Mercury
Best premium tube microphone for capturing rich, versatile studio sound.
This large-diaphragm tube microphone is engineered for professional studio environments, delivering exceptional detail and warmth across a wide range of sound sources. Its standout feature is the continuously adjustable polar pattern, offering unparalleled flexibility for any recording situation. Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, this microphone provides a premium audio experience, making it a versatile and high-fidelity choice for discerning engineers and artists seeking top-tier condenser performance.
$2299.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1556
/ 3374
#1556 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+232%
Above average
Frequency Range
2020000
/ Hz - , Hz
Who it's for
- Recording engineers seeking adaptable microphone solutions for diverse studio tasks.
- Producers and vocalists desiring a luxurious, full-bodied sound for their recordings.
- Professional studios and audio engineers prioritizing durable, high-performance equipment.
Who should skip it
- Aspiring producers or home studio owners with limited budgets for high-end gear.
- Mobile recording artists or compact studio users needing streamlined, space-saving equipment.
- Users preferring low-maintenance equipment without periodic component checks or replacements.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Warmth
The hand-selected vacuum tube imparts a rich, classic harmonic saturation.
Pattern Versatility
Infinitely adjustable polar patterns offer unmatched control for any studio setup.
Build Integrity
Robust English engineering ensures long-term reliability in demanding professional environments.
Vocal Clarity
Captures intimate vocal details with exceptional presence and smooth high-end response.
Noise Floor
Impressively quiet operation for a tube mic, preserving delicate signal integrity.
Source Adaptability
Handles everything from acoustic guitars to brass with remarkable sonic balance.
Key Specs
Frequency Range
20 Hz - 20,000 Hz
Impedance
<200 ohms
Sensitivity
18 mV / Pa
Max Sound Pressure Level
125 dB
Tube
ECC81 / 12AT7
Capsule Size
1.07-inch
Pad
0 dB, -10 dB
Filter
Linear, 75 Hz
Know before you buy
Unlike standard microphones with fixed settings, the Mercury allows you to dial in any pattern between omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight. This gives you precise control over how much room sound you capture, making it exceptionally versatile for everything from tight vocal takes to capturing the natural ambiance of a room.
The hand-selected ECC81 tube provides the classic warmth and harmonic richness associated with high-end vintage microphones. It adds a subtle, musical saturation that helps digital recordings sound more organic and detailed.
Yes, the Mercury features a switchable -10 dB pad, which allows it to handle sound pressure levels up to 125 dB without distortion. This makes it capable of capturing loud instruments while maintaining the clarity of its 1.07-inch capsule.
The 75 Hz filter is a low-cut or high-pass filter designed to remove unwanted rumble, floor vibrations, or low-end buildup. It is particularly useful when recording vocals or acoustic instruments to keep the mix clean and prevent muddiness.
Yes, because it is a tube microphone, it comes with its own dedicated power supply unit. You must use the included cable to connect the microphone to this power supply before routing the signal to your preamp or interface.
The 1.07-inch capsule is designed to capture a wide frequency range from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz with high sensitivity. This large surface area ensures a detailed, full-bodied sound that excels at capturing the nuances of vocals and complex acoustic instruments.
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