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Equipment

Condenser microphone

A microphone whose diaphragm and charged backplate form a sound-sensitive capacitor that converts acoustic vibration into an electrical signal.

Also known as: capacitor microphone

Reviewed

A microphone whose diaphragm and charged backplate form a sound-sensitive capacitor that converts acoustic vibration into an electrical signal.

Use cases

  • Condenser elements can be made small and sensitive with an extended frequency response, which makes them common for dialogue booms, lavaliers, studio vocals, ambience, and detailed instrument recording. Their active electronics require a compatible power source—often phantom power or a battery—and specifications such as polar pattern, sensitivity, self-noise, and maximum sound-pressure level should be matched to the source and recorder.

Setup

  • Confirm the intended use, inspect the equipment, and coordinate placement with the responsible department.

Safety notes

  • Use only within manufacturer ratings and the production safety plan.

In practice

Condenser elements can be made small and sensitive with an extended frequency response, which makes them common for dialogue booms, lavaliers, studio vocals, ambience, and detailed instrument recording. Their active electronics require a compatible power source—often phantom power or a battery—and specifications such as polar pattern, sensitivity, self-noise, and maximum sound-pressure level should be matched to the source and recorder.

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