Sontronics Mercury Valve Condenser Microphone
Best professional microphone for high fidelity studio recordings.
This variable-pattern valve condenser microphone delivers spectacular results for any recording. Hand-built in the UK, it uses premium-grade electronic components for an impeccably clean signal and superb reproduction of vocals and instruments. The power supply features pad and filter switches, and a fully sweepable polar pattern control offers infinite pickup choices. Its exceptionally low self-noise makes this microphone a must-have for achieving the very best audio quality.
$2199.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
272
/ 3374
#272 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+217%
Above average
Microphone type
Variable-pattern valve/tube condenser
/ Variable-pattern valve/tube condenser
Who it's for
- Recording engineers seeking a classic, warm vocal and instrument tone.
- Studio professionals needing one microphone for various sources and room acoustics.
- Audio professionals valuing durable, high-performance equipment with a sophisticated aesthetic.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious musicians or project studio owners with limited funds.
- Engineers preferring simple, compact setups without additional external components.
- Users seeking a rugged, low-maintenance microphone for frequent transport or harsh environments.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Versatility
Fully sweepable polar patterns offer infinite creative control for any source.
Build Craftsmanship
Hand-built in the UK with premium components for lasting studio reliability.
Noise Floor
Exceptionally low self-noise ensures pristine, clean captures for delicate recordings.
Valve Character
European-made 12AT7 tube delivers that sought-after, warm vintage harmonic richness.
Ease of Adjustment
External power supply controls make quick filter and pad adjustments effortless.
Handling Weight
Substantial build requires a sturdy stand to support its heavy frame.
Key Specs
Microphone type
Variable-pattern valve/tube condenser
Polar pattern
Fully sweepable from omnidirectional via cardioid to figure-of-eight and everything in between
Frequency response
20Hz to 20kHz
Pad
0, -10dB
Filter Linear
75Hz
Valve/tube Mercury
European-made 12AT7/ECC81
Sensitivity
20mV/Pa
Impedance
=200 Ohms
Know before you buy
Unlike most microphones that offer fixed settings like cardioid or omni, the Mercury features a fully sweepable polar pattern control. This allows you to dial in any position between omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight, giving you precise control over how much room ambience you capture.
No, the Mercury does not use phantom power. It comes with its own dedicated SPS-2 power supply unit that connects to the microphone via an 8-pin cable and plugs directly into a standard wall outlet.
Yes, it can handle high sound pressure levels up to 125dB. Additionally, the included power supply features a -10dB pad switch, which helps prevent distortion when recording particularly loud instruments or vocals.
The Mercury is equipped with a high-quality, European-made 12AT7/ECC81 valve. This specific component is chosen for its ability to deliver a clean, warm signal with the classic harmonic richness associated with tube microphones.
The Mercury is designed for professional studio use and features an exceptionally low equivalent noise level of less than 14dB (A-weighted). This ensures your recordings remain pristine and free from unwanted hiss, even during quiet passages.
The microphone comes as a complete kit, including the SPS-2 power supply, a dedicated shockmount, an 8-pin connection cable, a power lead, and a wooden microphone box. Everything is housed in a sturdy aluminum flight case for safe transport and storage.
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$2199