NAMM: M179 Variable Pattern Mic from CAD

Some people think a "multiple pattern" microphone and a "variable pattern" microphone are one and the same thing. Not so, says Tony O'Keefe, CAD National Sales Manager, who spends much of his time explaining the difference, especially as it applies to the company's popular M179 dual diaphragm condenser.

"People think both mics are the same because they both offer more than one polar pattern, but there's a huge and very important difference in terms of pattern versatility," explains O'Keefe. "The M179's variable pattern control allows you to blend patterns ranging from omnidirectional. to hypercardiod and figure eight. The five-point, detented pattern-control, is continuously variable between detents. So you can dial through the preset patterns to get any kind of variation you want, actually dialing out feedback in specific settings as well as dialing in your room in the studio. It's really useful, while the multi-pattern mic only gives you specific settings which are not variable."

The M179 employs a high speed, low noise operational amplifier (op amp) head amp, coupled with a new discrete high efficiency power-supply circuit for low noise, low distortion, and a fast transient response.

M179 specs include a frequency response of 10Hz to 20kHz, THD of less than 0.15%, maximum SPL of 143dB sensitivity of 85dBA, dynamic range of 133dB, and very low self-noise at just 11dB.