When selecting the right microphone, many people are uncertain about the differences among the various devices available on the market and which one will best meet their needs.
You may find it challenging to decide whether a cardioid or supercardioid mic is the best choice for you, but we aim to make the process a bit easier.
If you want to determine which option suits you best, be sure to read our guide thoroughly!
Table of Contents
Cardioid vs Supercardioid Microphone
Here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing between a cardioid and a supercardioid microphone.
The difference between these two lies in their basis on either a cardioid polar pattern or a supercardioid polar pattern, which are fundamentally different.
This results in a slightly different sound, making them suitable for various industries and niches.
Sensitivity
The primary difference between a cardioid mic and a supercardioid mic lies in their sensitivity.
Cardioid microphones are highly sensitive to various sound waves, with a reception pattern ranging from +90 to -90 degrees. Their pickup angle is typically around 130 degrees, making them effective at managing ambient noise.
This makes it an excellent choice for those recording acoustic guitars, vocals, and guitar amplifiers, ensuring that ambient sound does not overpower the recording and that room noise is completely eliminated.
I would always use it when I wanted to concentrate on a single source of sound and eliminate all other sound sources.
It effectively rejects sound and is excellent for producing on-axis sounds from every conceivable pickup angle.
Additionally, its feedback rejection is quite effective, making your entire filming process much easier and more enjoyable.
The rear lobe of sensitivity is quite good; however, you must ensure that the microphone is properly positioned and that you are not too close to it, as it picks up side sounds much more effectively.
It can capture sound from two people simultaneously, so this polar pattern cardioid mic will certainly enable you to record your music perfectly.
This is also the most common unidirectional pattern found in microphones, and most condenser microphones utilize this polar pattern, in contrast to the polar pattern of omnidirectional microphones.
I believe you will be able to use them anywhere, and the drum overheads and guitar amp will all sound amazing, which will truly enhance the professionalism of your recording.
In contrast, a supercardioid mic features a narrow pickup angle and is most responsive to sound waves occurring between 130 and 227 degrees.
However, it is only responsive to sound sources that are directly in front of your supercardioid microphone.
Its rear lobe sensitivity is significantly higher, making it a better choice if you are recording a short movie or video.
Unfortunately, you must ensure that you are always positioned correctly in front of the microphone; otherwise, the sound waves will not transfer effectively.
This is likely the most significant drawback of a supercardioid microphone, which explains why many people are choosing cardioid condenser mics instead.
It effectively rejects side sounds, so you must be cautious while using it, as you won’t have the same freedom of movement that you would with a cardioid mic.
Supercardioid microphones are typically employed to capture sound in films and videos, as well as for live performances and solo vocals.
A supercardioid mic is a better choice for detailed filming; however, if you frequently use your microphone outdoors, I highly recommend sticking with cardioid mics.
What Is the Right Choice for Streamers?
If you are a streamer, you may be unsure about the best direction to take and what type of microphone you should invest in.
Many people often find it challenging to make the right decision, but I believe cardioid microphones are consistently the better choice.
You will be able to move around and adjust your cardioid microphone left and right, and this won’t significantly affect the quality of your sound.
With a supercardioid microphone, this is not feasible, which can significantly restrict your movement and ultimately affect the quality of your stream and sound.
It requires you to sit straight in one position throughout the entire live stream, and supercardioid microphones will respond to even the slightest movement, so I wouldn’t recommend it for gamers.
The game can become quite exciting and challenging, making it impossible to stay in one place all the time; therefore, a cardioid microphone is certainly a reliable choice.
