Lauten Audio LT-386 Condenser Microphone Operating Manual

Lauten Audio LT-386 Condenser Microphone

A message from the founder

Congratulations and thank you for your purchase of the Eden LT-386 multi- voicing, vacuum tube condenser microphone. Your microphone was designed and built with pride by Lauten Audio. We are dedicated to providing, Grammy® winning to novices, Producers, Engineers, and Musicians throughout the world with authentic, high-quality, great-sounding microphones. The Eden by Lauten Audio is our flagship and a very special microphone indeed. Each Eden is built, one by one, like great pieces of gear from the past.

Please enjoy exploring Eden, and know it was created with a great deal of pride.

Sincerely,

Brian Loudenslager Founder

IMPORTANT note about microphone stands

The Eden LT-386 is heavy compared to other microphones. YOU MUST use a high- quality microphone stand that is weighted. If using a boom stand, the extension arm must have a counterweight, and the base must be weighted.

WARNING!

Only authorized Lauten Audio technicians should perform disassembly and maintenance on any part of this microphone or its accessories. Disassembling and modifying any part of this microphone may void its warranty.

NEVER DISASSEMBLE THE MICROPHONE NE WHEN POWER IS BEING

• FAILURE TO USE THE CORRECT VOLTAGE SETTING ON THE POWER SUPPLY WILL DAMAGE THE MICROPHONE!
• Prior to using your microphone please check to ensure the voltage switch on the back of the power supply is set correctly for the voltage in your country.
• For 100 to 120V set the voltage selector to 115V. For 220 to 240V set the voltage selector to 230V.
• NEVER SUPPLY POWER TO THE MICROPHONE OR POWER SUPPLY WITH THE COVER OFF. SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR.
• NOTE: THERE ARE NO USER SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE THE MICROPHONE OR POWER SUPPLY.
• FOR SERVICE PLEASE SEND THE MICROPHONE OR POWER SUPPLY TO AN AUTHORIZED LAUTEN AUDIO SERVICE CENTER.
• FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO CONNECT THE MICROPHONE PLEASE REFER TO THE QUICK START GUIDE OR CONNECTIONS SECTION OF THE MANUAL.

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY AT: http://www.lautenaudio.com

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• Receive notifications of product updates via email
• Provide proof of purchase for insurance losses
• Registration will help expedite warranty claims

If you have any questions you may also contact us at 1-877-721-7018 for US and Canada or visit our website to contact your local distributor/dealer. Lauten Audio values your privacy. We will not share your information with any outside organization. Warranty applies to products registered within 30 days of purchase from an authorized Lauten Audio dealer.

• Serial Number: ____
• Date of purchase: __
• Dealer Name: __
• Sales Person: __

Safety & Contents

Please make sure the equipment your microphone will be connected to meets or exceeds the safety regulations in force in your country and is utilizing a ground lead.

• Only authorized Lauten Audio technicians should perform disassembly and maintenance on any part of this microphone or its accessories. Disassembling and modifying any part of this microphone may void its warranty. NEVER DISASSEMBLE THE MICROPHONE WHEN POWER IS BEING SUPPLIED FAILURE TO USE THE CORRECT VOLTAGE SETTING ON THE POWER SUPPLY WILL DAMAGE THE MICROPHONE! Prior to using your microphone please check to ensure the voltage switch on the back of the power supply is set correctly for the voltage in your country.
  • For 100 to 120V set the voltage selector to 115V.
  • For 220 to 240V set the voltage selector to 230V.
• NEVER SUPPLY POWER TO THE MICROPHONE OR POWER SUPPLY WITH THE COVER OFF. SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR.
• NOTE: THERE ARE NO USER SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE THE MICROPHONE OR POWER SUPPLY.
• FOR SERVICE PLEASE SEND THE MICROPHONE OR POWER SUPPLY TO AN AUTHORIZED LAUTEN AUDIO SERVICE CENTER.
• FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO CONNECT THE MICROPHONE PLEASE REFER TO THE QUICK START GUIDE OR CONNECTIONS SECTION OF THE MANUAL

Sequence of Operation

• Inspect the shock mount bands to ensure they are securely attached and not cracked or broken.
• Securely attach the microphone in its mount to a high-quality, weighted, microphone stand. It is easiest to spin the microphone stand post/arm to thread into the mount, rather than attempt to twist the entire microphone. Once the stand is securely threaded into the mount, tighten the wing nut at the shock mount elbow.
• Make sure the phantom power and gain on your recording interface/microphone preamp are turned off.
• Check that the proper voltage is selected on the back of the power supply for your country (i.e. 115V for U.S. and Japan, 230V for Europe) ( Figure 1 ). Refer to the “Power Requirement” section for more information.
• Make sure the on/off switch on the power supply is in the off position and then connect the power cord from the power supply to a power outlet ( Figure 2 ).
• Place the power supply in a safe location where it will not be disturbed during the recording process.
• Connect the black, male, 5-pin connector of the tube mic cable to the 5-pin female connector of the power supply.
• Connect the silver, female, end of the 5-pin tube mic cable to the bottom of the 5-pin male connector on the microphone.
• Securely connect the female end of a standard 3-pin XLR microphone cable to the 3-pin male connector on the power supply and the male end to your recording interface/microphone preamp/mixer.
• Select your preferred Multi-voicing, polar pattern, and high-pass selections on the microphone.
• Turn on the LT386PSU power supply (a red light will illuminate the front of the power supply). Allow the microphone to warm up for 30 minutes.
• If you are using the microphone for vocals or voice, please use a high-quality pop-filter. Any foreign materials getting onto the microphone capsule may damage it.
• Gradually increase the input gain on your recording interface or preamp to test and achieve your desired microphone input levels.
• Congratulations, you are ready to begin using your Eden LT-386 microphone.

Product and Feature Descriptions

• This large-diaphragm vacuum tube condenser microphone has been thoughtfully designed with feedback from sound engineers working in recording studios for many years.
• The microphone character was designed to offer a full and rich, low and mid-range, as well as smooth and unique high-mid and high frequencies. Using premium quality and reliable components, this microphone will withstand use in a recording studio for many years.
• The electronic circuitry of the microphone exhibits less than 20dB of self-noise and a maximum SPL level of 120 dB. The 31.25mm diaphragms are made of an ultra-thin plastic material with a layer of gold on one side. The body helps prevent RF interference allowing you to successfully use the microphone near transmitter stations and wireless microphones or other communications equipment.
• The Eden LT-386 features three switches on each side and back of the microphone just below the microphone grill. These switches allow you to adjust the low-end; polar pattern and timbre (see Figures. 3, 4, and 5 below).

1. High-pass Switch
   On the left side of the microphone we have our unique 2-stage, high-pass filter we call “Kick-shaper” and “Vocal-shaper” (Figure 3). These filters are uniquely tuned to shape the low-end for two of the most common trouble areas when recording. In its default position, there is no high pass. Stage one, or the middle position, is the “Kick-shaper”; this was designed for kick drums. With its very step cut of the low-end, it removes excess boominess that might actually take away from a big-sounding kick. But feel free to try it on toms, vocals, guitars, etc. Moving the switch to stage 2, or the bottom position, is the “Vocal-shaper” which is designed to clean up your vocal tracks for an amazingly smooth and classic-sounding vocal track. Of course, it will be useful for many more sources as well.

2. Polar Pattern Switch
   The polar pattern switch (Figure 4). is located on the right side of the microphone. The selectable polar patterns are Figure 8 (top), cardioid (center), and omnidirectional (bottom). The ability to select different polar patterns allows this microphone to be used in many recording situations. Having the pattern switch on the microphone, allows you or the artist to quickly and easily make your selection.

3. Multi-voicing Switch
   The Multi-voicing switch, is located on the rear of the microphone, (Figure 5). makes Eden extremely diverse. The options are F (Forward), N (Neutral), and G (Gentle). Multi-voicing is a process that can only be achieved in the microphone itself. This is Lauten Audio’s proprietary technology that uses three separate signal paths for unique frequency shaping. The multi-voicing functions in Eden are specifically designed and tuned to bring out the best in Eden. The Gentle position provides maximum control of bright or peaky sources or to achieve a very warm, vintage vibe. Throw in a high-pass filter and you’ll think you have a completely different microphone. Neutral offers a nice even response with good control over S’s and starts moving more toward a modern microphone but still wrapped in a vintage vibe. Lastly, Forward opens up the microphone for that familiar “air” of classic microphones from the past with our own modern touch that Lauten Audio is known for.

Power Requirements

• The Eden LT-386 microphone requires power from the included LT386PSU power supply. This microphone will not work properly with any other power supply. Please make sure you select the proper power supply voltage (Figure 6). for your country (i.e. 115V for the U.S. and Japan, 230V for Europe) located on the back of the LT386PSU power supply. Failure to select the proper voltage is dangerous and will damage the microphone.

Do not connect this microphone to any power source other than the included power supply. Check for proper voltage selection on the rear of the power supply.

Voltage Selector

• Before using your microphone or power supply, check to ensure the proper voltage is selected on the back of the power supply. If not, using a Philips head screwdriver carefully remove the plastic safety cover over the voltage switch and select your correct voltage. Reattach the safety cover when complete.

Connections

This microphone requires two connections, one from the microphone to the power supply’s 5-pin female XLR connector and one from the power supply’s 3-pin XLR male to your recording interface, mixer or preamplifier. Always use a high- quality 3-pin XLR microphone cable. The custom Lauten Audio cable with 5-pin XLR connectors is included with your microphone.

Connect the female end of the supplied 5-pin XLR cable to the bottom of the microphone and the male end of the 5-pin XLR cable to the female 5-pin XLR connector on the power supply. Connect the female end of a 3-pin XLR cable to the 3-pin male XLR connector on the power supply and the male end to your recording interface, mixer, or preamplifier.

Connector pin-outs

TIP: When disconnecting cable from the power supply apply light downward pressure on the 5-pin connector to help dislodge the lock

Mounting

This microphone is already attached to the suspension mount. It is not intended to be removed from this mount. To mount the microphone to a heavy- duty, weighted stand we recommend the following sequence.

1. Tighten the stand mount arm using the handle on the suspension mount (Figure 7).
2. Loosen the microphone stand arm, and twist the stand arm into the threads of the suspension mounts arm. (Figure 8).
3. Adjust and tighten the stand arm securely testing to ensure the stand will not tip. Then adjust the suspension mount arms’ vertical angle as necessary.

Removing microphone from the mount

To remove the microphone from the mount you will need a 2.5mm hex screwdriver. While holding the microphone securely, loosen the two hex bolts on the inner clamping arms of the suspension mount (Figure 9). Remove the microphone by lifting it out of the inner clamping arms. Do not pull it forward. (Figure 10).

Technical Specifications

Type:| 31.25mm dual large diaphragm pressure gradient transducer microphone
---|---
Polar Patterns:| Omnidirectional, Cardioid, and Figure-8 (selectable)
Circuit:| Vacuum tube input and transformer-balanced output
Frequency Range:| 20Hz-20KHz
Dynamic Range:| 120dB minimum
Impedance:| < 200 ohms
Max. SPL:| 0.5%THD@1000Hz: 120dB
Self-noise level:| < 20dB(A)
Sensitivity:| 16mV/Pa OR -36±2dB 0dB=1V/Pa 1000Hz

Special Features:

| Kick-shaper & Vocal-shaper, (high-pass filters) 3-stage Multi-voicing™ switch

Polar pattern switch

Connector:| 5-pin XLR (PSU to microphone) and 3-pin XLR (PSU to Preamp)
Power Requirement:| Custom power supply (100v to 240v compatible)

Frequency Response and Polar Pattern Plots

Care and Cleaning

• Only authorized Lauten Audio technicians should perform disassembly and maintenance on any part of this microphone. Disassembling and modifying any part of this microphone by anyone other than an authorized technician will void its warranty. NEVER DISASSEMBLE ANY PART WHEN POWER IS BEING SUPPLIED
• This microphone is a precise and delicate instrument. Do not drop or allow the microphone to collide with other objects as this may damage the internal components.
• The painted body surfaces of the microphone can be cleaned with a lint-free, non-scratch cloth. For difficult stains, mild mineral spirits or alcohol on a lightly dampened, very soft cloth can be used. The nickel head can be polished with a very small amount of nickel polish.
• Be VERY careful not to get any moisture or polish inside the microphone grill or microphone.

Warranty

• This product has a 3-year limited warranty from the date of sale from an authorized Lauten Audio dealer or distributor.
• Items limited to 90-day coverage include shock mount bands, cases, boxes, cables, and vacuum tubes.
• A copy of your original sales receipt may be requested to verify the original purchase date. Please keep your receipt. To register your microphone, please visit LautenAudio.com for the most up-to-date registration method.
• Warranty applies to products registered within 30 days of purchase from an authorized Lauten Audio dealer.

Lauten Audio 1817 HOURET CT. MILPITAS, CA 95035

• Phone: 877-721-7018
• Web: www.lautenaudio.com
• Email: crm@lautenaudio.com

© 2015 LAUTEN AUDIO™ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Descriptions and specifications subject to change without notice

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Lauten Audio LT-386 Condenser Microphone?

The Lauten Audio LT-386 is a high-quality condenser microphone known for its exceptional audio performance and versatility, designed for professional audio recording applications.

What are the key features of the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone?

The Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone typically features a multi-pattern design (such as cardioid, omni, and figure-8), a large diaphragm capsule, a wide frequency response, high sensitivity, and is designed for capturing vocals, instruments, and studio recordings with precision.

Is the Lauten Audio LT-386 suitable for recording vocals?

Yes, the Lauten Audio LT-386 is often used for recording vocals, providing clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it ideal for singers, podcasters, and voice-over artists.

Can I use it for instrument recording?

Absolutely, the Lauten Audio LT-386 is versatile for instrument recording, capturing acoustic instruments, guitar amps, pianos, and more with precision and clarity.

Does the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone require additional audio interfaces or drivers?

The Lauten Audio LT-386 typically uses an XLR connection and requires an audio interface or mixer with XLR inputs. It does not require additional drivers; it's compatible with standard audio equipment.

Is there a headphone monitoring feature?

No, the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone itself does not include a headphone monitoring feature. You would need a separate audio interface or mixer with headphone monitoring capabilities for this.

What is the frequency response of the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone?

The microphone typically has 20 Hz and accurate frequency response, capturing a broad range of audio frequencies with exceptional detail.

Is there an adjustable gain control on the microphone?

No, the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone does not typically have an adjustable gain control. Gain control is usually handled by the connected audio interface or mixer.

What are the weight and dimensions of the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone?

The 13 pounds weight and 20 x 14 x 9 inches dimensions of the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone.

Is it suitable for live performances?

While primarily designed for studio use, some users may use the Lauten Audio LT-386 for live performances in controlled sound environments.

Can I use it with recording software and DAWs?

Yes, the Lauten Audio LT-386 is compatible with various recording software and digital audio workstations (DAWs) on both Windows and Mac platforms, provided you have the necessary audio interface and setup.

Is there a carrying case included for transport and storage?

The Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone package may include a protective carrying case for convenient transport and safe storage.

What type of connector does it use?

The Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone typically uses an XLR connector, which is a standard for professional microphones and audio equipment.

Is there a warranty for the Lauten Audio LT-386 Condenser Microphone?

Warranties often range from 1 year to 5 years or more for the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone.

Where can I purchase the Lauten Audio LT-386 Condenser Microphone?

You can typically purchase the Lauten Audio LT-386 Condenser Microphone from authorized Lauten Audio dealers, music stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive genuine products.

Does it come with a shock mount or pop filter?

Some packages of the Lauten Audio LT-386 microphone may include a shock mount, but it's important to check the product listing or package contents to confirm if these accessories are included. A pop filter may be purchased separately.

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