Presonus Audio electronic Microphone Preamplifier Microphones, Condenser, Dynamic, Ribbon

OPERATION

2.3 MICROPHONES

The FireStudio Project works with many microphones including dynamic, ribbon and condenser microphones.

2.3.1 Condenser

Condenser microphones tend to generate a high-quality audio signal and are one of the most popular mic choices for today’s studio recording applications. Because of their design technology, condenser microphones require a power source, which can be provided from a small battery, external power supply or from microphone inputs as phantom power. The FireStudio Project sends phantom power over XLR inputs only.

2.3.2 Dynamic

Dynamic microphones are possibly the most widely used microphone type – especially in live shows. They are relatively inexpensive, resistant to physical damage and typically handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) very well. Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic microphones do not require a power source and, in most cases, has no effect on a dynamic microphone’s audio quality or sensitivity.

Dynamic microphones, especially ribbon microphones, tend to generate low output voltages, so they typically need more preamp gain than a condenser microphone.

Ribbon

Ribbon microphones are a special type of dynamic microphone and get their name from the thin metal ribbon used in their design. Ribbon microphones have very high quality sound reproduction qualities – especially higher frequencies sounds. However, they are very fragile and typically cannot handle high SPL’s.

The most important thing to note about Ribbon microphones is that nearly all Ribbon Microphones do NOT require phantom power. In fact, unless a Ribbon microphone specifically calls for phantom power, sending phantom power to a ribbon microphone will destroy it – usually beyond repair.

2.3.3 USB and other types

There are a vast number of microphone types available, and as technology increases, it is very likely more will surface. One type of microphone to emerge recently is the USB microphone. Most USB microphones have their own built-in preamp and use drivers separate from the FireStudio Project drivers.

If you are using a new or non-standard type of microphone (i.e., USB, headset, laser, MEMS, etc.), please consult your microphone’s user’s manual for power requirement or compatibility information.

Regardless of the microphone type you are using, we recommend reading your microphone’s user’s manual thoroughly before engaging phantom power or if any other usage questions may arise.

14 PreSonus 2007