2.  Condenser microphones, also called electrostatic or capacitor microphones, convert sound into electricity using electrostatic principals.  They have two plate elements, one moveable and one fixed.  The moveable plate is given an electrical charge from a power source, creating electrostatic energy between the plates.

3.  They have two plate elements, one moveable and one fixed.  The moveable plate is given an electrical charge from a power source, creating electrostatic energy between the plates. Cross-Section of a Typical Condenser Microphone

4.  Sound waves vibrate the movable plate.  As the distance between the two plates changes, the amount of stored electricity changes.

6.  Condenser mics are very sensitive, and can respond quickly and accurately to sound.

7.  The signal out of the capacitor is small and must be pre-amplified or boosted.  Since capacitors require a charge, condenser microphones require a power source from a battery or phantom power.

8.  They are used in situations where they are not subjected to much sound pressure. Sound pressure level history

9.  Because condenser mics can handle high frequencies well, they are used in musical applications – in the string section of an orchestra for example.