Welcome to Pocket-Sized Podcasting, brought to you by Alitu: The Podcast Maker. And on this episode, we’re going to answer the question “what is a Condenser microphone?”.

“Condenser” and “Dynamic” are two of the most common types of mic. The terms refer to how they’re built, and how they function.

We can get really technical with stuff like this, but I’d rather keep things simple. That means I’ll make some generalisations that aren’t *always* the rule – now and then you’ll find exceptions.

But here’s a good starting point for differentiating between the two.

A Condenser mic can be looked at as primarily something you’d use to record vocals in a professional studio environment.

Condenser microphones can often be more sensitive, and easier to break.

Their sensitivity means they tend to pick up more sounds from around your recording environment. This can be a pro or a con depending on what you’re trying to do.

Most are designed for more permanent setups on mic stands or boom arms, as opposed to being carried around, and shoved in and out of boxes or bags.

A Condenser mic is powered either by having its own battery, or by using a function called *Phantom Power* on your mixer, preamp, or recorder.

This is why Condenser mics can usually record at a much lower gain than dynamics. Gain is essentially your input recording volume. The outcome is that lower gain means less hiss in your recording.

Condenser mics often have multiple polar pattern options, making them versatile for different types of recording needs and setups.

On the next episode, we’re going to take a look at Dynamic mics and how they compare to their Condenser alternatives. In the meantime though, for a deeper dive on this subject, go to http://ThePodcastHost.com/dynamicvcondenser