Definition of Phantom power
Phantom power, in the context of professional audio equipment, is direct current (DC) electric power equally applied to both signal wires in balanced microphone cables, forming a phantom circuit, to power microphones that contain active electronic circuitry.
It is best known as a convenient power source for condenser microphones, though many active direct boxes also use it. The technique is also used in other applications where power supply and signal communication take place over the same wires.
Phantom power supplies are often built into mixing consoles, microphone preamplifiers and similar equipment. In addition to powering the circuitry of a microphone, traditional condenser microphones also use phantom power for polarizing the microphone's transducer element.
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Questions people ask
Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.
- Is it bad to plug in a mic when phantom power is on? · Sound Design SE
- Does it hurt to send phantom power to a mic with its own power supply? · Sound Design SE
- Phantom Power supply for Electret mic · Electronics SE
- Neutrik XLR 1/4" Combo Jacks and Phantom Power · Sound Design SE
- Wait to unplug with phantom power · Sound Design SE
- Does constant phantom power (24/7) to a microphone wear it out faster? · Sound Design SE
Frequently asked questions
What is Phantom power?
Phantom power, in the context of professional audio equipment, is direct current (DC) electric power equally applied to both signal wires in balanced microphone cables, forming a phantom circuit, to power microphones that contain active electronic circuitry.
Sources & credits
- Wikipedia: Phantom power – CC BY-SA 4.0
- Image by Jud McCranie – CC BY-SA 4.0