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Are you looking for a microphone that will capture the sounds of your creativity with crystal clarity? The Aston Element is the perfect choice, like a diamond in the audio recording industry.
With its cardioid polar pattern, 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response, and low noise level, it promises pristine sound whether you’re recording vocals, guitar amps, or acoustic guitars.
Read on for a comprehensive review of the Aston Element, so you can decide if it’s the right mic for you.
Key Takeaways
- The low end of the Aston Element microphone is muddy and requires a hi-pass filter for usable sound.
- Once a hi-pass filter is engaged, the captured sounds are fine.
- Considering the performance, it may be better to invest in two less expensive microphones.
- The microphone’s verdict is not justifiable based on its performance.
Performance and Verdict
How well does the Aston Element perform?
The low end is muddy and requires a hi-pass filter for usable sound. Once engaged, the sound is fine, but it may be worth considering two less expensive microphones.
Price and value analysis of the Aston Element isn’t justifiable, and it may not be the best choice for studio recordings.
Compared to other microphones, the polar pattern and frequency response are satisfactory, but the distortion is noticeable at high volumes.
For vocals, a hi-pass filter is necessary, and it isn’t suitable for live performances.
For guitar amps, a hi-pass filter is recommended to reduce low frequencies, but the high end detail is decent.
Recording acoustic guitars isn’t recommended, as the sound is lifeless and dull.
Polar Pattern and Frequency Response
Moving on, the Aston Element features a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. It has an A-weighted equivalent noise level of 3.8 dBA and a sensitivity of 12mV/Pa at 1 kHz into 1 kOhm.
Though the microphone is suitable for some sound quality comparisons, it’s unsuitable for usage in live performances as distortion can be heard at a volume of 132 dB. Furthermore, the low frequencies are overbearing and require a hi-pass filter for better sound quality.
It’s important to note that the microphone isn’t recommended for recording acoustic guitars as it produces a dull, lifeless sound.
Studio Vocals
Continuing on, the Aston Element is suitable for studio vocals, but a hi-pass filter is necessary. Without the hi-pass filter, the sound becomes cluttered and muddled. The sound quality is significantly reduced, making it difficult to capture the desired vocal performance.
A-weighted equivalent noise level is 3.8 dBA, and distortion can be heard at a volume of 132 dB. To ensure the best quality sound, a hi-pass filter must be used.
The upper extension and breathy quality of the Aston Element makes it an interesting choice for studio vocals, but it isn’t recommended for live vocal performances.
Guitar Amps
Recording guitar amps with the Aston Element is a challenge, as low frequencies are overbearing and require a hi-pass filter. Detail and articulation in the high end are decent, though the sound can become cluttered without proper recording techniques.
Alternative options may be better suited for recording bass, as dynamic, non-condenser microphones often produce superior results.
While the Aston Element may be a viable choice in some cases, it isn’t the ideal microphone for capturing guitar amps. For best results, it’s recommended to use the microphone in conjunction with other microphones.
Acoustic Guitars
Unfortunately, recording acoustic guitars with the Aston Element isn’t a desirable choice, as the sound is lifeless and dull. The high end lacks detail and articulation, and the low end is muddy and requires a hi-pass filter for a usable sound.
Dynamic, non-condenser microphones often produce similar results, but other options are recommended for recording acoustic guitars. When comparing sound quality, alternative microphone recommendations should be taken into consideration.
Investing in two less expensive microphones could be a better option than one Aston Element, as it may not provide the desired sound quality.
Conclusion
The Aston Element microphone is quite impressive. Its cardioid polar pattern, frequency response, and noise level make it a great choice for studio recordings. It performs well with studio vocals, guitar amps, and acoustic guitars, delivering pristine sound.
It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone that captures pristine sound. So if you’re in the market for a microphone that can produce pristine sound, the Aston Element is definitely worth considering.
I’m thrilled to be able to share my passion for music with others through this audio blog, and I can’t wait to connect with fellow music lovers from all around the world. Let’s rock on!