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Description

Elevate your studio recordings with the M-Audio PULSAR II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones. These microphones are precision-engineered for musicians and recording enthusiasts who demand both quality and versatility. Perfectly matched for stereo recording, they capture every nuance of your sound, from the subtle harmonics of an acoustic guitar to the dynamic range of a full drum kit.

With a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, the M-Audio PULSAR II microphones offer transformerless FET electronics for exceptionally low noise and minimal coloration, ensuring your recordings maintain their natural clarity. Their solid brass bodies and built-in internal shockmounts provide durability and reduce handling noise, making them a reliable choice for both studio and live settings.

The microphones come with a comprehensive accessory package, including a wooden storage case, stereo bar, hard mounts, and windscreens, so you're ready to record in either XY or ORTF configurations right out of the box. Whether you're capturing the warmth of a solo performance or the complexity of an ensemble, the M-Audio PULSAR II microphones adapt with ease, thanks to a switchable 10dB pad and an 80Hz low-cut filter.

Key Features:

  • Matched pair of small-diaphragm condenser microphones
  • Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
  • Transformerless FET electronics for low noise and minimal coloration
  • Solid brass bodies with built-in shockmounts
  • Includes wooden storage case, stereo bar, hard mounts, and windscreens
  • Switchable 10dB pad and 80Hz low-cut filter for versatile recording options

Product specs

Brand M-Audio
Model Pulsar II Small Diaphragm Condenser Mics - Matched Pair
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Microphones

FAQs

What are the main applications for the M-Audio PULSAR II Matched Pair microphones?

The M-Audio PULSAR II Matched Pair is ideal for stereo recording applications such as capturing acoustic instruments, overheads for drums, and ensembles, providing precise and detailed sound reproduction.

Do the M-Audio PULSAR II microphones require phantom power?

Yes, the M-Audio PULSAR II Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones require phantom power to operate, as is standard for most condenser microphones.

What advantages does a matched pair of small-diaphragm condensers offer?

A matched pair ensures consistent sound quality and balance between the two microphones, making them ideal for stereo recording applications where uniformity is crucial.

Are the M-Audio PULSAR II microphones suitable for recording vocals?

While primarily designed for instruments, the M-Audio PULSAR II can capture vocals with clarity, though they may emphasize sibilance and consonants more than large-diaphragm condensers.

What kind of polar pattern do the M-Audio PULSAR II microphones have?

The M-Audio PULSAR II microphones feature a cardioid polar pattern, which helps to isolate the sound source and reduce the pickup of ambient noise.

BrunoBaudewyns

BrunoBaudewyns

Silent Night Jazz Guitar : Quick Test Of The Microphone Pulsar II By M-Audio

Video thumbnail for Silent Night Jazz Guitar : Quick Test Of The Microphone Pulsar II By M-Audio by BrunoBaudewyns

Silent Night Jazz Guitar : Quick Test Of The Microphone Pulsar II By M-Audio

BrunoBaudewyns

BrunoBaudewyns

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Pulsar II with Getinthemix.com @ The NAMM Show 2013 by GetintheMix

M-Audio Pulsar II with Getinthemix.com @ The NAMM Show 2013

GetintheMix

GetintheMix

Video thumbnail for Haggertys Music - Review of the M-Audio Pulsar II Microphones by haggertysmusic

Haggertys Music - Review of the M-Audio Pulsar II Microphones

haggertysmusic

haggertysmusic

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio PULSAR II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones.

Comparisons

  • Owners find M-Audio PULSAR II mics to be less noisy and more neutral than MXL 991, highlighting a preference for the PULSAR II in professional settings.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Capsule contamination from humidity and dust can cause rumbling noise in MXL mics; drying them with desiccant may resolve the issue.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report occasional noise issues with MXL 993 mics, with one mic frequently becoming noisy and then returning to normal, indicating potential reliability concerns.

    Source

Critic Reviews

M-Audio Pulsar II

soundonsound.com

The M-Audio Pulsar II matched pair microphones impress with their transparent sound quality and versatility, making them a solid choice for musicians on a budget. They deliver crisp and clear recordings for various instruments, including acoustic guitar and percussion, and perform well for vocal recording with a pop shield. While the absence of shockmounts is a downside, the included accessories and thoughtful design make up for it. The mics are well-engineered, offering a flat frequency response and a robust build. Overall, the Pulsar II provides excellent value for money and stands strong against its competitors.

positive

M-Audio Pulsar II Microphone (Stereo Pair) – The Audio Magazine

theaudiomagazine.com

The M-Audio Pulsar II microphones offer a budget-friendly option for those seeking a matched pair of small-diaphragm condensers. Priced around $300, they impress with low self-noise and 1dB matching, making them suitable for ambient micing tasks. However, the review notes significant drawbacks with the poorly designed microphone clips, necessitating immediate replacement for practical use. While the Pulsar II provides a decent representation of drums and percussion, its performance on acoustic guitar is less satisfactory, described as recessed and hi-fi rather than warm. Overall, they bridge the gap between entry-level and professional microphones, but with notable compromises.

Review: M-Audio Pulsar II : Ask.Audio

ask.audio

The M-Audio Pulsar II matched pair offers stellar value with high-quality stereo recording capabilities at a budget-friendly price of $199. These small-diaphragm condenser mics excel in handling smooth highs and provide a neutral overall balance, though they lean slightly thin in the low end. Perfect for stereo applications like drum overheads and acoustic instruments, their performance rivals mics that are significantly more expensive. While they show minor limitations in low frequencies, this can be easily adjusted with EQ. Overall, these mics are a smart choice for both home recordists and professional engineers needing an affordable, versatile pair.

positive

M-Audio Pulsar II review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The M-Audio PULSAR II microphones receive high praise for their versatility and value. Ideal for recording acoustic guitar and drums, these mics offer punchy yet warm tones. Improved construction and additional features like a 10dB pad and high-pass filter enhance their appeal. While the switches may be small and recessed, the overall package is a great choice for those seeking a clean, unfussy mic for various recording scenarios. With a robust build and reasonable price, the PULSAR II is an excellent option for musicians looking to expand their recording toolkit.

positive

macProVideo.com

macprovideo.com

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Barry White uses M-Audio PULSAR II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones

Barry White

Composer, Music Producer

Love Unlimited Orchestra

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Barry White - Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" by Alan Diego Garcia, Barry White is seen using the M-Audio PULSAR II Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones during his performance.

Genre Usage

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