Audix CX212B Condenser Microphone User Manual
- June 13, 2024
- AUDIX
Table of Contents
Audix CX212B Condenser Microphone
OVERVIEW
- The CX212B is a multi-pattern, dual diaphragm condenser microphone with a contemporary design and excellent performance characteristics. It is an exceptional tool for professional audio production, project studios, and live stage performances.
- Delivering a smooth, uniform frequency response from 20 Hz – 20 kHz, the CX212B offers a choice of three polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure 8. Additionally, the CX212B is equipped with a bass roll-off filter to help eliminate rumble in the lower frequencies.
- The CX212B, for use in SPL up to 133 dB, is ideal for a wide variety of acoustic instruments, vocals, string sections, ensembles, and ambient room miking. The CX212B, which is designed with discreet low-noise preamp circuitry, operates on 48 volts of phantom power. For optimum results use the CX212B with a high-quality preamplifier and microphone cable.
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES:
- Isolation shockmount (SMTCX112)
- Aluminum carrying case (CASECX)
- Adjustable one-piece metal clip (MC112)
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES:
- WSCX – External foam windscreen
- APS2 – Two-channel phantom power supply
- PD133 – Pop Diffuser
- TRIPOD – Tripod mic stand
FEATURES
- Multi-pattern: cardioid, omni, figure-8 Resistant to touch noise and vibration
- 35 mm (1.37”) Capsule
- 27.5 mm (1.08”) Gold vapor dual diaphragm Low noise electronics
- Rich, warm tones – ideal for digital recording Heavy duty isolation shockmount included Road case for mic and shockmount
- 3-year warranty
APPLICATIONS
- Studio vocals, lead, and backing
- Voice over
- Choir
- Ambient room mic
- Drum overheads
- Orchestra
- Bells, chimes, marimba, vibes
- Acoustic instruments
- piano, sax, strings, guitar, flute
- Electric guitar cabinets
SPECIFICATIONS
- Transducer Type: Condenser
- Capsule Technology: 27.5 mm / (1.08 in) Gold Vapor Diaphragm
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid / Omni / Figure 8
- Output Impedance: 120 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 14 mV / Pa @ 1k
- Equivalent Noise Floor: 19 dB (A-weighted)
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 75 dB
- Power Requirements: 48 volts phantom
- Maximum SPL: ≥133 dB
- Dynamic Range: 114 dB
- Cable/Connector: 3-pin gold-plated male XLR connector
- Polarity: Positive pressure on the diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3 of the output XLR connector
- Housing: Aluminum & Zinc Alloy
- Finish: Black satin
- Weight: 365 g / 12.9 ounces
- Length: 165 mm / 6.5 inches
-
ARCHITECT’S AND ENGINEER’S SPECIFICATIONS:
The microphone shall be of the condenser type with cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure 8 polar patterns. The microphone shall operate on 48-52 volts phantom power and the nominal output impedance shall be equal to 120 ohms at 1 kHz. The microphone shall have a sensitivity of 10 mV / Pa in all 3 pattern modes. The microphone shall have a maximum SPL level of ≥133 dB with a THD of 0.5%. The microphone shall have a fine steel mesh grill and a brass body 50 mm in diameter and 165 mm in length. The microphone shall be the Audix CX212B. -
OPERATION:
The CX212B is a low-impedance microphone and should be plugged into a “mic level” input on your console, mixer, or recording device. The CX212B requires phantom power and will NOT operate without phantom power voltage (48 Volts recommended) which is available on most professional mic preamps and mixing devices. If phantom power is not available on your equipment, you will have to procure a phantom power supply (such as the Audix APS2).
Avoid plugging or unplugging the microphone from the PA system unless the channel is muted or the volume of the system is turned down. Failure to do so may result in a loud “popping” noise which could seriously damage the speakers in the PA system. -
USER TIPS:
- The correct side: Note that the front of the microphone capsule is on the same side as the printing for the cardioid and Omni modes. In these modes, the front of the microphone should be facing the sound source. In figure 8 mode both the front and back sides of the microphone are active and produce the same patterns, so both sides of the microphone may be used to pick up multiple sound sources.
- Multi-patterns: The switch on the right-hand side of the microphone allows you to change the polar patterns of the microphone as follows:
- The switch in the furthest left position is the “Omni” pattern. This pattern means that the mic allows sound to be picked up from all directions.
- The switch in the middle position is “cardioid”. This pattern means the microphone will pick up from the front of the microphone in a heart-shaped pattern, rejecting sound from the rear side of the microphone.
- The switch in the furthest right position is “Figure 8”. This pattern means that the microphone will pick up from both the front and rear of the microphone in a figure 8 pattern.
-
BASS ROLL-OFF:
This feature allows you to change the frequency response of the CX212B and gently diminish the bass response from 300 Hz and below (-3dB at 120 Hz with a 12 dB per octave slope). The bass roll-off (also referred to as “attenuation”) is the switch on the left-hand side above the Audix logo. When the switch is all the way to the left (the “Flat” position), the bass roll-off is NOT engaged. In some cases, you will want to roll off or filter out the bass frequencies from your recording or performance. These frequencies can be controlled by external EQ, however, the advantage of having them on the microphone is it is much cleaner to control these frequencies at the mic level. In the case of live recording, the bass roll-off will help to eliminate unwanted boominess or rumble coming from other instruments on the stage (for example, the bass and bass drum). In the case of a recording environment, it will depend on the instrument or voice being recorded. The roll-off can help to eliminate plosives or popping from a vocal or it may be utilized to clean up the excessive bass frequencies from certain instruments. In any case, it is recommended to try “with” and “without” roll-off before making any final decisions. Further miking techniques may be found on our website at www.audixusa.com
DIMENSIONS (mm)
FREQUENCY / POLARS:
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
SERVICE AND WARRANTY:
This microphone is under warranty for a period of 3 years from any and all manufacturing defects. Should your microphone fail in any way, please contact the Audix Service department at 503-682-6933. A Return Authorization number is required before returning any products.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE:
The CX212B is manufactured to exacting specs with roadworthy construction. However, the capsule is highly sensitive and should be handled with care. Avoid extreme temperatures and be sure to store your microphone in the pouch provided when not in use. Moisture of any kind can adversely affect the sound and performance of your microphone.
www.audixusa.com 503-682-6933 Fax: 503-682-7114 Audix Corporation 9400 SW Barber St. Wilsonville, OR 97070
AUDIX WARRANTY REGISTRATION FORM
- Name:____ Model:___
- Company:____ Serial Number:
- Address:__ Store:____
- City:____ Store Location:
- Prov./State:_ Zip:___ Purchase Date:_____
- Phone: ( )___ Signature:_
- Email:____ Date:____
Demographic Information:
- Age: [ ] 18 or Under [ ] 19-25 [ ] 26-35 [ ] 36-45 [ ] 46-55 [ ] 55 +
- Gender: [ ] Male [ ] Female
Occupation:
- Musician
- Producer
- Sound Engineer
- Radio/TV
- Production
- Other ___
Primary Instruments:
- Vocal
- Guitar / Bass
- Drums
- Keyboard
- Brass
- Woodwinds
- Strings
- Other ___
Product Use:
- Pro live sound
- Pro Recording
- Home Recording
- Rehearsal
- Installation
- School
- House of Worship
- Other ___
How did you hear about Audix?
- Magazine Ad
- Online Ad
- Online Store
- Friend
- Other ___
Do you own other Audix Products?
- Yes
- No
- Model(s): ____
Have you visited the Audix website?
- Yes
- No
Please register your product online atwww.audixusa.com or mail this form to: Audix Microphones P.O. Box 4010 Wilsonville, OR 97070
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Audix CX212B Condenser Microphone?
The Audix CX212B is a condenser microphone known for its sound quality and versatility, designed for professional audio recording applications.
What distinguishes the CX212B microphone in its class?
The CX212B microphone is celebrated for its build quality, sensitivity, and its ability to capture audio with clarity and precision.
What type of microphone is the CX212B?
The Audix CX212B is a condenser microphone, favored for its sensitivity and suitability for studio-quality recording.
What is the primary use of the CX212B microphone?
The CX212B is commonly used for studio recording, including vocals, acoustic instruments, voiceovers, and various sound sources where high-quality audio capture is desired.
Does the CX212B require phantom power?
Yes, the CX212B condenser microphone typically requires phantom power (usually +48V) for proper operation. Ensure your audio interface or mixer can provide this power.
What is the included polar pattern of the CX212B microphone?
The CX212B often features selectable polar patterns, such as cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight, offering versatility for different recording scenarios.
What is the frequency response range of the CX212B?
The CX212B is designed to capture audio within a specific frequency response range 20Hz covering the essential sound spectrum.
Does the CX212B come with a shock mount or pop filter?
Some versions of the CX212B microphone may include a shock mount, but a pop filter is typically not included. These accessories can be added separately if needed.
Are there any included accessories with the CX212B microphone, such as a carrying case?
The package contents may vary, but some CX212B microphones come with a protective pouch or carrying case. Check the product listing for details.
Is the CX212B compatible with standard microphone stands and boom arms?
Yes, the CX212B typically features a standard microphone mount, making it compatible with most microphone stands and boom arms.
What is the warranty period for the CX212B microphone?
Warranty periods for the CX212B microphone may vary, but they often range from 1 year to several years.
Can I use the CX212B with recording software on my computer?
Yes, you can use the CX212B with recording software on your computer by connecting it to an appropriate audio interface or mixer.
Is the CX212B suitable for live performances?
While it's primarily designed for studio recording, some users may choose to use the CX212B for live performances, especially in controlled sound environments.
Are there any known compatibility issues with specific audio interfaces or recording software?
The CX212B is generally compatible with a wide range of audio interfaces and recording software, but it's advisable to check the product specifications and consult with the manufacturer for any specific compatibility concerns.
How should I care for and maintain the CX212B microphone?
Proper care includes protecting it from physical damage, keeping it clean, and storing it in a suitable carrying case when not in use. Refer to the user manual for detailed maintenance instructions.
Where can I purchase the Audix CX212B Condenser Microphone?
You can typically purchase the Audix CX212B Condenser Microphone from authorized audio equipment retailers, music stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive a genuine product.
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