In order to achieve the best sound quality, it is worth using a condenser microphone. At a condenser microphone a movable membrane and a fixed plate face each other at a small distance. Now, when you speak into the microphone, the sound waves cause the moving diaphragm to move closer and closer to its counterpart, which is translated into electrical signals that mirror the human voice with amazing accuracy.
Another advantage is when the microphone is equipped with a so-called pop filter Is provided. This handy attachment softens the popping noises that occur, for example, when we pronounce the letter P. A pop filter can also work wonders when recording outdoors, when wind noise disturbs the recording. Disadvantage of the pop filter: When recording, the heights are often reduced.
kidney or bullet?
The characteristics of the USB microphone are also decisive for good recording quality. The most common is probably the “kidney“, which when viewed resembles the organ. The sound angle with such microphones is relative limited. So they are more suitable for people who use their microphone for the home office and sit alone in front of the device.
microphones with Omnidirectional are suitable for people who, for example together with friends want to record a podcast. Also for conferences, where several participants sit around a table, such microphones are often used. Omnidirectional microphones pick up sounds from all directions. But be careful: In contrast to the cardioid microphone, background noises that penetrate through an open window, for example, are also transmitted in the case of individual recordings.
If two people are planning to record a podcast sitting across from each other, a microphone with what is called a “eight characteristic” suitable. Such microphones record the sounds from the front and rear, but not from the sides.
This is how microphones should be placed
To avoid distortion and interference during recording, the microphones are usually supplied with a table tripod, which gives them a stable stand. It usually makes sense for the microphone to be placed in front of the user so that he can speak directly into it – in the case of a cardioid microphone, between the user and the monitor.
Omnidirectional microphones, on the other hand, should be placed at equal distances from all participants to allow for an even volume. And “figure-of-eight” microphones are best placed on a small table with the two speakers sitting across from each other.