Product Description
Audix A231 Large Diaphragm Condenser Vocal Microphone
The A231 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone built for the most discerning studio user. With its externally-biased “true condenser” capsule and low-noise circuitry, the A231 is able to capture the nuances of the human voice as well as the rich overtones of acoustic instruments with natural warmth and in stunning detail. An exceptionally consistent cardioid polar pattern focuses on the performance while offering smooth off-axis rejection. The 33 mm condenser capsule of the A231 features a precision-tensioned diaphragm made from a specially formulated, heat-treated film with gold deposition distributed evenly to the far edges of the diaphragm. The result is a 25% greater effective diaphragm area when compared to the capsule of a typical large diaphragm microphone. Behind the double-woven steel mesh grille of the A231, acoustic reflections and diffractions are minimized for transparent sound capture. The internal shock mount isolates the capsule from mechanical vibrations, eliminating the need for a bulky external shock mount. Proprietary impedance control between the capsule and circuitry ensures consistent and reliable performance across a wide range of environments. Designed, machined, assembled, and tested by Audix in Wilsonville, Oregon.
FEATURES •33 mm externally-biased condenser capsule •25% greater effective diaphragm area •Cardioid polar pattern •Proprietary internal shock mount •Low noise preamp circuitry • Machined aluminum body with gold-plated brass band
APPLICATIONS •Vocals •Choir •Voiceover •Podcasting •Piano •Acoustic instruments
- 33 mm externally-biased condenser capsule
- 25% greater effective diaphragm area
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Proprietary internal shock mount
- Low noise preamp circuitry
- Machined aluminum body with gold-plated brass band
| Transducer / Capsule Technology | 33 mm externally-biased condenser capsule / 29 mm 3.4 micron gold-sputtered diaphragm |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Output Impedance | 150 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 16 mV / Pa @ 1 kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 82 dB |
| Maximum SPL | 140 dB |
| Dynamic Range | 128 dB |
| Equivalent Noise Level | 12 dBA |
| Operating Voltage | 48 V (± 4 V) Phantom |
| Connector | 3-pin XLR m |
| Materials / Finish | Body: Machined aluminum and gold-plated brass band Grille: Steel alloy |
| Weight | 330 g / 11.6 oz |
WHAT'S IN THE BOX
1x A231 Microphone
1x Protective zippered carrying case
1x DCLIP Heavy-duty nylon molded snap-on clip
“They’ve struck gold with the A231. It does not possess the stereotypical LDC sound. It’s smooth, and it captures its sources with rich harmonics, especially when paired with a tube preamp or compressor. It’ll easily record thick guitars or provide any low-end weight you need for stringed bass instruments. I personally love the balance Audix has created with the A231. If anyone is looking for a high-end all-rounder to add to their locker, I highly recommend it for all types of studio work, with vocals as the prime point of interest.”
ALEX HAWLEY | RECORDING
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE The A231 is a low impedance microphone and should be plugged into a “mic level” input on your console, mixer, or recording device with 48 V phantom power. Allow a minimum of 20 seconds for the A231 to stabilize after phantom power is supplied. Avoid plugging or unplugging the microphone from a PA system unless the channel is muted, or phantom power to the A231 channel is turned off. Failure to do so may result in a loud “popping” noise or damage to the PA system or studio monitors. The A231 is manufactured to exacting specifications. The capsule is highly sensitive and the microphone should be handled with care. Avoid exposing the microphone to extreme temperatures, moisture, and shock. Store your microphone in a protective case when not in use.
USER TIPS The sound source should face the Audix logo, which indicates the front of the microphone. Further miking techniques may be found at www.audixusa.com.
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES •POUCHAXMED – Protective zippered carrying case •DCLIP – Heavy duty nylon molded snap on clip
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES •APS2 – Two-channel 48 V phantom power supply with 110 V switchable to 240 V and detachable power cord •TRIPOD – Metal tripod desktop mic stand •STANDKD – Short pedestal stand with telescoping boom arm •DFLEX – Dual pivot rim mounted clip with extra wide butterfly jaws •CBL20 – 20’ premium XLR-XLR balanced mic cable. Quad conductor, twisted pair with braided shield for conductivity. 6 mm PVC jacketed •CBLDR25 – 25’ premium right angle XLR balanced mic cable. Quad conductor, twisted pair with braided shield for conductivity. 6 mm PVC jacketed •PD133 – Pop diffuser to control plosives
