A dynamic microphone is a type of microphone that uses a moving coil to capture sound. When sound waves hit the diaphragm of a dynamic microphone, it causes the coil to move back and forth within a magnetic field, generating an electrical signal that corresponds to the sound wave.

Dynamic microphones are known for their durability, affordability, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. They are often used in live sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and recording applications, particularly for loud sources such as guitar amplifiers, drums, and brass instruments.

Compared to other types of microphones, such as condenser or ribbon microphones, dynamic microphones have a relatively low sensitivity, meaning that they require more gain from a preamp to achieve the same level of output. They also have a narrower frequency response, which can result in a less detailed sound compared to a high-end condenser microphone. However, these characteristics can also make dynamic microphones well-suited for certain applications, such as reducing bleed in a multi-microphone recording setup or handling high volume levels without distortion.

Some popular examples of dynamic microphones include the Shure SM57 and SM58, the Electro-Voice RE20, and the Sennheiser MD421.

What’s the Difference Between a Condenser Mic and a Dynamic Mic?

Condenser microphones and dynamic microphones are two distinct types of microphones with different characteristics and applications.

A condenser microphone uses a thin diaphragm made of conductive material, which is suspended close to a metal backplate. The space between the diaphragm and the backplate is filled with a conductive material or a gas, creating a capacitor that generates an electrical signal in response to changes in air pressure. Condenser microphones are known for their high sensitivity and frequency response, which make them well-suited for capturing detailed, nuanced sound sources such as vocals, acoustic instruments, and room ambiance.

A dynamic microphone, on the other hand, uses a diaphragm connected to a moving coil that sits within a magnetic field. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it causes the coil to move back and forth, generating an electrical signal that corresponds to the sound wave. Dynamic microphones are known for their durability, affordability, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. They are often used in live sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and recording applications, particularly for loud sources such as guitar amplifiers, drums, and brass instruments.

In general, condenser microphones are more sensitive and have a wider frequency response than dynamic microphones. They also require phantom power, a DC voltage sent through the microphone cable from an external power source such as a preamp or mixer. Dynamic microphones do not require phantom power and can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making them well-suited for louder sound sources.

The choice between a condenser microphone and a dynamic microphone will depend on the specific application and the desired sound. Condenser microphones are often preferred for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and other detailed sound sources in a controlled studio environment. Dynamic microphones are often preferred for live sound reinforcement and recording louder sources in a less controlled environment.