What Is A Condenser Microphone & How Does It Work? - Simple Recording Tip

The three most common types of microphones are dynamic, ribbon, and condensers. All three of these microphone types are great for various recording needs, but today we will be discussing the condenser. The condenser microphone is the most popular style of microphone used in recording studios today.

How is the sound made?

Condenser mics differ from dynamic and ribbon mics because they operate on an electrostatic principle rather than electromagnetic. 

The basic condenser microphone consists of two very thin plates and an output. One of the plates (the backplate) is fixed and does not move. The other plate (the diaphragm) moves. These two plates form the capacitor, or condenser. A capacitor is an electrical device that is able to store an electrical charge. A stable DC power supply provides polarizing voltage to the plates which charges the capacitor. When the diaphragm catches sound it reverberates into the space between it and the backplate. This produces a tiny electrical signal that can be amplified. These amplified signals are what we hear on the radio everyday!

Tube vs Solid-State

Older dynamic microphones had vacuum tubes in the output circuitry while newer condensers are solid-state. However, there has been a revival in the demand for tube condensers as they provide sound with a warmer overall tone, even-harmonic distortion, and softer highs. Solid-state condensers produce a very good, clear and transparent sound. Solid-state condensers are more "what you hear is what you get" while tube condensers tend to liven up the recordings. 

Large Diaphragm vs Small Diaphragm

Large diaphragm condensers pick up more low end frequencies and have less self noise overall. They are also more sensitive as the large diaphragm is easier to move.

Small diaphragm condensers are great for high end frequencies and can also handle more SPL. SPL refers to the amount of sound pressure that a microphone can endure before distorting or failing.

Generally, large diaphragm condensers are used for vocals while small diaphragm condensers are used for instruments. However, each individual mic should be observed on its own. Listen to how it sounds with your instrument or voice, in various rooms because it will sound different; and then you can determine what is the best mic to capture the sound you desire.  

Popular Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones:

Popular Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones:

Please contact us with any questions at all. We love to help!

Below: Diagram of condenser microphone

Back to blog

2 comments

Rodney, yes condenser mics require phantom power.

Phil Butera

Do condenser Mic s require phantom power?

Rodney Bean

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Need Help?

Not sure what you need? Don't worry! One of our acoustic pros will help you get results!

Free Room AnalysisSchedule A Consultation

Shop Acoustic Panels

Upgrade Your Sound Today!

View all

Frequently Asked Questions

Do acoustic panels really work? ▶
Yes, acoustic panels absolutely work when used correctly. Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound waves, which helps reduce echo, reverb, and unwanted reflections in a room. This creates a cleaner, more controlled sound environment.

Whether you’re treating a home studio, podcast room, home theater, or office space, acoustic panels can make a noticeable difference in speech clarity, mix accuracy, and overall listening quality.
How do I know which panels are right for my room? ▶
Every space is unique. You can contact us for a free room analysis, or check out our guides under the “Learn” section.

Absorption panels help reduce echo and reverb. We offer foam panels and fabric covered panels.

Diffusers scatter sound for a more balanced feel.

Bass traps help control low frequencies that tend to build up in corners.

If you’re trying to block sound from entering or leaving a room, you’ll need soundproofing materials, which are different from acoustic treatments.
Can I order samples? ▶
Yes, we offer acoustic foam samples and well as fabric color swatches. If you are looking for something else please Contact Us.

Order Foam Samples
Order Fabric Swatches
What’s the difference between soundproofing and acoustic treatment? ▶
Soundproofing blocks sound from entering or leaving a room. Acoustic treatment improves sound inside the room by reducing echo and reverb.
Can acoustic panels improve speech clarity? ▶
Yes! Acoustic panels are commonly used in offices, conference rooms, and classrooms to reduce echo and improve speech intelligibility. By absorbing excess sound and reverb, panels make it easier to hear and understand spoken words—even at lower volumes.

Want help improving clarity in your space? Contact us here.
Do acoustic panels block outside noise? ▶
Standard acoustic panels don’t block sound—they absorb it. Acoustic panels reduce echo and reverb inside a room but won’t stop external noise from entering or leaving.

If you’re looking for soundproofing, you’ll need materials designed to block sound transmission like mass loaded vinyl, or decoupled wall systems. We offer select products for this—Contact Us to learn more.

Learn the difference between soundproofing and sound absorption here.
Where should I place acoustic panels? ▶
The best placement depends on your room and goals. For general echo reduction, aim to cover 20–30% of your wall space. For recording studios, home theaters, or listening rooms, focus on:

• Front wall behind speakers
• Back wall behind the listening position
• Side wall reflection points
• Ceiling above your desk or seating area
• Diffusers at key reflection points for natural sound

Need help with placement? Contact us for a free custom recommendation.
Do these panels work for podcasting, streaming, or music production? ▶
Absolutely. We serve customers across all industries — from home offices to professional studios.
What fabric is best for wrapping acoustic panels? ▶
To get the best sound performance, use acoustically transparent fabric—material that lets sound pass through easily. A simple test: try breathing through the fabric. If air flows freely, it’s likely a good choice. Avoid dense materials like heavy denim or canvas, as they can block sound instead of letting it be absorbed.

Looking for a proven solution? Our professional-grade acoustical fabric is highly rated by customers and perfect for DIY acoustic panels.

Shop acoustic fabric here or contact us if you need help picking the right fabric for your project.
Can I order custom-sized acoustic panels? ▶
Yes! In addition to our standard panel sizes, we offer custom-sized acoustic panels for unique spaces, specialty builds, and large-scale projects. Just let us know your dimensions and design goals—we’re happy to create a solution that fits your space perfectly.

Contact us here to tell us about your project and get a custom quote.
Do you offer custom sizes or colors? ▶
Yes, we offer custom sizing and a variety of colors on select products. Just reach out and let us know what you need.

Contact Us for custom quotes.
Are your products easy to install? ▶
Yes! Our fabric-wrapped panels include mounting hardware. For acoustic foam, there are several easy mounting options, including double-sided adhesive squares, spray adhesive, or Command strips for installation without damaging your walls.

Check out our install videos here.
Do I need professional help to install acoustic panels? ▶
Most acoustic panels are easy to install with basic tools and a little DIY experience. We make it simple by providing tutorial videos. Check out our install videos here.

For more complex projects, we’re happy to guide you—or your contractor—through the process to ensure everything is done right.

Contact us here if you need help with installation planning.
How do you maintain acoustic panels? ▶
Acoustic panels are low-maintenance and built to last with proper care. Here are some general tips:

• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment
• Clean gently with compressed air
• Spot clean with minimal moisture and dry immediately

Always check your panel’s product specs for specific cleaning recommendations.

Have questions about cleaning or care? Contact us here.
How much do acoustical panels or soundproofing materials cost? ▶
The cost of acoustic panels and soundproofing panels depends on your space and goals. We offer everything from affordable DIY acoustic foam to high-end custom panels for professional studios and luxury interiors. For an accurate quote, let us know your room size, usage, and sound goals—we’re happy to help you find the right solution for your budget.

Fill out our free room analysis for personalized acoustic advice.
How fast is shipping and fulfillment? ▶
Most orders ship in 1-3 business days. Cut to order foam may take a little longer. If you need something in a hurry please Contact Us.
Can acoustic panels be customized for my space? ▶
Yes! We offer custom acoustic panels tailored to your exact dimensions, layout, and design goals. Whether you’re working with an odd-shaped wall, a unique room layout, or a specific aesthetic, we can create panels that fit perfectly.

Choose from a wide range of colors and fabrics to match your space without sacrificing performance.

Contact us here to tell us about your space and get a custom solution.