"Clean and powerful," are the adjectives chosen by Audix to characterize the new A231 condenser microphone which also stands-out for its warm character, and low self noise. Bringing together multiple high-end design features, the gold-plated brass band around the circumference of the A231 hints at the revolutionary capsule within: a 33-millimeter, true condenser featuring a precision-tensioned diaphragm with gold deposition all the way to its far edges. This produces an effective diaphragm area approximately 25 percent larger than that of a typical large-diaphragm condenser mic, and results in a sound that is neutral and rich at the same time. An exacting cardioid pickup pattern offers a predictable proximity effect and exceptional off-axis rejection.
The capsule's circuitry and signal path is protected from interference and capacitive coupling by an active driven shield. An internal shock mount virtually eliminates touch noise enabling the A231 to be used across a wide variety of environments, including a live stage – without the need for an unwieldy external shock mount.
The A231 capsule is suspended by a specially designed internal shock mount behind a double-woven steel alloy mesh grille. The elegant, yet compact, precision-machined aluminum body was also designed to be practical – allowing the A231 to be optimally positioned in tight spaces where larger microphones may be too obtrusive.
"When used on vocals, voiceover or spoken word, the A231 offers a rich tone that blends low-end power and high-end detail with a warm but controllable proximity effect and a high end that is crystal-clear, yet free of artifacts like sibilance. The A231 goes beyond the performance of classic vocal mics to create a tonality all its own. A cardioid polar pattern with smooth off-axis response over a wide frequency range makes this sound effortless to obtain, regardless of mic placement," Audix describes.
As is the case with many premium vocal mics, the Audix A231 is also fit to capture acoustic instruments. "With a massive 140dB maximum SPL, the A231 can easily handle a kick drum at close range, yet its low 12dBA equivalent noise level makes it whisper-quiet on more delicate sources like upright bass and strings. With no high-end harshness to mar the sound of cymbals, the A231 shines on drum overheads and spot miking as well. Its small size and lessened need for bulky shock mounts lets the engineer place it anywhere it sounds best," the company adds.
With its impressive 128dB dynamic range, the Audix A231 can also be used for capturing backing vocals, choir miking, and even for the voiceover requirements of podcasting and livestreaming, positioned at close proximity or further distance.
The Audix A231 is available now for an MSRP of $949.00.
www.audixusa.com
