This document is a buyer's guide for professional microphones published in 2010. It provides promotional articles on leading microphone manufacturers and their product ranges. It includes details on microphone technology, principles, and variations in transducer and electronic designs between manufacturers. The guide aims to help audio professionals choose microphones by providing awareness of industry advances and "alternative" manufacturers beyond the most well-known brands. It features directories of over 80 microphone companies from around the world.

1. AUDIO-FOR-VIDEO • BROADCAST • INTERNET AUDIO • LIVE SOUND • MULTIMEDIA • POST PRODUCTION • RECORDING
AUDIO MEDIA
THE INTERNATIONAL
BUYER’S GUIDE
THE WORLD’S LEADING PROFESSIONAL AUDIO TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
A SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PUBLICATION FROM THE NEWBAY MEDIA GROUP
MICROPHONES
2010
PRODUCED BY
AUDIO MEDIA

2. The route to a
great recording
There was a time when a truly great microphone cost an unreal amount of
money. Then came Røde, and no-one could believe how a range of
microphones that performed so well could cost so little.
Today, discerning producers, engineers and recording musicians choose
Røde not just because they’re great mics for the money,
but because they’re great mics – period.
Discover more about Røde microphones at
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It’s your route to a great recording.
Exclusively distributed in the UK & Ireland by Source • www.sourcedistribution.co.uk/rode • T: 020 8962 5080

3. Welcome to Microphones 2010, an International
contents Buyer’s Guide. We’ve scoured the ever-widening
market of professional microphone products for
4 Ribbon Mics: Fact or Fiction? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
your convenience, and thrown in a few informative
and hopefully thought provoking articles from
experts in the field.
6 An Engineer’s Guide to the Orchestra . . . . . . . . Now updated and refreshed, this guide is a collection of
promotional articles looking at some of the world’s leading
microphone manufacturers and their product ranges.
Inside you’ll find the stories behind the gear – the ethos’
8 AKG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . and design ethics that go into producing one of the core
components in professional audio – and details of the products
themselves. In addition, we’ve collated a massive directory of mic
manufacturers, and included three articles around the subject of
microphone technology and technique for the audio pro.
10 Audio Technica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Whatever your field of work, the quality of your product
depends heavily on the quality and method of acquisition. This is
why microphones are so important, and why this genre of audio
gear probably generates more passion than any other. While the
range of basic principles in microphone technology is relatively
12 Beyerdynamic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . small, the variations on these themes are incredibly numerous
– we’ve listed over 80 manufacturers in our directory, from all
over the world, most offering choice across several transducer or
electronic approaches.
You might be a film or drama location recordist, a music studio
14 Blue (TC Electronic) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . engineer, a Foley editor, a radio journalist, a member of an ENG
crew, a live sound engineer – any, in fact, of the hundreds of very
specialised roles that require not only a theoretical grounding in
microphone technology, but also intimate knowledge of the ‘art’
of microphone practise, placement, and choice.
16 DPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . You might even just be starting to build your microphone
stock and need a place to start. Are you aware of recent advances
in all areas of microphone technology? Are you familiar with a
handful of high-profile manufacturers, but would like a greater
18 Mic W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . breadth of awareness when it comes to the ‘alternatives’?
Whatever your needs, Microphones 2010 should be able to help.
It should be a place to begin your search.
Microphones 2010 is a project developed by Audio Media
Worldwide (www.audiomedia.com). Audio Media concerns itself
20 Prism Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . with the business of production and production technology
for professional creatives, operators, technicians, and engineers
everywhere.
Paul Mac, Editor
22 Sennheiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Shure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AUDIO MEDIA www.audiomedia.com
(UK) Tel: +44 (0)1480 461555 - Fax: +44 (0)1480 461550
26 Telefunken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sales Manager Editorial Manager (Europe)
Graham Kirk Lanna Marshall
g.kirk@audiomedia.com l.marshall@audiomedia.com
Editor In Chief Design & Production Manager
Paul Mac John-Paul Shirreffs
28 Violet ...........................................
p.mac@audiomedia.com jp.shirreffs@audiomedia.com
30 Manufacturers Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mic
www.nbmedia.com
34 Microphone Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The contents of this publication are subject to worldwide copyright protection and reproduction in whole or in part, whether
10
mechanical or electronic, is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the Publishers. Great care is taken to ensure
accuracy in the preparation of this publication but neither NewBay Media nor the Editor can be held responsible for its contents or
any omissions. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Publishers or Editor. The Publishers
accept no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or artwork.
© 2010 NewBay Media. All rights reserved.

4. + + FACT OR FICTION? + + + + FACT OR FICTION?+ + + + FACT OR FICTION
Ribbon Mics:
Fact Or Fiction?
ANDREW GRAEME explodes the bare truth behind common ribbon microphone myths...
I
t seems strange in today’s digital world, perfect recordings every time. recordings were made using tape
but just a few years ago, avoiding noise was But we still have cupboards full recorders and the ribbon mic was
everything! And the one piece of equipment of condenser mics that were
“I think all but forgotten and in 1976, RCA
that added more noise than most was the tape ideal at overcoming the effects ribbons stopped making ribbon mics.
recorder. Early tape was noisy and bouncing tracks of tape.
meant losing the top end. have The Difference
So I suppose it was inevitable that we would
forget the poor old ribbon back in the 60s and
Time to Take a New Look at
become The idea may not be high-
tech, but the biggest physical
Ribbons!
70s. After all, condensers sounded so much Back in the 19th Century, more difference has to be the
brighter and sharper and we needed that to Werner von Siemens discovered extremely low mass of the ribbon
overcome the effects of tape. The subtlety, that vibrating a thin sheet of
important when compared to other types
purity, and open sound of a good ribbon
microphone was often lost under all that tape
conductive material suspended to me, since of membrane. This low mass
means that transient response at
in a magnetic field created a
noise of earlier recordings. The condenser had very small current. At the time, I have been all parts of the audio spectrum
enough top-end for tape, and some of us even should be better. The ribbon can
preferred a bit of a presence peak.
this was of no practical use,
but with the advent of sound
recording in follow the smallest movement
But then along came digital and a new
beast raised its ugly head: digital harshness.
reproduction, Harry Olson, an digital.” of the higher frequencies better
engineer working at RCA, was and, at the same time, cope
That presence peak was no longer as desirable able to use this principle to build Bruce Swedien (legendary better with the large movements
as it once was. Our initial pleasure of a life good quality microphones. engineer) of bass notes and the thump of
without noise was somewhat diminished by In the era of direct-to-disc kick drums.
the new bugbear of a harsh top end caused by recording, the ribbon did a good job, but by For this reason, it has been
distortion. Today, better digital filter designs the end of the 60s, all popular commercial my experience that a good passive ribbon mic
and fewer clocking problems gives us nearly will show up the difference between a good
and a poor mic pre-amp more than other
The Phantom Killer types of microphone, particularly on drums
A long time ago, a producer was making my life and the life of the musicians in the studio, as and percussion. You will need more gain than
difficult as possible. He didn’t like the desk, he didn’t like the acoustics of the room, he didn’t a comparable condenser mic, and larger
reserves of current to cope with deep notes
like the way the musicians were playing and, to cut a long story short, we didn’t like him. He
and sudden thumps.
certainly didn’t like the microphones, but he had a solution: he brought out his own ribbon
Perhaps the most noticeable difference to
mic and plugged it in. Leaning over my shoulder, he started fiddling around with the channel
condensers is the almost universal absence of
settings, as in his view, I hadn’t got those right either! In doing so, he inadvertently switched sibilance and other HF distortion problems.
on phantom power to his ribbon. “Oh good,” I thought. “He’s broken the damn thing!” As one student in a work group put it, “I don’t
Sadly, this was not the case. get essing problems when I hear someone
And so I learned: if everything is correctly wired and phantom power is uniformly applied singing next to me, so why do we have to use
to pins 2 and 3, then the ribbon has no reason to move at all. a de-esser with some condenser mics?”
However – if you plug your ribbon mic into the desk via a jack or TT socket and phantom The answer is that they (or something in
power is on, for a just a split second, 48 volts is applied first to one pole of the ribbon and the signal chain following them) are distorting,
then, as the wipers in the socket pass from the tip to the sleeve, to the other pole, making it and the better transient response of ribbons
means that they are far less likely to cause this.
jump first one way, then the other. The output transformer limits this effect, but these jumps
There just is something about the way a ribbon
can stretch and therefore damage the ribbon.
reproduces sound that is just closer to the way
The same thing happens if there is a momentary disconnect on either pins 2 or 3 caused,
the human ear behaves.
for example, by a loose or dirty connection. So if you do inadvertently switch on phantom For a long time, the Coles 4038 and
power whilst using a ribbon, it is best to just switch it off again. Do not plug or unplug the mic the Beyerdynamic M160 were drum overhead
whilst phantom is on, as pins 2 and 3 are unlikely to make and break contact at exactly the standards, along with a select few condensers
same time. that were not quite as harsh as most.
4 FACT OR FICTION

5. microphones 2010
N?+ + + + FACT OR FICTION?+ + + + FACT OR FICTION?+ + + + FACT OR FI
there are many other excellent ribbon mics on
Ribbons Sound Dull and Have Very Low Ribbons Break Easily
the market, but I just have not got round to
Output We were told that a small puff of wind
trying them all – not yet, anyway!
There was a time when many ribbon mics will tear the ribbon, and sudden jolts,
did indeed sound dull, but today’s mics or even storing them on their sides
Transformation
range in tone from ‘warm and vintage’ The tiny voltage that occurs at the ribbon will cause the ribbons to sag. All of the
(that’s dull by some standards) to being is considerably less than a millivolt – even major manufacturers have been working
almost as bright as any condenser. Indeed, if you shout right at it at point-blank range. diligently on making their ribbons far more
a very few users even complain about For this reason, a transformer is used to robust than they once were. The old RCA
a handful of models being too bright. generate something more useful. ribbon mics, such as the 77DX, were said
As for low output, the ribbon mic has a Doing this also puts a load on the ribbon, to have noticeably more bass when tipped
transformer that brings the output up which reduces its ability to respond to high to make the ribbon sag and doing this was
to about the same level as most other frequencies. In other words, the addition sometimes known as the ‘warmth tilt.’
of a transformer acts as a filter. The better
dynamic mics. They have, of course, a I do not know if this was ever true using
the quality of the transformer, the less
much lower output than condensers, but old ribbon material, and one suspects that
filter effect there is and the smoother it
screaming into a ribbon gives you about this effect had more to do with a change of
is. For this reason, better ribbon mics
20mV, the same as for an SM58. The use very high quality transformers, angle than with sagging ribbons!
difference is that ribbon mics are usually typically, from Lundahl or Cinemag, with Some ribbon mics using older designs
used as an alternative to a condenser and larger manufacturers using transformers and materials may be still somewhat
have a lower output in comparison. specifically wound for each model, and of fragile, but many of the technical advances
course sE has Rupert Neve on the case. made in the past few years have been
Unfortunately, the wholesale price for a in the ribbons themselves and several
But now, with the advent of modern full range
good transformer is about the same as the models would seem to have ribbons that
ribbon mics that cover every part of the audio
wholesale price of a cheap ribbon mic, including are about as robust as you could wish
spectrum, we are able to use them for anything
the box, the wind-sock and a suspension
and everything, from lead vocals to being the them to be. Even those models using
mount! But the difference between a good
main stereo pair for full orchestras. And we conventional two microns thick aluminium
transformer and an off-the-shelf cheapo is
can do so, without having to use condensers ribbons are far more robust than their
the difference between night and day!
to ‘pep-up’ the sound! older counterparts, as modern aluminium
foil is purer and the thickness far more
Patently Better
Body Language consistent. Impure aluminium foil will
A dig through patent applications and
It has been my experience that the more oxidise and therefore become brittle
patents granted has told me that this rebirth
solidly built microphones (all other factors and break.
of interest in ribbon mics is here to stay,
being equal!) sound better than their
and further technical advances are in the
flimsier counterparts. In particular, budget-
pipe-line. This ranges from ultra- many different recording situations that you
priced ribbon mics built into
strong composite materials for
larger housings made of “Ribbons the ribbon, to new methods
are going to be confronted by. In the past, our
serious mic-money went on good condensers.
thin metal can have a slight
‘honk’ or ‘ring’ to the sound. were of concentrating and focusing
magnetic fields around the ribbon.
Now that there is no more need for a sharp
top end to cut through tape hiss, woolly noise
This is particularly true, if
there is no, or insufficient,
designed There are applications for printing reduction, track bounces, and AM radio, the
complex conductive patterns onto
acoustic de-coupling between when one composite polymers to increase
time has come to re-evaluate the balance of
our mic lockers. A few pairs of good ribbon mics
the ribbon assembly and the
housing. Perhaps it is for mic had the generated voltage, to a large
collection of mechanical means
may make all the difference!
this reason, that amongst my
favourite ribbon mics are the
to sound of protecting the ribbon and
Thanks To…
altering the frequency response.
Royer 122, the AT 4081, and good on For example, Audio Technica has Audio Media would like to thank sE
the magnificent SE Electronics
RNR1, all of which have
everything.” no fewer than 18 patents in the Electronics, Audio-Technica, Royer, and
Shure for their help with this article.
pipeline for ribbon microphone
beautifully machined bodies Wes Dooley (President of
technology alone!
and a very solid construction. AEA Microphones)
www.seelectronics.com
These three are active, which
And Finally... www.audio-technica.com
has the advantage of permitting
There is no one mic that is good www.royerlabs.com
the use of a wider range of pre-amps, but,
for every application, so it pays to have as many www.shure.com
well-built passive ribbons are every bit as good,
good mics of various types to cover all the
when used with good equipment. Obviously,
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 5

6. + + ORCHESTRA + + + + ORCHESTRA+ + + + ORCHESTRA+ + + + ORCHESTR
An Engineer’s Guide
To The Orchestra
We present a short trip around the instruments of
an orchestra with Angel Studios’ Senior Engineer
Gary Thomas, who brings a lifetime’s experience to
bear on his own approach to orchestral recording...
Starting With Stereo again, perhaps some other cardioids. If space is Strings
“The most accepted stereo source is the tight I may put the sides and rears in extreme “For more gentle material, I may just use the
standard Decca tree – two omni mics around places to add character. They’ll be there to room – that always gives a smoother and more
two metres apart and a third omni 1.5 metres capture reflections off a wall or ceiling, anything diffuse sound. But for action movies the strings
forward. The tree is above the conductor and to fill out the ambience. Sometimes I’ll even put may need more bite and definition, and that
gives a true impression of what he or she is them up on a balcony. will mean close miking the whole section to
hearing. I’ll often use the traditional Neumann “A lot depends on the score – what you add some bite to the sound. Typically I’ll put up
M50s for that, which is what Decca trees were record always depends on what the score is one mic per desk. In a section of forty, that can
first used with. But there are alternatives; trying to do, which is always up to the director mean twenty mics or more. I’ll find out from the
I really like some of the DPA microphones – and the composer. Directors generally know composer beforehand if there are any solo lines,
the DPA4006s because they have a very nice what they are trying to create, so you’re always which are usually played by the leaders in each
smooth sound. Neumann TLM50s and KM83s working with that. In many cases a lot of activity section. Soloists get an extra mic of their own, to
can work well too.” in the rear can be detrimental. I’ve worked on be used with discretion.”
projects where the director wanted nothing at The mics are on stands, between two and
The Fills the rear because he wanted to keep the dialogue four feet away, depending on the space and the
“I’m sure if you ask other engineers, everyone clean. For other films – e.g., action movies – sound we’re after. For the high strings I might
has a different view on how to create side and there’s a need for a lot of activity. And it’s not use Schoeps CMC5s or Neumann KM84s, for
rear fills and where they should go. A lot of just ambience – sometimes other elements, the lows U87s or U89s. For solo violin or cello I’ll
people add in extreme side fills to add more like piano, percussion and keyboards, are often use a DPA 4011, which is another DPA mic
width to the tree – typically TLM50s or KM83s included in the rears.” with a very smooth sound, or a Neumann 149.
6 AN ENGINEER’S GUIDE TO THE ORCHESTRA

7. microphones 2010
A+ + + + ORCHESTRA+ + + + ORCHESTRA + + + + ORCHESTRA + + + + ORCHE
I don’t usually use contact mics except for very Woodwind “Dynamic range is the issue for percussion,
special effects – I think we have just the one in “Musicians try to keep their instruments in top and there are some vintage Calrecs which
the cupboard at Angel now. form, but that isn’t always possible. Sometimes have an amazing dynamic range – they’ll take
They can be very impressive though – with woodwind you’ll get clicks and clacks from almost anything – but still sound exceptional.
there’s a DPA contact mic which is superb for the keys. To minimise that I’ll mic them from I’ll also use a mix of AKG D12s, Neumann
double bass. It’s only about a centimetre wide some distance away – to get the full value of KM84s, and sometimes I’ll use a couple of
but it sounds fantastic.” the sound yet attempting to lose the key noises. dynamics like SM58s.
That doesn’t always work. Bassoons sound best
Brass miked from the middle, not the top, which can Piano
“Brass can be more of a challenge than some make it impossible to eliminate the key noise. “For piano. I’ll use Neumann KM143s for a
of the other sections. First – screens. You’ll For woodwinds I’ll use brighter sounding mics first choice, or perhaps DPA 4006s because
sometimes find that on the first cue of the day because you’re only really dealing with mids they give a very open sound. If it’s a short lid
the brass wipes out the strings and drowns out and top – there’s not much needed at the set-up I’ll use a pencil mic like the Neumann
everything else. And once in a while dynamics bass end. So I’ll use AKG 414s on clarinets and KM184. The 143s and the 184s are both small
don’t get written in, so the section can be bassoons, and Neumann 184s and 89s on the cardioid condensers so they can work for close
playing more enthusiastically than it should. flutes. The exception to that is bass clarinet, miking. Sometimes you want a darker sound,
If there’s a brass onslaught like that, some which composers write for when they want and the old Calrecs or a Neumann KM84 are
extra work is needed. Then again, for something comical or sinister. My first choice good for that.”
something like a John Williams score you want for that is a Calrec 1050 cardioid, which is a
to keep that powerful brass sound because it’s warmer sounding mic, that brings out the
Many thanks to Angel Studios for its help with
a key feature of the mix. So again it depends body of the sound, but is still quite small.
this article. Interview by Richard Wentk.
on the music. In a big orchestral room, you may It’s also very handy to have a crossed pair
not want screens because there’s enough space of cardioid mics on the section to create
for everyone. But in smaller rooms screens are a some width and depth.
good way to give yourself more control.”
“Mic placement for brass is similar to Percussion
strings – a section mic like a stereo Schoeps “With percussion I like to have distance and
or a Neumann SM69, and then individual mics the option of extremely close mics, inches
in pairs or trios. Often I’ll record the horns from rather than feet, on things like bass drums,
behind – they’re usually loud enough and snare drums, sparkly sounds like Mark trees and
far enough away from the percussion not to piano pins. The close miking adds body to the
pick up too much spill. I would use any large sound. So for a bass drum hit, you may want
capacity microphone like a Neumann U47 heavy resonance. Also, military snares would
or U89, generally look for a mic that has an be close miked to add more body and balance
attenuator with high headroom. out some of the snare rattle with extra depth.
On trumpets I’ll use a Coles ribbon 4038, Similarly triangles, vibes, and marimbas would
which is a very smooth sounding microphone all be close miked. Cymbals are the exception.
that can take some of the edge off the sound. I’ll place the mic maybe a couple of feet
Alternatively Neumann U87s or U89s can work away on those to cut down on their
well, again usually with a pad especially for natural harshness.
louder playing.”
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 7

8. + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + +
Latin superstar Alejandro Sanz used
the frequency-agile DMS-700 for his
worldwide Paradise tour.
Professional Sound Solutions
AKG has been pioneering the development of cutting-edge audio technologies since 1947.
Today, it is continuing its tradition of audio innovation in producing some of the most advanced
microphones and wireless microphone systems in the world.
From some of the most high-profile live sound DMS 700 offers a quick system setup for easy and user-
events to small town theatre installations, AKG’s The frequency-agile DMS 700 is AKG’s first friendly operation.
equipment is used to satisfy a wide variety digital wireless microphone system. Offering Included in the DMS 700 are the DHT 700
of audio requirements the world over. In just users a state-of-the-art feature set that includes Digital Handheld Transmitter, the DPT 700
the last year, AKG’s microphones and wireless digital audio encryption, ultra wide tuning range, Digital Bodypack Transmitter, and the CU 700
microphone systems were used live in concert and a high channel count in a simple to use 19- Charging Unit. Each of the components can
by Kanye West, Missy Elliot, and Alejandro inch chassis, the DMS 700 is ideal for live sound be purchased individually or grouped together
Sanz; they were installed for secure audio reinforcement, conference facilities, courtrooms, to make up the DMS 700, and can be easily
transmissions at the Swiss Exchange in Zurich’s and houses of worship. It operates with two integrated to operate with Harman’s HiQnet
Crystal Palace, and they were installed in a wide frequency bands that each feature a tuning protocol.
variety of theatres, cinemas, and recording range of up to 155MHz, and it has the ability to
studios. Here are just a few products that have operate up to 100 channels simultaneously. Perception 120 USB
contributed to AKG’s global dominance: With all these features, the DMS 700 The Perception 120 USB is AKG’s
offers a clean digital audio transmission that first USB-equipped microphone
eliminates the distortion and is a real plug-and-play
and significant noise levels device that allows users to do
that are typically produced podcasts, voiceovers, and studio-
with analogue systems. quality rehearsal-recordings
AKG’s frequency-agile DMS 700. For confidential audio from their desktop without any
transmission, each channel installation or drivers. It’s one
can be secured with its own of AKG’s most user-friendly
encryption, allowing the microphones to date, and is
user to broadcast sensitive compatible with Windows XP, AKG’s
audio transmissions with Windows Vista, MAC OS X, and
Perception 120
confidence. What’s more, Windows 7.
USB.
the infrared link between The desktop microphone
receiver and transmitter includes a two-third-inch
8 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

9. microphones 2010
AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + + AKG+ + + +
condenser capsule with a low-mass diaphragm
UK Distributor China Distributor
that delivers accurate sonic details. It features
Sound Technology Plc. Acton Audio Musical Instruments Ltd.
an integrated pop filter that avoids plosives, a
switchable bass cut filter, and an attenuation Letchworth Point, Letchworth Garden City 3 Hong Ye Road , Wang Gang Town
switch, and comes complete with a tripod table Hertfordshire SG6 1ND Pudong District, Shanghai
stand, a swivel mount, and a USB cable. e info@soundtech.co.uk Marketing and Sales:
t +44 (0) 1462 480000 e music@tomleemusic.com
Architectural Microphone Series f +44 (0) 1462 480800 t +852 2737 7688
With over 6,840 customisable settings that w www.soundtech.co.uk f +852 2730 3573
can be adjusted by the customer on a new w www.tomleemusic.com
interactive website, AKG’s Architectural India Distributor
Microphone Series is one of the most versatile
Hi-Tech Audio Systems PVT. Ltd.
lines of microphones available on the market.
3406, Desh Bandhu Gupta Road, Check www.akg.com/distributors for the
Just by logging on to the website, users
Karol Bagh, 110005 New Delhi complete list of AKG Distributors
can customise their microphones based on
t +91 11 4317 4317 (30 Lines)
seven different variables: capsule design, polar
pattern, gooseneck length, connector style, f + 91 11 2872 0461
printing, colour, and accessories. With the click
of a button, users can select from five different
capsule designs, including a signal, tech, current, their wireless microphone and IEM systems
flow, or cross design. There is an option for from the palms of their hands.
hypercardioid, cardioid, and omnidirectional The new application links Harman’s
polar patterns, and an option for connection HiQnet® protocol to the iPhone and iPod®
preference, based on the most common use of Touch app via Wi-Fi® network, and has the
the microphone. power to monitor wireless system parameters
In addition to the functional settings, there and radio frequency connections from
are also a number of pages on the website anywhere for some of AKG’s most popular
where users can adjust the microphone’s wireless microphone systems, including the
aesthetic qualities. There is an option to adjust DMS 700, the WMS 4000/4500, and the IVM
the neck length from 15cm, to 30cm, to 50cm, 4 in-ear monitoring system. With the new app,
change the colour or finish, and even decide the iPhone can now also be used to browse
what’s printed as a logo. Finally, after the through the entire wireless system within
functions and appearance of the microphones the device list, monitor each device and its
are set, users can choose to add a number of parameters separately within the stripe view, or
different accessories including different types use the RF monitor to check the radio frequency
of mounting clips, a stand adapter, a screw set, connection of each wireless device.
and a windscreen for greater capsule protection. The new iPhone application is available
online at the iTunes store.
AKG’s revolutionary iPhone application brings
iPhone Application
freedom and flexibility to audio engineers
With its new iPhone application, AKG has given
users a new tool to browse, monitor, and control everywhere.
CONTACT DETAILS
AKG Acoustics GmbH
Lemböckgasse
21-25 A-1230, Vienna, Austria
e sales@akg.com
t +43 1 86654 0
f +43 1 86654 8800
US Distributor:
AKG Acoustics, U.S.
8400 Balboa Boulevard
Northridge, CA 91329
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 9

10. + + AUDIO-TECHNICA+ + + + AUDIO-TECHNICA+ + + + AUDIO-TECHNIC
The Drive for Innovation, Quality,
and Consistency
The youngest of the world’s ‘big four’ microphone brands, Audio-Technica has employed design
innovation and advanced manufacturing to consistently break the price/performance barrier with
leading products for studio, broadcast and live production applications.
As a world leader in the design and manufacture In The Studio have traditionally plagued ribbon mics, in part
of high performance microphones and wireless It was with the introduction of the AT4033 in through the use of a proprietary MicroLinear
microphone systems, Audio-Technica has 1992 that the company established a leading ribbon imprint for excellent durability.
developed market leading product ranges for position in the studio recording market. The A significant degree of hand production,
music recording, broadcast production, and AT4033 was the first ever high performance including ribbon corrugation, imprint, and
live production. In each of these areas Audio- large studio condenser microphone priced at assembly, is involved in the construction of the
Technica delivers products that have raised the under US$1,000; exploiting the very latest new mics, which maintain the sought-after
performance bar and established a reputation design, engineering, and production techniques, ‘vintage-style’ ribbon mic tone.
for design, engineering, and build manufacturing the AT4033 provided performance Also designed to bring
excellence that is second to none. from a back electret design that classic tone to the studio are the
rivalled famous studio condenser AT4050ST and 4047MP. The
models several times more expensive. AT4050ST is a stereo version of
Special accelerated diaphragm aging the widely-used AT4050, featuring
methods ensured performance a pair of elements positioned
remained consistent over time, which at 90° to each other in a Mid-
provided for a more linear response Side set-up, with one element
over a wide frequency range, even at in cardioid mode and the other
high SPLs. configured as figure-of-eight. This
Modern production methods innovative design allows users to
enabled a level of consistency that opt for either a left-right stereo
ensured the identical performance of output, or for discreet mid-side
every microphone; with no necessity signal for later manipulation for
to produce the microphones in remarkable flexibility.
‘matched pairs’ for stereo recording. The AT4047MP is a multi-
Selling in thousands, the success pattern condenser microphone,
of the AT4033 established the created to deliver beautiful
company’s reputation as a high-end vintage tone that is perfectly
AT 4080 studio microphone manufacturer suited to vocals, strings, acoustic
and spawned the 40 Series large guitar, and instrument ensembles.
It’s an engineering and business philosophy diaphragm condenser range. All The pattern choices comprise
that originates with the company’s inception models in the 40 series adhere omnidirectional, cardioid, and
in 1962 when founder Mr. Hideo Matsushita to the same paradigm of high figure-of-eight pickup, while the
introduced a moving-magnet-type stereo performance and value for money, transformer-coupled output and
phonograph cartridge. The company went on and as testimony to their quality also specially tuned element provide
to design and produce phono cartridges and come with the company’s Lifetime the sonic character of early FET
tone arms, both under its own brand and for Warranty. mic designs.
others, including the legendary NHK broadcast Recently added to the 40 Series Modern day classics of
organisation. The same high precision design are two exciting new models, the the recording world, the 40
and engineering techniques that made the AT4080 and AT4081 – the company’s AT 4081 Series microphones are lauded
company’s various cartridge designs so first ever ribbon microphones. The by internationally renowned
successful were also applied to the manufacture pair feature groundbreaking Audio-Technica engineers and producers like Phil Ramone, Joe
of microphone and headphone products design, with no less than 18 patents pending Chiccarelli, Frank Filipetti, Nathaniel Kunkel,
throughout the 1970s and 1980s, earning on the new models. Created from the ground and David Reitzas. These are among the
the brand prestigious status among audio up, the AT4080 and AT4081 convincingly solve world’s most successful and best selling studio
professionals. the problems of fragility and low output that microphones today.
10 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

11. microphones 2010
CA+ + + + AUDIO-TECHNICA+ + + + AUDIO-TECHNICA+ + + + AUDIO-TEC
In addition to the unique Lifetime
Warranty offered on its 40 Series, Artist
and Artist Elite series microphones, Audio-
Technica introduced its First Impressions
trial scheme in 2009. Covering the above-
mentioned ranges, First Impressions
allows consumers to try microphones in
their own particular working environment,
free of charge, for a two-week period. Trial
mics are shipped with a discount voucher,
redeemable in-store only against Audio-
BP 892 Technica microphones from these ranges
at a participating First Impressions dealer.
Further details are available at
www.audio-technica.com/firstimpressions
For Broadcast On Stage
In the broadcast industry Audio-Technica is a In recent years Audio-Technica has won
brand that has become synonymous with high devotees among artists and sound engineers
performance location recording microphones alike for its Artist Elite Series performance
employed in the transmission of major outside stage microphones, in both wired and wireless
broadcast events. In particular the company form. With users and endorsees as musically
has been associated with the broadcast of diverse as Alesha Dixon, Rush, Metallica, and
international sporting competitions. For many Katherine Jenkins, AE Series handheld models
years, the official broadcast productions – both condenser and dynamic – are famed
of the Summer and Winter Games – from for their sound quality. When partnered with
Atlanta City to Beijing and Vancouver – have Audio-Technica’s recently updated 5000a and
featured literally thousands of Audio-Technica 4000a Series wireless technology, transmission
microphones. In particular the company’s quality is such that engineers as seasoned as
innovative shotgun designs have enabled Dick Rabel are on record as saying that there is
greater capture of close up audio in games and “remarkably little difference” between wired and
competitions. wireless models with the same capsule.
Introduced in 2009, the BP4071 and On backline too, Audio-Technica is a de
BP4073 microphones are tailored to the needs facto standard for many world-class sound
of critical broadcast applications with excellent engineers including ‘Big’ Mick Hughes
signal-to-noise ratios and RFI-immunity. (Metallica, Def Leppard, Slipknot), Dave Bracey
Innovative acoustic design also ensures that (Robbie Williams), and Andy Hawkins (Pigeon
the new models offer levels of directivity Detectives). For these and many others,
comparable to mics up to 50% longer, and models like the AE2500 dual element design,
as such deliver unequalled performance in a the AE3000, the AT4050 and AT4041, and Audio-Technica Ltd (UK)
compact package. the ATM350 are essential tools of the trade. Technica House
At the other end of the spectrum, the These live production series are now joined by Royal London Industrial Estate
new BP892 (headworn) and BP896 (lavalier) re-engineered Artist Series, offering unrivalled Old Lane
are subminiature omnidirectional condenser performance at competitive price points: Leeds
microphones, designed to provide high SPL they are already making an impression in the UK
handling and accurate sound in tiny packages market, with singers including Jodie Jones using LS11 8AG
for broadcasters, presenters and actors. the ATM710 condenser exclusively on stage, t +44 (0) 113 277 1441
and other models earning a place on backline w www.audio-technica.com
rosters.
Harvey Roberts
Senior UK Marketing Manager
t 0113 277 1441
e hroberts@audio-technica.co.uk
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 11

12. + + BEYERDYNAMIC+ + + + BEYERDYNAMIC+ + + + BEYERDYNAMIC+ +
beyerdynamic
GmbH & Co. KG
beyerdynamic microphones, wireless systems, headphones,
and headsets are chosen by professionals all over world for their
sonic excellence and reliability.
worldwide. Eighty-six years after Microphone Portfolio
its foundation, beyerdynamic Live Performance Microphones
still develops headphones and
microphones in Germany, which The Difference Between Microphones
are carefully handcrafted in the Deciding on a beyerdynamic microphone is
southern city of Heilbronn. Each of first and foremost an individual process.
our products contains true passion The selection of a microphone is based on a
and know-how for an excellent great number of factors: personal preferences,
sound experience. the voice or instrument itself, and how and
Currently the beyerdynamic what is being sung or played. All beyerdynamic
product range comprises, in addition microphones have their own special
to microphones, wireless systems characteristics. They differ in their design,
and professional headphones, sound, and timbre. Sometimes the differences
headsets for TV commentators are great, and sometimes they are only nuances.
Optimal Sound and pilots, as well as conference One thing beyerdynamic microphones have in
As the Measurement of all Things systems and interpreting facilities. The latest common is the unbelievably natural sound they
Since the Eugen Beyer electrical engineering inventions of our engineers therefore include deliver on stage or in studio, and the maximal
factory was founded in 1924, beyerdynamic has products for 5.1 surround sound integrated in feedback suppression – and hence optimal live
been synonymous with German-made applied high-tech headphones, the worldwide unique experience for artists and their audience –
high technology in the professional audio wireless conferencing system Revoluto, high- they guarantee.
electronics sector. end headsets with digital noise cancelling,
Until this very day, Eugen Beyer’s heirs individually manufactured headphones for iPod Opus Series: When Sound Meets Function
feel bound by the company’s tradition and fans, and premium headphones with novel Tesla As different as the Opus models may be,
by its visionary, pioneering founder’s values. Technology. they are all united by their ability to meet all
Technological advance, constant innovation, beyerdynamic is proud to number among its demands on stage or in the rehearsal room.
and maximum quality standards ensure the products many ‘industry standards’, such as the Their robust construction can stand up to the
company leads the field in sound technology DT 100 monitoring headphone and the M 88 TG rigours of touring, they can handle high sound
dynamic microphone. pressure levels, and provide an extremely high
gain-before feedback. The models in the Opus
series stand for a lot – but especially for their
outstanding sound characteristics.
TG-X Series:
A Synonym for Excellent Live Performances
The higher the demands, the better. Striving to
be better is by all means positive – also when
it comes to your music equipment. This applies
in particular to the microphone; after all, what
good is the greatest talent when the wrong
technology makes it sound only average in the
end? The reverse is also obviously true: only with
an optimal microphone can you get the best out
of yourself. The microphones in the TG-X series
are synonymous with perfect live performances.
12 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

13. microphones 2010
+ + BEYERDYNAMIC+ + + + BEYERDYNAMIC+ + + + BEYERDYNAMIC+ +
M Series: Legends of Music
You can’t create a legend; it arises from
fame. The M series models have earned their
reputation as classics. Hardly any
other microphone is linked to
the history of rock and roll in
quite the way that our ribbon
microphones M 130 and M
160, or the dynamic models
M 88 TG, M 69 TG, and M 201
TG are.
Studio and Recording Microphones
MC and MCE Series:
Reliable Partners for your Daily Work
MC and MCE microphones
accompany recording engineers,
broadcast professionals, and
film crews at work reliably.
Through professional competence
and high quality awareness our
microphones made their mark in the MC 900 Series
audio industry. The MC 900 small-diaphragm condenser
One of many beyerdynamic inventions in the microphone series features a tremendous
microphone technology was in 1996, when the diversity due to the sound neutrality and
company presented the MCD 100, the world’s painstaking construction of its models.
first digital studio microphone, at the 100th AES Designed as first-class tools for stage and
convention in Copenhagen. studio, the models MC 910 (omnidirectional),
MC 930 (cardioid), and MC 950 (supercardioid)
MC 840 are the first choice for all applications where
The MC 840 is an extremely compact large high-quality pickup or transmission of acoustic
diaphragm studio microphone with a gold signals is crucial. The MC 900 microphones are
vaporised double diaphragm, and five selectable particularly suitable for natural pickup of choirs,
polar patterns (omnidirectional, wide cardioid, orchestras, solo instruments (e.g., guitar, wind
cardioid, hypercardioid, instruments, drums), or even stage plays.
figure-of-eight). On the The special characteristics of this series include
basis of the MC 740 a high open-circuit voltage and a wide balanced
microphone capsule this transmission range without a narrow-band
model has been equipped resonance rise. Through the switchable pre-
with an improved low- attenuation of 15dB, the models are also
noise pre-amplifier and an perfectly suited to use with very high sound
impedance transformer levels. In the MC 930 and MC 950 models,
without transducer. the switchable bass roll-off filter compensates
Due to a two-stage roll- for the proximity effect; the MC 930 and MC
off filter (80 and 160 Hz) 950 with their largely frequency-independent
compensating the close directional characteristics offer outstanding
miking effect and a two- directivity in combination with high elimination
stage pre-attenuation (-10 of noise from the rear. All models operate from
and -20dB), the MC 840 is a phantom power supply of
a superior microphone for 11-52V, and can hence be used with nearly any beyerdynamic GmbH & Co. KG
any recording application. microphone amplifier for studio and Theresienstraße 8
It has been designed live applications. 74072 Heilbronn – Germany
without compromise to capture every
sound detail with absolute clarity and purity. t +49 (0) 7131/617 440
Applications for the MC 840 include f + 49 (0) 7131/617 299
recording orchestras resulting in a superb e proaudio@beyerdynamic.com
transparent sound. w www.beyerdynamic.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 13

14. + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE
Serious Tools For Serious Recording
Blue Microphones is commonly referenced as ‘the microphone company of today’ melding the
heritage of the past with current cutting-edge technology, leading to continuous innovation in the field
of studio recording, live performance and consumer audio.
The Blue Story increased bandwidth benefits enabled by the knowledge gleaned from years of repairing and
Founded in 1995 by Skipper Wise, a professional advances in digital processing (e.g., extended improving classic mics from a wide variety of
musician and producer with over 100 albums to frequency response, dynamic range, and project manufacturers, while simultaneously integrating
his credit, and Martins Saulespurens, a renowned recording capability). These microphones would new technologies, materials, and a first-hand
audio and electronics engineer, Blue has grown harness this new era of digital technology, knowledge of today’s recording processes, Blue
from a company that refurbished vintage eliminating the need to suppress the most is a pioneer in developing the modern analogue
microphones into a unique, multi-faceted audio colourful aspects of the audible spectrum input devices for the digital age.
company with a prestigious line of award- (thundering lows and piercing highs) that
winning microphones and accessories. Blue’s were previously constrained by the analogue Capture Every Nuance
mission statement was expressly to improve process of recording onto tape. Basing many Blue’s philosophy is that all great sound begins
the front-end of audio recording by utilising the of their concepts, designs, and technology on with the capsule. Hand assembled and tuned,
our proprietary capsule designs capture specific
sonic signatures in specific ways, creating
The Flagship Bottle Series completely different tonal characteristics for
Designed for the most discerning recordists, the Bottle Series (consisting of the Bottle, the Bottle each mic in the Blue lineup. In addition, Blue
Rocket Stage One, and Bottle Rocket Stage Two) feature microphones capable of providing a studio mics employ state-of-the-art technology
wide palette of tonal characteristics and pickup patterns to satisfy even the most discriminating that ensures the purest possible signal path and
tastes. The Bottle Series integrates the best of Blue’s discrete class-A circuitry with a unique Class-A fully discrete circuitry with no ICs, pads,
and revolutionary system of interchangeable capsules, like Blue’s Bottle Caps, that provide the or filters; each microphone is designed to fill a
engineer with a wide range of potential tonal characteristics. specific role in a recordist’s repertoire. The result
is a portfolio of professional studio microphones
that create a palette of sounds, enabling artists
The Bottle
to truly realise the sonic landscape of their vision.
The Bottle is our highest achievement in quality and innovation. Meticulously
hand assembled, the Class-A discrete Bottle utilises a single EF86 pentode Sound For Everyone, Everywhere
vacuum tube in triode mode. The Bottle combines low noise and With the advent of increasingly powerful and
superb transient response, and when combined with Blue’s nine affordable personal recording software, Blue
interchangeable Bottle Caps capsules, provides the recordist with realised that project studio recording presented
an entire mic cabinet all in one mic. the next revolution in the music industry.
Believing that the lack of a high-quality USB
Bottle Rocket Stage Two microphone to protect the signal source would
The Stage Two’s transformerless, Class-A discrete tube amplifier be an impediment, Blue developed the Snowball,
now the number one-selling professional wired
circuit delivers low noise and superb transient response. Like
condenser microphone in the world. Throughout
the Bottle, the Stage Two has the ability to hot swap up to nine
its development process the Snowball was
different capsules for amazing versatility.
designed with musicians in mind, however
people quickly began to adopt the product
Bottle Rocket Stage One for consumer applications such as podcasting,
The Stage One is Blue’s most accessible mic with a foundation of chatting, and narration. These new and
interchangeable capsules. The Class A discrete solid state Stage constantly expanding applications have allowed
One has a very low self-noise specification (<7.5dB) and a very high Blue to tap into its pro audio DNA to launch
output level (+12dBV), making it the perfect choice for today’s high sample rate/ a line of products catering to life outside the
deep word length digital platforms. studio. These include high-quality USB products
for both Mac and PC, iPod accessories, and an
XLR-to-USB converter that allows everyone to
take advantage of the quality and performance
inherent in every Blue microphone, right on their
own computer.
14 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

15. microphones 2010
E+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ + + + BLUE+ +
Application Specific Series
Blue’s latest innovative USB mic is the multi-pattern Yeti. Yeti’s triple-
array capsules boast latency-free monitoring (with dedicated volume
Every Blue microphone in the Application Specific Series contains its own proprietary capsule
control), digital muting, and just like all Blue mics, amazing sound quality.
that is hand-tested to capture a specific sonic signature. Blue’s philosophy is to create
With four different pattern settings and THX-certification for exceptional
sound and performance, unparalleledcapture anything with a clarity and
microphones that are the Yeti can for their intended application.
ease unheardNine-pattern tube condenser – vintage vocals
Cactus: of in a USB microphone.
Kiwi: Solid state multi-pattern – Blue’s signature contemporary vocals
Mouse: Bottom end boom – bass, drums, and broadcasting
Woodpecker: Only ribbon mic with true top end – classic warm sound and an ultra-smooth
top end
Dragonfly: Thickens thin sound sources – high vocals, acoustic guitar, drum overheads
Blueberry: Commanding, intimate presence – vocals moved to the front of the mix Innovative Consumer
Baby Bottle: Midrange focused – rock vocals, guitars
Recording Tools
Mikey
L-R - Cactus, Kiwi, Mouse, Woodpecker, Dragonfly, Blueberry, Baby Bottle
The Best Studio Mics in the World. Live. Icicle
With our new en•CORE line of studio-grade handheld microphones, all of the knowledge, Eyeball
craftsmanship, and innovative technology we’ve poured into our high-end studio microphones
has now been transferred to the stage. Designed to deliver exceptional all-round performance
and capture your unique, individual sound, the en•CORE mics combine beauty and ruggedness
into one perfect family of instruments. Gorgeous styling and craftsmanship, including elegant
grille/ring assemblies, precision-machined barrels and grips, along with rugged durable plating
finishes, make the en•CORE line a standout on any stage. Snowflake
en•CORE 100
Studio-grade dynamic that delivers natural vocals, balanced highs,
and amazing detail and clarity.
en•CORE 200 Snowball Yeti
Blue’s proprietary Active Dynamic Circuit delivers those same natural
vocals with amazing detail and clarity, along with electronically
transformed output to provide remarkably high gain.
en•CORE 300
Features a hand-selected cardioid condenser capsule, tuned for
Blue Microphones (North America)
an open, detailed, and present sound. Its custom-designed phantom power t + 1 818 879 5200
circuit provides a rapid and powerful sound, while the unique f + 1 818 879 7258
reinforced chassis design mounts the capsule for optimal performance e support@bluemic.com
and isolation from handling noise. w www.bluemic.com
en•CORE 100i Europe: TC Group International
Utilises a new dynamic capsule with a custom-tuned diaphragm designed Sindalsvej 34, 8240 Riskkov
specifically to provide a tighter polar pattern perfect for miking instruments and Denmark
t +45 8742 7000
other sources requiring high isolation.
e info@tcelectronic.com
w tcelectronic.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 15

16. + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + D
Professional Microphone
Solutions For Any Need
DPA prides itself on producing the best, most accurate microphones available, guaranteeing stunningly
natural sound quality and zero colouration. Each microphone is handcrafted in Denmark and whatever
the application, venue or instrument, DPA can provide the optimum microphone.
DPA 4099 Clip Microphones DPA Miniatures DPA Headbands
DPA’s ever-growing 4099 range of clip Since the 4060 miniature microphone series DPA sets the standard for headband mics,
microphones has solutions for different launched in 1996, the result of intensive being at the forefront of this miking technique.
instruments at an affordable price, and is work with leading theatre sound designers The acclaimed DPA headbands complete the
proving a hit with musicians who love freedom to fine-tune adapters and mounting cables, miniature range and are famous for staying
when playing live. Each 4099 comes with an DPA miniature condenser mics have proved put under the most difficult conditions as well
ingenious, gentle mounting accessory, indispensable. Much loved in the theatre, where as their clear, natural sound. Comfortable
which stays put on the instrument while they are widely used on West End, Broadway, and easy to wear, DPA headbands come in
the mic captures the best possible sound. and touring productions the world over, DPA omindirectional and cardioid versions, in a
The 4099 range is invaluable for gigging miniatures have also found favour in broadcast choice of colours, and for the left and right
musicians who want to guarantee and for close-miking. With a capsule smaller than sides of the face. Much R&D has gone into
unbeatable, reliable quality each time a pencil eraser, DPA miniatures have a neutral ensuring that humidity and moisture won’t be a
they play. character, combining great detail and resolution problem. This is demonstrated night after night
To hear with a rounded sound and natural response. A in theatres and broadcast studios across the
who’s been won range of adapters make them suitable for use world, as DPA headbands are put through their
over by the DPA with most professional wireless systems. paces on the most rigorous performances and
4099, go to DPA miniatures are available in different productions.
the DPA Video sensitivities and a range of skin colours for
Gallery at www. efficient concealment, as well as cardioid and
DPA Headband Key Features
dpamicrophones. omnidirectional versions. Many accessories are
Headband of choice for theatres and
com/video, where musicians available, as are miniature miking kits in a neat
broadcasters
including Randy Brecker, carrying case, combining mics and accessories
Chris Minh Doky and Curtis for specific applications such as stereo recording, Easy to adjust
Stigers, and Sting’s engineer instrument miking, electronic news gathering, Extremely stable once in place
Donal Hodgson, share their and film. DPA’s miniature mic technology is Natural, highly detailed sound
experience of the range. also deployed in the BLM4060 Boundary Layer Resistant to wear and tear, sweat and humidity
Microphone for boardrooms, conferences,
DPA 4099 Key Features courtrooms, and anywhere that excellent vocal
High gain-before-feedback pickup is essential.
Natural sound
Easy, gentle mounting DPA Miniatures Key Features
Suitable for ever-growing range of instruments Natural, highly detailed sound
including guitar, violin, trumpet, sax, cello, bass, Wide dynamic range
drums and piano Rugged design
Compatible with most wireless transmitters
16 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

17. microphones 2010
DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + + DPA+ + + +
About DPA Microphones
Drawing on more than five decades
of world-class condenser microphone
design, DPA has manufactured ground-
breaking products in its own name since
1998. The company employs around 100
people and is represented by professional
DPA Surround DPA D3/S5 Key Features audio distributors and dealers in
Flexible and lightweight more than 40 countries worldwide. All
Articles on Surround Sound Integrated cable option DPA microphones and components
Visit the DPA Microphones University at www. Matched surround mic kits are manufactured at the company’s
dpamicrophones.com/micuni where there are Reproduces any array purpose-built factory in the north of
numerous tutorials and articles on the art of Compatible with all mic holders Denmark.
miking in surround.
DPA Standards
DPA also excels in crafting high quality studio
DPA 5100 Mobile Surround Microphone
microphones, guaranteed to deliver a stunningly
DPA offers various versatile solutions for
faithful version of the original. Components
surround miking. The DPA 5100 mobile
are carefully selected to provide optimum
surround microphone features five miniature
neutrality, accuracy, and low distortion.
pressure transducers that exhibit extremely low
No wonder that mics such as the classic 4006
sensitivity to wind and mechanical noise, low
omni and 4011 cardioid – which have both
distortion, highly consistent low frequency, and
been upgraded in transformerless versions –
enormous dynamic range. This self-contained
have found a home in the greatest studios
plug-and-play solution is compact, easy to use,
across the world. These are joined by a firm
and features DPA’s stunning sound quality.
favourite with the broadcast market: the
Its innovative design delivers a rich, smooth,
4017mk2-R shotgun mic with sophisticated
and totally enveloping ambience to HDTV
Rycote weatherproof systems.
production, sports broadcasts, film projects, etc.
DPA Compacts
DPA 5100 Key Features Head Office:
The smaller cousins of the DPA Standards,
Plug-and-play solution these handy little mics also come in a great DPA Microphones A/S
Lightweight and portable Gydevang 42-44
selection of omni, cardioid, and wide cardioid
Rich, smooth, fully enveloping sound DK-3450 Alleroed
versions, offering ingenious mounting solutions
Denmark
Discrete 5.1 analogue output, and, of course, DPA’s proven sonic excellence.
t +45 4814 2828
no processing needed Invaluable for close-miking instruments,
f +45 4814 2700
live sound
e info@doamicrophones.com
DPA D3 & S5 Surround Mounts reinforcement,
w www.dpamicrophones.com
The DPA Decca Tree (D3) and Surround Mount and podium
(S5) are stylish mounts for two, three, or five speaking, the
microphones. The adjustable, modular design, versatility of the US Sales Office:
DPA compact DPA Microphones, Inc.
with centre fixation point for perfect balance,
range means 2432 N. Main St., Suite 200
allows numerous classic configurations for fixed
there is a mic for every application. Longmont, CO 80501
install and mobile setups.
DPA compacts and standards are also USA
available in carefully-matched Stereo Kits for a t +1 303 485 1025
wide variety of uses. f +1 303 485 6470
e Info-usa@dpamicrophones.com
w www.dpamicrophones.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 17

18. + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW
Precision Solutions
MicW Audio is a precision microphone manufacturer of the metal-type
professional microphones for recording, broadcasting, and live music.
Its N-series high quality condenser microphones are based on nickel
diaphragm technology. In 2010, MicW launched 11 new products,
ranging from high-quality handheld vocal mics to compact, desktop,
shotgun, and boundary models.
development of a range of capsules from HN101
Company Profile
MicW is the professional recording microphone 7-37mm in diameter. The tension of the A one inch diaphragm with selectable 80Hz
brand manufactured by BWSA Technology capsule diaphragm and the backplate gap are low frequency cut-off and -10 dB attenuation.
Ltd. The company, founded in Beijing in 1998, carefully adjusted to produce the right acoustic It provides precision recording with no colour
first became known for its precision industrial performance during manufacture. added.
test and measurement microphones and The choice of material used to construct a
equipment, before creating a complete range of microphone’s capsule diaphragm is a decisive
microphones for recording and live applications. element in the quality of the overall microphone
The company’s extensive experience of design. A single type of material may not meet
measurement microphone manufacture assisted all the requirements made of MicW’s different
its entrance into the professional recording microphone designs, so MicW uses titanium,
microphone market: for example, MicW’s nickel, stainless steel, and synthetic polymers
quarter-inch and half-inch omnidirectional to make its diaphragms. It is essential that the
capsules are direct descendants of BWSA’s diaphragm, which has a thickness of just a few
precision designs for test and measurement micrometres, is completely airtight.
microphones, and MicW makes use of BWSA’s
design team and wholly owned manufacturing N-Series – Precision Recording Microphones
facilities. The N-series precision recording microphones
are based on the nickel diaphragm technology in
The Capsules all metal structures. The microphones transport
High-quality microphones require high-quality spectacularly pure and uncoloured sound. The HN101.
capsules. MicW has invested heavily in the The new models in the N series family include:
CN201
The compact version of the N201.
The omnidirectional CN201 is perfect for drum,
guitar, and bass miking, percussion and speech
or vocals.
The CN201.
18 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

19. microphones 2010
W+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+ + + + MICW+
E-Series – Performance
The MicW E-series microphones are developed
for general recording purpose with high ratio of
performance vs. cost. The E-series microphones
have the similar mechanical structures as
N-series microphones but different material.
The diaphragms of the E-Series are made from
polymer and coated with gold or nickel. Their
innovative design means E-series microphones
have similar accuracy and performance
as N-series microphones. The E-series
microphones are a good choice for customers
looking for high value microphones with high
performance. The new models in the E series
family include the E436 and BE426.
E436
A professional miniature clip-on mic with an
omnidirectional pattern. It is the ideal choice
for miking up musical instruments, and spot
miking in live recording.
G-Series – Golden Diaphragm Microphone
The MicW G-Series Golden Diaphragm
Microphone is an omnidirectional microphone
that uses a 26mm diameter large diaphragm
capsule. It uses a gold-plated polymer
diaphragm, whose tension is carefully adjusted
during the manufacturing process to ensure the International Distributors
frequency response from 10Hz to 20kHz with USA: FDW
a 4-6dB soft boost around 8kHz. The HG106 is
w www.fdw-w.com
The E436. the new model of the G series.
UK: eMerging
Microphone Pair
BE426 w www.merginguk.com
MicW also provides microphone pairs that
A boundary layer microphone. It is ideal for use
are state-of-the-art stereo kits featuring two
in the boardroom, or in conference facilities France: Areitec
matched microphones. Each pair is guaranteed
and courtrooms where excellent vocal pickup is
to a sensitivity match within 0.5dB, and phase w www.areitec.fr
required. The BE426 has very high sensitivity.
match within 5º up to 5000Hz.
Norway: Procom
w www.procom.no
Japan: ONZU
w www.onzu.co.jp
MicW Audio
Unit 1003, North Ring Center
No.18 Yumin Road, Xicheng District
The BE426.
Beijing 100029, China
t +86 10 5128 5118
f +86 10 8225 1626
e sales@mic-w.com
w www.mic-w.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 19

20. + + PRISM SOUND+ + + + PRISM SOUND+ + + + PRISM SOUND+ + + + PR
Maselec MMA-4XR
Microphone Preamplifier
Prism Sound has been supplying successful studio products for over twenty years and is renowned
for designing specialised performance products built for the most discerning in the industry, where
sophisticated and innovative technologies set them apart from the masses.
This was the philosophy when Leif by newer components and creative feedback
Mases set about designing his microphone about the original design and applications,
preamplifier. Leif’s rich audio history behind such as the popularity of ribbon microphones.
the console, including work with Black This meant a complete input stage redesign,
Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Jeff Beck, gave including a ten discrete transistor input,
him the practical frontline experience needed increased input impedance, and new amplifier
to identify what he required when he decided design so that the 60dB gain range of the MMA-
Famous for producing uncompromised audio to design the original MMA-4 mic preamp 4 was altered in the XR model to start at 9dB
hardware, Prism Sound and Maselec are no nearly ten years ago. It was a huge success (instead of 0dB) and increase in 3dB increments
strangers to the most demanding and revered and was favoured by engineers needing a to 69dB (instead of 60dB).
recording, mixing and mastering studios, and combination of great dynamic range and low All of this resulted in an improved sounding
engineers around the world. The key feature and noise performance, as well as a preamp that and performing microphone preamplifier staying
main attraction to all of their equipment is the would capture the sound of the microphone – a faithful to the design philosophy of the original
transparent signal path. preamp that remained transparent and colour- Maselec MMA-4 pre.
Throughout their product range Prism less at all gain values, something that was not
Sound’s converters and Maselec analogue always available due to poorer transistor designs MMA-4XR Case Studies
processors are designed to capture, process, in some of the other available tube-less mic pres. Youki Yamamoto and Matt Howe
and reproduce analogue and digital audio The MMA-4XR design was a continuation Composer and Arranger Youki Yamamoto has
with clinical accuracy and faithfulness to the from the MMA-4’s success and also allowed resided in the UK for the last 22 years partnering
original signal. The MMA-4XR microphone room for some improvements due to the with Grammy award-winning Engineer Matt
preamp is no exception; the MMA-4XR is a four- availability and better performance provided Howe. Based primarily at their studio in
channel minimalist microphone preamplifier
that has been designed to provide integrity
and transparency.
Consistent with this, each channel has
controls for gain (69dB in 3dB steps), phase
invert, cut (mute), and 48V phantom power.
The phantom power circuit provides a higher-
than usual level of current output – often a
problem with inferior designs that can result
in compromised microphone performance.
Its output headroom extends to +28dBu,
whilst the frequency response extends to
more than 200kHz – well beyond the basic
20kHz audio band.
The Theory
When a microphone is chosen for a job, it seems
logical to do it justice by providing adequate
gain via the preamp without colouring the Youki Yamamoto and Matt Howe in their studio at Pinewood with their MMA-4XR mic pres
sound. and Prism Sound ADA-8XR converter.
20 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

21. microphones 2010
RISM SOUND+ + + + PRISM SOUND+ + + + PRISM SOUND+ + + + PRISM
Pinewood Studios, both through this mic pre (ribbons are one of the
Youki and Matt have worked hardest tests for a mic pre). I am also a fan of
on several international film detented pots, great for repeatable settings.”
and TV scores at various
locations around the world. Mike Hedges
“We took MMA-4XR Already a renowned and successful Producer
mic pres with us everywhere Mike Hedges has been praised for his recent
last year – Teldex Studios in work on the hugely successful classical album
Berlin, National Radio Hall The Priests, a project that took Mike and his
in Sofia, Abbey Road Studios team from Northern Ireland to Vatican City to
in London, and Sony Music produce the fastest selling UK debut album for
Studios in Tokyo. a classical act.
In the orchestra sessions “Very rarely have I come across a piece of
we used two MMA-4XR pres equipment that is truly indispensable and I
on all of what we considered am so happy to have found these. Prism Sound
the important mics. This and Maselec have certainly delivered on their
included the conductor’s Steve Levine: Producer, and Maselec MMA-4XR and Prism Sound Orpheus user. promises with the MMA-4XR; it is only when
tree microphones, certain PHOTOGRAPH: ROSIE LEVINE recording through mic amps of this quality that
section microphones, and you can really appreciate the massive benefits
solo spots. During the renowned pop and punk acts over the past and true beauty of audio transparency.”
mixdown, we used fewer microphones than three decades, as well as composing a number
we really recorded because the MMA-4XR of film scores. Still a very-much active producer
revealed the best characteristics of our principle and contributor to the audio and music
industry, Levine can be credited with helping to Prism Sound and Maselec products can be
microphones we had taken. These included
define modern digital audio production. found in many studios around the world,
some vintage valve microphones and other
“Over the many years I’ve been a record often complementing one another within
modern day condenser mics.
Matt has used the MMA-4XR for other music producer I have used some of the world’s a single system. This natural marriage is
sessions, including Latin Percussion on a recent greatest studios and have regularly used Prism the inherent result of a passion from both
Jazz album. The controls are very simple to use AD/DAs, but it’s only recently that I discovered companies to produce the highest quality
and easy to read.” the MMA-4XR mic pre, and what a revelation! audio devices without compromise. This
I have built up a nice collection of mics synergy became official in the late 90s
over the years – every single one sounded
Steve Levine when Prism Sound and Maselec teamed
better through this mic pre, especially the more
Multi-award winning Producer and Composer up to produce a range of analogue
esoteric ones. I have just got the new Audio
Steve Levine has worked with many of the processors, MEA-2 equalizer, MLA-2
Technica ribbons and they sound so amazing
compressor/limiter, and MMA-4XR mic
pre, to complement the already-popular
Prism Sound converters.
Prism Media Products Ltd.
The Old School, High Street
Stretham, Cambridgeshire
CB6 3LD, England
w www.prismsound.com
t +44 (0) 1353 648 888
f +44 (0) 1353 648 867
Mike Hedges with the Three Priests. e sales@prismsound.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 21

22. + + SENNHEISER+ + + + SENNHEISER+ + + + SENNHEISER+ + + + SENN
Sennheiser – The Audio Specialists
For more than sixty years, the name Sennheiser has been synonymous with state-of-the-art
microphones. Bands, artists, live sound engineers, recording engineers and amateurs,
broadcast professionals and film crews worldwide rely on Sennheiser microphones.
History Sennheiser digital audio formats, the MKH 800. 2002 saw
Lab W Innovations continued under the Sennheiser the glamorous combination of the SKM 5000 N
Sennheiser was founded in the summer of brand name. The company developed condenser with a Neumann capsule. In 2007, Sennheiser
1945 as ‘Laboratorium Wennebostel’ or ‘Labor microphones that operated according to the RF launched its new MKH 8000 Series. 2009 saw
W’ (Lab W) for short, named after the tiny principle, and the first professional condenser the launch of the wireless 2000 Series and of the
village of Wennebostel. Founder Prof. Dr. Fritz clip-on microphone, the MK 12. The world’s first third generation of evolution wireless systems.
Sennheiser, at the time Deputy Head of the open headphones were developed at Sennheiser From 1988, the company had begun
Institute for Radio Frequency Engineering and (1968), and the company led the innovation founding its own sales subsidiaries to further
Electroacoustics at Hanover Technical University, for infrared sound transmission in the seventies. increase proximity to its customers. Today,
turned the relocated university lab into a small The launch of the radio microphone classic the Sennheiser network is comprised of
company and started manufacturing measuring SKM 4031-TV in 1982 laid the foundation for subsidiaries in France, Great Britain, Belgium,
devices. Two years later, he and his engineers the success of Sennheiser wireless systems the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark (Nordic),
unveiled their very first microphone design, the in the following years, and was followed Russia, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, Japan,
MD 2 – and were soon to become experts in by the development of ever-smaller clip-on China, Canada, Mexico, and the USA, as
many fields of audio recording and reproduction. microphones. 1993 saw the launch of another well as long-term trading partners in many
Early product highlights included amplifiers, radio microphone classic, the SKM 5000. In other countries. The Sennheiser Group has
microphone transformers, magnetic miniature 1987, Sennheiser was awarded the Scientific and manufacturing plants in Germany, Ireland,
headphone capsules, and microphones such Engineering Award for the MKH 816 shotgun and the USA.
as the MD 3 ‘invisible’ mic (1949), the MD 82 microphone, and an Emmy Award for pioneering
shotgun microphone (1956), and Sennheiser’s developments in RF wireless technology in
first wireless microphone (1957), which opened 1996. In 1998, the evolution microphone
up a field in which the company was to excel series was launched, followed by evolution
in the future. In 1958, Lab W was renamed wireless in 1999, Sennheiser’s most successful
‘Sennheiser electronic’, as the company had RF wireless series to date. In 2000, Sennheiser
long since ceased being just a small laboratory. introduced the first studio microphone to fully
utilise the wider frequency range of the new
The late company founder
Prof. Dr. Fritz Sennheiser and his
son Prof. Dr. Jörg Sennheiser,
Chairman of the
Supervisory Board.
(PHOTO: PETRA SCHRAMBÖHMER)
22
00 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
SENNHEISER MICROPHONES

23. microphones 2010
NHEISER+ + + + SENNHEISER+ + + + SENNHEISER+ + + + SENNHEISER
The Microphone Portfolio
evolution Microphones specialists, Sennheiser’s million users worldwide, evolution wireless
The evolution series of MKH microphones are is their no.1 choice for stage and live use.
microphones provides a a sophisticated class of Whether wireless instrument transmitters or
complete microphone set- condenser microphones. acclaimed vocal mics – this series contains
up for vocals and the entire They operate according to wireless solutions for almost every application.
backline. It comprises the RF principle and use a Great sound, quality workmanship, and exciting
600 Series instrument unique symmetrical push- extras for up-and-coming bands, established
microphones, 800 Series pull transducer. The result performers, presenters, musicians, reporting
vocal microphones, and of this balanced design is teams, and PA companies.
the top-of-the-range an unchanging acoustic
900 Series of vocal and impedance, extremely low Digital Microphones…
instrument mics, with distortion figures, a higher …are the youngest members in the Sennheiser
such acclaimed models capsule output with much microphone family, and a sound investment in
as the e 935 dynamic lower noise, and thus a very the future of audio. Simply by adding a digital
vocal mic and the e clear signal. These microphones module, the renowned MKH 8000 series can
965 large-diaphragm, are uniquely insensitive to be turned into digital microphones. Perfectly
true condenser vocal unfavourable climatic conditions, matched to the MKH microphone heads, the
evolution wireless is
microphone. Sennheiser’s most successful RF have a wide dynamic range MZD 8000 digital module directly ‘translates’
wireless series. and an excellent low frequency the clear, warm, and responsive sound of the
The MD Range of Dynamic Microphones response even with small capsules. microphones into the digital world, avoiding
Sennheiser’s rugged, easy-to-use dynamic Although their capsule is grounded, they possess the losses or signal disruptions to which cables
microphones include all-time classics as the MD a genuine fully floating, balanced output are prone. The microphones can be remotely
21, MD 421, and MD 441, but also reporters’ without the need to use a transformer. controlled, allowing parameter settings such
microphones like the MD 42 and MD 46. The latest models in this line are the MKH 8020 as the low-cut filter and attenuation to be
(omni), MKH 8040 (cardioid), MKH 8050 (super- adjusted via an AES 42 interface and a PC.
Permanently Polarised Condenser Microphones cardioid), and the MKH 800 Twin, a double-
Everything from professional subminiature capsule microphone whose audio signals are
clip-on microphones for use with Sennheiser’s available separately at the output. This allows
wireless technology to headset microphones the pick-up pattern to be remotely controlled
and small camcorder microphones. Among and modified during post-production.
the classics are the legendary MKE 2 clip-on,
and the K6 Series, where the user can tailor Wireless Microphone Systems
the microphone to the recording situation by Thanks to the outstanding RF properties
adding microphone heads of varying directivity of Sennheiser’s wireless technology, sound
to the basic power module. The portfolio also engineers were able to create systems with
comprises the award-winning HSP 2 and HSP 4 more than 140 microphone channels operating
headset microphones, the MKE 400 camcorder simultaneously. The top-of-the-
microphone, and Sennheiser’s range 3000 and 5000 Series
smallest clip-on, the include such industry standards SENNHEISER
Sennheiser electronic GmbH & Co. KG
MKE 1. The latest as the SKM 5200 handheld and
Am Labor 1
additions are the SK 5212 bodypack transmitters,
30900 Wedemark
single-sided Earset 1 as well as the EM 3732 twin
Germany
and Earset 4 mics for receiver. As the entry line to
stage and broadcast the professional segment, t +49 (0) 5130 6000
use. the 2000 Series offers f +49 (0) 5130 600 300
Sennheiser’s renowned audio e info@sennheiser.com
MKH Microphones and RF quality at a very w www.sennheiser.com
The choice for recording, The MKH 8000 Series can be used in attractive price point.
analogue and digital environments, simply A complete list of Sennheiser subsidiaries and
broadcast, and filming For more than one
by exchanging a mic module. partners around the globe can be found at
www.sennheiser.com.
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 23

24. + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + +
Legendary Performance
Superior sound and solid reliability have made our microphones the industry standard for decades.
Shure microphones deliver consistent vocal and instrument reproduction in any performance or
recording setting, which is why they are legendary.
Superior sound and solid reliability have made available for performances where complete Performance Gear
our microphones the industry standard for mobility is required. Performance Gear Series microphones are
decades. Shure microphones deliver consistent The latest introductions to the KSM range designed to give access to Shure professional
vocal and instrument reproduction in any include the KSM313 and KSM353 ribbon quality for artists and musicians on a more
performance or recording setting. microphones (formerly known as Crowley and modest budget. Models include a complete set
Shure microphones for performance and Tripp’s Naked Eye and El Diablo respectively). of vocal, instrument, and drum microphones.
recording are designed for artists and engineers Ideal for everyday use and practice, they share
at all levels. Whether you’re at the top of the Beta many of the performance and construction
charts or on your way there, choosing from any Shure Beta Series microphones are designed details of other legendary Shure microphones.
of these Shure product lines puts you in good specifically for use in live performance Performance Gear microphones come complete
company. applications. They feature carefully tailored with cables and accessories, so they easily fit into
supercardioid polar patterns with a remarkable the beginner’s budget. New models in this range
KSM absence of off-axis colouration, for use when include the PG27 multi-purpose microphone,
Shure KSM Series high sound levels onstage require maximum and the PG42 vocal microphone (both available
microphones balance isolation without sacrificing sound quality. in USB and XLR versions).
exceptional performance Handheld vocal, miniature instrument-mount, Shure Performance Gear wireless microphone
and flexibility with and low profile head worn models are available, systems deliver the freedom and convenience
a level of reliability as well as dynamic and condenser of wireless, while matching the
and consistency not kick drum models. The latest legendary sound quality of our
typically found in ultra- addition to the range is the large wired microphones.
premium microphones. diaphragm Beta 27 microphone,
Finely tuned condenser which is unique in the industry as X2U
cartridges give voice to the only side-address, supercardioid The X2U is Shure’s new XLR
each of these six elegant condenser designed for professional to USB signal adapter allowing
models, with high sound reinforcement. users to connect their favourite
sensitivity to accurately microphone directly into a
capture the widest SM computer. Features include zero
variety of sound sources. Legendary SM Series microphones latency monitoring and monitor
Their very low self-noise have come to define the sound of mix control, making it ideal for
makes them ideal for use live performance. Recognisable a whole host of applications
with digital mixing and by name and reputation, SM at home, in the studio, or
recording equipment. microphones are virtually on location.
Some models feature indestructible professional gear,
switchable polar patterns built to take the punishment of UHF-R
The KSM313
for increased versatility night-after-night touring. Durable Shure UHF-R Wireless
bi-directional ribbon
and to suit and reliable, SM microphones deliver Microphone Systems deliver
microphone.
the characteristics consistent vocal and instrument uncompromising Shure sound,
of a particular reproduction in any performance and are the premium choice
voice, instrument, setting. The SM58 and SM57 – the for the most demanding
or microphone technique. #1 and #2 bestselling microphones music, theatre, and broadcast
The KSM9 unites the best of studio and worldwide for decades – possess applications. The latest
stage. With its dual diaphragm design and a consistency and familiarity that frequency band (K4E) covers
switchable polar patterns, the KSM9 reveals takes some of the guesswork out X2U Channel 38 in line with the
nuance and subtlety normally heard only in a of setting up an unfamiliar sound latest developments in UK
studio microphone. Yet, its solid build quality system in an unfamiliar venue. spectrum regulation. The entire system can
delivers traditional Shure dependability allowing be networked together via USB or Ethernet
it to be used in the most demanding live connections with Wireless Workbench software
environments. A wireless version is also providing full monitoring and set-up features
24 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

25. microphones 2010
+ + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE+ + + + SHURE
for all parameters. The all-metal handheld and
Shure History
bodypack transmitters have switchable RF
Founded in 1925, Shure has consistently produced
output power and a backlit LCD display.
Shure’s breakthrough Audio Reference innovative products that have become industry
Companding delivers crystal-clear sound benchmarks. Here are just a few of the many
that matches a hard-wired microphone. Shure milestones:
The first directional microphone: The model
ULX 55 Unidyne, introduced in 1939, was the first
Shure ULX wireless systems deliver outstanding directional microphone, meaning that it was able to
performance for working musicians and reject sounds from the sides and rear. The Unidyne
professional sound system installers. ULX is an greatly improved the sound quality of public address
excellent choice for larger performing groups,
systems. The unique styling of the 55 series – also
meeting facilities, and houses of worship. Shure
known as “the Elvis mic” – has been featured in
Predictive Diversity constantly monitors RF
countless videos, movies, and ads.
signal strength and silently switches antennas
when it appears likely that a dropout will occur. The first wireless microphone: The Vagabond
Automatic Frequency Selection makes it easy 88, introduced in 1953, was the first wireless
to find an open frequency, lockable frequency microphone system for performers. The radio signal
and volume adjustments prevent tampering from the microphone was picked up by an antenna
once the system has been set; ½-wave antennas wire along the perimeter of the stage, which
that can be remote-mounted are standard connected to a receiver.
equipment; and the receiver provides in-line The first stereo phonograph cartridge: Introduced in 1958, the M3D
power for antenna amplifiers. brought high-fidelity into the home, at a time when millions of people were
discovering stereophonic sound.
SLX
The first portable P.A. system: The Vocal Master, introduced in 1958, was
Shure SLX Series wireless systems are designed
the first product to combine a mixer, equaliser, and amplifier, in one portable
for working bands and sound system installers.
Useful features like Automatic Frequency unit, greatly simplifying P.A. system setup and operation.
Selection and Infrared Auto Transmitter Setup Shure Incorporated corporate headquarters is located in Niles, Illinois,
make setup quick and easy, and Shure’s in the United States. The Company has additional manufacturing facilities
patented Audio Reference Companding delivers and regional sales offices in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico,
sound that matches a wired microphone. The United Kingdom, and The United States.
PGX
Shure PGX wireless systems offer Automatic
Frequency Selection and Infrared Auto
Transmitter Setup ensure quick and easy setup,
while microprocessor-controlled diversity and United Kingdom Europe, Middle East, and Africa
Audio Reference Companding deliver great Shure Distribution UK Shure Europe GmbH
sound and reliable performance. PGX systems Unit 2,The I.O Centre Wannenacker Str. 28 74078
are available with the most popular Shure Lea Road, Waltham Abbey Heilbronn Germany
handheld, lavalier, headworn, and instrument EN9 1AS, UK t 49-7131-72140
microphones, providing a stage-ready option for t 01992 703058 f 49-7131-721414
almost any application. The popular Beta 87 f 01992 703057 e info@shure.de
is now available on PGX for the first time. e info@shuredistribution.co.uk
All Shure wireless systems are available in Asia
both handheld and bodypack styles, with a USA, Canada, Latin America, Caribbean Shure Asia Limited
wide choice of handheld, lavalier, and headworn Shure Incorporated 301, Citicorp Centre
microphones. Receivers range from simple to 5800 West Touhy Avenue 18, Whitfield Road,
elaborate, and a full selection of accessories Niles, IL 60714-4608 USA Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
and other tools are available to complete t +1(847) 600-2000 t (+852) 2893-4290
any installation. t (U.S. only) +1(800) 25-SHURE f (+852) 2893-4055
f +1(847) 600-1212 e info@shure.com.hk
e (US): info@shure.com
e (Canada/Latin America/Caribbean):
international@shure.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 25

26. + + TELEFUNKEN+ + + + TELEFUNKEN+ + + + TELEFUNKEN+ + + + TEL
A Tradition Of Innovation
Since its first foray into microphones in 1960, TELEFUNKEN has produced its microphones in the
earnest tradition of excellence and innovation.
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik of South Windsor, laurels of historically accurate recreations, TELEFUNKEN EF-732 tube, which is very similar
Connecticut, has been following the tradition the CK-13 capsule was released. This capsule in size and function to the TELEFUNKEN AC-701
of excellence and innovation set by the original features a diaphragm membrane material tube found in historic M-49/50/269c, KM-54/56,
German TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik, GmbH made from Alloy 2213™, a Titanium and SM-2, and M-221b microphones, as well as
which began over 100 years ago. Aluminium alloy that was originally many others that were built by various
While TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik was developed for the aerospace industry. manufacturers during the 50s and
widely regarded as Europe’s finest tube and The material has better rigidity 60s. The properties of this tube
audio equipment manufacturer, its foray into than the gold that is traditionally exemplify the air, clarity, and
microphones began in earnest in 1947, with the employed for microphone sexy depth of tone associated
distribution of the world renowned U-47, and diaphragms, with a lighter mass in with these historic classics.
the release of arguably the world’s most sought order to achieve a greater level of
after microphone, the ELA M 251 in 1960. detail and nuance captured by the 2010 Updates
Production of the original ELA M 251 ceased microphone system. In 2010, it was found that
in 1963, but was reborn in 2000 when owner with a couple of amplifier
Toni Fishman needed to recreate the switch The R-F-T Series modifications, the noise floor
assembly for the 251s in his extensive vintage Simultaneous to the continued could be lowered, and increase the
microphone collection. Having made the moulds development and refinement of CK 13 microphone’s internal current handling
for the revival of these historic microphones, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s Diamond capability for better transient and bass
the next logical step was to faithfully recreate Series has been the development and response. These modifications made it possible
the entire microphone in its original, historically refinement of the affordably priced R-F-T Series. to add the historic BV8 transformer found in
accurate glory. The R-F-T brand name is a nod to the ubiquitous U-47/U-48 microphones of
As the years passed, historic blueprints for TELEFUNKEN’s former East German rival yesteryear for what has become the AK-47 MkII.
capsules, circuits, and systems were obtained. R-F-T; a company that was also producing The BV8 assists the transfer of low frequency
Transformers were recreated; often by their fine microphones during the 50s and 60s, detail that the newly designed amplifier affords,
original manufacturer from 50 years ago. but were more affordably priced than their leading to a higher degree of reality and detail
This meticulous historic research has TELEFUNKEN counterparts. necessary for the recording of music, voice,
led to the creation of TELEFUNKEN The modern R-F-T Series takes and ambient sources.
Elektroakustik’s Diamond Series, only its name from the historic R-F-T Also included in the R-F-T Series is the ELA M
which includes historically Company. The microphones within 260 small diaphragm pencil mic, which provides
accurate reproductions of the this series feature newly developed nearly unparalleled flexibility in its design. Three
U-47, U-48, C-12, and four amplifiers; which take advantage of interchangeable capsules are provided with the
different versions of the modern manufacturing processes while system permitting the user to decide if Cardioid,
ELA M 25x, which all keeping the eye for quality and depth of Omni-directional, or Hyper-Cardioid will best suit
embody precise tone firmly entrenched in the TELEFUNKEN their recordings. The ELA M 260 also features
historic detail. tradition of excellence. the NOS TELEFUNKEN EF-732 tube, and a
In 2009, The R-F-T AR-51 microphone employs proprietary output transformer that permits the
not satisfied the same output transformer as the historic detail of the audio to be translated for the best
to rest C-12 and ELA M 251 E (made by the possible result and highest quality recording.
on the original manufacturer), and a very similar In order to round out TELEFUNKEN
amplifier design which is built on a printed Elektroakustik’s product offerings, a dynamic
circuit board instead of the very costly microphone called the M80 was developed.
implementation of ‘point to point wiring’ In the TELEFUNKEN tradition of innovation, a
found in the historic Diamond Series, low mass/high output diaphragm system was
and feature six selectable polar pickup developed, along with a proprietary head grille
pattern options. assembly and output transformer. The head
The TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik R-F-T grille assembly helps the M80 achieve a greatly
AK-47 received a bit of an internal face-lift reduced proximity effect, which assists with the
M 80 this year, and the AK-47 MkII was born. mitigation of the ‘mud’ found in the industry
The AK-47 features a New Old Stock (NOS) standard hand-held vocal microphone.
26 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

27. microphones 2010
LEFUNKEN+ + + + TELEFUNKEN+ + + + TELEFUNKEN+ + + + TELEFUN
AK 47 ELA M 251 E U 48 AR 51
Like the industry standard, the M80 has However, Green Day plays stadiums and arenas
found its way onto countless tours. The M80 where a wireless vocal microphone is pretty
has many more applications than just vocal much mandatory.
duties: it is being used by countless artists and The engineering staff at TELEFUNKEN was
recordists for snare, guitars, percussion, and a able to modify the band’s current wireless
myriad of other applications. It has found a microphone systems to work with the M80
home on the road with users as varied as Phish capsule and output transformer. The band
and Cee-Lo; The Dixie Chix, and Green Day, and crew liked the system so much that over
not to mention applications in recording 40 microphones have been modified to date.
studios the world over. Other artists have liked the clarity of the vocals
on the Green Day tour so much that they too
TELEFUNKEN On Tour have requested their wireless microphone
In 2009 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik was systems also be modified, so this modification
presented with a very interesting situation. is now a standard product, which is available
The production crew for Green Day’s current ‘factory direct’.
world tour; in support of their multi-platinum TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik
album 21st Century Breakdown (which 300 Pleasant Valley Rd. Unit E,
employed many TELEFUNKEN microphones South Windsor, CT 06074, USA
in recording) liked the M80 so much during
rehearsals they wanted to use it on the tour. w www.t-funk.com
e contact@t-funk.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 27

28. + + VIOLET DESIGN+ + + + VIOLET DESIGN+ + + + VIOLET DESIGN+ + + +
Violet Design –
Microphones Made in Latvia
A Unique Look, Superior Sound Quality, and Innovative Solutions
Violet Design’s main philosophy is to offer Products
handcrafted microphones with a unique look The Flamingo ME
and a superior sound quality, using innovative The Flamingo ME is the top-
solutions in manufacturing techniques without of-the-line vacuum-tube studio
losing details of that vintage microphone microphone designed for high-
sound. We believe that in the process of music end quality audio recording. The
recording, the most important things are passion irregular shape of diaphragm
and inspiration, and nothing should get in the and sputtering technology of
way of these two. So with our ideology we trust the membrane coating result in
in three simple points: excellent performance, a resonance and harmonic free,
easy to use, and good design. warm, and very natural sounding
The applications for Violet Design transducer that provides 130dB and
microphones are wide and diverse – you can higher SPL. The larger diaphragm
use them in a recording studio or sound surface provides higher
reinforcement, in broadcast or a TV output and low
studio, in the film or video industry, frequency
in a project studio or home response
recording. beginning at
16Hz.
The Benefits of Violet Design The
Microphones Are: Flamingo ME
• High SPL level has unidirectional
• Very low self-noise cardioid polar
• Low distortions patterns, and
• Wide dynamic range introduces a Global Pre
• High output level new physical design to the + VIN Mk.2 Heads
• Solid state or tube Class A industry. The combination The Global Pre preamplifier body is designed
discrete preamplifier of a massive body, an internal for use with our VIN-series changeable capsule
• An attractive design capsule shockmount, the heads. It is also compatible with Neumann’s
• Hand craftsmanship with a 5-year integrated head shockmount, vintage M7, M8, and M9 series. The Global
warranty and the included compact Pre is an alternative to expensive and noisy
external shockmount vintage vacuum tube preamplifier bodies and
Users work together to reduce is affordable enough for small or home studios,
Our microphones are rumble and outside but produces a sonic performance way above its
successfully used by dozens of infrasonic interference as price point.
famous producers, recording well as mechanical shocks. Phantom powered, linear, class-A discrete
engineers, and musicians, The internal vacuum solid state transformerless preamplifier
starting from Bruce Sugar (Ringo tube pre-amplifier is electronics provide extremely ultra-low self noise,
Starr, Elton John, Paul McCartney, based on class-A fully and hard to measure all kind of distortion.
Ozzy Osbourne), David Kahne discrete electronics, The Mk.2 heads, whilst still featuring the
(Paul McCartney, Sublime, built using the best quality original capsules, have been redesigned to be
Fishbone, The Bangles), Joe components and carefully more compact with a sleeker look.
Barresi (Tool, Kyuss, Melvins, selected and tested 6267 Simply changing the VIN head to achieve
The Jesus Lizard), John Paterno vacuum tube. the desired sound is an excellent design concept
(Bonnie Raitt, Joan Osborne, that allows users to add to their microphone
Los Lobos) to B2 – a famous collection without the hassle of purchasing
Russian band. separate models.
28 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

29. microphones 2010
+ VIOLET DESIGN+ + + + VIOLET DESIGN+ + + + VIOLET DESIGN+ + + +
The Flamingo Junior The Finger
The Flamingo Junior Series The Finger uses a single medium diaphragm
of studio microphones transducer to provide detailed sound with
are side-addressed smooth transparent highs, optimal presence,
unidirectional microphones and natural low-end response with a
designed for professional unidirectional polar pattern. The Finger has a
audio recording where unique body design with an integrated tapered
sound quality and reflector which reduces resonances, removes
musical character is of reflections, and optimises the microphone’s
the utmost importance. cardioid polar pattern. Integrated damping of
The Junior uses a single- the transducer reduces stand rumble, outside
diaphragm cardioid infrasonic interference, and mechanical
electrostatic transducer, shocks. The Finger microphones are designed
providing vintage tone for very wide applications, including ambient,
with transparent highs, musical instrument, and vocal needs. Musical
optimized vocal presence, instruments include drums, piano, guitars,
and fundamental low- percussion, bowed strings, and many other
frequency register with instruments. Vocals include choir and distanced
minimal proximity effect. lead vocal applications.
The Junior
microphone is
designed for
the recording
studio all-round
needs, capable
of capturing vocals,
piano, guitars, drums,
The Black Knight
percussion, strings,
The Black Knight uses a large dual-diaphragm,
wind, and other musical
side-terminated, condenser capsule. It
instruments and sound sources.
possesses a detailed and natural musical sound
with transparent highs and a smooth midrange,
The Amethyst Vintage
with a subtle vocal presence bump at
The Amethyst Series of studio
3kHz, flat low-frequency response, and
microphones utilise capsules with
a unidirectional cardioid polar pattern.
6-micron gold sputtered Mylar
The acoustically open transducer
diaphragms tensioned and
head minimises internal resonances
adjusted on precisely made brass
and reflections so that even the most
backplates. They possess very
minute sound details are authentically
fast impulse transient response
captured. An integrated swivel-mount
without sound colouration or
allows for fast and handy positioning
low frequency reduction, as
of the transducer head. The internal
well as the ability to handle
phantom powered preamplifier’s Class
louder sound pressure
A fully discrete transformerless circuit
levels. The Amethyst
provides very high output, flat audio-
Vintage has a grey/
response, and ultra-low distortion
blue body and uses a
and noise. Gold-plated contacts
dual large-diaphragm,
on the output connector provide a
centre terminated dual
noise-free connection. The Black
back plate capsule that
Knight is a very accomplished and
provides a classical,
well-balanced design, offering real
wide-spectrum, vintage Violet Design LTD.
value for money, and would make
microphone sound. It has P.O.Box 3393, Tallinn,
an excellent first mic for anyone
a unidirectional cardioid 10506, Estonia
setting up a home studio on a
polar pattern with minimal t (+372) 6455007
reasonable budget, easily
proximity effect and a wide frontal f (+372) 6466054
delivering quality results from any source.
incidence angle. e media@violet-design.com
w www.violet-design.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 29

30. Microphone Manufacturers Directory
ADK MICROPHONES AKG AUDIO LTD AVLEX BERLINER AUDIO
ADK Microphones was 2007 marked the Based in High Wycombe, In Kansas City, USA, Avlex is USA-based Berliner
established in 1997 by 60th anniversary Audio Ltd produces about rugged cost effective Audio introduced its first
recording engineer and for AKG. Founded a number of wireless solutions solutions principally for microphone, the CM33 hand-
vintage microphone collector, in Vienna in 1947 for theatrical and broadcast presentation and theatre matched stereo pair in 2007
Larry Villella, to replicate the AKG has grown a applications. The Envoy range applications. Other audio and has since followed this
sonic attributes of vintage great deal from is designed for ENG news applications are covered with four further models. The
European microphones five workers hand crews who are looking for high with microphone ranges with range fit a variety of recording
through spectrum analysis building microphones, to quality and reliability. The different brand names. Mipro applications.
and computer modelling of become one of the principal RMS2040 range of wireless microphones are a line of www.berlineraudio.com
the response curves of his microphone manufacturers products received a recent wireless systems for location
favourite microphones. with a product range that edition with the miniTX and broadcast use, and
BEYERDYNAMIC
A wide range of FET, spans all areas of professional wireless transmitter. Superlux microphones are for
beyerdynamic has
transformerless and tube audio, many becoming www.audioltd.com more studio specific uses.
evolved into one of
microphones make up the established classics. AKG www.avlex.com
the better known
ADK range, which has just microphones include the AUDIO TECHNICA
manufacturers since
added the Vienna MKII and Blue Line range of modular Audio AZDEN CORPORATION
its beginnings back in
Hamburg MKII. mics; lavalier; instrument; live, Technica East coast USA Azden
1924. Developments
www.adkmicrophones.com began back Corporation has some 40
recording… the list is endless. in a number of audio
www.akg.com in 1962 years of experience utilising
areas continue, and
AEA MICROPHONES in Tokyo’s CAD and SMT technology to
beyerdynamic condenser,
Audio Engineering Associates’ AMBIENT RECORDING Shinjuku- create a number of standard
ribbon and general dynamic
(AEA) Wes Dooley drew upon Ambient Recording was Ko district and wireless transduction
microphones, still form the
his 40 years of experience founded in 1989, and was manufacturing state of the art solutions. Originally an OEM
backbone of many studios’
and passion for ribbon originally a company dealing stereo phono cartridges. Now manufacturer for many of the
mic collections.
microphones when he with sound equipment rentals a global group, Audio Technica world’s best known brands,
www.beyerdynamic.com
reintroduced the AEA R44 and transfers. is involved in the manufacture the last 15 years has seen
(based on the RCA 44) back It now manufactures a of audio equipment across the Azden raise its own brand
BLUE MICROPHONES
in 1998. Since then AEA has number of products for whole spectrum of identity, providing low cost
Headquartered in Westlake
introduced mic preamps location recording based on the industry. microphone systems for event
Village in California,
specifically for ribbon use the founders’ considerable Its range of microphones and wedding videography use.
and with engineering
alongside other ribbon experience. illustrates this diversity with www.azdencorp.com
and manufacturing
microphones, including the Ambient has a couple of cost effective solutions for
facilities in Latvia,
well-regarded R84. microphones, the Tinymike, a semi-pro use through to high BEHRINGER
Blue Microphones has
www.wesdooley.com mini camera mounted shotgun end models for applications Uli Behringer founded the
come a long
microphone and in live, broadcast, studio, company that takes his name
way since 1995 when
AEVOX AUDIO the Emesser bi-directional mini commercial and industrial. back in 1989 in Germany.
founders Skipper
Handmade in Belgium, Aevox microphone. www.audio-technica.com Since then Behringer has
Wise and Martin
Audio produces a range of www.ambientaudio.com grown to have offices in 10
Saulespurens put together a
micro/lavalier microphones AUDIX countries distributing a wide
few hand built microphones
and accessories for use with AMG ELECTRONICS Starting life back in 1984 in range of audio products.
for fellow musician friends.
portable recorders, video Sitting on the Surrey/ Redwood California, Audix Behringer has a range of
Blue has some of the most
cameras, wireless packs and Hampshire borders, AMG moved to Oregon in 1991 general purpose dynamic
distinctive looking mics for
computers. The range includes Electronics produces a number where it established a state and condenser microphones
recording purposes, and
the IE (In Ear) stereo MKII of different configurations of of the art manufacturing including the B-2 Pro and
through their Vintage Mic
microphones for discreet or its C-ducer (Capacitive-Trans- facility, where the quality stereo pair C-2.
Store has further examples as
binaural recording, power Ducer) microphone. of its microphones could be www.behringer.com
well as vintage mic restoration
adapter, wind shield, and the Available in various lengths, controlled from start
services.
Omni Classic M MKII which 1mm thick, flexible and light to finish. BEIJING 797 AUDIO www.bluemic.com
boasts extended frequency weight, the C-ducer can Audix focuses on simple, Founded in 1952, Beijing 797
response and reduced be formed to all shapes of elegant designs with Audio is now a very large
BOCK AUDIO DESIGNS
handling noise. instrument surface. microphones covering concern with development,
From 1996 to 2006, former
www.aevox.be www.c-ducer.com applications in corporate, manufacturing and testing
studio tech (Hit Factory,
live, broadcast, and studio. facilities. It has the largest
Oceanway) David Bock ran
AMT Amongst them is the anechoic chamber in Asia
Soundelux Microphones.
Applied Microphone respected D-series of drum and its microphone range
Concerned with producing
Technology has been microphones. encompasses condensers,
high-end microphones for
manufacturing microphones www.audixusa.com dynamics and a wide variety
recording applications,
for seventeen years, and of wireless and electret
David continues to develop
takes the approach of microphones for broadcast
his designs through southern
producing microphones for and presentation use.
California-based Bock Audio.
specific instruments without www.797audio.com
www.bockaudiodesigns.com
compromise.
www.appliedmic.com
30 MICROPHONE MANUFACTURERS DIRECTORY

31. microphones 2010
BRAUNER MICROPHONES COLES ELECTROACOUSTICS ELATION HEBDEN SOUND JJLABS
Dirk Brauner was developing Coles in Hertfordshire Many decades of research Since 2003, Sheffield-based Started in Stockolm by Johan
ideas with tube microphone continues to manufacture and development have led Hebden Sound Ltd has and Jerker Antoni in 2000,
circuits back in 1993 looking the BBC-designed ribbon Russian company Elation supplied the HS3000 series JJLabs has a comprehensive
to create the world’s best microphones that include the to manufacture its own of interchangeable capsule range of tube, ribbon, and
tube microphone. Initially ever-popular 4038. microphones. Limited to microphones, which are still conventional condenser
creating a limited number www.coleselectroacoustics.com a single large and single only available directly from and dynamic microphones.
of handcrafted microphones small diaphragm condenser Hebden Sound. It also has the unique Ehrlund
based on his VM1 design, COUNTRYMAN ASSOCIATES microphone, and bass www.hebdensound.com triangle membrane condenser
demand led to the start With more than 30 years drum mic. microphone designed to
of Brauner Microphones of experience, Countryman www.elation-mics.com HEIL SOUND deliver the desirable traits
in 1995 which now boasts Associates manufactures The origins of Heil Sound from both small and large
an impressive collection of microphones for a variety of ELECTROVOICE date back to the 1950s diaphragm condensers.
microphones still headed up live applications including Electrovoice has been when organist Bob Heil, www.jjlabs.se
by the VM1. theatre, presentation and developing pro audio began to mentally dissect
www.brauner-microphones.com live music. The range consists products principally in the the sounds around him. Heil JOEMEEK
of a number of mini and area of sound reinforcement began to experiment with Referencing many of the
CAD MICROPHONES micro microphones for these for over 80 years. Its design and manufacture of experiments made by Joe
CAD Microphones situations. microphone range illustrates organs. He then transferred his Meek in the early to mid
manufactures a variety of www.countryman.com this orientation in both experience to other musical 1960s, Joemeek continues to
visually distinct condenser, its standard and wireless forms with great success. The provide cost effective solutions
tube, ribbon, and instrument- DPA MICROPHONES microphone products. 90s saw Heil move into the for project and pro audio, with
specific microphones. www.electrovoice.com microphone market with the a range of general purpose
www.cadmics.com HC series, and now Heil has a small and large diaphragm
FOSTEX range that leans towards live condenser and dynamic
Founded by the Foster applications. microphones.
CASCADE MICROPHONES
Electronic Company in www.heilsound.com www.joemeek.com
US-based Cascade
microphones produces a Tokyo back in 1973, initially
wide variety of types, but is In 1992, Danish company to deliver high quality HOLOPHONE JOSEPHSON ENGINEERING
probably best know for it’s Bruel and Kjaier took the speaker components to Musician and sound Since 1998 Josephson
range of ribbon microphones decision to spin off its pro customers for Foster, which designer Michael Godfrey Engineering, as well as
and the retro styling of many audio division and outsource was well established in the founded Holophone in producing and supplying
of its designs, including the sales and service of its 4000 development of transducer Toronto, Canada, in 1994 capsules to other microphone
Fat Head II. series microphones to the technologies. Fostex has come looking to deliver the most manufacturers, has produced
www.cascademicrophones.com former employees that to establish itself in location realistic listening experience its own range of microphones
designed them. It formed recording and broadcast audio from recorded audio. for studio, location, live
Danish Pro Audio and since applications, with a number of Holophone has a number of and instrument specific
CHAMELEON LABS
1994 has introduced new mics for these areas. microphone products that applications.
Chameleon is a relatively new
products into its line. These www.fostex.com can accommodate surround www.josephson.com
company with the strap line
include mini, compact, large applications.
“Value Conscious Audio.” It
diaphragm and reference GROOVE TUBES www.holophone.com JZ MICROPHONES
makes a selection of audio
test microphones, and also Formed in California in the Over the past decade, Latvian
products, including the
the only phantom powered late 1970s by Aspen Pittman, HORCH AUDIO manufacturing company
TS-1 Tube Pencil condenser
underwater microphone, the who gathered together some German company Horch Scruples ventured into
microphone, and the TS-2
P48 Hydrophone. technicians to explore why it Audio manufactures three the pro audio market with
large diaphragm tube
www.dpamicrophones.com was that tubes performed and retro styled tube microphones, products including mics under
condenser microphone.
www.chameleonlabs.com sounded so different. From a the RM3, RM4 and RM2J for the Violet brand. Scruples
EARTHWORKS AUDIO garage workshop to a global high-end recording work. created a spin off company,
Formed in New Hampshire company, Groove Tubes now www.horchaudio.de JZ Microphones, that has
CHARTEROAK ACOUSTICS
by David Blackmer, the produces a range of tube, FET now been established to
Founded by producer/engineer
inventor and founder of dbx, and ribbon microphones that concentrate on microphone
Michael Deming in Connecticut ISK MICROPHONES
Earthworks Audio looks to still includes the MD1. development.
in 2002, CharterOak is all ISK is a Surrey-based mic
develop the next generation www.groovetubes.com www.jzmic.com
about creating the classic manufacturer, and produces
of audio products, including
microphones of tomorrow. top-quality microphones for
microphones with its High
All tube and solid state HHB COMMUNICATIONS broadcast and home stuios.
Definition Microphone
microphones are assembled HHB entered the mic www.iskmic.com
range. Both general use
and inspected by hand, market with an innovative
and instrument specific
with each being studio tested range of recording mics aimed
microphones are designed
before shipping to at audio journalists and field
to pick up sound with
the customer. recordists. In collaboration
much higher fidelity than
www.charteroakacoustics.com with Sennheiser, HHB now
conventional designs.
has a range of devices with
www.earthworksaudio.com
various options, including the
increasingly popular FlashMic.
www.hhb.co.uk
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 31

32. KATAMOUNT ENTERPRISES MBHO MILAB MICROPHONES Sennheiser group in 1991, PRISM SOUND
Katamount Enterprises was Established in Obrighelm The Milab story begins in and this branch of Neumann
established in Canada in 1999 in 1962 by Herbert Haun, 1941 with Rune Rosander is focused on continuing its
as a distribution company MBHO has been producing producing crystals, and then long tradition of high quality Prism Sound has been
for post and broadcast, but high quality microphones subsequently carbon and industry wide microphones. supplying successful high
now manufactures its own ever since. Ninety five percent dynamic mics. In the late www.neumann.com quality analogue and digital
products including its of the MBHO range is still 1960s, the rectangular capsule studio products for 23 years.
KAT66 Lavalier mics. handmade and includes both and double-sided rectangular OKTAVA Originally set up as an R&D
www.katamount.com modular and fixed capsule capsule were developed and For many years, being the consultancy, Prism Sound now
condenser and dynamic are still produced today. largest manufacturer of manufactures its own high-
microphones. The name Milab came into electro-acoustic transducers end recording and mastering
LAUTEN AUDIO
www.mbho.de being in 1970 and now Milab in Russia has given Octava products
Lauten Audio is committed
manufactures a full range of a great background for www.prismsound.com
to producing high-end
MERCENARY AUDIO microphones including the producing their own
microphones with an ‘original
The straight-talking team brand new BDM-01 bass drum microphone range. This is RICSONIX
sound’. Loudenslager worked
at Mercenary Audio are microphone. now a large collection of Based in Australia, Ricsonix
with some of the biggest
all engineers who sell an www.milabmic.com tube, ribbon, electret, and manufactures several pin/
microphone brands in the
world before forming the impressive array of high-end conventional microphones button microphones designed
company whose ethic now is audio equipment. They also MOJAVE AUDIO for all manner of studio to be hidden behind a button
to design mics that present manufacture the KM-69, born David Royer established applications. or badge. The MITS-2 features
an accurate rendition of the out of a need for a KM-84i for Mojave Audio in his garage www.oktava-online.com a built in windshield.
source while adding an artistic hi-hats. The sound of the mic in Fullerton California in www.ricsonix.com
character of its own. Its line- was created over time solely 1985. Known for his ribbon PEARL MICROPHONES
up comprises the Oceanus, by listening and using, microphone designs with Pearl shares the same origins RODE MICROPHONES
Clarion, Torch, and Horizon. and was designed to a Royer Labs, Mojave Audio is as Milab and owes much Rode came into existence
www.lautenaudio.com particular aesthetic end the outlet for David Royer’s to the designs of Rune after Henry and Astrid
rather than a set of numeric tube microphone designs. Rosander. Based in Sweden, Freeman emigrated from
specifications. www.mojaveaudio.com Pearl produces a number of Sweden to Australia in 1967.
LAWSON MICROPHONES
Founded by Gene Lawson www.mercenary.com conventional and tube mics. Their background in audio
in 1979, and now hand MXL MICROPHONES www.pearl.se product development within
crafted in Nashville, Lawson MICROTECH GEFELL MXL Microphones are their own Freeman Group
Microphones’ range of award The origins of Microtech designed and manufactured PEAVEY of companies led to the
winning high end tube and Gefell can be traced to 1928 by US-based manufacturers After graduating college in development and release of
FET microphones, with their when Georg Neumann and Marshall Electronics. The 1965, Hartley Peavey started the first Rode Microphone in
distinctive look, are desired Erich Rickmann formed brand has a variety of his company using the logo he 1990.
the world over. Georg Neumann and Co. In standard microphone types came up with while doodling The Rode range has
www.lawsonmicrophones.com 1943, production moved to aimed at the expanding ‘cost- in his notebook. Peavey’s grown in number and
Gefell, where many years of effective’ market for good products are known the world reputation since then, with
developing and producing quality products. over and have mic units for quality, affordable tube and
MANLEY LABORATORIES
some classic products took www.mxlmics.com use in the studio, speciality, conventional microphones for
Since 1989 Manley
place. The range of Microtech and sound reinforcement broadcast and studio use.
Laboratories has focused on
Gefell microphones is NADY SYSTEMS INC market. www.rodemic.com
the development of a number
of products based on tube extensive. Founded by John Nady in www.peavey.com
designs. Amongst these are www.microtechgefell.de 1976, Nady Systems Inc was, ROXDON
the range of Manley tube and remains, at the forefront PELUSO MICROPHONE LAB London-based RoXdon
microphones, which include MICW of wireless mic design. Nady All Peluso mics are custom produces high-end mics and
the Manley stereo tube was amongst the first to designed, handcrafted, pop filters for recording and
reference microphone. address the issues of noise and individually tested in broadcast studios, which are
www.manleylabs.com reduction in wireless systems Virginia. The range features distributed worldwide through
and, by 1985, eighty percent tube, ribbon, and solid state Wild Distribution.
of the world’s top artists were versions that benefit from www.wilddistribution.com
M-AUDIO
Designed, developed, and using Nady systems.Nady the company’s 26 years of
Formed in 1988, and now part
manufactured by BSWA has branched out and now experience in repairing and ROYER LABS
of Avid, M-Audio is focused
Technology, the MicW brand includes a comprehensive restoring all brands of vintage Formed in 1998 to bring David
on computer based products
delivers professional mics for range of studio condenser, and modern microphones. Royer’s ribbon designs to
and those aimed to provide
recording, broadcasting, and ribbon, instrument specific, Furthermore, all mics are the world, Royer produces a
solutions to mobile musicians.
live music applications. MicW and USB mics. protected by a three year wide and respective range of
The M-Audio microphone
was established in 1998 and www.nady.com warranty for peace of mind. ribbons that include unique
selection includes a number
claims to be the first company www.pelusomicrophonelab.com tube and phantom powered
of general-purpose units
to introduce the electro-static NEUMANN ribbon microphones.
including the lollipop large
transit response technique With roots going back to www.royerlabs.com
diaphragm condenser, Luna.
for microphone evaluation, Berlin in 1928, Neumann has
www.m-audio.com
as well as instigators in the been involved in the design
use of polymer diaphragms and manufacture of a wide
for measuring microphone range of audio products, but
structures. it is with microphones that
www.mic-w.com the name is most associated.
Neumann became part of the
32 MICROPHONE MANUFACTURERS DIRECTORY

33. microphones 2010
SAGE ELECTRONICS SD SYSTEMS SONTRONICS SYMPHOTEC TRINNOV AUDIO
Sage Electronics was founded A group of sax players Designed and developed in German company Symphotec Trinnov Audio specialises
in 2002, and is operated by banded together to create the UK and hand crafted set about designing a in the digital processing of
long-time record producer a mic able to capture their in Shanghai, Sontronics microphone specifically for the acoustic fields. Trinnov has
Phillip Victor Bova, his wife instrument while facilitating produces uncompromising purpose of producing a better, produced the SRP Surround
Janet Kirby and their son stage freedom. In 1981 SD high performance mics at more faithful, reproduction array of microphones, based
Philip Shaw Bova. It produces Systems was born with the affordable prices. The range of orchestral and concert hall on a breakthrough special
a number of pro audio bell-mounted solution that includes distinctive condenser, presentations. This resulted high resolution technology.
products that includes the they developed, the LCM85. tube, and ribbon designs. in the Symphotec Orchestral www.trinnov.com
SE-BB1 Bova Ball Spherically The SD Systems microphone www.sontronics.com Management System.
mounted condenser range now encompasses mini www.symphotec.de VIOLET DESIGN
microphone. and contact mics for a wide Violet has been
SONY
www.sageelectronics.com range of instruments. TELEFUNKEN developing and
Sony has a long history when
www.sdsystems.com Telefunken started manufacturing
it comes to microphones and
SAMSON has produced a few classics in life early in the in Latvia since
Samson began 26 years ago SE ELECTRONICS its time both old and new. The 20th C in wireless 2003, where it
designing and producing The origins of sE Electronics current range reflects Sony’s telegraphy, with produces a range
wireless mic systems. Since are with Mr Siwei Zou, a continued involvement in all the German Army of distinctive
then Samson has diversified classical musician from pro audio arenas. and Imperial Navy and colourful
into a number of areas of Shanghai who developed www.sonybiz.net its first customers. microphones
audio equipment production products in Shanghai before Today, its products – a combination of tube,
that includes a large number entering the European market are sold in 130+ solid-state, large and small
SOUNDFIELD
of conventional, ribbon, and in 2003. The mic product countries worldwide and is diaphragm condensers.
Based in the UK and formed
USB microphones. line includes tube, ribbon, symbolic of the quality of www.violet-design.com
in 1993, Soundfield Limited
www.samsontech.com modular and conventional sound craft.
manufactures and continues
microphones. The company's www.telefunken.com
to develop its unique multi VOICE TECHNOLOGIES
SANKEN MICROPHONES newest addition, the RNR1
capsule tetrahedral design Voice Technologies is focused
Sanken Microphones is based active ribbon microphone, T.H.E
for both enhanced stereo and on mics for use in broadcast,
in Tokyo and has focused on is the fruit of a joint Based in Connecticut, Taylor
multi-channel applications. theatre, film, video, and
producing simple original collaboration with Rupert Hohendahl Engineering
www.soundfield.com conference applications. A
condenser and dynamic Neve. produces beautifully crafted range of miniature lavaliers
microphone designs for studio, www.seelectronics.com microphones designed by
SOUNDKING and headset mics are
broadcast, and live use Andy Hohendahl. The range available.
The Soundking Group Ltd
since 1926. SENNHEISER includes reference condensers, www.voicetechnologies.net
of China specialises in the
www.sanken-mic.com Sennheiser has modular mics, and a binaural
research and development
been delivering sphere.
of a variety of products in WUNDER AUDIO
SCHERTLER top of the line www.theaudio.com
pro audio. In the microphone Wunder Audio has come
Schertler started life pro audio for
category, it has a wide range from refurbishing vintage
in the early 1980s in more than 50 TRAM LAVALIERS
of mic types and kits. equipment to producing
Switzerland with a mission years, providing the backbone TRAM manufacturers the
www.soundking.com products that give a big nod to
to produce mics for faithful of many studios’ microphone famous TR-50 lavalier past classics. Wunder produces
capturing of acoustic string cabinets, whether it be music, omni-directional mic, which
SOUNDMAN handmade transformers for
instruments. Schertler now broadcast, post, live, or comes with a huge range of
Headquartered in Berlin all of its products including a
has a well-established and location. Sennheiser has accessories for many different
and founded in 2001, range of high-end tube mics.
comprehensive range of a microphone range that configurations and mountings.
Soundman have developed www.wunderaudio.com
contact microphones for a is truly diverse covering every www.tram-usa.com
the OKM dummy head
cross section of acoustic string nook and cranny of
microphone. An electret XXL INSIDE
instruments. the industry.
condenser microphone for TRANTEC XXL supplied technical services
www.schertler.com www.sennheiser.co.uk
use in live, voice, and other Based in London and running to some of the top names
environmental recording now for over a decade, in the audio sector before
SCHOEPS SHURE Trantec was formed by Steve
applications. The company venturing into production.
Founded in 1948 by Dr Founded in Chicago in 1925 also produces the OKM II Rock Baker, Dave Binks and Terry XXL’s mic collection includes
Schoeps, the company has selling radio Studio version. Maybe, who developed and studio condenser and
specialised in the design and parts, Shure www.soundman.de subsequently specialised in dynamic, miniature lavalier,
manufacture of high quality produced its wireless mic solutions. Trantec and headset microphones.
condenser microphones first microphone now supply to broadcast and www.xxlinside.com
STUDIO PROJECTS
for over half a century. The in 1932 and theatre clients. The Trantec
In conjunction with partner
Schoeps range is now an has not looked range includes the SD7000
company 797 Audio, US- ZAXCOM
extensive one with condenser back. It now digital wireless.
based Studio Projects looks Known primarily for its
solutions for has a collection www.trantec.co.uk
to provide a quality general Deva location recorders and
all manner of studio, of wired and wireless mics purpose microphone product digital wireless systems,
broadcast, live, and location including the ubiquitous with German type build Zaxcom produces the ZFR800
scenarios, as well as surround SM58. More recently Shure standards at a fraction of handheld digital recording
applications. Inc. has acquired Crowley and the cost. The company has mic for field recording
www.schoeps.de Tripp Ribbon Microphones recently released the CS series and broadcast journalism
from Soundwave Research of studio microphones. applications.
Laboratories. www.studioprojectsusa.com www.zaxcom.com
www.shure.com
THE INTERNATIONAL MICROPHONE BUYER’S GUIDE 33

34. Microphone Basics
The foundation of good microphone practice is technical knowledge. Blažo Guzina provides a
run-down of the basics for anybody just getting to grips with the wibbly bits...
Microphones have different overall physical diaphragm (very thin foil) and a fixed metal microphone sensitivity with respect to the
and electrical characteristics and are classifiable plate (back electrode). direction of soundwaves arriving at its
into three main groups, based on the physical These two electrodes make up a condenser membrane.
principle of converting sound into an electrical (capacitor) charged by an externally applied A chart is usually plotted in the form of
signal: electrodynamic coil, electrodynamic voltage (polarization voltage) or carrying its own a 360° polar diagram, with the on-axis 0°
ribbon, and electrostatic (or condenser) permanent electrical charge, as with an electret direction clearly marked. It is possible to classify
microphones. microphone.
microphones into two main groups, based on
When soundwaves vibrate the diaphragm,
their directional characteristics: non-directional
Dynamic Microphone the capacitance of the condenser changes
and directional microphones.
The electrodynamic moving-coil microphone simultaneously, thus producing an output
In principle, a non-directional microphone is
has a coil of finely wrapped wire precisely voltage that varies with the intensity and
suspended between the poles of a magnet frequency of the sound. a pressure-operated electroacoustic transducer.
and attached to a diaphragm. Soundwaves Condenser microphones usually have a flat Its response to acoustic sound pressure is
drive the diaphragm, which vibrates in a high- frequency response, high sensitivity and good omnidirectional, meaning that the diaphragm
level magnetic field. In the coil, this movement ability to follow sudden, percussive sound events reacts equally to all soundwaves arriving at its
induces a voltage, which corresponds to the immediately. This is described as good transient surface, regardless of their direction.
sound pressure. response. A typical example of a directional
Dynamic microphones are very rugged Condenser microphones require an microphone is a pressure-gradient transducer.
and handle high sound pressures without impedance converter in the form of a This type has a bidirectional (or figure-of-eight)
overloading. They are reliable and virtually never preamplifier to match the very high output polar diagram. This means the microphone
distort the sound signal. They are insensitive impedance to low impedance microphone reacts to differences in pressure between the
to extreme heat, cold, and high air humidity. inputs. This amplifier fits within the body of
two sides of a diaphragm.
Dynamic microphones can usually withstand the microphone in order to prevent hum, noise
Ribbon microphones are the most common
extreme environmental conditions such as pickup and the losses of the signal level due to
type with a bidirectional polar response. A
temperatures from -25°C to +70°C. the length of the circuit from the diaphragm to
metal ribbon diaphragm is equally sensitive to
the amplifier.
Ribbon Microphone
soundwaves arriving from front and rear axes.
The electrodynamic ribbon mic has a thin Phantom Power All other known directional patterns
metal foil in the form of a corrugated ribbon Condenser microphones need a DC supply are obtainable as a result of a combination of
suspended in a magnetic field. Sound pressure voltage. Except for battery operated the aforementioned two main polar pattern
variations displace the diaphragm, in which microphones, the voltage usually comes through types. The number of variations is practically
an electrical current is induced depending on the microphone cable. The positive (+) side of unlimited.
the amplitude and frequency of sound. Due a DC voltage connects to both signal wires of a When the outputs of an omnidirectional
to the short length of the ribbon compared balanced line and the negative (ñ) side to the (pressure) and bidirectional (pressure-gradient)
to the moving coil, its output electrical cable screen. pickup pattern are combined, the best known
impedance is less than 1 Ω. This resistance is An exception is the electret condenser resulting polar responses that are obtainable are
too low to directly connect to the microphone microphone. This type of microphone has the cardioid, supercardioid, and hypercardioid. Their
input of a mixing desk or recorder, so a step- polarizing charge stored permanently within
common name is unidirectional microphones.
up transformer is needed to increase the the diaphragm or on the backplate. No external
A unidirectional microphone is most sensitive
impedance up to the 150Ω to 600Ω range. power is required to charge the diaphragm.
to soundwaves arriving from one direction, in
Due to constructional improvements,
front of the microphone, but softens sounds
modern ribbon mics are suitable for outdoor and Polar Patterns
handheld use. They are prized for their warm, Apart from the basic differences in the physical from the sides or rear.
smooth, yet delicate sound quality. principle of operation, the main factor that The cardioid microphone is sensitive to
influences the choice of a microphone is its sounds from a broad angle in front of the
Condenser Microphone polar pattern. microphone. Generally, it is about 6dB less
The electrostatic (condenser) microphone uses Polar pattern, also known also as polar sensitive at the sides, at 90° and 270°, and 15 to
a transducer element consisting of a vibrating response, is a chart that graphically represents 25dB less sensitive to the rear.
34 MICROPHONE BASICS

35. Up to 12dB
better isolation
against unwanted noise
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