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Chuck Leavell on Sterling

Chuck Leavell on Sterling

Chuck Leavell on mic'ing pianos

Chuck Leavell on mic'ing pianos

Jim McGorman on Sterling Mics/Music

Jim McGorman on Sterling Mics/Music

McGorman on Mic'ing Vocals

McGorman on Mic'ing Vocals

Sterling Audio

Description

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 Mic
Sterling Audio ST55 Large Diaphragm FET Condenser Mic
Sterling Audio ST55 Large Diaphragm FET Condenser Mic

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

Specs

  • 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.

Reviews

4.81

16 Reviews

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend

Most Liked Positive Review

5

ST55 Affordable Excellence

The ST55 is a top performing microphone at a humble price. I bought a used one during a recent stay in the United States. Out of curiosity, not because I needed another mike. First thing you do when you buy a microphone is unscrew it to ascertain it's Chinese allright. Then of course you set it up and perform a listening/recording test. You decide if you like what you hear when listening to the mike alone and in comparison to other microphones, in (their) various applications. Surprisingly, considering its affordability, the ST55 represents an immediate advance over conventional condenser mics in its price range. It is quiet and clear, while the highs are not overpronounced and in balance with the rather warm midrange and very convincing low end. And it doesn't stop there. I have gone as far as putting it alongside the best multi-purpose microphone I have got, regarded by many the king of condensers, which is my Neumann u47. Leaving the technical differences what they are, the ST55 holds up more than nicely, compared to top-end. I rate it excellent.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

3

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

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Reviewed by 16 customers

  • This description doesn't tell you it require Phantom 48V

    5

    submitted10 years ago

    byTallTony

    fromNJ

    It doesn't tell you it requires Phantom 48v in description

  • Great microphone

    5

    submitted13 years ago

    byjohn summers

    fromHouston, TX

    Picked up this microphone to use to record a group of 8 men singing our National Anthem acappela. It worked fantastic. We are looking forward to trying it live on other acappela songs. AND the price was right. I do not think you will find another microphone at this price that will perform like this one. If you are looking - don't miss out.

  • Very Dope Mic!

    5

    submitted14 years ago

    byJustin Jean

    fromAtlanta, GA

    I bought this mic about a week ago and I'm running it through mogami wire into an art tube pre amp. I don't know a whole lot about mics and stuff but I can say that this mic sounds great. I use it for rap done a little singing into it. It has a nice smooth natural sound and has made mixing a THOUSAND times easier for me. Plus its a very sexy mic in person.

  • Like Listening to the Future!!

    5

    submitted15 years ago

    byLee Louisville

    fromJackson MS.

    A real good price for home studio. I've owned it for about two years now and no defects recording is crisp even without the studio foaming. If you are looking for really good mic Sterling Audio is the way to go...I just can imagine how the expensive ones sound...Great buy.

  • Most clear mic I've ever had

    5

    submitted16 years ago

    byWilliam Johnson

    fromBaltimore, MD

    I cannot speak for all genres of musicians, but for Hip-Hop vocalists (singers, rappers, etc) this mic definitely gets the job done. The vocals the are recorded through this mic come out crystal clear depending on your (Audio Interface/Preamp of course) One the be best purchases I've made for making music.

  • Worth Every Red Penny!

    5

    submitted16 years ago

    byDamion Morse

    fromFarmington Hill, MI.

    I can tell you how many home studios I've been to where they have everything but a good mic. So when I decided to build my own studio, the mic was of utmost importance. The only issue was, I had at the time a "shoe string budget". I went to Guitar Center in Southfield, MI. and got introduced to this mic. Best money I ever spent! Now keep in mind that this is by know means the best mic inthe world, but at the price point, it is awsome. It delivers crystal clear vocals and it's rugged enough to last over the years. I've used a few mics to record vocals, but this mic is outstanding in the booth. Get One, you won't be dissapointed.

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