I guess what I’m wondering is can the 48 Volts that’s needed for condenser microphone phantom power destroy the mic’s circuitry if its applied in the wrong way. i.e., should the 48V be applied after the mic is connected, or before, or does it even matter?
Turn on Phantom Power Before or After
I usually try to remember to turn on phantom power (48V) after the mic(s) is connected. That just seemed the logical way to do it – No sudden change in voltage abruptly pushing through the mic. Yes, I can verify the proper way to apply the voltage with a little extra research, but I’m running out of time for this quick 250+ post and so writing only what I know.
Two Broken Mics
I “know” that I have two condenser microphones that no longer work. Actually, they appear to sometimes work, but pop in and out of operation. At first, I thought maybe it was the audio interface input connection, the XLR input that was causing the problem, but my dynamic mics seem to work just fine. I guess, it could still be the audio interface’s ability to apply 48V. I don’t know…
Perhaps I should learn how to test these condenser mics with a voltage / amp meter, or whatever is used to check these types of mics. Wouldn’t hurt for future purposes. Heck, I don’t even setup my own guitars. U guess I should learn how to do that too.
There are so many maintenance type situations that take the fun out of writing and recording music. of course, learning how to manage these situations might prove satisfying in and of themselves in the long run.
To be continued…
Until Next Time,
Featured Image: Me practicing my photography back in the day – Audio Technica Mic.
