Avenson Audio ST0-2 Stereo Omni Microphones, from Avenson

Initially known as Stapes omnis, and stemming from from an article in the magazine Tape Op about a build-your-own microphone, the precursors to these mics were designed for a college acoustics course at the University of Texas at Austin. We were listening to these mics early on. We listened to some pre-production models of these mics, bitched a little, and sent them back. [Stapes even reimbursed us for our shipping costs.] They finally sent us a pair all finished up and dressed in a wooden box with the name "Avenson" branded on the top, with a red crushed velvet interior and the clipped mics packed in like a pair of Saturday Night Specials. We listened. We smiled. They'd gotten it right! These omni mics finally entered the production model stage known as the Avenson Audio ST0-2.

These STO-2's represent sonic performance not previously available in omni microphones in this price range - or any price range near it. After using, testing and listening to 50 different pairs of small condenser microphones on the market, we can confidently say that these microphones are one of the top values for any microphone under $1000 per pair.

*Transducer Type: 0.25" Electret condenser pressure

*Polar Pattern: Omni-Directional

*Output Level: 5.25 (mV/Pa)

*Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0/-2 db)

*Equivalent Noise (A-weighted): 28 dB

*Maximum SPL: 145 dB (with 48V powering)

*Output Impedance: 20?? (load ?? 1k?? )

*Power Requirements: P48 phantom power (~6 mA)

*Weight: 3.6 oz (100 g)

The graph looks a bit bumpy until you check out the scale. Mics are matched to within 1/2 dB difference in sensitivity. Then every set of mics goes through a final listening test.

The STO-2 is a pressure transducer. So are your ears. No Coincidence. We started out looking for a natural sounding mic and this is what we came up with.

Sold in matched pairs, (two ears right?) the STO-2's are perfect for capturing instruments that need no flattery. With a matched pair, stereo is no problem - Jecklin disk or spaced pair - it will sound like you are standing there.

Made in the USA from solid aluminum, the mics are built to withstand the rigors of the studio or the road. At only 5" long and 1" around they are easy to position and fit in standard mic clips.