Gearank

Gearank High Notes

• 2021.04: Highest Rated Large-Diaphragm Condenser Mic Under $1000
• 2020.03: Equal Highest Rated Large-Diaphragm Condenser Mic Under $1000

Specifications

• Type: Tube Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Impedance: 200 Ohms
• Max SPL: 130dB SPL
• Power Requirements: Custom power supply (Switchable 100v to 240v compatible range)

Gearank Recommendation

The LA-320 appeared on our recommended list for Large Diaphragm Condenser Mics Under $1000 from March 2020 through June 2022.

Overview

Lauten Audio is a fairly new company. Instead of focusing on chasing vintage sounds, their approach is to craft original, great sounding microphones for the modern studio.

The LA-320 is a Tube Condenser microphone with added features like high and low pass filter switches.

It includes a custom power supply and shockmount in a sturdy carrying case.

When we were analyzing user reports we noted that several said it has a smooth top end that gets a bit of a sparkle thanks to a little tube saturation.

One thing to note is that the low cut switch can thin out the tonality too much.

Because it uses a custom power supply, it's not suited for mobile recording - this is most definitely a studio microphone, but that's the same for most good tube mics.

If you're not chasing a particular microphone sound but want a great quality tube microphone that imbues your tracks with harmonic sheen, the LA-320 is a great mid-priced offering and may be your gateway drug to expanding your mic cabinet with more.

Frequency Response and Polar Pattern Charts