By Full Compass LiveWhether you are a classical musician or just want to make your podcastDefinition:
An audio digital streaming program. Originally from iPod+Broadcast. sound professional, the right microphone is essential for home recording success. Unfortunately, most of us do not have an unlimited budget for our home recording studio, so knowing where to spend and where you can save is key in order to get the results you want without wasting money. Different situations can also call for microphones with different features - here’s how to make the right choice for your project.
USB Microphones
For quick, easy recording by beginners, or for a podcast with the need to record on-the-go, a USB microphoneDefinition:
A microphone with an onboard A/D converter and USB output to allow for direct connection with computers and mobile devices. is a good place to start. They often include recording software and eliminate the need for a separate audio interfaceDefinition:
A device to convert audio signals into digital code suitable for use by a computer; typically communication occurs through a port such as USB, Thunderbolt, FireWire, etc. .
A good USB microphone will offer high-resolutionDefinition:
1. (video) The measure of pixels horizontally and vertically. For example, 1920x1080 is considered HD, or high-definition. 2. (audio) The combined bit depth and sample rate of a digital audio signal. articulation and intelligibility that’s perfect for home studioDefinition:
A recording studio located in a residence that may be dedicated to a hobby, or to commercial projects. See also: Project Studio. recording, field recording, podcasting and voiceover use. The versatility and convenience of USB microphones are also valuable features. Most do not require a separate power source, and can be used to digitally captureDefinition:
To acquire audio and/or video, and convert it to a file. audio on Apple computers, Windows PCs or iOSDefinition:
Apple proprietary operating system, primarily for mobile devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch). Current Apple TVs run on tvOS, which is similar to, and based on, iOS. systems like your iPhone.
Choosing An Audio Interface
If you are ready to move beyond a USB microphone and the sound cardDefinition:
Typically a PCI card for installation in a computer to digitize audio and often, interface with MIDI signals. in your computer, one of the first things you will need to consider is choosing an audio interface. This piece of equipment gives you the ability to input professional microphones, instruments, and more to your computer and recording software.
It also increases your output options, and overall greatly improves the sound quality of what you can record and produce by capturing a more accurate version of the sounds you create. An audio interface is useful for recording music and podcasts, and also in video post-production for recording voice-overs and any other sound edits.
If you are ready to add an audio interface to your home recording set-up, here are a few things to consider as you make your selection:
- The inputs and outputs (I/ODefinition:
(Input/Output): 1. A pair of connections that provide input(s) and output(s). 2. The connections that link a computer to devices outside the computer.) needed - Compatibility with the computer you will be using
- The level of sound quality you are looking for
- Your budget
- Any additional features you will need
Condenser and Dynamic Microphones
Now that you have an audio interface, you have many more options available to you when it comes to microphones. The primary choice to make is between condenserDefinition:
An archaic term for Capacitor. and dynamic microphones.
Condenser microphones are what will be found in most professional recording studios. They have an extended frequency responseDefinition:
The range of frequencies that an audio, video or data device can pass., which allows them to record a voice or instrument with a high level of accuracy, and an open, natural sound. They are a great choice for general purpose recording, particularly for detailed capturing of vocals and solo instruments. The negatives of Condenser microphones are that they are generally expensive, fragile, and can be sensitive to the loud sounds found in live performances or certain styles of music.
Dynamic microphones might not have the sound quality accuracy of condenser microphones, but they have many other advantages. First of all, they are much more rugged and durable than delicate condenser microphones. They can handle both physical abuse, and environmental conditions like moisture very well. This makes them a good choice if you will ever be recording in challenging conditions, such as a live outdoor event. Dynamic microphones also have a limited frequency response, making them well-suited to capturing loud amplified sound, live vocals, and drums with a brightDefinition:
In audio, a sound quality that emphasizes high frequencies. Also called "crisp," "clear," or "sparkly.", clean sound. Last of all, they are much more affordable, with certain models like the Shure SM57 being legendary as the "workhorse" choice of performers, producers, and sound engineers worldwide.
Finding the right microphone for your home recording studio depends on many factors, including your budget and the type of music or other projects you will be recording. There is no single best microphone – take the time to consider the features you will need (and limitations you want to avoid) in order to find the right equipment for you.
