Do dynamic mics need phantom power.

[Oldrottenhead]

Hi i bought some new xlr cables for my dynamic mics, to use with my br800. Am i right in thinking they do not need phantom power turned on, that is just for condensor mics?

[64Guitars]

That's correct. In fact, phantom power can damage dynamic mics and/or the phantom-powered device input that they're plugged into. So always make sure that phantom power is turned off before you connect a dynamic mic. The danger is at the instant when you plug the mic in, so turning it off after is too late.

[Oldrottenhead]

cheers good sir.

i need to invest in a condensor mic at some point.

[TPB]

Well if you are on a budget like most of us the MXL make some decent Condensers at entry level price 900 series, Next step up would be the Rodes 220
Tim

[Farrell Jackson]

Well if you are on a budget like most of us the MXL make some decent Condensers at entry level price 900 series, Next step up would be the Rodes 220
Tim

I agree with Tim's recommendation of MXL condenser mics. In particular the models 2001, VG67, and 990. They all sound good and are very reasonably priced. Make sure to get the the shock mount holder also.

Farrell

[IanR]

Condensor mics sre good for vocals and acoustic instruments but often don't like too much sound pressure. You could try the audio technica AT2020 as well. Not too pricey but pretty good in my opinion.

[Flash Harry]

Some dynamic mics, such as the Shure SM58 and 58Beta have transformers in the mic body which isolate the mic capsule from the cable and any kit downstream.

This means that the 48v Phantom power doe not get through to the capsule and won't damage it. Cheaper dynamic mics may not have the transformer and will be damaged by the phantom power. There are some people who claim that they can hear the difference between an SM58 that has not ever had phantom power applied and an SM58 that has. I'm skeptical that this is the case.

I can heartily recommend the Rode NT1A, it's a nice warm sounding vocal mic with very impressive noise figures. It needs a decent pre-amp with phantom power to make it work. Worth the investment.

I have also got the SE Electronics H1 hand-held condenser mic which I have used for live work. These provide more presence and air than an SM58, but are much more sensitive. The cardioid pattern is different from the SM58 and its a bit of a bugger for feedback.

Other decent dynamic mics I have used are SM57 for instruments and the Sennheiser E835 for vocals, both of which don't mind a bit of phantom power.

[Vanncad]

+1 on the AT2020.
It's a good sounding mic.
I've got one. I think it was $100 CAD (about the same price range as SM58/SM57)