc\u201d cable with my microphone?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why isn\u2019t my microphone preamp working?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where should I place my microphone for singing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why do I hear wind noise when my mic is plugged in?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n