Electret and condenser microphone capsules are different in how they work, how sensitive they are, how much power they need, and where they can be used.
The way it works:
Electret Microphone Capsule: This type of microphone capsule turns sound waves into electrical data using a diaphragm made of piezoelectric crystal or clay materials. The diaphragm is placed across from a fixed magnet, which means the microphone can work without an outside power source.
Condenser Microphone Capsule: A condenser microphone capsule, on the other hand, detects changes in capacitance. A capacitor is made up of two metal plates that are slightly apart from each other. The space between the plates changes a little when sound waves hit the diaphragm. This changes the capacitance and turns the sound into an electrical signal.
How sensitive:
Electret Microphone Capsule: Condenser microphones usually have better sensitivity and can pick up more information in sound, while electret mics are known for having a wide frequency response. Electret mics are flexible and can be used for a wide range of tasks.
Condenser Microphone Capsule: Condenser mics are great for professional audio recording because they are more sensitive and better at picking up small sounds.
What power do you need?
Electret Microphone Capsule: Electret mics don't need an outside power source because their diaphragm is charged when they are made.
Condenser Microphone Capsule: Condenser mics, on the other hand, need an outside power source to work, which is usually phantom power.
Where It Can Be Used:
Electret Microphone Capsule: Electret microphones are often used in communication devices, home tools, and other electronics because they are small, have a wide frequency range, are highly accurate, and are inexpensive.
Condenser Microphone Capsule: Because they are sensitive and can pick up sound in any direction, condenser mics are usually found in professional places like recording booths for music and movies.
