Dynamic Mics

A bit of information about Dynamic mics;

All dynamic mics have a limited Bandwidth/Frequency Range. The Frequency Response in dynamic mics is known as the contour. It is used to makeup any deficiency in the frequency range. This basically means that it will boost or try to boost any of the lower signals within that frequency Range.This varies on the range of the dynamic mic in question as they all have slightly different frequency ranges. The Polar Pattern is the direction in which the mic picks up the signal. All Dynamic mics are Cardioid or "heart-shaped" in their polar pattern. They are good at picking up signals at the front of the mic but have a bad rear rejection which means they can't pick up signals from the back of the mic that well and they can pick up a bit of signal from the sides of the mic as they have a slight rear rejection.

They are suitable for close miking as they can pick up close signals really well due to their polar pattern. The further away the mic is the less of a signal it will pick up. Dynamics are more robust than condensers, meaning they are more durable and less likely to break if dropped compared to condenser mics, making them ideal for live performances. All dynamic mics are Transducers which means that they convert sound waves into an electrical signal. 

Examples of Dynamic Mics that we have in the Studio;

Shure SM58 - The Shure SM58 is used for vocal artists, DJs etc. They are used for any sort of live performance or P.A. They are great for leading and backing vocals because they can minimise background noise.

 Their RRP is £92.00. They range from 50 to 15,000Hz.

Below is the Frequency response chart (Right), the Frequency Range Chart (Left) and the cardioid polar pattern diagram (underneath the charts) for the SM58;

Shure SM57 - The Shure is used to record instruments. They are used for drums, guitar amps and bass amps. They are also recommended for saxophones and trumpets.
 They are used in studios and on stages worldwide. They isolate the main sound source and reduce background noise. Their RRP is also £92.00. They range from 40-15,000Hz. 

Below is the Frequency Range chart (Left), the Frequency Response chart (Right) and the cardioid polar pattern diagram (underneath the two charts) for the SM57;

Sennheiser MD421 - The Sennheiser MD421 was originally used for broadcasting announcements and for radio hosts. It is now good for recording purposes. Frequency range 30 - 1700 Hz. Price: over £300.


Below is the Frequency Range chart (Left) and the Cardioid polar pattern diagram with the Frequency Response chart (Right) for the Sennheiser MD421;




















Electrovoice RE20 - Frequency Range: 45 - 18,000Hz. Used for broadcasts originally, vocals and guitars. Price: over £450.


Below is the Frequency Range chart (Left), The Frequency Response chart (Right) and the Cardioid polar pattern diagram (underneath the two charts) for the Electrovoice RE20;

Sennheiser E604 - Frequency Range: 40 - 18000Hz. Used to record toms, snares and other percussion instruments. Price: £119.00.

Below is the Frequency Range chart (Left), the Frequency Response chart (Right) and the Cardioid polar pattern diagram (underneath the two charts) for the Sennheiser E604;

Sennheiser E602 - Frequency Range: 40 - 16000Hz. Used to record bass drums, bass guitar cabs, tubas and other low frequency instruments. Used in studios, clubs, rehearsal rooms, smaller gigs & Home recording. Price: £129.00.



Below are the Frequency Range (Right) and Frequency Response (Left) Charts and the Cardioid polar pattern diagram (Underneath the two charts) for the Sennheiser E602;

AKG D112-MK II - Frequency Range: 20 - 17000Hz. Used for bass drums on stage and in the studio,
electric bass cabinets and trombones. Price: £92.00.






Below are the Frequency Range (Left) and Frequency Response (on the Right) Charts as well as the Cardioid polar pattern Diagram (Underneath the two charts) for the AKG D112;