In the field of acoustics, a diaphragm is a transducer intended to faithfully inter-convert mechanical motion and sound. It is commonly constructed of a thin membrane or sheet of various materials. The varying air pressure of the sound waves imparts vibrations onto the diaphragm which can then be captured as another form of energy (or the reverse).
Understanding Microphone Diaphragms: The Heart of Microphone Technology
A microphone diaphragm is the main component of a microphone that converts acoustic energy (sound waves) into electrical energy (audio signal). It is a thin, delicate piece of material, typically circular in shape, made of mylar or other specialized materials. The diaphragm moves sympathetically with the air disturbances caused by sound waves, and this movement is then converted into an electrical current that can be fed into processing equipment.
The Importance of Diaphragm Design
The design of a microphone diaphragm is of utmost importance, as it can greatly affect the characteristics of the audio signal that is produced. The following are some critical factors to consider when designing a microphone diaphragm:
- Size: The size of the diaphragm can range from small (less than an inch in diameter) to much bigger, depending on the type of microphone and the range of frequencies it needs to capture.
- Material: The material used to make the diaphragm can vary depending on the needs of the microphone. Some common materials include mylar, metal, and ribbon.
- Type: There are different types of diaphragms, including dynamic, condenser (capacitor), and ribbon. Each type has its own unique characteristics and uses.
- Shape: The shape of the diaphragm can affect the way it vibrates sympathetically with the air disturbances caused by sound waves.
- Mass: The mass of the diaphragm is a critical ingredient in its ability to move sympathetically with sound waves. A movable diaphragm with a low mass is generally preferred for most types of microphones.
The Technical Differences Between Diaphragm Types
The following are some technical differences between the most common types of microphone diaphragms:
- Dynamic: A dynamic microphone uses a diaphragm that is attached to a movable coil. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it causes the coil to move, which generates an electrical current.
- Condenser (Capacitor): A condenser microphone uses a diaphragm that is placed in front of a metal plate. The diaphragm and plate form a capacitor, and when sound waves hit the diaphragm, it causes the distance between the diaphragm and plate to change, which generates an electrical current.
- Ribbon: A ribbon microphone uses a diaphragm that is made of a thin strip of metal (the ribbon). When sound waves hit the ribbon, it vibrates sympathetically, which generates an electrical current.
The Role of the Diaphragm in Microphone Performance
The diaphragm is the main element in a microphone that converts acoustic energy into electrical energy. Its ability to effectively convert sound waves into an electrical current is critical to the overall performance of the microphone. The following are some key factors to consider when evaluating the performance of a microphone diaphragm:
- Sensitivity: The sensitivity of a microphone refers to the level of electrical output it produces in response to a given sound level. A more sensitive diaphragm will produce a stronger electrical signal for a given sound level.
- Frequency Response: The frequency response of a microphone refers to its ability to accurately capture a range of frequencies. A well-designed diaphragm will be able to capture a wide range of frequencies without introducing significant distortion or other artifacts.
- Polar Pattern: The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the directionality of its sensitivity. A well-designed diaphragm will be able to effectively capture sound from the desired direction while minimizing sensitivity to sound from other directions.
The Bottom Line
The microphone diaphragm is a critical component of any microphone, and its design and performance characteristics can greatly affect the quality of the audio signal that is produced. When evaluating different types of microphones, it is important to pay close attention to the design and performance of the diaphragm, as it is one of the most important components in the entire microphone unit.
Mastering Diaphragm Performance Factors for Microphones
- Larger diaphragms tend to have a more extended frequency response and better low-frequency sensitivity, making them ideal for recording music and vocals.
- Smaller diaphragms are more responsive to high-frequency sounds and are commonly used for recording acoustic instruments and as overhead microphones in drum kits.
Material World: The Influence of Diaphragm Material on Sound Quality
- The material used to make the diaphragm can significantly affect the microphone’s sound quality.
- Aluminum diaphragms are commonly used in dynamic microphones and produce a warm, natural sound.
- Ribbon microphones typically use thin aluminum foil or other conductive materials to create a diaphragm that responds well to high-frequency sounds.
- Condenser microphones often use a thin polymer film or electret material to create a diaphragm that is highly sensitive to sound waves.
Electric Dreams: The Role of Electrical Charge in Diaphragm Performance
- Condenser microphones require an electrical charge to work, which is supplied by a DC voltage through the microphone’s connector.
- The electrical charge on the diaphragm allows it to vibrate in response to incoming sound waves, creating an electrical signal that can be amplified and recorded.
- Electret condenser microphones have a permanent electrical charge built into the diaphragm, making them more convenient and easier to use.
Putting It All Together: How Diaphragm Performance Factors Affect Your Mic Selection
- Understanding diaphragm performance factors is key to selecting the best microphone for your needs.
- Larger diaphragms are ideal for recording music and vocals, while smaller diaphragms are better for acoustic instruments and drum kits.
- The material used to make the diaphragm can significantly affect the microphone’s sound quality, with aluminum, ribbon, and polymer being common choices.
- The shape of the diaphragm can directly influence the microphone’s sound quality and performance, with flat surfaces producing a more natural sound and curved surfaces creating a more colored sound.
- The electrical charge on the diaphragm is essential for condenser microphones, with electret condenser microphones being a popular choice for their convenience and ease of use.
The Acoustic Principle: Pressure Versus Pressure-Gradient
When it comes to microphones, there are two main types of acoustic principles that are used to detect sound waves: pressure and pressure-gradient. Here’s what you need to know about these two methods:
- Pressure microphones: These microphones detect sound waves by measuring the changes in air pressure that occur when sound waves hit the microphone diaphragm. This type of microphone is also known as an omnidirectional microphone because it picks up sound waves from all directions equally.
- Pressure-gradient microphones: These microphones detect sound waves by measuring the differences in air pressure between the front and rear of the microphone diaphragm. This type of microphone is also known as a directional microphone because it is more sensitive to sounds coming from certain directions than others.
How Pressure and Pressure-Gradient Microphones Work
To understand the differences between pressure and pressure-gradient microphones, it’s essential to understand how each type of microphone works:
- Pressure microphones: When sound waves reach the microphone diaphragm, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate back and forth. This movement produces changes in air pressure that are detected by the microphone’s transducer. The resulting audio signal is essentially a direct representation of the sound waves that hit the microphone diaphragm.
- Pressure-gradient microphones: When sound waves reach the microphone diaphragm, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate back and forth in a symmetrical way. However, because the rear of the diaphragm is exposed to a different acoustic environment than the front, the amplitude and phase of the wave reaching the rear of the diaphragm will be different from the front. This causes a differential in the way the diaphragm is reacting to the sound waves, which is detected by the microphone’s transducer. The resulting audio signal is a complex mix of the direct sound waves and the accompanying phase and amplitude differences.
Understanding Polar Patterns
One of the critical differences between pressure and pressure-gradient microphones is the way they detect sound waves, which affects the microphone’s sensitivity and directional characteristics. The polar pattern of a microphone describes how it reacts to sounds coming from different directions. Here are the three most popular polar patterns:
- Cardioid: This pattern is most sensitive to sounds coming from the front of the microphone and less sensitive to sounds coming from the sides and rear.
- Bidirectional: This pattern is equally sensitive to sounds coming from the front and rear of the microphone but less sensitive to sounds coming from the sides.
- Omnidirectional: This pattern is equally sensitive to sounds coming from all directions.
Top-Address Versus Side-Address Microphone Diaphragms
Top-address microphones are designed with the diaphragm positioned perpendicular to the body of the mic. This design makes it easier to position the mic and is particularly useful for podcasting and handheld recording. The primary benefit of top-address microphones is that they allow the user to see the diaphragm, making it easier to position the mic and aim it in the right direction.
Common Brands and Models of Top-Address and Side-Address Microphones
There are a vast number of microphone brands and models on the market, each with their own unique designs and characteristics. Some of the most popular brands and models of top-address microphones include the Rode NT1-A, AKG C414, and Shure SM7B. Some of the most popular brands and models of side-address microphones include the Neumann U87, Sennheiser MKH 416, and Shure SM57.
The Best Microphone for Your Needs
Ultimately, the best microphone for your needs will depend on a number of factors, including your recording environment, the type of audio you are recording, and your budget. It’s important to do your research and check out reviews and sound samples before making a purchase. Some key points to consider when choosing a mic include:
- The sensitivity of the diaphragm
- The polar pattern of the mic
- The body design and size of the mic
- The price point and overall value for money
The Moving-Coil Diaphragm: A Dynamic Microphone Element
The principle behind the moving-coil diaphragm is based on the proximity effect, where the closer the diaphragm is to the sound source, the higher the sensitivity of the microphone. The diaphragm is typically made of plastic or aluminum and is placed in a capsule that is attached to the microphone body. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it vibrates, causing the attached coil to move in the magnetic field, creating an electrical current that is sent through the microphone cables.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages?
Advantages:
- Moving-coil diaphragms are generally less sensitive than condenser diaphragms, making them less prone to picking up unwanted background noise.
- They are extremely durable and can withstand high sound pressure levels without distortion.
- They are typically less expensive than condenser mics, making them a great option for those on a budget.
Disadvantages:
- Moving-coil diaphragms are not as sensitive as condenser diaphragms, meaning they may not pick up as much detail in the sound.
- They require a stronger signal to work, which can be a problem if you’re recording something that is naturally low in volume.
- Compared to ribbon diaphragms, they may not have as natural of a sound.
How Does it Compare to Other Diaphragms?
- Compared to ribbon diaphragms, moving-coil diaphragms are generally more durable and can handle higher sound pressure levels without distortion.
- Compared to condenser diaphragms, moving-coil diaphragms are less sensitive and require a stronger signal to work, but they are also less prone to picking up unwanted background noise.
What Brands Utilize Moving-Coil Diaphragms?
- Shure SM57 and SM58 are two of the most common microphones that employ moving-coil diaphragms.
- The Electro-Voice RE20 is another popular dynamic microphone that utilizes a moving-coil diaphragm.
Overall, is a Moving-Coil Diaphragm a Good Choice?
If you need a microphone that is durable, can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, and is less prone to picking up unwanted background noise, then a moving-coil diaphragm may be a good choice. However, if you need a microphone that is more sensitive and can pick up more detail in the sound, then a condenser diaphragm may be a better option. It all depends on what you need the microphone for and what your budget is.
The Ribbon Diaphragm: A Delicate Element That Creates Excellent Sound
Some of the benefits of using a ribbon diaphragm microphone include:
- Excellent sound quality: The ribbon diaphragm’s ability to pick up natural, uncolored sound makes it a popular choice for recording instruments and vocals in the studio.
- Wide frequency range: Ribbon mics typically have a wider frequency range than other microphone types, allowing them to capture a broader range of sounds.
- Smaller size: Ribbon mics are typically smaller than traditional condenser and dynamic mics, making them a great choice for recording in tight spaces.
- Vintage sound: Ribbon mics have a reputation for producing a warm, vintage sound that many people find appealing.
- Isolated sound: Ribbon mics are designed to pick up sound from the sides, rather than the front and back, which allows for more isolated sound capture.
- Passive design: Because ribbon mics are passive, they do not require phantom power or other external power sources to function.
What are the Main Types of Ribbon Diaphragm Microphones?
There are two main types of ribbon diaphragm microphones:
- Passive ribbon mics: These mics do not require any external power to function and are typically more delicate and sensitive than active ribbon mics.
- Active ribbon mics: These mics have built-in preamp circuitry that amplifies the signal from the ribbon, resulting in a stronger output level. Active ribbon mics typically require phantom power to operate.
The Condenser (Capacitor) Diaphragm in Microphones
The condenser diaphragm is extremely sensitive and can pick up even the smallest of sounds. This sensitivity is due to the fact that the diaphragm is typically made of a very thin material, which allows it to vibrate more easily. Additionally, the condenser microphone requires a power source, typically supplied through a phantom power source, which allows it to create a stronger electrical signal.
Why is it Considered a Capacitor?
The condenser diaphragm is considered a capacitor because it utilizes the principles of capacitance to create an electrical signal. Capacitance is the ability of a system to store an electrical charge, and in the case of the condenser diaphragm, the change in distance between the two metal plates creates a change in capacitance, which is then converted into an electrical signal.
What is the Meaning of DC and AC in Relation to the Condenser Diaphragm?
DC stands for direct current, which is a type of electrical current that flows in one direction. AC stands for alternating current, which is a type of electrical current that changes direction periodically. In the case of the condenser diaphragm, the power source that supplies the voltage to the system can be either DC or AC, depending on the design of the microphone.
What is the Role of the Condenser Diaphragm in Recording?
The condenser diaphragm plays a critical role in recording by converting sound waves into an electrical signal that can be stored and manipulated. Its sensitivity and ability to capture a wide range of frequencies make it a popular choice for recording vocals and acoustic instruments, as well as for capturing ambient sounds in a room or environment. Its consistent and natural sound character also makes it a great choice for capturing the true essence of a performance.
Conclusion
So, that’s what a diaphragm is and how it works in a microphone. It’s a delicate piece of material that converts acoustic energy into electrical energy. It’s the most important part of the microphone, so you need to know what it is now that you know how it works. So, don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re not sure and always remember to keep it moving! Thanks for reading and I hope you learned something new!
I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Neaera and a content marketer, dad, and love trying out new equipment with guitar at the heart of my passion, and together with my team, I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2020 to help loyal readers with recording and guitar tips.
