Condenser Microphones

There is a fundamental difference in the way they detect sound, which causes them to have greater sensitivity compared to a dynamic mic.

The condenser mic, like his friend the dynamic mic, has a diaphragm that vibrates with an incoming sound wave.

But instead of mechanically moving a magnet, it generates a signal based on the relative distance between two plates.

The diaphragm has an electric charge across it provided by an external source, either from a battery or Phantom Power.

It is much more sensitive to slight pressure variations making it ideal for vocals and acoustic instrument recording.

There are 2 types of Condenser Mic that you will see as you begin your search: Large and Small Diaphragm.

At the risk of explaining the obvious... here are the things unique to each type.

The large diaphragm has (and this should be no surprise to you all keeping score at home) a larger detecting element.

See aren't you glad you came to this site?!?.

The main strength of this type is its versatility.

It can be used to record acoustic instruments, vocals, electric amps, espionage, almost anything that you can put in front of it.

The small diaphragm style is very similar except that it has a smaller detecting element that is more agile and therefore more responsive to quick sounds.

Applications for this style might include percussive drum or instrument sounds.

This is clearly a bit more specialized and in my opinion, not as valuable if you are trying to stay on a minimalist budget.

In general for both styles, you will hear all the noise coming from your space with a good condenser... so this will need to factor in your decisions.

In addition to requiring an external phantom power source, they tend to be more delicate and fragile.

All that being said, if you want to get maximum bang for your buck then add a large diaphragm condenser to you home studio and leave the small diaphragm and dynamic mics for their more specialized missions.

The human voice is one of the most expressive sounds that you'll encounter in your recording journey.


A condenser mic is a must-have for capturing airy, light vocals in your studio.

If you can afford to get more than one, then I'd suggest a condenser for vocals and a Dynamic Mic for loud instruments (including miking of amps).

But, if you only have enough moolah for one... then a large diaphragm condenser microphone should be the mic you are looking for.

Its flexibility and usefulness will serve you well.

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