1. Dynamic Microphone Head
Working Principle: The diaphragm of the microphone is impacted by sound waves, which drive the coil to move within a magnetic field, generating an electrical current as output.
Advantages: Durable, rich tonal quality.
Disadvantages: Proximity effect is noticeable.
Proximity Effect: The closer the microphone is to the sound source, the louder the sound. As the distance increases, the volume reduces. When the dynamic microphone is close to the speaker's mouth, not only is the volume increased, but low-frequency components also become more pronounced. To counter this, low-cut filters are often used on mixing consoles.
2. Ribbon Microphone Head
Working Principle: A very light, corrugated ribbon of metal is suspended in a magnetic field. The sound waves cause the ribbon to vibrate, cutting through magnetic lines of force, thus generating an electrical current output.
Advantages: Low impedance, clear and transparent sound.
Disadvantages: Susceptible to wind and humidity, best used indoors.
3. Condenser Microphone Head
Working Principle: The microphone consists of a diaphragm and a fixed backplate, forming a capacitor. When the diaphragm vibrates due to sound, the capacitance changes, resulting in an output voltage.
Advantages: Excellent transient response, wide frequency response.
Disadvantages: Requires an external power source (phantom power).
4. Electret Microphone Head
Working Principle: An electret material (usually polyester film) is applied to the diaphragm, which reduces reflection and increases fidelity. This type is used in applications such as conferences, microphones for string instruments, and brass instruments.
Advantages: Higher fidelity and accuracy in sound pickup.
Disadvantages: Less effective for distant sound capture.
5. Stereo Microphone Head
Working Principle: This type of microphone contains multiple pickup elements designed for recording in stereo. It captures sounds from multiple sources, offering a spatial and immersive audio experience.
Applications: Commonly used in recording and multi-channel audio environments.
6. Pressure Zone Microphone (PZM) Head
Working Principle: The microphone diaphragm is placed directly on the vibrating surface, capturing direct sound waves and reducing reflected sound, thus improving fidelity.
Applications: Ideal for conferences, string instruments, and brass instruments.
