Single SDC Microphone
Best high quality audio for DIY enthusiasts on a budget.
This small-diaphragm condenser microphone offers two distinct head amp options: a transformerless design for exceptional headroom and dynamic range, or a transformer-coupled version for subtle harmonic coloration. Its single-diaphragm construction ensures superior transient response and minimizes off-axis coloration. Crafted with a durable brass body and hand-assembled circuitry in California, this microphone delivers clarity and performance for a wide range of recording applications, including vocals, instruments, and podcasting.
$449.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
272
/ 3374
#272 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-35%
Below average
Type
Small-diaphragm condenser
/ Small-diaphragm condenser
Who it's for
- Budget-conscious musicians and home studio owners.
- Engineers and artists seeking precise acoustic instrument reproduction.
- Audio enthusiasts and DIY builders who enjoy personalizing their gear.
Who should skip it
- Beginners and those preferring ready-to-use audio equipment.
- Producers and engineers needing stereo imaging for their recordings.
- Professionals requiring guaranteed ruggedness and consistent performance.
Performance breakdown
Transient Response
Captures fast, percussive sounds with exceptional speed and natural detail.
Sonic Versatility
Dual head amp options provide distinct tonal flavors for diverse recording needs.
Off-Axis Consistency
Maintains accurate frequency response even when the source moves slightly.
Build Quality
Rugged brass construction ensures long-term reliability in demanding studio environments.
Ease of Customization
Modular capsule system allows for quick pattern changes without complex setups.
Assembly Precision
Hand-built circuitry reflects meticulous attention to detail and quality control.
Key Specs
Type
Small-diaphragm condenser
Capsule Design
Cardioid (Hypercardioid and Omni available separately)
Head Amp Options
Transformerless (high headroom, wide dynamic range) or Transformer-coupled (even-order harmonic saturation, transient compression)
Body Material
Brass with satin silver finish
Circuitry
Handbuilt in California
Transformer (SDC-84)
Custom-wound in the US
Included Accessories
Shockmount, spare elastics, zipper pouch
Power Requirement
Phantom Power
Know before you buy
The transformerless option provides a clean, transparent sound with high headroom and wide dynamic range, making it ideal for accurate captures. The transformer-coupled version introduces subtle even-order harmonic saturation and gentle transient compression, which adds character and warmth to your recordings.
Yes, the microphone features an adaptable capsule system. While it comes with a cardioid capsule, you can purchase hypercardioid and omnidirectional capsules separately to suit different recording environments and source types.
While small-diaphragm condensers are often associated with instruments, this model is versatile enough for vocals, podcasting, and streaming. Its superior transient response captures vocal detail with high precision, though it will sound more clinical than a large-diaphragm condenser.
Yes, this is a condenser microphone and requires standard 48V phantom power from your audio interface or preamp to function.
The microphone comes with a dedicated shockmount to reduce handling noise, a set of spare elastics for the mount, and a protective zipper pouch for storage.
The single-diaphragm construction is specifically engineered to minimize off-axis coloration. This means that even if the sound source isn't perfectly centered, the tone remains consistent and natural, which is particularly helpful when miking complex acoustic instruments.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$449