If you are planning an event that requires the use of a microphone (e.g. Karaoke, charity, wedding, nightclub, concert, etc), then bear in mind that there are a wide variety of microphones on the market for you to choose from.
The reason that there are so many microphones on the market is because they are used in different ways and have particular qualities to suit different events or circumstances.
For example, although a condenser mic gives an individual recording optimal sound quality, it would however not be suitable for an event where there are hundreds of people in one room, because the microphone would pick up all the surrounding noises and suffer a huge reduction in sound quality.
The following is a review of different microphones, comparing what's available on the market to help you find the equipment to get your party started, in style! Lapelle microphones, condenser microphones, dynamic microphones and wireless microphones are just some of the choices of mics available.
Lapelle Microphones
Traditionally used for one on one situations such as TV interviews. Lapelle mics can be integrated into a PA to give your live demonstration that much more of a professional gloss. If you are going to use lapelle mics for a live PA it is recommended that you seek a professional opinion to avoid causing damage to any equipment.
Condenser Microphones
These microphones are used to produce a high quality audio signal, which is popular for use in places such as laboratories and studio recording applications. The professional condenser mics usually have external power supply for reasons of quality and perception via phantom power or by a small battery.
This power supply is necessary for establishing the capacitor plate voltage, and also for the internal amplification of the signal.
You can also buy condenser microphones with two diaphragms which provide the user with a choice of polar patterns such as, cardioid, omni-directional and figure-eight.
Dynamic Microphones
For karaoke, a live music show or anything that requires a PA, Dynamic Microphones are the original and best solution. Shure's SM58 has been hailed the industry standard and is holding onto the title ferociously. Dynamic microphones from manufacturers such as Sennheiser will also offer benefits that suit different recording environments and acoustics.
Wireless Microphones
Wireless microphones allow the user to be able to walk around freely without fear or worry of getting any wires tangled. This technology consists of only a microphone and an audio signal receiving unit and works by sending audio signals from the wireless microphone to the receiver unit which is connected to recording or amplifying equipment. Wireless microphones have a certain range in which they can be used.