Your guide to selecting the best mic head and headphones for your specific needs.
Microphones: What Type of Mic Head Should You Use?
Currently, the mic heads sold on the market fall into two main categories:
- Dynamic Microphones: Known for excellent sound quality, these microphones do not require external power. They are more expensive but are ideal for home use and professional applications.
- Electret Microphones: Durable and highly sensitive, they require a power supply of 1.5–3V. While their sound quality is slightly lower than dynamic microphones at the same price, they are more affordable and suitable for broadcasting purposes.
For home use, a dynamic microphone is recommended due to its ability to reproduce vocals accurately and resist feedback that could damage speakers. Always look for well-packaged and robust designs from reputable brands when purchasing.
How to Test a Microphone
After selecting a microphone, test its quality using high-fidelity audio equipment. Follow these steps:
- Connect the microphone to the audio input jack and set the volume to the lowest level.
- Play original music or a CD through the audio system.
- Turn on the microphone and test its performance by shaking and switching it on and off. A high-quality microphone will produce no clicking or noise during operation.
By thoroughly testing, you can ensure your microphone delivers the best performance.
Protecting Your Hearing
Prolonged use of headphones, especially at high volumes, can cause significant hearing damage. "Leak-proof" headphones designed to fit near the ear canal may increase this risk. For music lovers and language learners, consider alternating between different types of headphones to reduce strain on your ears.
Choosing the Right Headphones
No single pair of headphones is perfect for all conditions. For example:
- In hot and humid weather, bulky headphones can feel uncomfortable.
- In winter, cold earbuds may not be ideal despite their size.
Owning two pairs of headphones with different characteristics can provide versatility for different scenarios.
New Headphones and the "Burn-In" Period
New headphones often require a "burn-in" period to reach their optimal sound quality. When purchasing, consider borrowing headphones from friends who already own a similar model to get a better sense of their sound before making a decision.
