While microphones with 3.5 mm jacks come in many shapes and sizes, there are some specific features to be aware of when deciding which type of microphone to purchase. Manufacturers are increasingly including TRS or TRRS adapters with their 3.5 mm microphones, so check the product description to see if an adapter is included before purchasing one separately. A microphone with this plug is best for use with smartphones and computers and may not work with external audio devices. TRRS: The Tip/Ring/Ring/Sleeve configuration plug with four contacts in total has three gray rings, making it easy to identify.The sleeve is the long metal shaft behind the last insulator band. The tip is a contact for the left side audio, while the metal ring between two black insulator bands is a contact for the right audio output. A TRS plug has two black rings behind the tip, making it easy to identify. This type is used most often with video cameras, DSLR cameras, and other dedicated audio equipment. TRS: Tip/Ring/Sleeve are the key components of the stereo-optimized 3.5 mm jack.Those rings are more important than most people realize. TRRS: One of the features of a 3.5 mm microphone jack is small insulator rings near the tip, the part that you plug into the interface. Shotgun and cardioid mics capture sound mainly from the front. As it sounds, omnidirectional mics take in sound from all directions. Pickup patterns are important to know about. Solutionsįortunately, there are ways to reduce or prevent these issues, from being aware of the microphone’s positioning to purchasing accessories that improve performance.Ĭhoose the right pickup pattern: Omnidirectional or shotgun or cardioid.
There are a few cons to consider before making a decision:Įlectrical interference: This can affect microphones with thinner, less-shielded cables, a factor in smaller 3.5 mm microphones, such as lavaliers.Īdapters: These may be needed to connect to smartphones and laptops.īalance: The microphone’s output may be difficult to balance in a professional studio environment. That doesn’t mean 3.5 mm mics are the perfect choice in every situation.
Size: A 3.5 mm microphone cable is thinner and the jack is only 1/8 inch long, making it much easier to tuck away when not in use.Īffordability: In terms of cost, 3.5 mm microphones are on par with or better than USB microphones of the same size.Ĭhoice: Microphones with 3.5 mm connectors are available in many sizes and form factors, so you can pick the mic that works best for your specific needs. USB connectors and cables may have additional wires to transfer data between devices, wiring that can interfere with audio transmission from the microphone and reduce sound quality. Why choose a 3.5-millimeter microphone over other types of mics? There are a number of key benefits, especially for those who are just getting familiar with audio design.Ĭompatibility with old and new technology: The 3.5 mm jack has been in use with electronics for decades and is still standard on many external audio components.īetter-quality sound than USB: A 3.5 mm connection is dedicated to audio input directly to a device’s sound processor. Output: This is the cable and connector (in this case, the 3.5 mm jack) through which the electrical signal is sent. We’ll talk about common transducer technologies below.Ĭapsule: The heart of the microphone, the capsule contains the diaphragm and transducer components that convert sound waves into an electrical signal.
Transducer: Depending on the microphone type (dynamic or condenser), the components of this section of the mic start the process of converting sound waves into electrical signals. Windscreen: This is a metallic mesh or grid on top of the input side of the microphone (where you speak into it) that protects the components from the elements.ĭiaphragm: This membrane vibrates when sound waves hit it. Key considerations ComponentsĪll microphones share nearly the same basic components:īody: This is the protective casing around the components of a microphone. Practice positioning a few times before the actual audio recording event. Position a microphone so that it points directly at the sound or voice you’re recording and is within its recommended range.