Anyone who loves to stream knows that stream quality is important for any successful streaming session. However, your stream quality is more than having some fancy overlays and a good image. The audio quality of your stream plays a major role too.
You need to note that most people prefer listening to streams instead of watching them. Therefore, you must invest in good sound hardware if you want to deliver excellent audio quality. But, how can you get superb audio for your streaming session?
With a good microphone. Today, there are hundreds of companies producing good microphones. However, not all microphones are ideal for live streaming. That means you must take some time to do your research before choosing the right microphone.
So, which microphone do you need for live streaming?
The answer is a condenser microphone. Condenser mics like the ones manufactured by Condenser Microphones manufacturer, DPA are a type of microphone that use electrostatic charges to convert sound waves into electrical signals. Unlike dynamic microphones, which rely on moving parts to generate a signal, condenser mics do not have moving parts. This makes them more sensitive than dynamic mics, and as a result, they are often used for recording purposes, including live streaming.
Additionally, condenser mics typically require phantom power to function properly. Phantom power is necessary because it provides the charge needed to create the electrostatic field needed for operation. This type of electrical power is supplied by an external source, such as a battery or power supply.
Now, since you understand which microphone you need for live streaming, how do you choose the right condenser microphone for your live streaming session?
Choosing the right live streaming microphone should be a tough decision. This post will give the most important features to consider when choosing a live streaming microphone. Read on for more information.
Frequency Response
The frequency response is the range of frequencies that a microphone can pick up. The human ear can hear sounds in the frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Therefore, you need a microphone with a frequency response that covers at least this range.
Two numbers usually represent frequency response. The first number is the lower frequency range limit, while the second number is the upper limit. For example, a frequency response of 50 Hz to 15 kHz means that the microphone can pick up sounds in the frequency range between 50 Hz and 15,000 Hz.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N)
The signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) measures the ratio of the wanted signal to the unwanted noise. The higher the S/N ratio, the better it is. You need a microphone with a high S/N ratio because it means that your live streaming session will have less background noise. A good condenser microphone for live streaming should have an S/N ratio of at least 60 dB.
Directionality
Directionality or polar pattern refers to the ability of a microphone to pick up sound from a particular direction. There are three main types of directional patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and bidirectional.
- Omnidirectional microphones pick up sounds from all directions. They are ideal for live streaming because they can pick up the sound of your voice even if you move around.
- Cardioid microphones pick up sound from the front but reject sound from the back. They are ideal for live streaming if you want to reduce background noise.
- Bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and back but reject sound from the sides. They are ideal for live streaming if you want to reduce background noise and have two people speaking simultaneously.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity refers to how well a microphone can convert sound waves into electrical signals. The higher the sensitivity, the better it is.
You need a high-sensitivity microphone because it means that your live streaming session will have less background noise. When searching for a condenser microphone for live streaming, make sure you choose a mic with a sensitivity of at least -40 dB.
Output Impedance
A condenser microphone’s output impedance measures its electrical resistance to AC. It is typically expressed in ohms and measured at 1 kHz. The output impedance of a condenser microphone is affected by many factors, including the type of capacitor used, the operating voltage, and the physical size of the device. Generally, large-diaphragm microphones have lower output impedances than small-diaphragm microphones. A microphone with a low output impedance will have a higher sensitivity than one with a high output impedance.
You need a microphone with low output impedance because it means that your live streaming session will have less background noise. A good condenser microphone for live streaming should have 600 ohms or less output impedance.
Pop Filter
A pop filter is a device that attaches to the microphone and prevents popping sounds from being recorded. Popping sounds are caused by air blasts from consonants such as “p” and “b”. Pop filters work by diffusing the air blast so that it does not hit the microphone directly. A pop filter to reduce background noise in your live streaming session.
Conclusion
Now that you know the most important features to consider when choosing a condenser microphone for live streaming, you can decide which microphone is right for you. Be sure to keep these factors in mind when shopping for a new microphone, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for your needs.
