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OmnidirectionalCardioidBidirectionalApex Electronics 580

Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

The Apex 580 is a multipattern large-diaphragm condenser. It appears to be identical to the Alctron BC400; see link in sidebar.

The mic’s capsule is described as a 35mm model, and is almost certainly a K67 type. It is a dual-diaphragm model, and provides multiple polar patterns.

Three small switches on the front of the microphone body allow the following configuration options:

  • Polar pattern: Omni, Cardioid, Figure-8.
  • Attenuation pad: 0dB (flat), -10dB, -15dB.
  • High-pass filter: 0dB (flat), -6dB @ 75Hz, -6dB @ 150Hz.

The mic’s published self-noise rating, 11dBA, is excellent.

Although Apex has not specified the nature of the mic’s output circuit, we presume it is transformerless, based on the mic’s similarity to the Alctron BC400.

According to the Apex website, the mic ships with an aluminum flightcase and a “widescreen.” We assume that means a foam shield, not a television. The microphone probably also includes a shockmount, as it is pictured as such by Apex dealers.

The Apex Electronics 580 is also known as: Apex580.

Specifications

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (19.95 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Cardioid (19.95 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Bidirectional (19.95 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
  • Pad: -10dB (Via Switch)
  • Pad: -15dB (Via Switch)
  • Filter: HPF: -6dB/octave @ 75Hz (Via Switch)
  • Filter: HPF: -6dB/octave @ 150Hz (Via Switch)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Capsule diameter: 35mm
200 Ohms (Low) Max SPL: 148 dB
Self-noise: 11.0 dB(A)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
880g (31.04oz) 193mm (7.60'') 74mm (2.91'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Requires phantom power

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