DYNAMIC MIC USAGE
Dynamic microphones were the basic workhorses of the
film and video industries, although in more recent years
there has been a change over to electret condenser and
condenser microphones. However, dynamic microphones
remain important tools to the production sound mixer.
Dynamic microphones can be counted on to work when other
mics won't. They require no batteries or power of any
sort. They are extremely rugged and are resistant to
harsh climatic conditions including RF and electromagnetic
interference.
Dynamic mics offer less sensitivity and reach than electrets
and condensers. This makes dynamics unsuitable for most
overhead dialogue applications. This same lack of reach
becomes a valuable asset in applications such as when
recording spokesperson commentary in high ambient noise
environments. Dynamic mics are recommended for recording
location narration, since they isolate voice extremely
well from background sounds.
Dynamic mics are also very useful for recording loud
and sudden sound effects, such as crashes and explosions.
These microphones are virtually impervious to damage
from high noise levels, and they also tend to compress
or dampen the audio in such a way as to make these sounds
easier for the recording electronics to handle.
When recording dynamic scenes in which the actor is
using a handheld microphone as a prop, it is better
in most cases not to take the dialogue feed from that
same mic. Actors may use their hand mics as objects
to accentuate their visual performance without regard
for what their broad gesturing and handling may do to
the sound. Instead, mic your "stage performers"
either from an overhead boom pole or from a concealed
lavalier.
The outward appearance of most handheld mics can be
easily and temporarily changed merely by the use of
colored foam windscreens and the addition of colored
shrink tubing over the sleeve of the mic.
