Sontronics SATURN 2 Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

SATURN 2 selects its pattern digitally rather than with a rotary switch, which is the detail that matters if you own two of them. The controller sets precise voltages on the front and rear of the capsule, so nine settings are repeatable mic to mic: omni, subcardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid and figure-of-eight, plus the four positions between them. Buy a pair and they behave as a pair.

Sensitivity is 34 mV/Pa across a 20 Hz to 20 kHz response, with a 130 dB ceiling and impedance under 200 Ohms. The high end carries Sontronics' characteristic smooth roll-off, which is why it stays comfortable on close vocals and on a string quartet at three metres. Output is 3-pin XLR on 48 V phantom. The microphone measures 285 x 150 x 32 mm, weighs 0.56 kg, and ships in an ABS flight case with its shock mount.