MICROPHONES FOR live events

Welcome to our guide on choosing the best microphones for live events! As an event organizer or performer, having the right microphone can make or break your performance. In this guide, we'll cover the key factors to consider when selecting microphones for live events, as well as some examples of popular microphones used in live settings.

Microphone Types:

There are several types of microphones used for live events, but the most common ones are dynamic and condenser microphones.

Dynamic microphones are rugged and durable, and can handle high sound pressure levels. They are ideal for live performances where there may be loud amplifiers and sound sources.

Condenser microphones, on the other hand, are more sensitive and can capture more detail. They are ideal for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments in a live setting.

Popular dynamic microphones used in live events include the Shure SM58 and the Sennheiser e835. These microphones are known for their durability, and their cardioid polar pattern helps to minimize background noise.

Popular condenser microphones used in live events include the Audio-Technica Pro 37 and the AKG Pro Audio C214. These microphones are known for their clarity and detail, and their cardioid polar pattern helps to minimize feedback and unwanted noise.

Microphone Specifications:

When choosing microphones for live events, there are several specifications to consider:

• Frequency Response: The frequency response of a microphone determines the range of frequencies it can capture. For live events, you'll want a microphone with a frequency response that covers the range of human speech (typically 80Hz to 15kHz) or the frequency range of the instrument being recorded.
• Sensitivity: The sensitivity of a microphone determines how much sound it can capture. For live events, you'll want a microphone with a high sensitivity so that it can capture soft sounds without requiring the performer to be too close to the microphone.
• Polar Pattern: The polar pattern of a microphone determines the direction in which it captures sound. For live events, you'll want a microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, which captures sound from the front while minimizing sound from the sides and rear. This helps to reduce feedback and unwanted noise.

Additional Tips:

• Microphone Placement: Proper microphone placement is critical for capturing clear sound in a live setting. Place the microphone close to the sound source, but not so close that it picks up unwanted noise. 
• Use a shock mount or mic stand to keep the microphone steady and minimize handling noise.
• Feedback: Feedback occurs when the sound from the speakers is picked up by the microphone and then amplified again, causing a loud, high-pitched noise. To minimize feedback, keep the microphone away from the speakers, use a directional microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, and adjust the EQ settings on the sound system.
• Wind Protection: If you're recording outdoors or in a windy environment, use a windscreen or pop filter to minimize wind noise and plosives (popping sounds from "p" and "b" sounds).

Conclusion:

Choosing the right microphone for live events can be challenging, but with the information in this guide, you should be well-equipped to make an informed decision. At our store, we offer a wide selection of microphones that are suitable for live performances. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to contact us!