Unlike Dynamic microphones, Ribbon Microphones are very sensitive in their makeup. Inside a ribbon mic is a thin strip of metallic foil suspended in front of, or between, two magnetic plates. Sound waves hit the foil causing vibration and movement in the magnetic field, which then produces the electrical current, creating the audio signal. Because of the delicacy of these microphones they are not used in live engineering but are useful in recording studios when you need more clarity in the sound of an instrument. However, cost can be a factor with ribbon microphones. They aren’t cheap and if you drop one it is useless, which is why Condeser Microphones are a good way to go.
Rather than a vibrating wire coil or a thin piece of foil, a Condenser is made up of a thin diaphragm with a solid back plate called a capacitor. Voltage is created between the capacitor and diaphragm by an internal battery (or phantom power coming from the sound board). As sound vibrations hit the diaphragm, the capacitor is moved closer or farther away, changing the capacitance and relaying the (voltage) audio signal to the mixer.
In summary, condenser microphones and ribbon mics are more sensitive, with better frequency and clarity of sound, as well as higher cost compared to a dynamic mic. Dynamic microphones are cheaper, not as delicate, and can generally sustain louder sounds before they distort. Weather you are needing a mic for live sound engineering or home recording one of these three will do the trick, you just have to decide by trying them out for yourself. If you have a local studio or music store that is willing to let you borrow these mics or use them in the store before you buy I highly recommend it. Pick up some mics and let me know what you think.
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