Professional Wired Microphones

The wired microphone selection addresses multiple professional use cases. Shotgun microphones like the Sennheiser MKE 600 feature highly directional polar patterns that excel at capturing sound from specific directions while rejecting off-axis noise, making them ideal for video production, broadcast journalism, and camera-mounted applications. Their interference tube design provides focused pickup patterns essential for professional audio capture in challenging acoustic environments. Boundary microphones designed for conference table installation provide low-profile pickup solutions for boardroom and meeting room applications. These microphones sit directly on flat surfaces and utilize pressure zone principles to capture voices around conference tables with natural sound quality. Many models include switchable polar patterns and low-cut filters to optimize performance for different room configurations. Gooseneck microphones mounted on lecterns, discussion systems, and desktop bases serve presentation and conferencing applications where the speaker position is relatively fixed. These microphones combine condenser capsules with flexible positioning stems, allowing precise aim toward the speaker while maintaining visual discretion in the installation. Key specifications across the category include pickup patterns (cardioid, supercardioid, omnidirectional), frequency response characteristics, sensitivity ratings, and output impedance. Many professional wired microphones require phantom power from mixing consoles or external supplies, while others include battery operation options for portable applications. The selection includes both dynamic and condenser microphone technologies, each with distinct advantages for specific applications. Frequently Asked Questions Q1. What is phantom power and which microphones use it? A. Phantom power is a 48V DC voltage supplied through microphone cables to power condenser microphone capsules and their internal electronics. Most professional condenser microphones require phantom power, while dynamic microphones do not. Some condenser microphones offer battery power alternatives for portable applications. Q2. What polar pattern is best for conference room applications? A. Cardioid and supercardioid patterns work well for individual speakers, while omnidirectional boundary microphones suit conference table installations capturing multiple participants. The optimal pattern depends on seating arrangements, room acoustics, and whether the goal is focused pickup or area coverage. Q3. How do shotgun microphones differ from standard condenser microphones? A. Shotgun microphones use interference tube designs that create highly directional polar patterns with narrow acceptance angles. This allows them to capture sound from specific directions while rejecting off-axis noise more effectively than standard cardioid condenser microphones, making them ideal for film production and broadcast applications. Q4. Can wired microphones be used with wireless systems? A. Wired microphones can be connected to wireless transmitter belt packs or plug-on transmitters to create wireless operation. However, this approach adds complexity and potential failure points. Purpose-designed wireless microphone systems typically provide better reliability and integration than adapter-based solutions.