ART M-Four Multi-pattern Studio Tube Condenser Microphone

Description

The ART M-Four is a versatile multi-pattern studio tube condenser microphone, perfect for critical vocal and instrument recording. Its dual-diaphragm design offers nine distinct polar pattern settings, providing the ideal sound for virtually any recording application. The microphone features dual 35mm gold sputtered diaphragms housed in a shockmounted capsule, enhanced by a 12AX7 vacuum tube pre-amp. This setup is suspended within a solid machined casing to further reduce tube-induced noise. An included external heavy-duty cradle mount suspension virtually eliminates vibration and handling noise, ensuring the microphone remains securely positioned during recording.

The Power Supply & Controls

The M-Four offers nine selectable polar patterns via controls on its dedicated power supply. Instead of limiting users to the three most common patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8), the M-Four includes three gradient stages between each of these positions. This provides greater versatility, allowing for subtle combinations of proximity effect, off-axis rejection, and tonal response. For vocalists, this means finding the perfect balance between the 'fat' sound of omnidirectional and the narrow focus of cardioid, with intermediate options available.

As a tube condenser microphone, the M-Four requires its proprietary power supply to operate. An LED indicator, located discreetly under the gold capsule behind the windscreen, illuminates when power is present and the microphone is operational. The microphone's chassis is constructed from precision-tooled zinc/aluminum alloy with a dent-resistant stainless-steel wire-mesh windscreen. The included heavy-duty cradle-mount suspension effectively isolates the capsule from vibrations and handling noise.

For storage, the M-Four should always be kept in its protective microphone 'coffin' within the aluminum carrying case when not in use.

Care of your M-Four

Large diaphragm condenser microphones, including the M-Four, are fragile and susceptible to damage from sharp impacts, drops, or being tapped. This is particularly true for tube condenser microphones. It is advisable to use a pop filter when recording vocals to prevent sibilance ('S', 'P', 'B' sounds) and to protect the element from excessive moisture.

The microphone's outer shell can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth. Avoid harsh detergents, solvents, or abrasive materials. Never immerse the microphone in water.

Understanding Multiple Polar Patterns

An omnidirectional pattern captures sound equally from all directions, ideal for recording ambient sounds or sources spread across a space. It offers no proximity effect, making it suitable for choirs, string sections, background vocals, or acoustic instruments where a natural, open tone is desired.

The cardioid pattern is ideal for single instruments or solo vocals, picking up sound directly from the front while rejecting sounds from the sides and rear. It provides the most pronounced proximity effect and best off-axis rejection.

The bi-directional or figure-8 pattern captures sound equally from the front and back, making it suitable for recording a primary sound source while also capturing room ambience from behind, or for duets.

The M-Four offers nine polar patterns in total: omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8, plus three intermediate gradient stages between omnidirectional and cardioid, and three between cardioid and figure-8. These intermediate patterns allow for subtle adjustments to proximity effect, off-axis rejection, and overall tonal response.

Other M-Four Features and Accessories

• Constant Voltage Power Supply Module: Features a 9-position multi-pattern selector, offering omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 patterns with three intermediate settings each. Ensures quiet operation.
• Shockmount Cradle Adaptor: Prevents noise transfer from the floor and microphone stand to the sensitive microphone capsule.
• 7-pin XLR Shielded Microphone Cable: Provides a clean signal from the microphone while transferring power to the capsule and pre-amp from the power supply.

Specifications

Specifications subject to change without notice.

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