Gearank

Gearank High Notes

• 2021.03: Equal Highest Rated XLR Condenser Mic Under $100
  Tied With:
  MXL 770
  

Gearank Recommendation

The Worker Bee appeared on our recommended list for Condenser Mics Under $100 from March 2021 until it was out-ranked by other mics in March 2022.

Overview

Neat microphones is a relative newcomer in the pro audio scene. Founded by former founders and senior members of Blue Microphones along with industry veterans and fresh talent.

The Worker Bee is a medium-diaphraghm, cardioid pattern condenser microphone made for use with high-SPL sound sources.

It features discrete, class A circuitry, an internal shockmount (plus additional "beekeeper" external shockmount) keeps handling noise at bay.

It is a warm, but clear sounding microphone that handles high SPL without distortion.

It can sweeten female vocals, brass and string sections; as well as giving body to drum overheads and room mics as a stereo pair.

If you're looking for a great do-it-all mic with a tonality that sweetens usually shrill sound sources and adds body to thundering drums, the Neat Microphones Worker Bee has a place in your mic locker.

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 145 dB
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Best For: Vocal recording, Instruments, Orchestral/Brass

Alternatives

• Under $100: MXL V67G
• Under $200: Aston Microphones Origin
• Under $300: Rode NT1