Phantom power for Mics

[amt7565]

I have a Yamaha AW4416. I have connected the SM57 to the input- but switching the Phantom Power ON or OFF does not seem to make a difference in the sensitivity of the Mic. Also, the Mic seems pretty low sensitive. What am I doing wrong? Should I have the Phantom power ON?

Thanks,

 

[prestomation]

Phantom power doesn't effect dynamic mics at all. It doesn't really matter if you have it on or off, but many would suggest turning it off if you aren't using it.
Condensors require phantom power, and won't generate a signal at all without it.

 

[dgatwood]

The SM57 is a dynamic mic. It doesn't use phantom power.

If you have a mic that requires phantom power, you'll get zero sound until you provide that power. Examples include most condenser mics, tube mics... probably some others. For mics that use phantom power, the power may provide a charge that is used in the sound production, and may also power an amp circuit in the mics.

If your mic's sensitivity isn't sufficient, turn up the gain on the AW4416. There's probably a trim pot for each preamped channel at or near the back of the unit.