GXL800 Small Diaphragm Pencil Condenser Microphones

The CAD Audio GXL800 is a small diaphragm pencil condenser sold as a matched pair, built for the sources where speed matters more than size. Class-leading transient response is the reason to reach for it: hi-hats, cymbals, snare top, acoustic guitar and other stringed instruments all live or die on how accurately a microphone tracks the first few milliseconds of a hit or a pick stroke. The GXL800 tracks them and returns a true representation of the source rather than a rounded-off version. A compact, all-metal body takes the knocks that come with drum kit placement and stage use, and the slim profile fits into overhead positions, under hi-hats and between crowded stands where a large diaphragm microphone gets in the way. Handling 138dB max SPL, the pair covers loud percussion up close without breaking up, with 50Hz to 16kHz response, -38dBV sensitivity into 200 ohms and 28dBA self noise. Buying them as a pair matters for stereo work: drum overheads, XY or spaced pairs on acoustic guitar, piano, choir and room capture all need two microphones with the same character. Mic clips and foam windscreens are included for both, and the pair is covered by a 2 year warranty.