Manley Reference Cardioid Microphone

I own a couple other large condenser microphones like the AKG C414 and Neumann U87Ai. The Manley is the first tube mic I've owned and I love the sound of the Manley the most for voice compared to the other two mics. Out of the gate it has a great warm sound that complements my voice.To add additional warmth and smooth out the tone I use the Rupert Neve Portico II Channel strip with the Manley Reference Cardiod. The Portico II is also a great sounding piece of equipment that works well with the Manley tube mic. I tried the Neumann U87Ai with the Portico II and couldn't get the same warm sound I get with the Manley.I also tried the Manley with an Avalon Designs VT737sp vacuum tube pre-amp channel strip, but I couldn't achieve the same great sound I found with the Portico II. In addition I tried the Neumann U87Ai with the Avalon to try an achieve the same great sound, but it didn't quite get there.These are all great pieces of gear that have their strengths, but I found a winning combo with the Manley Reference Cardiod and the Portico II.The Manley has a high max SPL of 150 dB, which is unique. Like all large diaphragm condenser mics, this one is also sensitive to breath pops, so I recommend a pop filter with it for vocals. That will also help keep moisture from reaching the sensitive diaphragm.It comes with an external power supply and special mic cable. There is a standard XLR output on the power supply to connect to your mixer or pre-amp. No additional phantom power is required since the power supply is providing power to the mic.The included carrying case is a great way to store or transport the mic, power supply, and cable. Extra silicone rings are included for holding the mic to the shock mount.Hear the mic in a voice over shootout by searching the web for "Manley reference shootout". There is a YouTube video where you can hear the Manley compared to other mics.Overall I'm very happy that I added the Reference Cardiod to my mic collection.

I've owned a Ref C for years now. It's never let me down. The build quality is robust. And the sonics are second to none. I remember plugging it in for the first time with a female vocalist with a HUGE voice and being blown away with how "finished" the vocals felt right away with out EQ. It's a piece of gear I have never had any regrets about buying.

Probably the best sounding mic around for vocal recording!! I have used many mic's at my hi-end recording studio here in LA and I have to say nothing sounds like the Manley Cardioid mic. It's also awesome on guitar, sax, violin almost anything you put through it. Be sure to use it with the VoxBox!

It's a top tier Microphone that excels with bright/modern vocal sounds. It's the real deal. It sonically competes with microphones twice the price.

This is definitely the first microphone that you buy with nothing but sound in mind. It’s not a “budget mic” but it is THE CHEAPEST you can buy and really actually have great sounds coming back to you!!