Microphone Sensitivity and Noise

Question:

Is it true microphone sensitivity can help to offset preamp noise in a recording? Does high sensitivity also equate to picking up every single noise to be heard??

Answer:

Sensitivity basically refers to the output level of the microphone, and a higher output (higher sensitivity) will require less preamp gain, which means you wouldn’t have to crank the preamp as much which in turn means less “preamp noise.” Also, higher sensitivity doesn’t mean the mic will pick up “every single noise” – it only means the output level of the mic will be stronger, as mentioned above. With regards to picking up “every single noise,” that depends on the transducer type and polar pattern of the mic. Condensers will generally pick up more detail and noise than a dynamic mic. An omni polar pattern will pick up more noise from all directions than a cardioid mic.

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