There are different types of microphones including dynamic and condenser microphones, each with their own power requirements. Microphones also have different pickup patterns that determine the direction from which they pick up sound. To improve audio quality, one should place the microphone as close to the subject as possible without being intrusive to increase the signal to noise ratio. The main types of microphones are cardioid, shotgun, and lavaliere microphones. Popular audio recorders include the Zoom H4n and Tascam DR-60D, which have XLR inputs, phantom power, SD card recording, and battery power.

1. Getting the Best Audio
For Your Video

2. Different Types of Microphones
● Dynamic Microphone
● Creates its own current
● Doesn’t need external power source
● Less sensitive to sound

3. Different Types of Microphones
● Condenser Microphone
● Needs internal battery or external phantom
power (+48v)
● More sensitive to sound

4. Microphone Pickup Patterns
Not all mikes pick up sound from the same direction
ShotgunOmniCardioid

5. Signal to Noise Ratio
● Signal to noise ratio
● Compares the level of desired signal to the level of
background noise.
● Increase your signal to noise ratio by placing the
microphone as close to your subject as you can without
being intrusive.

6. 3 Main Types of Microphones
Cardioid/ DynamicShotgunLavaliere

7. Audio Recorders
● Zoom H4n
● 2 XLR inputs
● Records .mp3 or .wav files at 16 bit/44.1khz
● Supplies phantom power (48v)
● 1/8” output for headphones
● Battery powered or plug in
● Records onto SD card

8. Audio Recorders
● Tascam DR-60D Recorder
● 4 channel recording
● 2 XLR inputs and 1 1/8” line input
● Accessible front panel controls
● Supplies phantom power (48v)
● Battery powered