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Sanken CU-51

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Page last updated Sep 28, 2025

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The Sanken CU-51 is a dual-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for discerning audio professionals and recording enthusiasts. Engineered with precision, this microphone captures the intricate nuances of any performance, whether in a studio or live setting. The CU-51 boasts a unique dual-capsule design, which allows it to deliver an exceptionally wide frequency response and remarkable clarity across the board. With its advanced capsule technology, the CU-51 excels in providing a transparent and natural sound reproduction, making it an ideal choice for vocal recordings as well as capturing the subtleties of acoustic instruments.

The CU-51's robust build ensures durability while maintaining a sleek and professional appearance. Designed with versatility in mind, this condenser microphone offers a cardioid polar pattern, effectively minimizing unwanted ambient noise and focusing on the sound source. Its low self-noise and high sensitivity are perfect for capturing even the quietest passages with pristine detail.

Whether you're recording in a professional studio or setting up a home recording space, the Sanken CU-51 is a reliable piece of gear that will elevate your audio projects. Its ease of use and adaptability make it a favorite among musicians and audio engineers alike.

Key Features:

Dual-diaphragm condenser microphone
Wide frequency response and natural sound reproduction
Cardioid polar pattern for focused sound capture
Low self-noise level
High sensitivity for detailed recordings
Durable design suitable for studio and live applications

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Booth Junkie

SANKEN CU-51 Dual Capsule Cardioid!

Booth Junkie

Sanken CU51 - AES 2016

Sound On Sound magazine

Sanken Chromatic CU-51 Dual-Capsule Cardioid Mic

Sanken Chromatic

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Critic Reviews

Sanken's CU-51 mic: Ugly Duckling or Swan? - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

While the Sanken CU-51 mic boasts innovative dual diaphragm technology aimed at delivering transparent sound and minimal off-axis coloration, its aesthetics leave much to be desired. Dubbed "boring and ugly," the design feels outdated, resembling a rushed prototype rather than a polished studio mic. Despite its promising sound capabilities, the review raises doubts about whether it can truly deliver on its claims. At a hefty price tag around 2,400 EUR, the CU-51 may struggle to win over musicians looking for both performance and visual appeal. Ultimately, it appears Sanken's latest may be more of a functional tool than a desirable piece of gear.

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Josh Homme

Guitarist

Kyuss

Verified via AudioTechnology

Used for vocals on Villains, as stated by co-producer and engineer Mark Rankin in this October 26, 2017 AudioTechnology interview.

When it came time to record Homme’s final vocals, Rankin said there were three different schools of thought: “One was the upfront, clean condenser — a Sanken CU51; a ribbon for a bit of character — an RCA 44; and sometimes an old dynamic like an Electro-Voice. The Sanken has two capsules. United had one and it was insanely good; I wanted to use it for everything. The RCA44 ribbon also sounded fantastic. United have copies that have been there since they bought them new, and they’re really well looked after. Sometimes we’d use an Electro-Voice dynamic, purposely trying to get a harder, harsh sound.”

He would put either an Eventide 910 or 949 Harmonizer in the chain. “It’s a favourite,” said Rankin. “A little bit of delay and a little bit of pitch gives that really good fake room sound.” That balance between dryness and space was pretty critical. “A lot of times we’re letting the low end of the drums or the bass be the big thing and keeping guitars small. We’d have a the 949 on the vocal a lot, and then the guitars will be out wide. If we got to the point where it felt like we needed some space, we would just send something out into the room at United and record the room. It’s like the Ocean Way plug-in on UAD. Because the rooms sounds so good, you’ll fire something out on the PA, record it back on the ambient mics and all of a sudden it works.”