Sontronics SIGMA 2
Best detailed audio capture for discerning studio engineers.
This active ribbon microphone delivers a vintage aesthetic and warm, natural sound reproduction, making it ideal for professional recording applications. Its highly sensitive ribbon element, enhanced by phantom power, provides a strong output while maintaining classic ribbon mic warmth. It excels with vocals, solo instruments, and even guitar amps and percussion. The microphone features a figure-8 polar pattern for capturing sound from the front and rear while rejecting side noise, and boasts low self-noise for detailed recordings. Each unit is meticulously hand-built in the UK for exceptional quality and consistency.
$999.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1556
/ 3374
#1556 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+44%
Above average
Microphone type
Ribbon
/ Ribbon
Who it's for
- Audio engineers seeking organic, characterful sound for studio recordings
- Studio professionals needing reliable performance across diverse recording setups
- Discerning producers valuing quality construction and comprehensive studio tools
Who should skip it
- Novice users unfamiliar with the specific care required for ribbon microphones
- Engineers requiring maximum off-axis rejection for complex multi-mic setups
- Budget-conscious musicians or hobbyists seeking entry-level recording equipment
Performance breakdown
Sonic Character
Delivers that classic, velvety ribbon warmth with modern, detailed clarity.
Output Efficiency
Active circuitry eliminates the need for high-gain preamps, simplifying your signal chain.
Build Integrity
Meticulously hand-built in the UK with a robust, all-metal chassis.
Transient Response
Captures subtle nuances and fast attacks with surprising speed for a ribbon.
Noise Floor
Exceptionally quiet operation ensures clean recordings even in delicate acoustic settings.
Versatility
Excels on vocals and strings, though figure-8 pattern requires careful room placement.
Key Specs
Microphone type
Ribbon
Polar pattern
Figure-of-eight
Frequency response
20Hz to 15kHz
Sensitivity
24mV/Pa
Impedance
≤150 Ohms
Max. SPL
125dB
Equivalent noise level
10dB (A-weighted)
Connector
3-pin XLR
Know before you buy
Yes, the SIGMA 2 is an active ribbon microphone and requires 48V phantom power to operate its internal circuitry. This active design allows for higher sensitivity and lower noise compared to traditional passive ribbon mics.
The Figure-8 pattern captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides. This makes it ideal for stereo recording techniques like Blumlein pairs or for isolating two instruments facing each other.
Unlike the clinical, high-frequency detail of many condensers, the SIGMA 2 offers a smooth, warm, and natural sound. It is particularly effective at taming harsh high-end frequencies on sources like electric guitar cabinets or brass instruments.
Yes, thanks to its active electronics and low self-noise of 10dB, the SIGMA 2 is much better suited for quiet sources than passive ribbon microphones. It provides enough gain to capture delicate performances without introducing excessive hiss.
Absolutely. With a maximum SPL of 125dB, it can handle loud sound sources comfortably. Just ensure you are using a sturdy stand, as the microphone weighs 370g.
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