When it comes to choosing a uni - directional microphone for your specific needs, two popular options often come into consideration: cardioid and super - cardioid microphones. As a supplier of uni - directional microphones, I've had numerous customers inquire about the differences between these two types. In this blog, I'll delve into the technical aspects, advantages, and suitable applications of both cardioid and super - cardioid uni - directional microphones to help you make an informed decision.
Technical Characteristics
Cardioid Microphones
Cardioid microphones are named for their heart - shaped polar pattern. The term "cardioid" is derived from the Greek word for heart. This polar pattern is designed to pick up sound primarily from the front of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. The pickup pattern is characterized by a high sensitivity at the front (0 degrees), gradually decreasing as you move towards the sides (90 and 270 degrees), and reaching its lowest sensitivity at the rear (180 degrees).
The cardioid pattern is achieved through a combination of the microphone's diaphragm design and the internal acoustic structure. When sound waves hit the diaphragm from the front, they cause a maximum displacement, generating a strong electrical signal. As the sound source moves to the sides or rear, the diaphragm's movement is reduced, resulting in a weaker signal.
One of the key technical features of cardioid microphones is their relatively wide front - facing pickup area. This makes them forgiving in terms of microphone placement, as the user doesn't need to be perfectly aligned with the microphone's axis to achieve good sound quality.
Super - Cardioid Microphones
Super - cardioid microphones have a more focused polar pattern compared to cardioid microphones. Their polar pattern is more elongated in the front and has a smaller rear lobe. The sensitivity at the front (0 degrees) is very high, similar to that of a cardioid microphone. However, the side rejection is more pronounced, with a steeper drop - off in sensitivity as you move towards the sides.
Super - cardioid microphones also have a small rear lobe of sensitivity, which is typically around - 10 to - 15 dB compared to the front sensitivity. This rear lobe can sometimes be a double - edged sword. On one hand, it can pick up some ambient sound that may be useful in certain situations. On the other hand, it can also introduce unwanted noise if there are sound sources at the rear of the microphone.
The more focused pattern of super - cardioid microphones is achieved through more complex internal acoustic designs. These microphones often have additional acoustic chambers and ports to shape the polar pattern precisely.
Advantages of Each Type
Cardioid Microphones
- Versatility: Cardioid microphones are extremely versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. They are suitable for live performances, studio recordings, podcasting, and public speaking. Their wide front - facing pickup area means that multiple performers or speakers can be captured easily without the need for precise alignment.
- Natural Sound: Due to their relatively wide pickup pattern, cardioid microphones tend to capture a more natural - sounding audio. They pick up some ambient sound along with the direct sound, which can add depth and warmth to the recording.
- Ease of Use: As mentioned earlier, cardioid microphones are forgiving in terms of placement. This makes them a great choice for beginners or users who don't have a lot of experience with microphone setup.
Super - Cardioid Microphones
- High Directionality: The main advantage of super - cardioid microphones is their high directionality. They are ideal for situations where you need to isolate a specific sound source from the surrounding noise. For example, in a live concert setting, a super - cardioid microphone can be used to pick up the lead singer's voice while minimizing the sound from the band or the audience.
- Long - Distance Pickup: Super - cardioid microphones can be used effectively for long - distance pickup. Their focused pattern allows them to capture sound from a distance without being affected by nearby noise sources. This makes them suitable for outdoor recordings, such as nature sound recordings or sports event coverage.
Suitable Applications
Cardioid Microphones
- Live Performances: In a live band setting, cardioid microphones are commonly used for vocals, acoustic guitars, and other instruments. They can capture the performer's sound while reducing the bleed from other instruments on the stage.
- Studio Recordings: For studio recordings, cardioid microphones are used for vocals, acoustic instruments, and even some electric instruments. Their wide pickup area allows for a more natural - sounding recording, and they can be used in a variety of recording setups.
- Podcasting: Cardioid microphones are a popular choice for podcasting. They can pick up the voices of multiple hosts without the need for precise alignment, and their natural sound helps create an engaging listening experience.
Super - Cardioid Microphones
- Live Sound Reinforcement: In large - scale live events, super - cardioid microphones are often used for solo performers or presenters. Their high directionality helps to isolate the sound source from the surrounding noise, ensuring clear audio for the audience.
- Outdoor Broadcasting: When broadcasting outdoors, such as at a sports event or a festival, super - cardioid microphones can be used to capture the sound of the event while minimizing the background noise from the crowd or the environment.
- Remote Recording: For remote recording situations, where the microphone needs to be placed at a distance from the sound source, super - cardioid microphones are a good choice. They can pick up the sound clearly while rejecting unwanted noise from the surroundings.
Product Recommendations
If you're interested in cardioid or super - cardioid uni - directional microphones, we offer a range of high - quality products. For example, our Unidirecional Condenser Microphone Parts are designed to provide excellent sound quality and durability. These parts can be used to build your own custom - made uni - directional microphones.
Our 1045 Electret Condenser Microphone is a popular choice for both cardioid and super - cardioid applications. It offers a high - quality sound with a wide range of frequency response, making it suitable for various recording and live sound situations.
For those who need a microphone with noise - cancelling capabilities, our 14mm Noise - Cancelling Capsule For Streaming Microphones is an excellent option. It can effectively reject background noise while capturing clear audio from the front.
Conclusion
In summary, the main difference between cardioid and super - cardioid uni - directional microphones lies in their polar patterns. Cardioid microphones have a wider front - facing pickup area and are more forgiving in terms of placement, making them versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications. Super - cardioid microphones, on the other hand, have a more focused polar pattern, offering better side rejection and long - distance pickup capabilities.
When choosing between the two, it's important to consider your specific needs, such as the type of sound source, the recording environment, and the desired sound quality. If you're still unsure which type of microphone is right for you, feel free to contact us. We have a team of experts who can provide you with personalized advice and help you find the perfect microphone for your project. Whether you're a professional musician, a podcaster, or a live sound engineer, we're here to assist you in making the best choice.
If you're interested in purchasing uni - directional microphones or have any questions about our products, don't hesitate to reach out. We're ready to start a discussion about your specific requirements and provide you with the best solutions for your audio needs.
References
- Everest, F. A., & Pohlmann, K. C. (2009). Master Handbook of Acoustics. McGraw - Hill.
- Maling, G. C. (1978). Measurement of Sound. Wiley.
