Do condenser mics just DIE?

[SonVolt]

Hi
I have an SP B-1 that I've been using for about two years now, and lately I've noticed that it just isn't performing like it used to. I have to turn the trim on my soundcard up practically all the way to get a useable level, and that introduces too much background noise.
Do condenser mics just die for no reason?I do use the mic for other things like internet radio DJ ing and chat.
Or could it be the pres on my soundcard (Echo Gina 3G)?
I guess I just want to know if there's a way if i can tell if my mic is dying.
I don't have another condenser to try out.

Thank you

[Daisy]

No, it shouldn't just "die" on you. Unless it's an Electret, and even then it should be good for at least 30-50 years (or something like that).

One thing to consider is the country in which it is manufactured.

[MCI2424]

Originally Posted by SonVolt

Hi
I have an SP B-1 that I've been using for about two years now, and lately I've noticed that it just isn't performing like it used to. I have to turn the trim on my soundcard up practically all the way to get a useable level, and that introduces too much background noise.
Do condenser mics just die for no reason?I do use the mic for other things like internet radio DJ ing and chat.
Or could it be the pres on my soundcard (Echo Gina 3G)?
I guess I just want to know if there's a way if i can tell if my mic is dying.
I don't have another condenser to try out.

Thank you

Are you sure your phantom power is healthy? You need to try the mic somwhere else, or try another mic inyour soundchain.

[ausrock]

Well if he hasn't got another condenser, how can he check out the phantom power?

SonVolt,

Can you take the mic somewhere else to try it out, like the store where it was purchased, etc.,...........you need to find someone who has gear with phantom power facilities. If you can prove that the mic has problems, then contact PMI/Studio Projects direct as they'll be only too happy to take care of it for you.

[TerraMortim]

Murderer!!!!!

[Bob's Mods]

When they do they are supposed to be buried with military honors.

[SonVolt]

Thanks all for the replies, appreciated!
Well I was blaming my sexy sp B1 for the problem and I need to apologize to her.
Tried a couple more mics with my soundcard and still the same problem.
So does this sound like a problem with my pres or my phantom power?
What could go wrong with either that would cause this?
I use an Echo Gina 3G BTW.
Appreciate any replies.

Thanx!