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A more affordable way to record high-quality audio.
The Sterling Audio ST55 is an FET condenser microphone that employs a large capsule with an ultra-thin 3-micron evaporated gold Mylar diaphragm. The ST55 mic is built with an exclusive process that extends high frequencies and improves details and depth on both vocal and instrument recordings. The FET Class-A electronics provide smooth, warm sound.
Sterling Audio microphones employ several advanced technologies that separate their large-diaphragm condenser mics from the rest of the pack. One of the more important advancements is their Disk Resonator system. With it, Sterling Audio is uniquely able to compensate for the 14kHz frequency roll-off that is inherent in large diaphragm mics. As any good audio engineer knows, this deficiency translates to a lack of sparkle from high-frequency sound sources. Other manufacturers have typically solved this problem by cutting other frequencies and then increasing the entire signal to help even out the frequency range. Unfortunately, this results in increased noise. Disk Resonator Technology incorporates a brass umbrella that protrudes from the center of the diaphragm in Sterling Audio's ST55 microphone. It gently boosts the diaphragm sensitivity to shorter sound waves, allowing it to respond more accurately to those all-important higher frequencies. The result is optimal sensitivity, full frequency response, and a low signal-to-noise ratio. Another piece of audio wizardry comes in the form of the ultra-thin diaphragm membrane made of Mylar. While most modern condenser diaphragms are 6 to 12 microns in thickness, Sterling Audio, in association with 3M, has produced a highly resilient Mylar that measures a mere 3 microns. This allows the ST55 to deliver an extraordinary degree of sensitivity. Requires phantom power.
Sterling Audio ST55 Large Diaphragm FET Condenser Microphone Features:
- Disk Resonator design extends high-frequencies naturally
- Large 1-1/4" all-brass capsule, hand-assembled and oven-baked for long-term, stable operation
- Black nickel-plated brass body
- Stainless steel head and grille assembly
- Custom-wound nickel core output transformer
- HM-2 hard mount
- Rugged vinyl zipper case included
- Preamp: Class-A FET
- Polar Patterns: Fixed cardioid
- High Pass Filter: Switchable 75Hz, 12dB/octave
- Attenuation Pad: Switchable -10dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz 18kHz
- Equivalent Noise: 22dB SPL A Weighted
- Sensitivity: 32mV/Pa
- Maximum SPL: 134dB-144dB (adjustable w/pad)
- Typical Load Impedance: >500 ohms
- Output Source Impedance: 200 ohms transformer isolated
- Dimensions: 7-1/2" long, 1-4/5" max. dia.
- Weight: 1 lb.
With our 30/30 Guarantee on most products, you can be assured of complete satisfaction and the lowest available price, or your money back!
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Best value mic ever
I own the Groove Tubes GT-55, which is the same mic. I bought it for $299 3 years ago, and it was the best money I have spent on my home project studio in years. Now that it sells for the same price as all those overhyped Chinese LDCs, I am thinking about picking up a pair, and a ST66 (the tube version) to boot! Before I bought this mic, I had an SM58, SM57 and a Studio Projects C1. I won't bother to compare it with the dynamics, but the difference between this mic and the C1 was immediately clear, even with the pres built into the Mackie mixer I had at the time. And don't try to tell me the C1 is just as good but simply has a different "character". This is not a "character" difference. The 55 is simply a pro mic and the C1 is not. It is clear that this is a much higher quality product, both in terms of build and sound. The 55 is smooth and big sounding, without being boomy or overhyped. The C1 sounds sizzly (in a bad, distrortion-ridden kind of way), thin, and inaccurate. It is clear that the electronics in the the C1 are substandard in comparison with the 55. I recently upgraded to better mic pres and the difference is even more clear. I was hoping to be able to find the C1 more useful with the better pres, and while its sound improved slightly, the 55 improved substantially, ultimately making the difference between the two all the more obvious. The 55 sounds great with any pre, but really excellent with a good one. I recently recorded two men doing group voiceovers to minidisc, with the C1 on one track and the 55 on the other. I solo'd each mic track. The C1 sounded harsh, with fizzy highs. The 55 was detailed without harshness, with smooth, extended (but not overpronounced) highs and powerful but tight lows. The room ambiance was better resolved, too (part of this is due to the C1's slightly tighter pattern, and part due to its lack of accuracy). Don't get me wrong--the C1 has its place. But I don't feel like I got my money's worth. I could do as well or better for $99. But with the 55, I feel like I got more than my money's worth (and when I bought mine they cost $100 more) If you can only afford one condenser, buy the ST55. For those who think it sounds too dark, after you have lived with the distorted sizzle of those Chinese mics, you and your audience will start to get ear fatigue--just like with overhyped studio monitors. The only reason I gave it less than a 5 for features was that it is Cardoid only, but that's a pretty tall order at this price point and quality level. Also it does not include a shock mount or case like the C1, but I'd rather my money go to the mic itself than accessories.
Reviewed by djsaint on 12/20/2006 who plays theatre/production music, indie rock, pop.
9 people found this review helpful.
2 people found this review unhelpful.
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Great Condenser/Low Price
When starting to build my home recording studio, I was looking for something affordable that I could record some vocals and acoustic guitar with and still have a good sound. I was reccomended to the ST55 and I'm loving it. After 6 months of use, it has definately paid for itself. All of my friends are surprised by the awesome recordings I make now.
The -10dB switch and the low roll-off are nice touches, and I like the box, although I wish it was a hard case like the ones that come with other condensers.
Reviewed by BackdropGuitarist on 10/3/2006 who plays Rock.
6 people found this review helpful.
0 people found this review unhelpful.
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ST55 review for Vocals
I was recently surprised to see this mic as it is obviously a a renamed Groove Tube GT55 right down to the case. A decent Mic for the price, with accurate reproduction, but I find it a little bland for vocals, no sizzle. The bass roll-of and 10 db attenuation are nice features at this price. Think the RODE NT1A provides better sound for the same price
Reviewed by on 8/30/2006 who plays Soft Rock/Progressive.
6 people found this review helpful.
1 person found this review unhelpful.
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Good first studio mic
I picked this up at my local GC for 2 bills, though I was a little iffy on having only one polar pattern to play with. Got it home, took off my SM-58 (I'm cheap), put this in its place, and fired up the home rig to see how it sounded, after flat-lining my 1604's parametric, and bringing up my DAW software. I'm used to recording in a noisy environment, and with the hi-pass filter and attenuation switches, it's almost like I'm recording in a proper studio. Gonna have to pick up another one of these ASAP.
Reviewed by Joseph J. on 3/29/2007 who plays Rock.
3 people found this review helpful.
1 person found this review unhelpful.
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Good Value For This Price Range
I love this mic. Beat my old one without a doubt. This is the best mic in this price range. You get the most bang for your buck. Low noise, considerable sensitivity, and warmth. sounds great with my Tubepre and Firewire Solo. I can't wait to upgrade to an st77!
Reviewed by Ernest Parker on 3/22/2007 who plays Hip-Hop.
0 people found this review helpful.
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