Recording 101: Microphones

Wondering which microphone would be best for your shoot? Kevin breaks down the basics so you can figure out the type of mic best suited for what you're recording.

In this video, we cover how a microphone actually works, the difference between mic and line levels, XLR cables, pre-amps, phantom power, transducer types, and mic polar patterns.
More on recording techniques (and other equipment) later on in the series!

Any more questions about mics? Ask Kevin directly in the forums, we love chatting with you guys!

Some of the equipment pictured:
Shure SM58 Vocal Dynamic Mic
Rode NT5 Cardioid Condenser
Rode Blimp Windshield
Rode NTG3 Shotgun Microphone
Sony ECM-V1BMP Electret Condenser Lavalier
Zoom H6 Handy Recorder
Vintage Microphones on display at History for Hire prop house

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[DJization]

I commented on this video 6 years ago, and was randomly reminded of it today. You guys have had a massive impact on what I know about filmmaking and the process behind it thanks to videos like this.

I know you guys don't make videos anymore, but thank you. I really enjoyed them.

[WeeWeeJumbo]

There's just a ton of information here. Spectacular. Thank you

[pesterenan]

Joey singing and the boom mic rotating, just comedy gold. xD Thanks RJFS! I own a Ride Smartlav+ and I love it!

[Jordodude]

I should binge watch these before I head to college for film. Would be great to have all this essential knowledge to get things rolling a bit smoother. Plus these vids are funny and actually pretty fascinating. Keep it up RJ

[timebendpictures]

I swear to god, this is THE funniest, most engaging tutorial I've watched!! These are the sort of videos that make me pledge my undying loyalty to a channel ;)

[obmosher]

I was honestly nodding off before I got to this video, but you brought me back from the brink and filled my noggin with exactly what I came for. I wasn't expecting to enjoy this lesson. Ima subscribe now. Much appreciation!

[joelrolston]

An excellent display. Bookmarked for future reference, because I always need a reminder.

[ZequiHouseRD]

Awesome tutorial, keep up with the great work

[fepompeo]

You have no idea how hard it's to find good audio courses here in Brazil, so thank you guys. You guys help me soooo much!

[The_Other_Dan]

The line "This may seem obvious you fuckin' smart ass" earned this channel a sub single-handedly

[campfred]

So far, I think it's my favourite video from all of the ones I watched to know what kind of microphone to look for my home office setup. Thanks RJFS!

[AndrewVaughanOfficial]

I feel like I know a lot less after seeing this, but that's good, it means it's time for me to do some studying. Make more of these please!

[Asummersdaydreamer]

Thank you for the informative video, RocketJump team! I really like how you guys break it down in ways people, who are not fluent with all the jargon, can understand.

[DJization]

This video is educational AND funny. That doesn't happen very often. Great job guys!

[BenDurham]

Awesomely well put together! Thanks for pumping this stuff out constantly!

[MMfish_]

You guys are amazing! Best video on the subject I have seen. Thank you!

[ali.asmr.sleep.]

This was INCREDIBLY HELPFUL!!! Thank you!

[lankyjuggler]

I'd read a lot of this stuff before but the demonstrations were *wonderful*. Thanks!

[tenishiadaniel]

Thank you so much for making this entertaining. I had to watch this for a media class I'm taking and this would have been a slow 9 minutes if you hadn't made this fun to watch.

[anamariaorozco]

Excellent video!!! Very informative!!!