Introduction
Are you confused about what type of microphone to get for your next recording session or live performance? With the variety of microphones available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose what will work best for you. In this blog post, we will dive into the differences between two popular types of microphones: the electret condenser microphone and the back electret condenser microphone.
What are Electret Condenser Microphones?
Firstly, what is a condenser microphone? A condenser microphone essentially converts sound waves into electrical signals. The electret condenser microphone, commonly known as the EC microphone, uses a permanently charged material called an electret to help with polarizing the diaphragm. This results in a better low-frequency response, sensitivity, and overall sound quality.
The electret material used in these microphones is placed inside a metal or plastic casing, with the diaphragm and backplate being positioned in a way to promote the flow of sound waves. One of the major advantages of this type of microphone is that they are generally more affordable and easier to manufacture.
What are Back Electret Condenser Microphones?
Now, back electret condenser microphones, or BEC microphones, also utilize an electret material, but with different placement. The electret material is situated at the back of the microphone capsule, with the diaphragm acting as the front plate. This configuration allows for a smaller diaphragm, and as a result, a higher-frequency response.
BEC microphones, however, require a higher voltage to power the electret material. This can be achieved via a battery, phantom power, or a separate power supply. BEC microphones are more expensive to produce than their EC counterparts, but they are a favorite among recording studios and broadcast applications.
Comparison
So what's the difference? Generally, EC microphones have a better low-frequency response, while BEC microphones display a better frequency response at the higher end. This is due to the different placements of the electret material.
When it comes to sensitivity, BEC microphones require more power to perform and, as a result, tend to have a higher output than EC microphones. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that BEC microphones are better than EC microphones. EC microphones are widely used in many applications due to their excellent sound quality, affordability, and ease of use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between electret condenser microphones and back electret condenser microphones is essential before making a purchase. It is important to note that the best type of microphone for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
No matter what microphone you choose, proper microphone placement, and a good room environment will always be key factors in achieving good sound quality. We hope you found this comparison helpful in choosing the right microphone for your audio needs.