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1. AKG c636 Master Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone
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11. Sennheiser MK8 Vocal Recording Microphone / 12. Shure KSM8 Dualdyne Vocal Microphone
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5. DPA d:vote 4099 Instrument Microphone
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8. Lewitt LCT 640TS Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
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9. MXL DX-2 Dual Capsule Variable Dynamic Microphone / 10. Neumann TLM 107 Switchable Studio Microphone
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3. CAD Audio D90 Premium Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Microphone / 4.Countryman A3 Podium Microphone
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6. Electro-Voice ND86 Dynamic Supercardioid Vocal Microphone / 7. Galaxy Audio ESM8 Single Ear Headset Microphone
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2. Audio-Technica ATM350a Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone
It's easy to become narrow minded, thinking that all microphones accomplish the same end result with little variance. It's simply not true. If you set out to build a house, a single hammer and saw will only get you so far. The same premise also applies to our roles as tech directors and sound engineer.
In reality, microphones are one of the most important yet overlooked tools in your arsenal. Finding the right fit—based on tonal preferences, environment, personal taste and application—takes work, but is worth the time investment whenever possible. Thorough research, a discerning ear, and knowing the spectrum of options in the marketplace are important.
CPM takes a look at new wired microphones for 2017, models that cover a wide variety of vocal and instrument applications. Some have been released since the start of the year; others are simply the most recent offering from the manufacturer. While tried-and-true microphones may always be staples of any house of worship's audio system, the products here represent new designs and updated technologies that you should consider for your church's production department.
1. AKG |
c636 Master Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone
Building upon the company's C535 model, AKG's new C636 handheld mic features several technologies specifically tailored for live use. The cardioid condenser capsule sits on a double shock suspension system, removing handling noise across a wide frequency range while a multi-layer protection system underneath the grill reduces plosives and pops. AKG says the C636 lends itself as a high-end solution for engineers and vocalists looking for studio-quality sound in a live environment.
2. Audio-Technica |
ATM350a Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone
With many churches employing extra musicians on a regular rotation—especially around special events and holiday services—covering these additional instruments with the right mic system is key. Audio-Technica's new ATM350a is a cardioid condenser mic able to withstand high SPL for a variety of applications. The low-profile design comes in six mounting variations allowing use on woodwinds, brass, piano, percussion, and drums among others. Additionally, various gooseneck lengths give extra flexibility when needed.
3. CAD Audio D90 |
Premium Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Microphone
Equipped with a CAD Audio's Trueflex diaphragm and PowerGap high-gauss Neodymium magnets, the CADLive D90 Supercardioid dynamic vocal mic is engineered to produce a powerful, smooth and detailed performance in a variety of high SPL live sound situations. The D90 features a durable and road-ready case for maximum protection and long life.
4. Countryman |
A3 Podium Microphone
Best known for their line of low-profile head set mics, Countryman recently introduced a new podium-specific mic'ing solution with their A3 model. Featuring three switchable polar patterns—omni, cardioid and hyper cardioid—the mic can be optimized for varied speakers and environments. The company's Active Plus Vibration Cancellation is designed to greatly reduce podium and handling noise along with wind and plosives from speech. A fully shielded circuit design maintains separation from any RF environment interference. The A3 comes in single polar patterns or the selectable version above.
5. DPA |
d:vote 4099 Instrument Microphone
Instrumentalists of all types will benefit from DPA's d:vote 4099 series of microphones. Offered in a compact design, the supercardioid capsule offers enhanced rejection of other nearby sources. A variety of clips and mounts make this suitable on everything from drums, to strings, brass, and woodwinds. The detachable cable allows the mic to stay attached to the instrument for on and off stage travel. Multiple connectors integrate the mic into a variety of wireless systems from various manufacturers.
6. Electro-Voice |
ND86 Dynamic Supercardioid Vocal Microphone
As a modern redesign of the company's N/Dym series of microphones, the new ND series features a full line of both vocal and instrument specific models. Suitable for male and female vocals, the ND86 features a large-diaphragm, supercardioid capsule with a modern frequency response which gives smooth, high-end response while working to eliminate low-end muddiness typically associated with live vocals.
7. Galaxy Audio |
ESM8 Single Ear Headset Microphone
Featuring a lightweight and discrete design, the ESM8 headset is built for spoken word and assistive-listening applications. The omnidirectional, condenser element is designed to deliver a clear and open sound while the compact size blends in well for public speaking. The headset comes with four cable connections, offered in various configurations allowing it to easily interface with wireless systems from Galaxy, AKG, Shure, Audio-Technica, and Sennheiser. The mic is also offered in a dual-ear headset version, the HSM8.
8. Lewitt |
LCT 640TS Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
An Austrian company, Lewitt may not be a household name for you, but their line of products is impressive. The new LCT 640TS is a large-diaphragm condenser, engineered for both studio and live applications. Featuring two separate outputs, both the front and rear elements can be recorded simultaneously, then remixed using the company's Polarizer plug-in, giving unlimited combinations to change the pattern of your recording after the fact. For live use, the single XLR connection allows for five selectable polar patterns and a unique magnetic pop filter.
9. MXL |
DX-2 Dual Capsule Variable Dynamic Microphone
Featuring a dual-capsule design, MXL's DX-2 is variable dynamic solution for instrumental applications. One capsule is a large, supercardioid element intended to capture the warmth and fullness while the second is a smaller, cardioid capsule for enhanced mid-range and high-end detail. A variable control knob allows for blending tone between the two capsules, tailoring the sound for specific environments and sources.
10. Neumann |
TLM 107 Switchable Studio Microphone
The Neumann name has been synonymous with high-end studio microphones for years, however many of their products are used just as frequently in broadcast and live settings alike. The TLM 107 features a double-diaphragm capsule, tailored for the high overtones of percussion and strings but equally brilliant on vocals. A unique, single rear switch allows for pattern control, pad, and low-cut options to be selected discretely via LED status indicators.
11. Sennheiser |
MK8 Vocal Recording Microphone
While large-diaphragm, condenser microphones may seem more suited to the studio and broadcast world, they certainly have their place on the live stage as well. Sennheiser's MK 8 is an enhanced version of the company's fixed pattern MK 4, plug-and-play model. With multiple coverage patterns, pad and low-end rolloff options, this mid-level mic is suited for percussion, strings, choirs, and other similar applications.
12. Shure |
KSM8 Dualdyne Vocal Microphone
Many associate Shure with the SM58, an all-around vocal mic rarely missing from any mic cabinet. The new KSM8, though, provides a high-end option, similar to their flagship KSM9. With an innovative dual-diaphragm dynamic capsule, the KSM8 is designed to reduce proximity effect typically associated with vocal applications while smoothing out the high end, giving engineers and artists a highly consistent tone. Shure says this mic is also equally suitable for brass, guitar cabinets, and percussion.
