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Microphones: Frequency Response

Microphones: Frequency Response

The frequency response is the output level or sensitivity of a microphone over its operating range from lowest to highest frequencies.

Flat frequency response

A flat frequency response is usually desired for applications where the sound source has to be reproduced without changing or “coloring” the original sound. All audible frequencies (20 Hz – 20 kHz) have the same output level.

Microphone flat and tailored frequency response
Microphone flat and tailored frequency response

Microphones with flat frequency response

Tailored frequency response

A microphone with tailored frequency response is usually designed to enhance a sound source in a particular application. For instance, a microphone may have a peak in the 2 – 8 kHz range to increase intelligibility for live vocals.

Microphone Transducer Types: Comparison of dynamic microphone and condenser microphone frequency response
Microphone Transducer Types: Comparison of dynamic microphone and condenser microphone frequency response

Microphones with tailored frequency response

Adjustable Frequency response

Microphones with adjustable frequency response offer sound signature customization that goes beyond (e.g. low-cut) filter options.

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