What is the primary difference between dynamic and condenser microphones?

The primary difference between dynamic and condenser microphones lies in how they convert acoustic energy into electrical energy. Dynamic microphones use a diaphragm attached to a coil, which moves within a magnetic field to create an electrical current when sound waves vibrate the diaphragm. This design makes dynamic microphones particularly robust and ideal for high sound pressure levels, such as live sound applications.

In contrast, condenser microphones operate using a capacitor that changes capacitance with sound pressure levels. They require a power source, typically phantom power, to maintain the electrical charge across the diaphragm and backplate. This allows condenser microphones to capture a wider range of frequencies and finer details in sound, making them more suitable for studio recording applications where accurate sound reproduction is crucial.

Understanding this difference helps in selecting the appropriate microphone type for specific recording environments and sound requirements.