How Small Can A Microphone Be?
Microphones are ubiquitous in our daily lives, from conference calls to karaoke nights, yet their fascinating history and evolution often go unnoticed. This article not only enriches our appreciation of sound but also highlights the ingenuity behind one of the most essential devices in modern communication.
The Birth of the Microphone
The journey of the microphone began long before the term was even coined. In 1827, Sir Charles Wheatstone introduced the word "microphone," referring to devices that amplified sound. However, it wasn't until 1876 that Emile Berliner and Thomas Edison developed the first practical microphone, known as the carbon microphone. This device transformed sound waves into electrical signals using a diaphragm and carbon granules, enabling clearer communication over distances.
Types Of Microphones
There are 3 common types of microphones that are used in every day life.
- Dynamic Microphones: These use a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire within a magnetic field. They are durable and ideal for live performances.
- Condenser Microphones: These require power (phantom power) to operate and are known for their sensitivity and wide frequency response, making them perfect for studio recordings.
- Ribbon Microphones: Utilizing a thin metal ribbon suspended in a magnetic field, these mics capture warm sounds and are favored for vocals and brass instruments.
How Miniaturization Began
In 1962, for the first time, an electret microphone was invented by Gerhard Sessler and Jim West. This remarkable device uses a special material known as electret, which retains a permanent electric charge, allowing it to function without the need for an external power source. Unlike traditional condenser microphones that rely on an applied charge, the electret microphone’s design enables it to capture sound with remarkable efficiency and simplicity.
Due to their excellent performance and ease of production, these microphones have become incredibly popular, with over a billion units manufactured each year. You can find them in a variety of applications, from high-quality recording equipment and lapel microphones to the built-in mics in smartphones and other compact devices. Before the advent of even smaller MEMS microphones, electret microphones dominated the landscape of cell phones and headsets, making them a staple in modern audio technology.
The Smallest Microphones Yet...
The smallest microphone ever created is a groundbreaking device made from a single molecule. Researchers at Lund University in Sweden, led by Yuxi Tian, embedded a molecule of dibenzoterrylene within a crystal. This innovative design allows the microphone to detect sound by observing changes in light absorption frequencies caused by sound waves disturbing the molecule. However, it operates only at very low temperatures to avoid interference from warm air fluctuations, making it more of a scientific curiosity than a practical audio tool for everyday use.
For everyday uses... Sonion seems to have the record of producing some of the smallest commercially available microphones. Their Q-series microphone is only 8mm2!
Fun Facts About Microphones
- The first-ever recorded voice was captured using a microphone in 1860 by Édouard-Léon Scott de Martinville.
- Modern smartphones often use multiple small microphones to enhance audio quality by filtering out background noise.
- The term "microphone" comes from the Greek words "mikros" (small) and "phone" (sound).
Conclusion
The evolution of the microphone is a testament to human ingenuity and our relentless pursuit of better communication. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to the advanced technologies we see today, microphones have transformed how we capture and transmit sound. The journey from carbon microphones to electret and MEMS designs illustrates not only technological advancements but also the adaptability of this essential device in various applications, including smartphones and professional audio equipment.
As we continue to innovate, the microphone's role in our daily lives will only grow more significant. Understanding their history and functionality deepens our appreciation for the soundscapes that surround us, reminding us that even the smallest innovations can have a profound impact on our world. The microphone, once a mere tool for amplification, has become a cornerstone of modern communication, bridging distances and connecting voices across the globe.
