Microphone Guide
Choosing the right mic for your source
Microphone Types
Dynamic
Durable, handles high SPL. Perfect for live vocals, guitar amps, and drums.
Condenser
Sensitive, wide frequency response. Ideal for studio vocals, acoustic instruments.
Ribbon
Warm, natural sound. Great for brass, strings, and room miking.
Selection Guide
Vocals
Shure SM7B, Neumann U87
Acoustic Guitar
AKG C414, Neumann KM184
Electric Guitar
Shure SM57, Royer R121
Kick Drum
AKG D112, Shure Beta 52A
Snare Drum
Shure SM57, Audix i5
Piano
AKG C414, Royer SF-12
Placement
Close Miking
2-6 inches from source. Maximum isolation, minimal room sound.
Distance Miking
1-3 feet from source. Natural blend of direct and room sound.
XY Stereo
Two cardioid mics at 90°, capsules aligned. Great for overheads.
Spaced Pair
Two mics spaced 3-10 feet apart. Wide stereo image.