Sontronics Mercury Tube Microphone
Best professional microphone for versatile studio recording.
This premium valve condenser microphone is meticulously hand-built in the UK, offering exceptional clarity and accuracy for a wide array of audio sources. It excels on vocals, instruments, and even large ensembles, providing precise sound shaping with its infinitely variable polar pattern control. Engineered with high-quality components and remarkably low self-noise, it ensures pristine recordings. The included comprehensive power supply features pad and filter switches for enhanced control, making it an indispensable tool for professionals seeking the highest fidelity.
$2299.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
272
/ 3374
#272 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+232%
Above average
Microphone type
Variable-pattern valve/tube condenser
/ Variable-pattern valve/tube condenser
Who it's for
- Audio engineers and musicians seeking premium, characterful sound for studio recordings.
- Studio professionals needing a single, adaptable microphone for diverse tasks.
- Recording studios and producers prioritizing long-term reliability and craftsmanship.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious musicians and emerging producers with limited studio equipment funds.
- Users desiring plug-and-play simplicity or unfamiliar with tube microphone care.
- Field recorders and producers who frequently travel with recording gear.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Versatility
Infinitely variable polar patterns adapt effortlessly to any recording scenario.
Build Integrity
Hand-built UK craftsmanship ensures long-term reliability for demanding studio environments.
Noise Floor
Remarkably quiet operation captures delicate details without unwanted electronic hiss.
Vocal Fidelity
Tube warmth provides a rich, flattering character perfect for professional vocals.
Control Precision
Dedicated power supply offers essential pad and filter switches for shaping.
Component Quality
Premium European-made valve circuitry delivers authentic, high-fidelity audio reproduction.
Key Specs
Microphone type
Variable-pattern valve/tube condenser
Polar pattern
Fully sweepable from omnidirectional via cardioid to figure-of-eight
Frequency response
20Hz - 20kHz
Pad
0, -10dB
Filter
75Hz
Valve/tube
European-made 12AT7/ECC81
Sensitivity
18mV/Pa -33dB ±1.5dB
Impedance
≤200 Ohms
Know before you buy
The Mercury features a fully sweepable polar pattern control located on its dedicated power supply unit. This allows you to dial in any pattern between omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight, giving you precise control over how much room ambience or off-axis sound is captured.
Yes, it is an excellent choice for quiet sources. With an equivalent noise level of less than 12dB (A-weighted), it is remarkably quiet for a valve microphone, ensuring that your recordings remain clean and free of unwanted hiss.
The Mercury uses a high-quality, European-made 12AT7/ECC81 tube. Because it is a standard tube type, replacements are widely available, though the microphone is built to last with premium components.
Yes, the included SPS-2 power supply acts as a control hub for the microphone. It features a switchable -10dB pad to handle loud sound sources without distortion and a 75Hz low-cut filter to help manage rumble or proximity effect.
No, the microphone requires a specialized 8-pin cable to connect to the power supply, which is included in the box. The power supply then connects to your interface or preamp using a standard 3-pin XLR cable.
The Mercury has a maximum SPL of 125dB, which is quite capable for most studio applications. When recording particularly loud sources, simply engage the -10dB pad on the power supply to prevent clipping and ensure a clean signal.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$2300