Understanding microphones

You need a microphone to record live audio. What are microphones? Microphones are electronic devices you use to record audio. They contain a material called a diaphragm that vibrates when struck by sound waves. They convert the sound waves into electrical current that can be played by devices that replay the sound.

If you were to Google search what microphone should I buy?, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of search results. There are many competing brands of microphones that each have their own advantages. Prices range from tens of dollars to thousands of dollars.

Personally, in my experience, if you do a good job in terms of recording, mixing, and applying effects to your audio, most listeners won't be able to tell how expensive the microphone is you used to record. The thing you're recording and what you do with it is much more important than the price of the mic you use. That said, there are different types of microphones you will...