X1 A

The X1 A is a cardioid condenser microphone for recording vocals and instruments in home and project studios. It uses a newly developed 2/3 inch back-electret capsule in the same metal chassis as the rest of the X1 Series, with a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and sensitivity set for everyday sources rather than one narrow application.

SPL handling is the standout number. With the -20 dB pad engaged the capsule takes up to 150 dB, which covers a snare drum, a close-miked guitar cab, or brass at full volume: sources that push cheaper condensers into distortion. A switchable 100 Hz low-cut filter removes floor rumble, HVAC noise, and proximity buildup on close vocals before it reaches your interface.

The cardioid pattern rejects sound from the rear, which helps in untreated rooms where reflections and computer fan noise are part of the environment. Sensitivity is 20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV) with 16 dB self-noise and a 78 dB signal-to-noise ratio, so quiet acoustic performances stay clean.

Recommended sources include vocals, drum kit, overheads, room, acoustic guitar, electric guitar cab, orchestral strings, piano, woodwinds, and brass. It runs on standard 48V phantom power through a 3-pin male XLR, so any interface or mixer will power it. At 169 mm long, 58 mm in diameter, and 390 g, it ships with a swivel mic clip and mic stand thread adapter. First mic or fifth, it stays useful.