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Microphones Buying Guide
Microphones



Types
These are the main two types of microphones that you will typically see being used.
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When you think of a microphone, this is typically the model you will picture. While they are not known for picking up subtleties in sound, they do work well with loud sound sources such as instruments and voices |
The capacitor mic uses conducting plates that produce a signal when noise passes through it. This model is capable of picking up on all types of sounds throughout the tonal range and as a result is an expensive piece of equipment. A cheaper type of capacitor microphone is called an electret microphone |
Functions
Certain microphone models are used for specific applications--see some of the most common ones below.
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This is a small microphone that is worn on your body and connected and fastened with a clip |
As the name suggests, this mic operates without wires and uses a transmitter |
This microphone is designed to pick up vibrations at a low level from a solid object--one such example of its use is to monitor insects. |
This is an extremely sensitive microphone that can pick up sounds from long distances. It is most accurate when used for outdoor sporting events or monitoring conversations. |
These mics help to reduce background sounds and noise and enhance the voice of the person using the equipment. For this reason they are frequently used at concerts. |
Extras
Use these items to set up your mic and give it proper amplification.
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If you find that holding a mic while you are making a speech or singing a song is an inconvenience, a mic stand is useful to have. |
Attaching a boom to your mic stand can aid in angling the sound equipment towards an amp or drum set. |
A heavy duty |
An amp is important to have when hooking up your mic. It can help the sound to travel across a large room. |
Related Guides
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External Links
- Soundonsound.com: All about choosing a microphone.
- Wikipedia.org: An in-depth look at microphones.














