What is a dynamic microphone?

Put simply, a dynamic microphone is an unpowered microphone that picks up sound and converts it to a signal you can amplify and record. Dynamic mics are often fantastic value, and are the best solution for a wide range of situations.

What's the difference between dynamic mics and condenser mics?

Dynamic mics are unpowered, and are usually better for higher sound-pressure-level applications like drums, live vocals and amp speakers, or discreet situations like lapel mics. Condensers are better for subtle, nuanced scenarios like quiet speech or ambient and field recordings, and require a phantom or external power source.

What makes a good quality dynamic microphone?

A good quality dynamic microphone will be well built, robust enough to handle the specific requirements for the type, like a vocal mic or drum mic. Normally a generally flat frequency response makes for a great all round microphone, but there are also mics designed with specific application in mind.