However, it gives us a good idea of what to expect the output signal strength to be. Knowing the sensitivity at 1 kHz doesn’t necessarily translate to knowing the mic’s sensitivity across the frequency spectrum. When subjected to the tone mentioned above, all microphone sensitivity ratings are given as the microphone’s output signal strength (in mV or dBV).

The measurement of the output signal is always measured with:ġ Pascal (94 dB SPL) 1,000 Hz tone at the microphone capsule. Microphone sensitivity ratings are standardized and measured at a certain SPL with a certain tone. The sound pressure level is typically given in Pascals (Pa) or decibels of sound pressure level (dB SPL), though some older mics have their sound pressure specified in dyne/cm 2. The output ratings are typically given as millivolts AC (mV) or decibel relative to 1 volt (dBV). īefore we get into what constitutes a “good” sensitivity rating, let’s break down what microphone sensitivity is.Ī microphone sensitivity rating indicates the microphone’s output signal strength per unit of sound pressure. Let’s discuss what makes for a good microphone sensitivity rating in other applications and in general.įor a full list of microphone specifications, check out my article Full List Of Microphone Specifications (How To Read A Spec Sheet). At conversation level (70 dB), a 16 mV/Pa mic sensitivity would require 60 dB of gain to reach line level, which could be considered a good rating. The lower the sensitivity, the more gain is required to boost the mic signal to line level. What is a good microphone sensitivity rating? A good mic sensitivity rating depends on the application. The sensitivity rating of a microphone tells us how strong the mic’s output signal will be at a given sound pressure.

How to turn down microphone sensitivity