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Why a high quality microphone is so important

No matter what you are recording and where – from live interviews to field recordings, home recordings to studio sessions, you will not get the most out of your output without a high quality microphone. Poor quality audio is very frequently the result of using a poor quality microphone and/or recording device. One very big section of the online community that has discovered this truth is the community of vloggers and podcast content creators who have recorded videos or recordings only to realise how poor the sound is. This is easily resolved by adding a decent microphone to their arsenal.

This is also true of recording studios, from major London recording studios to smaller studios the recognition of the need for quality microphones is ubiquitous.

The reason a quality microphone makes such a difference is that it adds high fidelity to the recording as well as impacting positively on the mixing and processing of the audio laid down. One of the most vital distinctions between cheap and more sophisticated microphones lies in the dynamic range. In specific terms this refers to the degree to which a microphone can faithfully capture a recording from large to small signals and everything in between. With a greater dynamic range you will clearly lose less information, leading to a more faithful recording. In addition, quality microphones will render a better frequency response.

Choosing the right microphone for your voice 

Unfortunately, choosing the perfect microphone for your voice is not just as simple as going for the most expensive microphone you can afford, although that will come into it. The environment, such as a Recording Studio, can also play a critical role in determining the right microphone. For instance, some microphones excel in controlled studio settings, while others are better suited for live performances. Additionally, factors like microphone type, sensitivity, and compatibility with your recording equipment are just as important. While one very good microphone will bring out the best in one person’s voice, it may not do the same for another’s.

Ease of use

Understanding your own limitations is important when choosing a piece of equipment. If you are more technically minded you can get away with a more complex microphone and obviously get more out of it. Usability is vital with any piece of equipment, but this is, in part, dictated by the user.

Match your frequency with the frequency response of the microphone

The average male voice has a frequency of between 110-120 hertz, while the average female voice lies between 200-210 hertz. You would be well advised to choose a microphone that is best suited to your own range.

Test it out!

There is no substitute for trying a microphone with your own voice before deciding. Obviously with online shopping often the only option, this is not always possible. In this case it is advisable to take advice from an expert.

Directionality

A microphone’s directional pattern (or polar pattern) is important. For instance, if you are a voice over artist a more focused directional microphone will best suit your needs – this kind of microphone is known as a cardioid or hypercardioid and minimizes room tone and ambient noise.

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