Sony C-100 Condenser Microphone
Operating Instructions and Specifications
Introduction
This document provides operating instructions and technical specifications for the Sony C-100 Condenser Microphone. Please read thoroughly before use and retain for future reference.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it must not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received. Changes or modifications not expressly approved may void the authority to operate.
The CE marking is valid in EEA (European Economic Area) and Switzerland.
Names and Functions of Parts (Fig. A)
- 1 Microphone: The main unit.
- 2 Directivity (Polar pattern) switch: Selects between Uni-directional, Omni-directional, or Bi-directional patterns.
- 3 PAD switch: Adjusts input level. Options are 0dB (Off) and -10dB (On).
- 4 LOW CUT switch: Reduces wind noise. Options are Normal setting or Low cut filter applied.
- 5 Output connector (XLR-3-12C type): Outputs recorded sound and receives power from external equipment when operating on external power.
- 6 Wind screen: Attaches to the microphone to reduce wind or breathing noise.
- 7 Cradle suspension: Attaches to a microphone stand. Includes a stand adaptor that can be detached.
- 8 Ring: Secures the microphone to the cradle suspension. Must be rotated and fixed.
- 9 Stand adaptor: For attaching to a microphone stand.
Power Supply
This microphone requires an external power supply. Connect the output connector (5) to a Phantom power supply (44 V to 52 V DC, IEC* 61938 P48) or an audio mixer using a balanced microphone cable. An unbalanced cable cannot be used.
How to open the carrying case (Fig. B)
- Pull up the bottom hinge.
- Pull down the upper hinge.
- Push up the lid.
Caution: Be careful not to catch hands when closing. Do not place heavy objects on or sit on the case.
Notes on Use
- Microphones are delicate; avoid dropping or excessive shock.
- Avoid prolonged use or storage in high humidity or temperatures above 60 °C (140 °F) to prevent noise or failure.
- If acoustic feedback (howling) occurs, point the microphone away from speakers or increase distance.
- Allow a few minutes for output voltage to stabilize after changing the directivity switch.
- The output signal is balanced; connect to a balanced input circuit. Unbalanced output is not supported.
- The high impedance circuit may emit induction noise when switches are changed with external power on, but this is not a malfunction.
- The "AUTO_PRESSURE_RELEASE" section on the carrying case is fixed and does not guarantee performance.
- Use a microphone cable with the connector housing part connected to the ground wire (pin 1) to reduce noise. Cables not connected to ground may emit noise. Connecting to a ground terminal can help. Extending cables may worsen noise if connector housings touch the floor.
Specifications
| General | |
|---|---|
| Type | 2 Way Microphone (Condenser + Electret condenser) |
| Power supply | External power supply operation 44 V to 52 V DC (IEC* 61938 P48) |
| Power consumption | Less than 4.5 mA |
| Output connector | XLR-3-12C Type |
| Dimensions | 40 mm dia. x 175 mm (1.57 in. dia. x 6.89 in.) |
| Mass | Approx. 290 g (10.2 oz) |
| Supplied accessories | Cradle suspension (1), Wind screen (1), Stand adaptor (W3/8 - NS5/8) (1), Carrying case (1), Operating instructions (this sheet) (1), Warranty card (1) |
| Performance | |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 50,000 Hz |
| Directivity | Uni-directional / Omni-directional / Bi-directional (switchable) |
| Output impedance | 90 Ω ±15%, balanced |
| Sensitivity | -31 dB (Uni-directional) -37 dB (Omni-directional) -35 dB (Bi-directional) (deviation ±3 dB) (0 dB=1 V/Pa, 1 kHz) |
| Inherent noise | Less than 19 dB SPL (Uni-directional) Less than 24 dB SPL (Omni-directional) Less than 22 dB SPL (Bi-directional) (0 dB=2 x 10-5 Pa) (IEC* 61672-1 A-Weighted, 1 kHz, 1 Pa) |
| Maximum input sound pressure level | More than 132 dB SPL (Uni-directional) More than 138 dB SPL (Omni-directional) More than 136 dB SPL (Bi-directional) (output level for 1% waveform distortion at 1 kHz, converted into equivalent input sound pressure level: 0 dB=2 x 10-5 Pa) |
| Dynamic range | More than 113 dB (Uni-directional) More than 114 dB (Omni-directional) More than 114 dB (Bi-directional) |
| PAD | 0 dB/-10 dB (switchable) |
| LOW CUT filter | Flat/70 Hz (switchable) |
* IEC = International Electrotechnical Commission
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Note: Always verify that the unit is operating properly before use. Sony will not be liable for damages including, but not limited to, compensation or reimbursement on account of the loss of present or prospective profits due to failure of this unit, either during the warranty period or after expiration of the warranty, or for any other reason whatsoever.
Diagram Descriptions
Figure A: Parts Identification
Illustrates the physical components of the microphone. Numbered callouts correspond to the 'Names and Functions of Parts' section above.
Figure B: Carrying Case Operation
Shows the steps for opening the microphone's carrying case.
Frequency Response and Polar Patterns
These graphs illustrate the microphone's performance characteristics. The frequency response graphs show the sensitivity of the microphone across different frequencies (500 Hz, 1 kHz, 4 kHz, 10 kHz). The polar pattern graphs depict the microphone's directivity, showing how sensitive it is to sounds arriving from different angles at specific frequencies.
