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Apex Electronics 520

Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

The Apex 520 is a low-cost multipattern condenser microphone with a large-diaphragm capsule.

The capsule appears to be a center-terminated design, but differs from most other Apex large-diaphragm condensers because it, along with the Apex 530, is sourced from a different provider.

The mic has three switches on the body, below the headbasket. One allows selection of three polar patterns: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-of-8. One enables a high-pass filter, which reduces the mic’s output below 80Hz. The third enables a -10dB pad.

The grille is comprised of three layers of low-carbon hardened steel mesh, intended to serve a a pop/blast filter. The microphone body is diecast metal.

At 20dBA, the microphone’s self-noise is relatively high for a solid-state condenser.

The amplifier circuit PCB is made with through-hole components, making this microphone a suitable candidate for aftermarket modification.

The mic includes an elastic shockmount and a carrying case.

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Specifications

Pickup Patterns	Pads & Filters
CHART Omnidirectional (11.2 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz) CHART Cardioid (11.2 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz) CHART Bidirectional (11.2 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)	Pad: -10dB (Via Switch) Filter: HPF @ 80Hz (Via Switch)

Capsule Dimensions	Impedance	SPL/Noise
Diameter n/a	250 Ohms (Low)	Max SPL: 134 dB Self-noise: 20.0 dB(A)

Weight	Length	Max Diameter	Interface(s)
476g (16.79oz)	190mm (7.48'')	50mm (1.97'')	3-pin XLR male (1)

Power Specifications
Requires phantom power Phantom voltage: 48v

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