Re: Just bought a mixer..could use some tips


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Posted by engineer on March 01, 2003 at 02:44:26:

In Reply to: Just bought a mixer..could use some tips posted by Jeff B. on February 28, 2003 at 10:17:41:

I have to clarify something about microphones:
Dynamic mics do not use phantom power (they use a magnet)
Electret condenser mics have permanently charged plates, and the batteries are for the preamp
And, finally, the only microphones that use phantom power are condenser microphones, which are too expensive to be in the consumer price range (usually 500 to over 7,000 bucks apiece).
So, chances are that if you are using a 200 dollar microphone, sending it phantom power will not help a bit.
A really easy test:
Connect the mics.
If they work, they don't need phantom power.
If not, try turning on the phantom,
If they work now, then they require phantom power, if not, something else is messed up, so start over.

I hope this clears up all of the misconceptions about professional recording equiptment. If not, then post away.


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