Definition
Microphone – We have to prove that the word microphone is etymological origin in Greek. And it is the result of the sum of several lexical components of this language.
-The word “Mikros” can be translated as “small.”
-The name “phone” is synonymous with “sound.”
A microphone is a device that converts sound waves into electrical signals. In this way, it is possible to strengthen it. The device generates electrical currents based on changes in atmospheric pressure. To do this, they can use various methods and techniques, such as electromagnetic induction or piezoelectricity.
Typically, they need to be connected to a preamplifier so that their signal can be processed, recorded, and played back in a speaker (loudspeaker).
What is the Job of the Microphone?
The microphone behaves backward like a speaker. Microphone is a system that captures the sound, encodes it into an electrical signal, and then transmits it.
For this to happen, several actions take place, which is mention below
- At first, the voice or sound creates vibrations.
- The vibrations start to push the diaphragm into the microphone; this serves as the eardrum of the ears.
- The diaphragm membrane is also attached to an element, transducer, crystal, coil, capacitor, carbon particles, etc.
- This mechanism converts sound variations into electricity.
- Although there are many techniques to convert sound into electrical energy, let’s focus on the two most popular methods.
- These are the most common microphones used for amplification in recording studios, broadcast, movie production, and on-stage – live sound.
- It is the reverse of loudspeakers or amplifiers, which convert electrical energy into sound.
What are the Parts of a Microphone?
1.Membrane
Sometimes referred to as a microphone, this term is more commonly used to refer to a device that receives vibrations from instruments, such as a piano. B. an electric guitar. It is the most sensitive component of the entire microphone structure. It is a membrane that traps sound vibrations and is attached to a system that converts these waves into electricity.
2. Converter
It is the microphone capsule, and it is structured differently depending on the type of converter. It allows classifying the microphone into different types: condenser, dynamic, carbon, etc. And also, It is the element responsible for converting sound into electricity.
3. Grid
It serves as protection for the diaphragm. Absorbs sound shock (such as “b” and “p”) and impact from falls.
4. Housing
It is a container in which the microphone elements are place. The case of handhelds is complete of light metal, but at the same time, it is sturdy.
5. Output connector
The electrical signal is transmitting to the console via the connector. These are usually male XLR connectors. On wireless or wireless models, the outlet is replace by a radio frequency transmitter. Which sends the signal by electromagnetic waves.
What are the Characteristics of a Microphone?
1. Directivity
Microphones do not pick up sound the same from all sides. Directivity is the property that indicates in which direction the sound is most effective. It is essential to know our microphones’ polar diagram to position them correctly in the recordings.
2. Unidirectional
Record in one direction only. Some super-directional models have a narrow and long beam to collect noise from locations and great distances. They are ideal for capturing animal sounds in nature.
This type of microphone is a weapon. As the name suggests, it is shape like a heart. These mics will give a better signal when you talk to them from the front, although they will still pick up something behind and to the side.
3. Bidirectional
Grasp both sides of the capsule. It allows you to place the loudspeaker in front of the loudspeaker and capture sound with the same intensity. It is convenient for actors to record face to face during a scene.
4. Omnidirectional
When we speak, the microphone picks up sound correctly. They are great for group scenes.