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Microphone polar patterns explained

Microphone directivity matters because it controls how a microphone picks up sound, influencing recording quality by focusing on desired sources and minimizing unwanted noise.

Microphone polar patterns describe how a microphone picks up sound from different directions. Understanding these patterns helps you choose the right microphone for your needs and position it correctly.

Polar pattern categories

Microphones can be divided into three main categories based on their directivity:

  1. Omnidirectional - picks up sound equally from all directions
  2. Unidirectional (cardioid) - focuses on sound from the front
  3. Bidirectional - picks up sound from front and back

The diagrams below show how each type captures sound. Zero degrees is the front of the microphone (where you speak), which is always at the center of the diagram.

Omnidirectional

An omnidirectional microphone has circular directivity - it picks up sound signals coming from all sides with equal sensitivity.

Omnidirectional polar pattern diagram showing equal sensitivity in all directions

Common uses:

  • Built-in laptop microphones
  • Webcam microphones
  • Conference room microphones
  • Ambient sound recording

Best for: Quiet rooms where you want to capture ambient sound or multiple speakers around the microphone. Not ideal for noisy environments.

Unidirectional (cardioid)

The cardioid pattern is named after its heart shape. It captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting sound from behind the microphone.

Cardioid polar pattern diagram showing front-focused pickup

Common uses:

  • Vocal recording
  • Podcasting and streaming
  • Live stage performances
  • Gaming headsets

Best for: Recording in moderately noisy environments where you want to minimize background noise from behind the microphone.

Bidirectional

Also called "figure-of-eight," bidirectional microphones pick up sound equally from front and back while rejecting sound from the sides.

Bidirectional polar pattern diagram showing figure-of-eight pickup

Bidirectional ribbon microphone

Common uses:

  • Face-to-face interviews
  • Podcasts with two hosts sitting opposite each other
  • Vocal duets
  • Mid-side stereo recording techniques

Positioning: Place the microphone between two people, with each person facing a different side. Unwanted noise sources should be positioned at the sides.

Multi-pattern microphones

Choosing the right pattern

Quick guide for common scenarios:

  • Video calls from home: Cardioid - focuses on your voice, reduces background noise
  • Recording a podcast alone: Cardioid - clean voice isolation
  • Two-person podcast: Bidirectional or two cardioid mics
  • Conference room meeting: Omnidirectional - captures everyone
  • Noisy environment: Hypercardioid - maximum noise rejection

Once you understand polar patterns, learn how to improve your microphone sound for the best recording quality.