Lauten Audio LA-220 V2
Best studio microphone for aspiring producers on a budget.
This versatile FET condenser microphone delivers two distinct sonic profiles: classic warmth and modern clarity. It features a U.S.-made JFET amplifier for exceptionally low noise and includes independent low-cut and high-cut filters for precise tone shaping. The custom-tuned 32mm capsule provides gentle natural compression, imparting balance and presence. This design simplifies your signal chain, making it ideal for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments with a polished, professional sound without complex external processing.
$359.00
More LA-220 Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1556
/ 3374
#1556 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-48%
Below average
Frequency Response
2020
/ Hz - kHz
Who it's for
- Engineers and musicians needing flexible tone control during recording sessions.
- Producers seeking an uncolored, accurate representation of instruments and vocals.
- Recording professionals and home studio owners desiring reliable, long-lasting equipment.
Who should skip it
- Engineers requiring multi-pattern flexibility for diverse recording scenarios.
- Artists and producers desiring a microphone with a specific vintage or colored sound.
- Budget-conscious users without access to premium preamplification equipment.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Versatility
Dual sound profiles offer impressive flexibility for diverse recording sessions.
Noise Floor
The U.S.-made JFET amplifier keeps unwanted hiss remarkably low.
Tone Shaping
Onboard filters provide essential control without needing external processing.
Build Integrity
Hand-soldered circuitry suggests a level of care rarely seen at this price.
Vocal Presence
The custom capsule imparts a polished, radio-ready sheen to vocal tracks.
Ease of Use
Simple, intuitive controls make achieving a professional sound effortless.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Max SPL
130 dB
Impedance
<200 Ohms
Sensitivity
16 mV/Pa -40 dB (0 dB=1 V/Pa 1 kHz)
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Transducer Type
Condenser
Form Factor
Studio Condenser
Connectivity Type
XLR
Know before you buy
The LA-220 V2 uses onboard high-cut and low-cut filters to shift the microphone's character. You can toggle these to either lean into a warmer, vintage-inspired sound or a brighter, more modern clarity, allowing you to shape the tone before the signal even hits your preamp.
Yes, this is a condenser microphone, so it requires a standard audio interface or preamp that provides 48V phantom power. Because the microphone handles some tone shaping internally, you can often get a professional, finished sound with less reliance on heavy external processing.
It is designed to handle both exceptionally well. The 32mm capsule provides a natural compression that helps smooth out vocal peaks, while the detailed frequency response makes it equally effective for capturing acoustic guitars, percussion, or other stringed instruments.
The U.S.-made JFET amplifier is critical for keeping the noise floor extremely low. This ensures that your recordings remain clean and transparent, which is especially important when capturing quiet sources or when you plan to apply significant compression or EQ during mixing.
The LA-220 V2 includes a shock mount to help isolate the microphone from vibrations and handling noise. You will just need to provide your own XLR cable and a sturdy microphone stand.
Hand-soldering is a hallmark of high-quality audio gear, as it generally ensures more reliable connections and better signal integrity compared to mass-produced, machine-assembled circuit boards. It contributes to the microphone's overall durability and consistent sonic performance.
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