Introduction

The BST MKZ 100s are our condenser microphones which are used mainly for cymbols and other instruments which require a sensitive microphone with a quick response. Built into the base is a compartment for a 1.5V battery and an on-off switch but both are taped over to prevent people from fiddling. Both features are redundent since we send the power it needs through the microphone cable as 48V phanton power from the K1 desk. These condensor microphones are not the best but since cymbols tend to be extremely loud, they are not usely used very much when mixing. In general we will use our e614s in preference.

Condensors and phantom power

Standard microphones work like a speaker in reverse, with the sound waves moving a plate which moves through a magnetic field and produces an electical signal.

Condensor microphones however, work on the principle of a capacitor, with the distance between two charged plates affecting the capacitance and therefore the signal sent from the microphone. Because the plates can be extremely light, the microphone can be be very sensitive and quick which is ideal for accurate treble reproduction.

Because the plates need to be charged, condensors require a power supply which can be in the form of a battery or an external (phantom) suppply. Phantom power supplies are sent down the microphone cable and so are a cheap and convienent way of operating the microphone. Although sepecific phantom power supplies are avaiable, most condensors are powered through the front of house desk.