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Microphones are crucial for any live sound setup. They capture the essence of your instruments and vocals, amplifying them for the audience. Choosing the right microphone depends on the specific sound source you're miking and the overall sonic character you want to achieve. Here's a breakdown of some common live sound microphone types:

Vocal Microphones:

• Dynamic Microphones: Industry standard for live vocals. They are known for their durability, ability to handle loud singing, and good isolation from background noise.
• Condenser Microphones: Offer a wider frequency response and higher sensitivity, capturing more detail in a singer's voice. They are a good choice for delicate or nuanced vocal styles, but may be more prone to feedback on loud stages.

Instrument Microphones:

• Electric Guitar Microphones: Two main types:
  • Dynamic mics: Capture the punch of the pick hitting the strings.
  • Condenser mics: Offer a more airy and detailed sound.
• Acoustic Guitar Microphones: Several options exist:
  • Soundhole mics: Capture the natural sound of the guitar body.
  • Condenser mics: Positioned outside the soundhole for a more focused sound.
• Drum Microphones: A drum set requires a variety of mics:
  • Kick drum mics: Specialized mics designed for low-end thump.
  • Snare drum mics: Often dynamic mics focused on the snare attack.
  • Overhead mics: Condenser mics that capture the overall sound of the drum kit.
• Bass Microphones: Two main approaches:
  • Dynamic mics: Capture the low-end of the bass.
  • Condenser mics: Offer a more detailed sound.

Additional Tips for Live Sound Mics:

• Polar Patterns: Microphones have different polar patterns, such as cardioid (picks up sound from the front), supercardioid (more focused than cardioid), and omnidirectional (picks up sound from all around). Choose a pattern that suits the instrument and minimizes unwanted noise.
• Frequency Response: Consider the instrument's natural frequency range and choose a microphone that captures that range well.
• Live vs Studio Mics: Live sound microphones prioritise durability and handling loud volumes, while studio mics may emphasise a wider frequency response for detailed recording.