Recording Vocals: Should you buy a Condenser Mic or a Dynamic Mic.

One of the ever raging topics of discussion is the debate of which is better - A Condenser Mic or a Dynamic Mic for recording vocals.
We are here to answer just that.

But what is a Dynamic Mic?

The Nerdy Details:
The dynamic microphone (also known as the moving-coil microphone) works via electromagnetic induction.
Dynamic microphones use the same dynamic principle as in a loudspeaker, only reversed. A small movable induction coil, positioned in the magnetic field of a permanent magnet, is attached to the diaphragm.
When sound enters through the windscreen of the microphone, the sound wave moves the diaphragm. When the diaphragm vibrates, the coil moves in the magnetic field, producing a varying current in the coil through electromagnetic induction.

1. These are robust
2. Relatively inexpensive when compared to Condenser Microphones
3. Resistant to moisture
4. Can set high gain before feedback becomes a problem (thanks to their low sensitivity)

These features make Dynamic Microphones very appealing for stage use.

And Condenser Microphones?

The Nerdy Details:
They are also called capacitor microphones – and for a reason, too. You may remember from physics class that a capacitor is essentially two metal plates in close proximity. The closer they are, the higher the capacitance. A condenser capsule is constructed similarly. It consists of a thin membrane (which acts as the diaphragm) in close proximity to a solid metal plate.
When sound signals hit the the thin plate, it moves in response, varying its distance to the back plate. The resulting fluctuation in capacitance creates an electrical signal which can then be recorded or amplified.

1. High Fidelity (is able to record a wider frequency spectrum)
2. Better transient response than Dynamic Microhpones
3. Strong output before gain stage resulting in a cleaner signal

These features make Condenser Microphones very appealing for their use in recording situations.

Verdict:

The best microphone for you depends on your situation!
Okay, we know, we know this is probably not the answer you wanted but just hear us out.
If you are:

1. Doing live shows
2. Don't have good acoustic treatment for your studio (which most of the home recording engineers don't!)
3. Have butterfingers

Buy a Dynamic Microphone!

Don't fall into the marketing trap that only a condenser mic can pickup all the nuances in your voice, when the truth is that if your acoustic treatment is not up to the mark, you can be rest assured that all it will pick up is phase cancellation leading to thinning of your vocals

So, always dynamic?

Well. No.
If you are:

1. Recording in a professional recording studio (for example at SunoStudios)
   Then you can fully exploit the benfits which come with a Condenser Microphone
2. When you are looking for new tones and want to get creative recording drums, guitar or other instruments in traditional recording setups.

Then go ahead and get yourself a Condenser Mic, they are worth it!