Audix A127

For this first monthly microphone spotlight, I wanted to start on a high note with one of my favourite microphohes, the Audix A127. This high-end model, has recently launched after years of R&D and has really elevated their offering. As someone who studied classical music, I appreciate realistic reproductions of skilled musician performances. This microphone was designed specifically for this type of application.

The A127 is ideal for the refined world of orchestral recording. This omnidirectional mic is built around a newly designed electret capsule with a half-inch-diameter diaphragm, a size that yields the ideal balance between sensitivity, noise performance and pickup pattern consistency. The diaphragm is unusual in that it’s made from a thin (3-micron) metal film which provides improved transient response compared with the usual mylar. Finally, the transformerless circuitry yields excellent clarity, detail, and transient response.

The A127 specifications are impressive: the Equivalent Noise Level (EIN) is just 7dBA, 28mV/Pa sensitivity at 1kHz and THD of just 0.004 percent at 94dB SPL. Frequency response is ruler-flat up to 16kHz, at which point it begins to roll of very gently, being just 1dB down at 20kHz. Its omnidirectional pickup pattern is near perfect up to 1kHz, becoming just a little more directional above that.

I recommend using the A127 for both near and ambient field, choirs, orchestral ensembles, and pipe organs.