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Thread ID: 28850 2003-01-03 00:43:00 Computer microphones Andrew B (867) Press F1
Post ID Timestamp Content User
110629 2003-01-03 00:43:00 Is there any difference between computer headset microphones and ordinary microphones used with a pa system? And why does the computer microphone have a stereo plug on the lead? I am trying to use my computer headset mic that I got with Dragon Naturally Speaking on a pa system in a tour coach. But it doesn't work.

Thanks, Andrew
Andrew B (867)
110630 2003-01-03 01:01:00 If it has a stereo plug, it probably has one side of the microphone element connected to both channels. If that plug is put into a mono jack, that could short out the signal, if the ground contact in the jack hits the middle contact of the plug :-(

You could try a stereo-mono adapter (but try it in the shop ... if you can get a clued up assistant interested).
Graham L (2)
110631 2003-01-03 01:10:00 Hi Andrew:

This is an interesting question, and one that is not generally understood.

As you may know, the common monaural mics used for PA's & recording purposes are generally dynamic types.

The typical computer mic as used for connecting to the soundcard, is very different. It is an electret mic which requires a small DC voltage to operate. This voltage is provided by the soundcard mic socket.

Although the computer mic is not a stereo mic, this explains why a stereo mini plug is needed for the mic connection.

The connections of this plug are:

Tip: monaural audio.
Ring: small DC voltage.
Barrell: Earth.

You will see this explains why your computer headset mic will not work for your PA system, without modification & provision of the DC volts.

It also explains why it's not good practice to connect stereo lineoutput cables, or dynamic mics into the soundcard mic socket.

Cheers.
Bazza (407)
110632 2003-01-03 01:19:00 Bazza, Thanks for your reply. I guess I'll have to look for a dynamic headset mic. Cheers, Andrew Andrew B (867)
110633 2003-01-03 08:28:00 Fine Andrew, I guess thats the best ting to do. The Electret mics are excellent quality, & are used extensively for phones, cellphones, & handsfree arrangements.

For your information & other Press F1'ers, the following Shure Microphone site has information on the use of mics into soundcards.

www.shure.com

Cheers..
Bazza (407)
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