At 11:43 AM 1/23/2006, you wrote:
>I'm working on a project that will place a recorder, unattended,
>outside for several weeks at a time. We're trying to control battery
>power requirements, and the topic of using a dynamic mic has come up.
>
>My admittedly limited understanding is that dynamics are not the first
>choice for nature recording because of they are not as sensitive as
>condenser mics, and have a higher noise floor. However, dynamics are
>durable, highly resistant to humidity, and less expensive. And they
>don't require battery power.
>
>Can anyone recommend a dynamic mic for nature recording? Or are the
>benefits of condenser mics worth the extra kilograms of battery weight?
>
>--oryoki
Dear Oryoki:
It is true dynamic mics generate their own output power from the movement
of a coil in a magnetic field. I own old models of Electrovoice and Shure
but never use them any more. They would, I think, serve only with a
pre-amp, which WILL needs some battery power.
But the power required for a very rugged condenser mic is barely
microwatts, and weeks are available from one or two ordinary Lithium "AA"
for a Sennheiser ME66 or ME-67, those directional mics being the only ones
I currently own.
Many list members obtain for a few dollars (less than ten) Panasonic (?)
condenser mic elements, which would require some wind and weather proofing,
but run for days on tiny current supplies. I think if you search the
archives Rich Peet has mentioned these models. Good luck!
-- best regards, Marty Michener
MIST Software Assoc. Inc., P. O. Box 269, Hollis, NH 03049
http://www.enjoybirds.com/
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