M 160 Dynamic Double-Ribbon Microphone
SKU: BD730165
Description
M 160 - A Double-Ribbon Microphone that stands alone – Handmade in Germany
Updated 2023 iteration:
Hint# Looking to Mic up a drum kit?
Then check out our 6 part video series on drum miking, we explain what to look for and which mic is best for which instrument.
Like its famous users, the M 160 has achieved cult status. The M 160 impresses with its flexible application options. In addition to drum and amp miking, the wide frequency response and fine-detailing sound also comes into effect on acoustic guitars, brass instruments, and string instruments. Its outstanding technical properties make it predestined for use on other gear such as electric guitar amplifiers, Hihats or overhead.
The dynamic double-ribbon microphone is unique in terms of sound, production, and history. A special feature of the M 160 is its polar pattern. Due to its hypercardioid polar pattern, which is unusual for ribbon microphones, the M 160 is less susceptible to ambient noise, as it reduces background noise by 25 dB at 110° and picks up less sound from behind.
This makes it ideal primarily for the studio, but also on stage. Together with the M 130 double-ribbon microphone (polar pattern: figure-eight), the M 160 can be used for M/S miking.
Due to the M160s extremely complex production process, since 1957 the microphone has, and can only be made by hand by a few employees of beyerdynamic at the company's location in Heilbronn, Germany.
In 2019. The M 160 was Inducted into the NAMM TEC Awards Technology Hall of Fame
FEATURES
- Balanced treble, high impulse fidelity & very good transient reproduction
- Iconic dynamic double-ribbon microphone with warm and silky sound
- Exceptional on electric guitar amp, Hihat and overhead
- Hypercardioid polar pattern
- Handmade since 1957
SPECIFICATIONS
- Transducer type: Dynamic
- Operating principle: Pressure gradient
- Frequency response: 40 - 18,000 Hz
- Polar pattern: Hypercardioid
- Rear attenuation at 1 kHz: > 25 dB at 110°
- Sensitivity (0 dB = 1 V/Pa): .1.0 mV/Pa (= -60 dBV)
- Nominal impedance: 200 Ω
- Load impedance: ≥ 1000 Ω
- Diaphragm: Pure aluminium
- Case/finish: Brass
- Connector: XLR, 3-pin, male
DIMENSIONS
- Length: 164 mm
- Shaft diameter: 23 mm
- Head diameter: 38 mm
- Weight: 192 g
SUPPLIED ACCESSORY
MA-CL 25 Microphone clamp with 3/8" internal thread,
with internal diameter of 25 mm . . Order # 727.954
Soft protective storage case to protect your investment.
Shipping & same day dispatch Australia-wide, on orders placed by 12noon (AEST). 2-3 days to most capital cities and metro areas.
M 160
Double-Ribbon Microphone
The multi-award-winning M 160 dynamic double-ribbon microphone is exceptional in its sound and manufacturing: intricate handmade craftsmanship meets unique technical features. Affectionately known as a “gem”, the M 160 has enriched hit after hit with a sound character that has very little tonal colouring.
A precise bass response, warm mids and silkily elegant trebles merge together to form a very unique sound. Those who are familiar with this microphone will know: there is no alternative to the M 160.
Softens harsh sounds
The M 160 is ideal for miking electric guitar amps. This is due not only to its hypercardioid polar pattern, which is unique among ribbon microphones, but also to its special sound character.
The M 160 delivers a warm but nevertheless natural sound. In addition, the M 160 easily masters the high sound pressures of a guitar amp and provides
a signal that is perfect for processing.
For every application
The M 160 is an exceptionally versatile member of the ribbon microphone family. Its high-definition sound and wide frequency response of 40–18,000 Hz take effect when miking not only drums and amps, but also acoustic guitars, brass instruments and strings.
In combination with a wind shield, the M 160 is a great choice for those who wish to give their voice a warm, vintage sound. Together with the dynamic double-ribbon M 130 which has a figure-eight polar pattern, the M 160 can also be used for M/S recording.
A VERY SPECIAL MIC
The only one on the market
The M 160 is the only double-ribbon microphone with a hypercardioid polar pattern on the market. This polar pattern prioritises sound coming from the front, while most of the signals from the sides and some from the back are reduced. Rear attenuation is 25 dB at 110° and 250°.
This ensures excellent channel separation. Thanks to this technical refinement, the warm sound of a ribbon can be used in completely new situations.
Use-Optimised Ribbon
Thanks to its compact dimensions and low weight, the M 160 is impressively easy to position in any situation. It is also uniquely robust for a ribbon microphone.
It is thus one of the few of its kind used on loud live stages, even though it has been established as a studio standard. This classic microphone now comes safely stored in a sturdy hard case.
Made in Germany
As with all microphones in the M series, they are handmade at the company headquarters in Heilbronn, Germany.
From the diaphragm and the dynamic transducer to the microphone grille – acoustically relevant components are intricately made in-house rather than being bought in.
This method, which is unusual in the industry, allows us to maintain control over the entire production process.
HANDMADE
Our M Series microphones are designed for daily use in professional conditions, which is why only durable materials are used in their construction.
If the microphone nevertheless gets damaged, our service policy means that we can replace almost every part.
An investment, not just a purchase!
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