A127
Omnidirectional Metal Film Condenser Microphone
The A127 is an omnidirectional metal film condenser microphone, designed to capture the most accurate and purest form of acoustic instruments and sound sources. The A127 delivers unmatched performance for recording, broadcast, film, and sound design.
• Pre-polarized half-inch Type 1 metal film capsule (IEC 61094-4 compliant)
• Omnidirectional polar pattern
• Excellent clarity, detail, and transient response
• Transformerless, low-noise circuitry
• Active driven shield
Transducer Type | 1/2″ Type 1 metal film capsule (IEC 61094-4 compliant) |
---|---|
Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 20 kHz |
Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
Output Impedance | 150 Ohms |
Sensitivity | 28 mV / Pa @ 1 kHz |
Signal to Noise Ratio | 82 dBA |
Maximum SPL | 140 dB SPL |
THD + N | .004% @ 94 dB SPL | 1.0% @ 140 dB SPL |
Equivalent Noise Level | 12 dBA |
Dynamic Range | 128 dB |
Connector | 3-pin XLR m |
Power Requirements | 48 V +/- 4 V Phantom |
Power Consumption | 3 mA |
Polarity | Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3 of output XLR connector |
Materials / Finish | Brass / Black |
Dimensions | 19 mm x 122 mm |
Weight | 123 g |
DESCRIPTION
A127 is an omnidirectional metal film condenser microphone, designed to capture the most accurate and purest form of acoustic instruments and sound sources. Fundamental to the A127 design is the low-noise Type 1 metal film capsule and precision-machined electro-mechanical components. The A127 delivers unmatched performance for recording, broadcast, film, and sound design.
With a frequency response of 10 Hz – 20 kHz and a wide dynamic range of 133 dB, the A127 excels in the most demanding applications. Capsule design features a precision-tuned 3-micron metal diaphragm, resulting in an exceptionally accurate and stable response with ultra-low self-noise of 7 dBA. The A127 circuit is designed and built to exacting specifications and is coupled to the capsule by a series of driven shields to protect the microphone from external interference and capacitance coupling. The mechanical components of the gold-plated shield and the corrosion-resistant housing are precision-machined by Audix in Wilsonville, Oregon.
ADVANTAGES OF THE HALF-INCH FILM CAPSULE
The A127 features a reference-grade capsule (Type 1 IEC 61094-4 compliant) with a precision-tensioned metal film diaphragm, providing consistent and reliable performance, even in the most demanding environments. The half-inch size of the diaphragm represents the “sweet spot” for acoustic sound capture, which is why it has become the standard for acoustic measurement. The ultrathin, 3-micron metal film diaphragm provides excellent transient response and a level of detail and realism simply not attainable with conventional diaphragm materials.
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
- DCLIP – Heavy-duty nylon molded snap-on clip
- POUCHAXSM – Protective zippered carrying case
- WS90 – Acoustical windscreen
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
- APS2 – Two-channel 48 V phantom power supply with 110 V switchable to 240 V and detachable power cord
- DFLEX – Dual pivot rim mounted clip with extra-wide butterfly jaws
- CBL20 – 20’ premium XLR-XLR balanced mic cable. Quad conductor, twisted-pair with a braided shield for conductivity. 6 mm PVC-jacketed
- PD133 – Pop diffuser to control plosives
- SMT25 – Shockmount suspension system
Sound On Sound: “A NO‑COMPROMISE OMNIDIRECTIONAL ‘PENCIL’ MIC”
“The A127 has a subtle richness to its sound that is very appealing. I was particularly struck by its ability to present a full and solid midrange without ever exaggerating or misrepresenting anything. Transients are captured in a superbly clean and natural fashion, and the A127 responds to EQ very well.”
– Sam Inglis | Producer, Engineer, Songwriter and Musician
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MIKING TIPS
For musical applications such as symphony orchestra, strings, brass, choir, pipe organ, percussion and other acoustic instruments, the phase response, accuracy and clarity of the A127 make it the perfect choice for spot miking, as well as mid-field and far-field applications. Metal film omnidirectional microphones are able to capture the complete character, tonality, and essence of an instrument in the most uniform and accurate fashion.
With its omnidirectional polar pattern, the A127 excels as a room mic and can be incorporated into a variety of stereo miking techniques. Professional recording engineers often use a stereo pair of omnidirectional microphones for recording orchestra, stringed instruments and string ensembles, piano and piano ensembles, classical guitar, pipe organ and choir. Depending on the size and acoustics of the room, omnidirectional microphones will most accurately recreate the experience of being in the audience.
Given its compact size, low-noise preamp and extraordinary stability, the A127 is ideal for field recording, documentaries, sound gathering, and acoustic measurements.
Further miking techniques may be found on the How To’s page.