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Condenser microphone

A condenser microphone is usually more sensitive and detailed, making it useful for vocals and acoustic sources.

Level relevance: introduced at Nat 4; tagged for every later level where the same concept remains useful.

Explanation

Condenser microphones are often chosen when detail and sensitivity are important. They are commonly used for vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, and overheads. Because they can pick up more room sound and fine detail, placement matters a lot. Many condenser microphones require phantom power from the interface or mixer.

Topics

RecordingHardwareMicrophone technique
Curriculum statussupporting vocabulary
Review statusdraft

Related terms

Microphone

A microphone converts sound waves in the air into an electrical signal.

View term

Dynamic microphone

A dynamic microphone is usually robust and well suited to louder sources or live-style recording situations.

View term

Signal path

The signal path is the route audio takes from the source to the recording or playback system.

View term