Using a microphone properly isn't as easy as it looks. Here are tips to get new users on the right track.

Whether you're a new air personality or newscaster, podcast creator, or voiceover artist, one thing is common: microphones. You can’t get away without one! But not all mics are created the same - there are differences between them. Understanding microphone technique can make a world of difference in how you sound! This primer will break down the basics of mic types, patterns, placement, and breath control to help you on your way to sounding polished and professional.  

I.D. Your Microphone

The first step in mastering mic technique is understanding the two most common mic types: dynamic and condenser.

Dynamic Microphones

The Shure SM7B

These are rugged, versatile mics often used for live events and radio broadcasts. They excel at handling high sound pressure levels and are less sensitive to background noise, making them ideal for noisy environments. Examples include the Shure SM7 (above), SM58, and Electro-Voice RE20 (shown at the top of this page). These models are so ubiquitous that you’d be hard-pressed to step into an on-air studio today and not see one.

Condenser Microphones

The Audio-Technica AT2020

Condenser mics are more sensitive and offer a wider frequency range, which makes them great for studio recordings where clarity and detail matter. They require a power source - referred to as “Phantom” power and typically provided by the console, mic pre-amp, or USB audio interface - (like Phantom power) and are often used for vocals or musical instruments. Popular examples include the Audio-Technica AT2020 (above) and Neumann TLM 103, but you probably won’t encounter these regularly in an on-air radio studio.

Understanding Mic Patterns

Microphones "listen" in different ways depending on their pickup pattern. The three most common patterns are:

1. 1: Cardioid. The cardioid pattern picks up sound from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and back. It's great for isolating a single speaker or performer. Cardioid mics are the most common ones you’ll find in broadcasting studios for close-up voice work.
   
   
2. 2: Uni-Directional. Similar to cardioid but even more focused, uni-directional mics are perfect for situations where you need precise audio pickup from a specific source. These are sometimes referred to as “shotgun” mics because their casings are long and narrow and resemble the barrel of a shotgun. You’ll often find these at sporting events, and they’re also popular for recording vlogs and YouTube videos.
   
   
3. 3: Omni-Directional. As the name implies, these mics pick up sound equally from all directions. They're most often used for capturing group discussions (like round-table discussions), as crowd mics at sporting events, or to capture the ambient sound found in a recording studio. They are not often used in broadcasting because their unfocused pattern can pick up unwanted background and room noise.

Cardioid mic pickup pattern	Omni mic pickup pattern

Mic Placement and Orientation

Knowing where to talk into the mic is critical to achieving a clear and balanced sound.

Find the "Sweet Spot"

Positioning your mic for optimum performance is almost as important as knowing what you're going to say! General rules of thumb are:

• For dynamic mics, position yourself about 2–6 inches away from the microphone.

• For condenser mics, 6–12 inches is ideal, depending on their sensitivity.  

Talk Into The Right Part of the Mic!

It seems silly, but not all mics pick up audio from the same angle, so make sure you're positioned properly.

• For most microphones, speak directly into the end with the grill or look for a logo or grill pattern to identify the front. Some mics provide a printed indication on the shell to direct you to where you should speak.

• Some microphones, particularly condenser mics, are  known as “side-address” mics. This means that the pickup inside is actually oriented optimally to receive sound coming from the side of the mic, rather than the end. You’ll know immediately if you’re working with a side-address mic: speaking into the end of it sounds like you’re talking through a blanket!

Avoid Plosives

“Plosive” sounds like “explosive” because that’s what they are: little explosions that come from your mouth. Harsh sounds like "p" and "b" can cause distortion when they hit your mic’s pickup. Most studio mics have foam “pop filters” on the end to help mitigate these - and add-on filters are available for those that don’t - but you should still be careful saying phrases like “Pete pans pickled peppers, Percy” directly into the mic. Position the microphone slightly off-axis instead; this will help reduce the effect of plosives and also help avoid sibilance, its hissy, high-frequency cousin that can cause “ess” sounds to become distorted.

A Word About Breath Control  

If you’re new to the business, you might not know that there are good and bad ways to breathe and exhale. Good breath control helps maintain consistent delivery and minimizes unnecessary noises when speaking, like gasps when you run out of breath, or sighs when beginning a sentence. The "4-7-8" exercise is a simple way to improve your breathing. Here’s how to do it:

1. Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds.
2. Hold your breath for 7 seconds.
3. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds.

Practice this technique before speaking to calm your nerves and stabilize your breath. When speaking into the mic, aim to breathe silently and maintain an even rhythm.  

Now You’re A Mic Master!

Mastering microphone technique doesn't require years of training—just a little practice and knowledge of the basics. By understanding mic types, patterns, placement, and breath control, you'll sound clear and confident, whether you're on air or in the production studio. Now go dazzle 'em!