Soundelux USA U195

Overview:

The SOUNDELUX USA U195 is a custom built, hand made, cardioid pattern phantom powered large diaphragm FET microphone. In designing the U195, David Bock set out to create an extreme value in studio mics that could satisfy a wide range of demands for highly experienced engineers that own many more expensive microphones, yet need additional mics within a budget. It delivers superb results on lead vocal tracks as well as in instrument and guitar amp use, providing remarkable fullness and presence with exceptionally low background noise for a transformer output design.

The Soundelux USA U195 has now been "reissued" by David Bock, the original Soundelux designer, and is an exact reissue of the Soundelux / Elux 195 as it was also known then but with a new and improved K67 capsule. It features a unique tone control switch that offers the now famous "Fat" mode providing a boost between 10Hz and 400Hz recreating the tone of vintage valve microphones hen used up close. The mode works by affecting the negative feedback built into the circuit. The U195 also includes a non-capacitive pad for high SPL's and a Low Cut switch.

The electronics do not include any surface mount components, using instead low ESR electrolytic capacitors and a unique FET circuit. This results in impressively low noise and extended HF characteristics. The U195 also boasts impressive headroom avoiding the harshness of other FET microphones while a large output transformer ensures a coherent signal across the full audio spectrum including superb bass response. 

Amplifier Controls:

  • "fat/norm" bass contour switch: The Mode switch offers two modes of operation, FAT and NORM. FAT is a low end boost between 10Hz and 400Hz for that distinctive sound of older tube classic cardioid condensers. NORM is extended flat response with slightly elevated high end typical of FET condensers. The switch manipulates the negative feedback built into the circuit; in FAT mode, mid-to-low frequency negative feedback is reduced.
  • "locut": rumble filter switch: -10dB@30Hz relative to 100Hz.
  • "pad": -10dB (non-capacitive pad; it works by changing the polarization voltage of the capsule).

Reviews:

  • Test / Review: Barry Rudolph Review of the current U195: http://www.barryrudolph.com/newtoys/toys17/soundelux_bock_u195.html
  • Test / Review: Harmony Central Expert Review of the current U195: http://www.harmonycentral.com/expert-reviews/soundelux-usa-u195
  • Test / Review: Sound on Sound (UK) review of the current U195: http://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/soundelux-usa-u195
Specifications:

  • Pattern: Cardioid.
  • Frequency Range: 20Hz to 16kHz, +/-2dB.
  • Sensitivity: 8mv/Pa (-42dBm @ 94dB SPL).
  • Equivalent Noise: 12dB (“A” weighted) 23dB (unweighted).
  • Distortion vs.SPL @1kHz (increasing distortion is exponential, complex 3rd harmonic):
    126dB = 0.5% THD
    127dB = 1% THD
    129dB = 2% THD
  • Impedance: 200 Ohms true transformer balanced.
  • Recommended load: >2k Ohms.
  • Output connector: 3 pin XLR, Pin 2 hot.
  • Dynamic range (max SPL - "A"noise): 111dB.
  • S/N (94dB-noise): 82dB “A”, 71dB unweighted.
  • Capsule size: 1” diameter, dual symmetrical backplate K67 type.
  • Power consumption: 0.5mA @ 48Vdc.
  • Amplifier type: Minimalist Class A fet/transformer, no switching supplies or oscilators.
  • Dimensions: 2” dia x 7.7” L. (50x195mm).
  • Weight: 1lb 9.6oz (1.6lbs) = 725g.
  • Shipping weight: 2 lbs.
  • Power Supply: user provided Phantom Power @ 48V per DIN 45 596/IEC268-15A. Please note that a minimum of 48V is strongly recommended.
  • Supplied in its padded cardboard box with a swivel mount (see photo).
  • Hand Made In the USA

Notes:

  • Premium packing and trouble-free export sales through the world guaranteed.
  • Each mic we sell is tested before shipping.
  • 3/8" to 5/8" adapter for European stands included.
  • New in box.
  • NoHype Audio is an official Soundelux USA reseller.

IN STOCK

Free shipping within the EU.

IMPORTANT:

If you have a valid EU VAT N° out of Belgium, we can supply the goods without charging VAT, PLEASE CONTACT US BEFOREHAND.

OTHER NOTES:

An official invoice will be issued. 2 years warranty. We do our best to offer great shipping rates, feel free to ask for alternatives if you prefer other, less expensive options than those listed here.

Contact us for package deals, check our eBay store for our current products in stock.

Please Email us with ANY questions you might have! Technical data, more photos, anything...

Payment via bank transfer or Paypal.

Thanks!

Please note: Average delivery times via Taxipost:

2 to 3 working days in France, Germany, Holland, UK.

3 to 5 working days within European Union.

4 to 9 working days for the rest of the world (Customs clearance might add one or more days).

To our customers outside EU: don't forget that you don't have to pay 21% VAT on this sale. A separate Paypal invoice with the proper amount (without VAT but including shipping) will be issued or if you go through eBay, a Paypal instant refund will be made ASAP. Thanks!