Schoeps CMC65NI-SET

A microphone package that includes a CMC 6 amplifier, MK 5 omni/cardioid capsule, SG20 stand clamp, and B5 popscreen. Available in a nickle finish.

The chief task of a CMC microphone amplifier is to convert the extremely high-impedance signal from the capsule to a very low-impedance one suitable for transmission through a microphone cable. It features a symmetrical class-A output stage with neither coupling condensers nor an output transformer. This design helps it to achieve extremely low distortion and light physical weight, while its very low output impedance helps make it insensitive to electrical interference. The CMC 6 works with both 12 V and 48 V phantom powering so long as the relevant standard is followed. In addition to the CMC 6's dual-voltage circuitry, the two amplifiers differ in their response at the very bottom of the audio frequency range. The CMC 6 is essentially flat to 20 Hz.

The MK 5 operates with only one membrane, but offers two selectable directional patterns. The pattern is selected purely by mechanical means, via a slide switch on the side of the capsule. In its omnidirectional setting the capsule is a pressure transducer with flat response down to the lowest audio frequencies. The polar diagram shows increasing directivity at high frequencies, which is typical for this type of transducer. In the cardioid setting equal components of pressure-gradient and pressure operation combine to form a cardioid pattern. The fact that response is maintained to the highest audible frequencies is unusual for a switchable-pattern microphone. The MK 5 has a slight high-frequency emphasis as compared with the corresponding single-pattern omni (MK 2) and cardioid (MK 4). The MK 5 has near-universal usefulness and it is the capsule which is recommended most highly for those just starting out with the Colette Series.