How you should choose a microphone depends on the intricacies of its intended use. Whether you choose a mic by Rode, AKG, Sanken or Sennheiser, the brand of the microphone isn't as important as it's success at capturing sound for your specific needs.

Dynamic vs Ribbon vs Condenser Microphones

Audio engineers and sound technicians classify microphones by dynamic, ribbon and condenser configurations.

Choose a Dynamic Microphone if:

  1. You want a microphone that will be versatile
  2. Your budget is limited 
  3. You need a microphone that will be durable 
  4. You use it for live vocals and recording 
  5. You work with relatively loud sound sources


Choose a Ribbon Microphone if:

  1. You want to pick up a wide range of frequencies 
  2. You are looking for an extraordinarily rich representation of the original sound 
  3. You seek smooth, detailed sound
  4. You want to capture the subtle nuances in a recording studio 
  5. You expect and appreciate subtle, sensitive sound


Choose a Condenser Microphone if:

  1. You need versatility because you work in a variety of applications for example speech as well as music 
  2. You want accurate sound reproduction and clarity 
  3. You like sound that is natural, clean and clear, with transparency and detail
  4. You need exceptionally sensitive pickup, which requires phantom power for silent audio amplification 

Wired vs Wireless Microphones

Choose a Wired Microphone if:

  1. You want a microphone that will be durable and versatile
  2. Your are looking for a mic with a classic look and sound (or something to do with your hands)
  3. You need to overcome unexpected interference
  4. Your budget is limited
  5. You need to microphone instruments


Choose a Wireless Microphone if:

  1. You want freedom of movement?When you need handsfree operation choose a wireless lavaliere or headband microphone
  2. You want to eliminate the cables that cause clutter or accidents
  3. You desire ease of setup and no cable runs
  4. You looking for discrete amplification without visible distractions 

Unidirectional vs Bidirectional vs Omnidirectional Microphones

Choose Unidirectional (also called Cardioid) Pickup Patterns if:

  1. You want to control the source of input
  2. You want to reject unwanted sounds such as room acoustics (reverberation), feedback or leakage
  3. You are a reporter and or DJ and hold the microphone to someone while they are speaking
  4. You are recording concerts where you are miking amps or instruments separately.


Choose Bidirectional or figure 8 if:

  1. You want to capture the interplay of two sound sources like a vocal or instrumental duet
  2. You can position microphones above a sound source for ambient room effect
  3. You do face-to-face interviews utilizing a stationary single microphone
  4. You want to be very selective about the peripheral sounds the microphone picks up


Consider Omnidirectional or Boundary if: 

  1. You want to deliver the most accurate representation of the total environment
  2. You need a microphone for a boardroom conference table 
  3. You want realistic recordings of acoustic instruments
  4. You record vocal groups with three or more singers 
  5. You want to collect sounds equally well from all directions


Consider Switchable Pickup Patterns if:

  1. You want maximum flexibility 
  2. You want to expand your versatility
  3. You work in a variety of different vocal applications
  4. You want a microphone that can be switched from one pickup pattern to another
  5. You want an all-in-one microphone