Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $97
Budget/Beginner
$499
$1500+
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Aston Element". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Aston Element: A Microphone Shaped by the Collective Voice of Music
Stepping into the limelight as the world's first crowdsourced microphone, the Aston Element is the result of a unique collaboration between Aston Microphones and the global music community. Over 2,000 musicians, engineers, and producers contributed their ears and expertise to fine-tune this exceptional device, generating over 36,000 data points which Aston used to create a microphone that truly stands out in the industry.
The Element is not just another microphone; it's a revolution in recording technology. Aston has redefined the standard by engineering their own innovative Ridyon capsule from scratch, crafting a mic that is distinct from dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphone elements. As a result, the Element boasts a full, wide-ranging response with impeccable transient detail, delivering a vibrant sound that is perfect for lead vocals.
This active moving-coil microphone is the first of its kind, blending the sensitivity of a condenser, the low-end punch of a dynamic, and the smooth, natural sound of a ribbon. The microphone's operation is indicated by a cool, illuminated logo that comes alive when phantom power is engaged. With the Element, Aston has truly listened to the voice of the people, and the result is a microphone with a sound as diverse and dynamic as the community that helped to shape it.
Key Features:
- World's first microphone developed through crowdsourcing
- Unique Ridyon capsule technology distinct from condenser, dynamic, and ribbon capsules
- Side address, cardioid polar pattern
- Extended bass and fast transient response for a full, detailed sound
- Perfect for home studio use, rugged enough for stage use
- Includes microphone, proprietary shock mount, and magnetic pop filter
- Requires phantom power for operation
Product specs
| Brand | Aston |
| Model | Element Cardioid Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2020 - 2025 |
| Categories | Microphones |
| Electronics | Analog, Solid State |
| Microphone Type | Large-Diaphragm Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Wired/Wireless | Wired |
FAQs
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Does the Aston Element microphone require phantom power?
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Yes, the Aston Element microphone requires 48v phantom power to operate. The logo badge on the microphone glows purple when it is receiving the necessary power.
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What is the polar pattern of the Aston Element microphone?
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The Aston Element features a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for isolating the main sound source and minimizing background noise, making it great for studio recording.
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What frequency response does the Aston Element microphone offer?
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The Aston Element microphone provides a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, allowing it to capture a wide range of audio frequencies with clarity and detail.
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Is the Aston Element microphone suitable for home studio recording?
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Yes, the Aston Element is well-suited for home studio recording due to its cardioid polar pattern and wide frequency response, making it versatile for vocals and various instruments.
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How does the Aston Element microphone handle self-noise?
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The Aston Element is designed with extremely low self-noise, ensuring clean recordings without unwanted hiss or interference, even in quiet recording environments.
Videos
Podcastage
Aston Element Mic Review / Test (Compared to SM7b, Procaster, M160)
Reviews
PROS
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Superb vocal clarity, captures pure sounds accurately
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Exceptional top end, silky and airy without being peaky
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Unique diaphragm/capsule design offers differentiated dynamic range
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Crowd-sourced development with input from top engineers
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Innovative design with proprietary mount and magnetic pop filter
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Great value for the price, especially for home studios
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Versatile for different sources: voice, instruments, live mixes
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Robust build quality; survived a fall without damage
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Low self-noise, captures true sound with zero noise
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Magnetic pop filter is simple and practical
CONS
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Shock mount doesn't secure the mic well, prone to falling
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Packaging perceived as unprofessional, not suitable for serious studios
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Requires significant gain for decent recording levels
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Sound can be boomy, requiring post-recording EQ adjustment
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Non-traditional design may not appeal to all users
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Not as versatile as expected for some users
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Requires phantom power, caution needed with non-compatible mics
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Magnetic pop filter less effective at preventing plosives than traditional methods
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Aston Element.
Comparisons
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The Aston Element is noted for its unique sound as an active dynamic mic, better for instruments and vocals than voiceover compared to the MXL 990.
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Use cases and applications
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The Aston Element reportedly excels with brash vocal styles and performs well with a guitalele, indicating versatility in handling various sound sources.
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The MXL 990, while criticized for being tinny and harsh, still finds utility in specific recording scenarios, especially when modded or used with suitable instruments.
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Value and pricing
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The Mackie Element, purchased for $60, was considered a cost-effective option, providing value through included accessories like a shock mount and XLR cable.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings
78
Clarity for value of money
I’ve recorded 4 different vocal lines so far with this at different pitch ranges and in two different vocal approaches from rap and straight up rnb soul funk disco. The clarity and breadth is stunning for the price. I love the funky design too and the magnetic pop shield is a great idea.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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