Dynamic Vs Condenser Mic For Streaming

The choice between dynamic and condenser mics can be a defining factor for an engaging stream, making it a vital decision.

When it comes to the choice between condenser and dynamic mics, there is no right or wrong. You can get the best condenser or dynamic microphone from the market and still not get the desired results. The key is to look for the type which suits your purpose the best.

In this article, I’ll cover the major differences between two primary types of microphones, so you can pick the best one for your desired application.

Dynamic Microphones vs Condenser Microphones – The Key Difference

The basic difference between condenser and dynamic microphones lies in their design, which defines their functionalities. Dynamic microphones feature a thin diaphragm and a coil of suspended wire in a magnetic field. The collision of sound waves with the diaphragm produces vibrations in the suspended coil within this magnetic field, generating an electric current, also known as an electrical signal.

Condenser mics, on the other hand, feature a diaphragm that is situated quite closely to an electrically charged backplate. The vibrations produced by sound waves fluctuate capacitance between the diaphragm and charged plates to generate an electrical signal.

The condenser mics are generally more sensitive than dynamic microphones, mainly because the components within the diaphragm are lightweight, and even the lightest of soundwaves can cause the capacitance difference. On the other hand, dynamic microphones have a relatively heavyweight diaphragm, which requires strong sound waves to generate electric signals.

That said, the sensitivity of condenser mics is owed to the electrically charged plate, which requires an external power source, sometimes referred to as Phantom Power. The power is either provided by batteries, an external preamp, the computer’s USB port, or an audio interface. Dynamic microphones, in contrast, can work without phantom power.

Dynamic vs. Condenser Mics – Which Is Better At Background Noise Rejection?

Condenser mics are more prone to capturing background noise because of their higher sensitivities and broader frequency response. In contrast, dynamic microphones offer incredible noise rejection because of their lower sensitivities. While the background noise can be reduced by using a unidirectional or cardioid pattern, dynamic microphones will always be better at it than their condenser counterparts.

It may be why streamers working in a noisier environment may pick dynamic microphones. A dynamic mic will not pick up the ambient noise of the CPU, fan, or other noise-generating electronics in the room. While condenser mics are most likely to do so.

Dynamic vs Condenser Microphones – Which Is Better For Vocal Recording and Streaming?

Condenser microphones can capture a broader range frequency range and reproduce it accurately thanks to higher sensitivity owed to a larger diaphragm. The high sensitivity also eliminates the need to augment the gain, which results in more natural output. Dynamic microphones are relatively less sensitive and require gain for lower notes, which compromises the sound quality and sounds a bit “broadcast.”

Users who want a microphone to record and stream their vocals, such as podcasters, voiceover artists, and content creators will be better off with condenser microphones. While dynamic microphones have also come a long way, and certain accessories and tailored frequency responses help them record more natural sound, they are still far behind compared to condenser microphones.

Which of The Condenser and Dynamic Microphone Is Good At Recording Musical Instruments?

The choice between dynamic and condenser mics when it comes to streaming with musical instruments is challenging and tricky because of the varying characteristics of instruments. While condenser mics are more sensitive, they should be better at recording instruments in theory, but this is not the case. There is another factor at play, known as Max SPL or Maximum Sound Pressure Levels.

Max SPL defines the level of loudness a microphone can record without distorting the output. The sensitivity of a condenser microphone is owed to its delicate diaphragm, which has the downside of not responding well to high sound pressure levels. You will experience distortion if you use a condenser microphone to record loud instruments such as electronic guitars, drums, and voilens.

Dynamic microphones feature a relatively rugged diaphragm design, allowing them to record loud instruments without distorting the output. However, they will not record acoustic instruments such as guitars and pianos well because they are not designed to pick up minute frequency differences.

So, a condenser microphone will be the most suitable option if you are streaming with acoustic instruments. On the other hand, dynamic mics will be the best bet for streamers with loud instruments.

Should You Choose Condenser or Dynamic Mics If You Are A Frequent Traveler?

Durability is one of the key demands of users who travel frequently. While external coating of different types may make any microphone scratch-resistant, it does not impact the internal designs. Condenser microphones feature a delicate construction of internal components, which is exactly what imparts high sensitivity in them, but it comes at the expense of durability. A single accidental drop can damage the internal construction, rendering them useless.

In contrast, dynamic mics feature a relatively solid and rugged internal design. An accidental drop may produce scratches on the microphone’s body, but dynamic mics are more likely to survive internally. So, if you travel a lot or stream in a way that abuses your microphone, a dynamic microphone is more likely to last longer.

Dynamic or Condenser Microphone – Which One is Easier To Setup

Many beginners prefer a microphone that is easier to set up to get to their streaming straightaway. A dynamic microphone is suitable for users because these microphones are often plug-and-play. Connect them with any device that accepts audio input, and the microphone will be ready to record. Streamers who use their smart devices, such as smartphones or tablets, to stream will find dynamic mics super easy to set up.

Condenser microphones, on the other hand, require external power, which is either provided by the battery or audio interface. It makes the setup a little more challenging, something some streamers will find inconvenient because it limits the types of devices the microphone can be paired with.

Condenser vs dynamic microphones – Suitable Microphone for Different Streaming Applications

The different characteristics of both microphones make them suitable for varying applications. Some of them include the following;

Podcasters

Podcasters who live stream their sessions in loud environments will want excellent rejection of unwanted noise, making dynamic mics a good choice. In contrast, those who stream in controlled studio-like conditions will be better off with condenser mics because of their ability to record high-quality sound.

Gamers

Gamers should almost always use dynamic mics because they work better in noisy environments. You will not want your viewers to feel annoyed by the constant sound of the key presses in your stream.

Musicians

Musicians who stream with loud instruments, such as drums, violins, and electronic guitars, should use dynamic mics to record a distortion-free session. A condenser microphone will work best if you live stream your vocals with or without acoustic instruments.

Conclusion

There is no right or wrong when it comes to the choice between dynamic or condenser mic. It simply is a matter of what suits you the best. Streamers who want to record more natural sound will be better off with condenser microphones, provided they are using them in controlled, noise-free environments. On the other hand, dynamic mics will work best for streamers who stream in loud environments because they are better at rejecting unwanted background noise.

Frequently Asked Questions