PreSonus DigiMax D8 - Manual (Page 12)

OPERATION
10 | PreSonus 2007
3.1 MICROPHONES
The DigiMax D8 works with all standard microphones including dynamic, ribbon and condenser microphones.
3.1.1 Condenser
Condenser microphones tend to generate a high-quality audio signal and are one of the most popular mic
choices for today’s studio recording applications. Because of their design technology, condenser microphones
require a power source, which can be provided from a small battery, external power supply or from
microphone inputs as
phantom power. The DigiMax D8 sends phantom power over XLR inputs only.
3.1.2 Dynamic
Dynamic microphones are possibly the most widely used microphone type – especially in live shows and when
recording loud source signals such as guitar amplifiers and kick drums. They are usually less expensive than
condenser and ribbon microphones, resistant to physical damage and typically handle high sound pressure
levels (SPL) very well. Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic microphones do not require a power source.
In the vast majority of cases, phantom power will have no effect on a dynamic microphone’s audio quality or
sensitivity and will not damage the microphone. You should consult your microphone’s documentation to
confirm.
Dynamic microphones, especially ribbon microphones, tend to generate low output voltages, so they typically
need more preamp gain than a condenser microphone.
Ribbon
Ribbon microphones are a special type of dynamic microphone and get their name from the thin metal ribbon
used in their design. Ribbon microphones have very high quality sound reproduction qualities – especially
higher frequencies sounds. However, they are very fragile and typically cannot handle high SPL’s.
The most important thing to note about Ribbon microphones is that nearly all Ribbon Microphones do not
require phantom power. PLEASE NOTE:
unless a Ribbon microphone calls specifically for phantom power,
sending phantom power to a ribbon microphone will severely damage it – usually beyond repair.
Regardless of the microphone type you are using, we recommend reading your microphone’s user’s manual
thoroughly before engaging phantom power or if any other usage questions may arise.