Lewitt LCT 040 Diaphragm Condenser Microphone User Guide

: June 13, 2024
: LEWITT

Table of Contents

Lewitt LCT 040 Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Introduction
Specifications
What’s in the Box
Features
How to Use
Applications
Troubleshooting
FAQs
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

Lewitt LCT 040 Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Lewitt-LCT-040-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphone-product

Introduction

The Lewitt LCT 040 is a compact and versatile diaphragm condenser microphone designed for professional audio recording applications. It delivers high- quality audio capture with a focus on accuracy and versatility. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the specifications, what’s included in the package, key features, how to use the microphone, safety guidelines, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting techniques.

Specifications

Microphone Type: Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 20 kHz
Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV)
Maximum SPL: 135 dB (0.5% THD)
Self-Noise: 17 dB-A
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 77 dB-A
Dynamic Range: 118 dB-A
Output Impedance: <150 ohms
Power Requirement: 48V Phantom Power
Connector: 3-pin XLR
Dimensions: 128 x 52 x 36 mm (5.04 x 2.05 x 1.42 inches)
Weight: 210 g (7.41 oz)

What’s in the Box

1 x Lewitt LCT 040 Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
1 x Shock Mount
1 x Foam Windscreen
1 x User Manual

Features

The LCT 040 MATCH is a professional condenser microphone with incredibly detailed sound. It serves to create straightforward instrument recordings, while its compact design allows for free positioning with minimum space requirements.

Key Features

Exceptional Sound: The LCT 040 provides a wide frequency response and cardioid polar pattern, ensuring accurate and detailed sound capture, making it suitable for a variety of recording applications.
Compact Design: Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to position and transport, making it ideal for both studio and on-location recording.
Shock Mount: The included shock mount minimizes vibrations and handling noise, ensuring clean and clear recordings.
Phantom Power: The microphone requires 48V phantom power for operation, ensuring a strong and consistent signal.
Durable Construction: The microphone is built with high-quality materials, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use.

Setup

Lewitt-LCT-040-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphone-fig-1

How to Use

Connectivity: Use a standard XLR cable to connect the LCT 040 to an audio interface or mixer with 48V phantom power.
Positioning: Position the microphone appropriately for your recording source. The cardioid polar pattern is ideal for capturing sound from the front while minimizing background noise.
Phantom Power: Ensure that your audio interface or mixer provides 48V phantom power, as the LCT 040 requires it for operation.
Monitoring: Connect headphones to your audio interface or mixer to monitor the microphone’s output in real-time.

Safety Guidelines

Read the User Manual: Start by thoroughly reading and understanding the user manual provided by the manufacturer. The manual will provide you with essential safety information, operating instructions, and maintenance guidelines.
Handling: Handle the microphone with care to prevent physical damage. Avoid dropping, striking, or subjecting it to mechanical shock.
Environmental Conditions: Use the microphone within the recommended temperature and humidity ranges specified in the user manual. Extreme conditions can affect its performance and lifespan.
Microphone Stand Safety: If you are using a microphone stand, ensure it is stable and properly secured to prevent the microphone from falling or tipping over.
Cable Management: Securely fasten all cables and connectors to prevent tripping hazards and avoid strain on the microphone and its connections.
Children and Pets: Keep the microphone and its cables out of the reach of children and pets. Small parts and cables can be a choking hazard, and pets may chew on cords.
Electrical Outlet Safety: Be cautious when connecting or disconnecting the microphone from audio equipment to avoid electrical shock. Ensure that the equipment is powered off before making or changing connections.
Phantom Power: If the Lewitt LCT 040 requires phantom power (typically +48V), ensure that your audio interface or mixer is capable of providing the correct voltage. Use the appropriate cables to connect the microphone to the audio interface.
Shock Mount and Pop Filter: If the microphone comes with a shock mount and pop filter, use them as recommended to reduce vibrations, handling noise, and plosive sounds during recording.
Cleaning: If cleaning is necessary, use a soft, dry cloth to clean the microphone’s exterior. Avoid using abrasive or liquid cleaners, which can damage the microphone.
Protective Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in its protective case or a safe location to prevent dust, dirt, and physical damage.
Firmware and Software Updates: Periodically check for firmware or software updates provided by the manufacturer to ensure that your device operates safely and efficiently.
Warranty and Support: Register your product and be aware of the warranty terms provided by the manufacturer. If you encounter any issues or problems with the microphone, contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance.

Maintenance

Keep it Clean: Clean the exterior of the microphone with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust, fingerprints, and smudges. Avoid abrasive or harsh cleaning materials.
Protect from Moisture and Liquids: Keep the microphone away from liquids and moisture. Do not expose it to rain, spills, or condensation, as moisture can damage the sensitive components.
Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in a protective carrying case or pouch to prevent dust and physical damage.
Handling: Always handle the microphone with clean and dry hands to prevent transferring oils, dirt, or moisture onto the microphone’s surface.
Phantom Power: If your LCT 040 microphone requires phantom power, ensure that your audio interface or mixer provides the correct +48V phantom power. Use quality XLR cables to connect the microphone.
Wind Protection: When recording outdoors or in environments with air movement, use a windscreen or pop filter to reduce plosive sounds and protect the microphone from wind gusts.
Transportation: When transporting the microphone, use a padded carrying case to protect it from shocks and impacts. Secure any connected cables to prevent damage.
Cable Care: Inspect the microphone cable regularly for any signs of wear, damage, or exposed wires. Replace damaged cables promptly to avoid interference or electrical issues.
Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the microphone for any loose screws or physical damage. Tighten loose parts as needed or seek professional repair if necessary.
Firmware and Software Updates: If applicable, check for firmware updates for your microphone model on the manufacturer’s website. Updating the microphone’s firmware can improve its performance.
Professional Maintenance: If you encounter performance issues or unusual behavior with the microphone, consider sending it to an authorized service center or technician for professional maintenance and calibration.

Applications

The LCT 040 MATCH, a microphone with a small condenser capsule, captures acoustic instruments in a very detailed way. With its excellent transient response, it quickly reacts to sound, leading to a crisp and clear character.

Acoustic guitar
Point the microphone towards the 12th fret area of the guitar for a nice balance of bass and sparkle

Snare bottom
Mirror the position of snare top and bottom microphone to avoid phasing. Try, if inverting the phase of the bottom mic gives a fuller sound.

Hi-hat
Position the microphone above the hi-hat. Vary between center and edge of the hi-hat for different tones.

Please note
To maintain the best sound, avoid exposing the microphone to moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures. When unplugging the microphone, do not pull the cable, use the connector. Do not attempt to repair the microphone yourself as this would void your warranty.

Troubleshooting

Problem 1: No Sound or Low Output Level

Solution:

1. Check the microphone cable to ensure it’s securely connected to the microphone and the audio interface or mixer.
2. Verify that the microphone is receiving phantom power if required (typically +48V). Ensure the phantom power is activated on your audio interface or mixer.
3. Ensure that the audio interface or mixer’s input gain is set to an appropriate level. Gradually increase the gain until the desired output level is achieved.

Problem 2: Distorted or Clipping Audio

Solution:

1. Lower the input gain on your audio interface or mixer to prevent audio clipping. If the input level is too high, it can result in distorted audio.
2. Check for any signal processing or effects applied to the microphone input channel and adjust as needed to avoid distortion.

Problem 3: Excessive Background Noise or Hiss

Solution:

1. Ensure that the room you are recording in is quiet and free from excessive ambient noise.
2. Adjust the microphone’s polar pattern, if possible, to minimize pickup of unwanted noise sources.
3. Use acoustic treatment, such as soundproofing or diffusers, to reduce reflections and background noise in your recording space.

Problem 4: Uneven or Muffled Sound

Solution:

1. Check the microphone’s placement and angle. Ensure it is positioned correctly in front of the sound source and at an appropriate distance.
2. Experiment with different microphone polar patterns, if available, to find the one that best captures the sound source.
3. Consider using a pop filter or windscreen to reduce plosive sounds and improve clarity.

Problem 5: Intermittent Connection or Dropouts

Solution:

1. Inspect the microphone cable for damage or loose connections. Replace the cable if necessary.
2. Check the connectors on both ends of the cable (microphone and audio interface/mixer) to ensure they are clean and free from debris.
3. Test the microphone with a different cable and audio interface or mixer to rule out equipment issues.

Problem 6: Noisy Microphone Stand or Handling Noise

Solution:

1. Ensure that the microphone stand is stable and securely positioned. Tighten all knobs and joints to prevent unwanted vibrations.
2. Use a shock mount to isolate the microphone from vibrations and handling noise.

Problem 7: Uneven Frequency Response

Solution:

1. Check the microphone’s frequency response settings if applicable. Some microphones have switches or settings that allow you to tailor the frequency response to your needs.
2. Experiment with microphone positioning and room acoustics to achieve the desired frequency balance

FAQs

What is the Lewitt LCT 040 Diaphragm Condenser Microphone?

The Lewitt LCT 040 is a high-quality diaphragm condenser microphone designed for professional audio recording and broadcasting.

What type of microphone is the Lewitt LCT 040?

The Lewitt LCT 040 is a condenser microphone, known for its accuracy and sensitivity, making it ideal for capturing vocals and instruments with clarity.

Is the Lewitt LCT 040 suitable for studio recording?

Yes, the Lewitt LCT 040 is designed for studio recording and offers exceptional sound quality for various applications.

What is the frequency response of the Lewitt LCT 040?

The Lewitt LCT 040 has a wide frequency response range, typically between 20Hz and 20kHz, ensuring accurate audio reproduction.

Does the Lewitt LCT 040 require phantom power?

Yes, the Lewitt LCT 040 requires +48V phantom power to operate. Make sure your audio interface or mixer can provide this power.

Can I use the Lewitt LCT 040 for live performances?

While it's primarily designed for studio use, the Lewitt LCT 040 can be used for live performances if you have the necessary equipment and setup.

What type of polar patterns does the Lewitt LCT 040 support?

The Lewitt LCT 040 offers a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for isolating sound sources and minimizing background noise.

Is there a shock mount included with the Lewitt LCT 040 microphone?

The shock mount is typically sold separately, but it is recommended for reducing vibrations and handling noise during recording.