Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $45

Budget/Beginner

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Elevate your recording experience with the Sterling Audio ST51 Condenser Microphone, a gem in the realm of studio gear. This microphone isn't just about capturing sound; it's about embracing the soul of your music. With its Neumann-style center-terminated capsule and uncompromising class-A FET electronics, the ST51 offers pristine clarity and a warm, balanced sound that's as true to life as it gets. Whether you're laying down vocal tracks, recording acoustic instruments, or capturing the ambience of a room, the ST51 stands ready to encapsulate every nuance of your performance. Its fixed cardioid pattern provides a focused pickup, minimizing background noise and emphasizing what matters most - your sound. Perfect for both budding musicians and seasoned professionals, the ST51 marries quality with affordability, ensuring your artistry shines through without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

  • Large diaphragm condenser microphone for superior sound quality
  • Neumann-style center-terminated capsule for detailed and natural sound reproduction
  • Class-A FET electronics ensure clear, warm, and balanced audio
  • Fixed cardioid pattern reduces background noise and isolates the main sound source
  • Output transformer optimizes signal integrity and provides professional-level output

Product specs

Brand Sterling Audio
Model ST51 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Microphones

FAQs

What is the polar pattern of the Sterling Audio ST51 Condenser Microphone?

The Sterling Audio ST51 features a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for capturing sound directly in front of the microphone while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear.

Does the Sterling Audio ST51 require phantom power?

Yes, the Sterling Audio ST51 is a condenser microphone and requires 48V phantom power to operate.

Is the Sterling Audio ST51 suitable for recording vocals?

The Sterling Audio ST51 is well-suited for vocal recordings, offering a smooth frequency response that captures the nuances of vocal performances effectively.

What is the frequency response range of the Sterling Audio ST51?

The Sterling Audio ST51 has a frequency response range tailored to capture a wide spectrum of sounds, making it suitable for various recording applications.

Can the Sterling Audio ST51 be used for instrument recording?

Yes, the Sterling Audio ST51 is versatile and can be used to record a range of instruments, providing clarity and detail across different sound sources.

Reviews

PROS

  • Produces natural and warm sound for versatile applications

  • Exceptional value for its price point, especially used

  • Outperforms more expensive mics in clarity and cleanliness

  • Lacks harsh top frequencies compared to competitors

  • Ideal for capturing clear vocals and clean instruments

  • Recommended for beginners for its high-definition sound quality

CONS

  • Requires phantom power, limiting its use without proper equipment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling Audio ST51 Condenser Microphone.

Use cases and applications

  • The Sterling ST51 is effective for entry-level voiceover work, especially when paired with a well-treated recording space.

    Source
  • The ST51 was described as quiet for vocals unless the user was within inches of the microphone, indicating close-miking is necessary for optimal vocal capture.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the Rode NT1-A, the ST51 is a good starter mic but lacks the refinement needed for professional, full-time voiceover work.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have successfully used the ST51 with a Yamaha MG06X mixer and Scarlett 2i2 interface, indicating compatibility with popular audio setups.

    Source
  • An owner reported the ST51's performance was better with a guitar compared to vocals, highlighting its potential preference for instrument recording.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Sterling ST51 can produce a weak signal without phantom power when connected to a high-impedance TRS input, due to its electret condenser design.

    Source
  • The Sterling ST51 lacks a battery slot, relying entirely on external phantom power for optimal operation.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users noted the microphone required cranking the preamp to almost maximum levels on a Saffire Pro 40 with phantom power to achieve adequate vocal recording levels.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 12 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
B

Cannot begin

I cannot begin to explain how proud I am of owning this microphone. It has done nothing but impress me, and my other musician friends. The vocals are great with no "white" noise. It requires phantom power, which is supplied by my PreSonus AudioBox USB. Hands down recommend this to any beginning musician.

v15ualk3ys

Excellent, Powerful Condenser Microphone

This is an excellent microphone, and it's definitely one to be recommend. Record clear vocals or clean instruments with ease as this mic will pick it up in high-definition clarity. Works great for vocal resampling too :)

theolivermooreband

For the Price, there is nothing like it.

Don't fall for the KRK and BLUE trendy name brandy hype of today's younger generation. For the money, this microphone is and will always be in my gear box.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Sterling Audio Condenser Microphones

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides