How Microphones Work

Microphones appear in an almost endless variety of shapes, sizes, and design types, but no matter what their physical attributes, their purpose is same that is to convert acoustic vibrations (in the form of air pressure) to electrical energy so it can be amplified or recorded.Most achieve this by the action of the air vibrating a diaphragm connected to something that either creates or allows a small electron flow.

How microphones work

There are three basic mechanical techniques that are used in building microphones for professional audio purposes, but all three types have the same three major parts:

• A diaphragm. The sound waves strike the diaphragm, causing it to vibrate in sympathy with the sound wave. In order to accurately reproduce high-frequency sounds, it must be as light as possible.  
• A transducer. The mechanical vibrations of the diaphragm are converted into an electronic signal by the transducer.  
• A casing. As well as providing mechanical support and protection for the diaphragm and transducer, the casing can also be made to help control the directional response of the microphone.

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