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Sound Pure's Take

The Earthworks QTC1 is all about one thing: absolute honesty.

This is a microphone designed to get out of the way and capture exactly what’s in front of it, with a level of speed and accuracy that’s hard to overstate. Transients are incredibly detailed, the frequency response is exceptionally flat, and the sense of realism it delivers can be almost startling—especially on acoustic instruments and natural spaces.

What makes the QTC1 special isn’t hype or coloration—it’s precision. You’re not getting added warmth or built-in character here. Instead, you’re getting a true representation of the source, which makes it an invaluable tool when transparency matters most. Whether you’re recording classical music, acoustic performances, percussion, or room ambience, it captures nuance in a way that feels immediate and lifelike.

That level of detail also makes it a powerful problem-solver. If something doesn’t sound right, the QTC1 will tell you—clearly. But when everything is dialed in, the results are incredibly rewarding.

For engineers who value accuracy, realism, and pristine capture, the Earthworks QTC1 is a microphone that consistently delivers exactly what you put in—nothing more, nothing less.

From Earthworks

The Earthworks QTC1 Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone Stereo Pair is a game-changer for studio recording enthusiasts seeking unparalleled sound clarity and precision. With Earthworks' Quiet Time Coherent (QTC) technology, these mics are engineered to capture the subtle nuances of quiet audio sources like vocals, strings, and acoustic instruments without introducing noise. The omnidirectional polar pattern ensures an even capture across all angles, making it an ideal choice for drum overheads, orchestras, and choir recordings.

These microphones boast an impressive frequency range from 3 Hz to 40 kHz, offering a super-fast transient response that captures every sonic detail with accuracy and realism. This feature allows the mics to handle high sound pressure levels up to 142dB without distortion, ensuring your recordings remain clear and uncolored even in loud environments. The QTC1s are perfectly matched in sensitivity and frequency response, providing a coherent and balanced recording experience.

Their flat frequency response and fast impulse response make them an excellent tool for both professional studios and home recording setups that demand high definition and precise sound reproduction. Whether you're recording for sound design or live performances, the QTC1s deliver the tonal purity and low noise floor that audiophiles and professional musicians crave.

Key Features:

  • Matched pair of omnidirectional condenser microphones
  • Frequency response: 3 Hz to 40 kHz
  • Handles sound levels up to 142dB
  • Requires 48V Phantom Power
  • Extremely low noise floor
  • Ideal for capturing vocals, strings, choirs, and acoustic instruments
  • Fast transient response ensures minimal distortion
Microphone Type
Condenser
Mono/Stereo
Stereo Pair
Polar Pattern
Omnidirectional
Frequency Response
3Hz-40kHz
Max SPL
140dB SPL
Output Impedance
65 ohms
Self Noise
20dB (A weighted)
Connector
XLR
Weight
0.5 lbs.
Included Accessories
Hard Case, Mic Clips

Warranty

This item is sold without the Sound Pure 3-year warranty (used / B-stock / dealer-exempt). Coverage terms for items in this category live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.

Returns

Try Before You Buy: take it home, commit only when it's right. Program details →

Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.