Phantom Power Explained
Most condenser microphones need phantom power to operate their internal circuitry. Let’s explain what phantom power is and how to use it.
DEFINITION
Phantom power is electrical power that is sent to a condenser mic through its mic cable. The cable must have XLR connectors to pass phantom power.
Each of these devices can provide phantom powering:
• A mic preamp with phantom power built in
• A mixing console with phantom power built in
• A standalone phantom power supply
In each device above, a female XLR mic connector supplies the phantom power to operate the mic. The microphone receives power from, and sends audio to, the device along the same cable. It’s called “phantom” because the power does not need ...
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