What is Polarisation in Microphones?
Polarisation is the electrical charge applied to a microphone’s diaphragm to make it sensitive to sound.
Without it, the diaphragm wouldn’t respond properly to pressure changes in the air. There are two main types: externally polarised microphones, which need a 200-volt supply from specialised equipment, and pre-polarised microphones, which have a permanent charge built in.
Pre-polarised designs are more convenient for portable gear, while externally polarised mics are often preferred in lab settings for their long-term stability. In this video, we explain what polarisation means, the difference between the two types, and why it matters when choosing the right microphone for your measurements.
Want to learn more about sound measurement terms? Visit the AcSoft Knowledge Hub, full of FAQs, how-tos, and practical insight into noise and vibration monitoring.
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