Audix A231: Condenser microphone for vocal recordings and more
Found in 1984, microphone and audio equipment maker Audix showcased a new large-diaphragm condenser microphone – the A231. The microphone is geared towards voice recordings, such as vocals and voice-overs. That given, the microphone is not only suitable for lead and backing vocals or choirs, but also for voice recordings, podcasts and streams. Acoustic instruments can be captured with the condenser microphone as well. So the A231 is an all-rounder!
Audix A231
A gold-plated 33mm capsule plays a prominent part in the microphone’s design. According to Audix, this ensures a 25% larger membrane area compared to typical condenser microphones. The cardioid polar pattern is highly suitable for voice recordings (vocals and speech), as ambient noise is sufficiently rejected. Furthermore, the internal shock mount helps minimize mechanical noise – no external spider mount is necessary. The A231 connects via XLR, and (unsurprisingly) needs 48V phantom power from your interface or mixer’s preamps to function.
Specs-wise, the new Audix mic boasts a wide frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Its dynamic range is rated at 128 dB and the maximum sound pressure level is specified at a hearty 140 dB. This means the A231 can be part of any drum and percussion recording experiment. Further along, the wide frequency response and dynamic range characteristics make the microphone appear quite flexible. While Audix positions the A231 as a voice recording condenser, it seems that you can record almost anything with it, and quite competently.
Audix A231 on mic arm · Source: Audix
Visually, the A231 takes its ques from another Audix LDC mic, the SCX25A. It’s classy in black and gold, and a mic that looks like that is always an aesthetic / vibe advantage when laying down a water-tight performance.
Price and availability
The Audix A231 is priced at an approachable USD 949. So not a starter or mid-range mic, but more of a pro budget piece. It comes bundled with a carry bag and matching D-ring. The mic is yet to hit Audix dealers, such as Thomann (affiliate link). But it’s getting there, rest assured!
More information about Audix A231
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