What is the difference between a normal microphone and a professional microphone?

The electret microphone on your headset costs no more than one dollar, but it does not affect Internet surfing and daily entertainment. Professional microphones must not only be able to pick up sound, but also have high requirements for timbre. The sound engineer pursues a good microphone, just as the photographer pursues a good lens.

①Dynamic microphone: In non-professional occasions, such as KTV, the most common is the dynamic microphone. Its principle is that the diaphragm in the microphone head drives the coil to vibrate, and the magnetic field lines are cut to generate electrical signals, which are transmitted to the next-level equipment through the microphone lines. Its advantages are simple structure, strong durability and low price. The disadvantage is that the sensitivity is not enough, the high frequency response is not enough, and the tone is not delicate enough.

②Condenser microphone: the most widely used microphone in the recording field. The principle is to use a very thin metal diaphragm as the first stage of the capacitor, and another metal back plate (a few tenths of a millimeter) that is very close to the other pole. The vibration of the diaphragm will cause the capacitance to change, thus forming an electrical signal. Condenser microphones are very sensitive because the diaphragm is so thin that even the smallest sound can vibrate it. Note that condenser microphones need a polarization voltage, and weak signals also need a pre-amp, so professional audio interfaces or mic preamps are powered by phantom power.

③Crawler microphone/ribbon microphone: It is very rare now, and some young tuners may not have heard of the crawler microphone. It is similar to the dynamic microphone, but uses a small crawler/aluminum belt as the diaphragm to generate the signal. It is characterized by warm sound, fast transient response, and natural mid-low frequency transition. The disadvantage is still that the high frequency response is insufficient, and it is very delicate. It will be broken when it is dropped. Never add phantom power supply, and it will burn when you add it. Can't spit on it yet, which might be a bit difficult for rappers!

As mentioned above, do I have to buy a condenser microphone?

No, each microphone has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should be selected according to the actual situation:

The sensitivity of the dynamic microphone is not high and the details are insufficient, but it is also not easy to pick up environmental noise, which is very suitable for use on stage, and it is not easy to produce feedback and howling. Another benefit of insensitivity is that the sound pressure level/volume is high, and it can withstand very loud sounds without bursting, such as picking up the sound of a drum kit. There are also many electroacoustic instruments, such as electric guitars and basses, which are not full-range instruments themselves, making them ideal for miking with dynamic microphones and avoiding crosstalk from other instruments. Finally, a great advantage of a dynamic microphone is its durability. It doesn't matter if it falls on the ground accidentally, pick it up and continue to sing, but the condenser and crawler microphones are easily finished...

Condenser microphones are characterized by high sensitivity, rich details, and a flat and broad frequency response curve, making them suitable for recording in the studio. But in the daily environment, it is easy to pick up environmental noise, such as the bed vibration next door... In addition to the requirements for the sound environment, condenser microphones are also relatively delicate. It is better to put it away when not in use, and put a few packets of desiccant next to it, because moisture will affect the life of the diaphragm. Generally, high-end recording studios will buy a special drying box to store the microphone.

The crawler microphone is difficult to serve and is not recommended for beginners. Its sound is between the moving coil and the capacitor. The sensitivity is not as good as that of the capacitor, but better than that of the moving coil.