On the basis of application, microphones can be divided into different types. The three most common ones are – dynamic microphones, condenser microphones and ribbon microphones. Let’s look at them in detail.
Dynamic microphones are the most common and durable types, well suited for live sound. They work on the principle of electromagnetic induction, but take loud signals to move the coils.
The next type of microphones is condensers. They use electrically charged capsules that are far more sensitive than moving coils of the dynamic mic.
There are both large diaphragm condenser mics and small diaphragm condenser mics. The former is best suited for recording vocals, while the latter is great for high frequency instruments like acoustic guitar and cymbals.
Ribbon microphones use corrugated metal ribbons that vibrate when pushed by air. But today, they are no longer popular. There is also a microphone known as the piezoelectric microphone. It uses a crystal of piezoelectric material to produce sound.