STC-80 Handheld Dynamic Mic - iDJ - January 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
The STC-80 is the first dynamic microphone from Sontronics. Although relatively new the mic market, Sontronics mics are visually distinctive, good sounding and at an affordable price.
Mics come in all shapes and sizes, and the Dynamic mic is a great hard-wearing all-round performer, ideal for live work where sound levels are very high. As a result, the STC-80 is just as at home when used for vocals and speech as it is for recording guitar cabinets, snare drums and tom-toms. The rugged construction and the anti-slip body grooves of the STC-80 makes it perfect for stage work, although I did find it a little on the heavy side if I was going to be holding it for long periods. Clipped on to a mic stand, however, there is no problem. The STC-80 also comes supplied with a mic clip and sturdy foam lined aluminium flight case to protect the mic while on the road; it also comes backed up with a Sontronics lifetime warranty.
The mic is of cardioid operation, perfect for vocal performance, and features internal shock mounting to help reduce handling noise, which is impressive. I tested the STC-80 on stage, side by side with the legendary Shure SM58. The STC-80 sounded slightly brighter than the SM58, with plenty of presence to help the vocal cut through the other musicians onstage. I also tried the STC-8 in the home studio environment and it had no trouble capturing the true sound of the guitar cab – in fact it was spot on.
What’s more, the STC-80 will help you navigate the age-old problem of musty cigarette smell and spit on a mic, by including a removable internal foam windscreen which can be removed for cleaning and washing. That is a nice touch!
The excellent build and superb sound quality on offer make the Sontronics STC-80 a great performance tool and good value for money. The lack of handling noise of a huge bonus, and its versatility for guitar cabinets, snare drums and tom-toms makes this mic a worthwhile investment at a very sensible price.
Verdict: solid build quality. It’s a little on the heavy side, but offers very good audio performance at a reasonable price.
Click here for more information about the STC-80
DON'T FORGET! Until 28th February, you can claim a free STC-80 when you buy any other Sontronics mic!
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