Microphone Guide for Live Sound: Choosing the Model

Choosing microphones for your rider is about balancing tone with practicality. You might love a vintage ribbon mic in the studio, but on a windy festival stage, it might be a disaster.

Dynamic vs. Condenser

**Dynamic mics** (like the SM57, SM58) are tough, handle high SPL (loud volumes), and don't need phantom power. They are great for snare drums, guitar cabs, and loud vocals. **Condenser mics** (like the Beta 87A, SM81) are more sensitive and detailed. They need +48V phantom power. Use them for overheads, hi-hats, and delicate vocals where detail is key.

Polar Patterns

**Cardioid** picks up sound from the front and rejects the back. It's the standard. **Super-Cardioid** is narrower; it rejects sides better but has a small pickup lobe directly in the rear. Be careful with monitor placement! If you put a wedge directly behind a Super-Cardioid mic, it will feedback immediately. Place wedges at 45-degree angles for Super-Cardioids.

Specify, Don't Demand

Unless you carry your own mics, write "Shure Beta 58A or equivalent". Giving the venue options ensures you get a quality mic without causing a panic if they don't have the vital specific model.