Microphones belong to karaoke just like amateur singers belong to American Idol. Whether you are an amateur or professional singer the mic you choose is important. Here are your choices in a microphone karaoke system.
A mic converts the acoustic energy into electrical energy so the singer's voice is transferred through to the speaker system. There are four types of mics.
1. Ribbon
This type of microphone uses a large magnet that has a ribbon of metal set in it that creates a low voltage as it moves. This acts as a coil and diaphragm. A transformer is required to increase the output voltage.
2. Moving Coil
Also called the dynamic has a diaphragm that is connected to a coil set in a magnetic cap. As it is moved it produces voltage.
3. Condenser and Electret
In this style the diaphragm is made from a thin plastic material that is coated with a microscopic layer of metal that has a backing plate. In between the two is the polarizing voltage. The capacity varies with the movement of the diaphragm producing a variable voltage that is amplified in the microphone.
4. Pressure Zone
This type uses a small diaphragm that is connected to an electret capsule which produces the output voltage. The sound waves are picked up through a small slit that's adjacent to the plate.
You should use a balanced mic with a low impedance. This prevents the loss of signal and that dreaded hum pick up. Because all kinds of singers with all kinds of voices and styles will be using the microphones it's best to Omni directional mics or any other style that has a well rounded response.
Microphone stands are good way to ensure your mics remain undamaged. When the equipment gets set up put the mics in the stand holder and wrap the cable around the stand then connect the mic. If you want to stop singers from removing the mic from the stand just use some gaffa or electrical tape on the lead.
Of the four types of mics there are two styles - wire and wireless. The mic works by using a device that picks up the radio waves translating them into sound. A wired mic connects to the equipment using a lead. A wireless mic has no wire but has a radio transmitter on the equipment and in the mic.
Wireless allows you freedom to move around without worrying about the cord and you are less likely to stumble or have a mishap with the mic. The headset mic style is great for karaoke jockey because their hands are free to run the equipment.
But they do have some disadvantages. The biggest problem is interference which can result in the mic not working correctly and sometimes it causes an annoying hum. They have also been known to pick up police radio frequencies. They also cost more and they do use up batteries. Rechargeable batteries are definitely a good idea.
The microphone karaoke system you chose will be reflected in the how you and other singers sound. This is not the place to cut corners. Buy a mic that's going to make you all sound your very best!
