Five Dynamic Microphones Everybody Should Know About
Dynamic microphones are a staple in every engineer's toolbox. Being knowledgeable about the different recording microphones and knowing which to use in which situation is an important skill in getting the sound you are hearing in your head.
That said, some dynamic microphones have a huge reputation because they have stood the test of time and are still being used.
Others have gained a reputation quickly with many sound engineers and live technicians switching their rugged workhorses in for the new model in town.
Shure SM57
There really shouldn't be a need to introduce this microphone.
It is regarded as THE instrument microphone by seasoned veterans and is
used by everyone from garage rockers to the President of the United States.
It's great on snare, guitar cabinets and is a great dynamic workhorse.
AKG D5
If you are looking for a vocal microphone for a live sound
situation, then get this one. I cannot recommend this microphone
enough. The standard choice for live vocals is usually a Shure
Sm58(very popular with Bono) but in a shoot-out between the 58 and the
D5 the D5 wins hands down.
If you're starting a band or creating a budget for a concert venue then put this microphone on your shopping list.
Sennheiser MD 421
Maybe this is just purely isolated to Iceland, but we call
this microphone “The Whale”. Why? It might be somewhat related to its
shape, but it probably says more about Icelanders than the microphone.
Anyway, the MD421 is just one of those standard workhorses you should see in any engineer's mic cabinet.
Audix i5
Just like I prefer the AKG D5 over the Shure Sm57, I would
also go for the Audix i5 any time instead of the Shure Sm57.
Every aspect of the design is stellar; from the construction and look to the frequency response and sound. It's the closest I will ever get to buying a handgun.
Electro-Voice RE20
Regarded as THE broadcast mic, it's also a great all around
microphone for instruments, vocals and kick drum.
The fairly flat EQ response is great if you don't want unnaturally EQ'd dynamic microphones like the Audix D6 for instance. Try the RE20 on rap vocals, acoustic guitars or just your internet podcast.
Conclusion
Getting a good dynamic microphone is like buying a swiss army knife. It works so well on everything you throw at it, whether it's live or in the studio.
If you've just started your home recording studio and currently only have some condensers, then investing in a great dynamic is a must.
If you have any great recommendations, please add them using the submission form below!
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