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Earthworks Audio TC30

Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone

The TC30 is an omnidirectional condenser microphone with Earthworks’ trademark extended high-frequency response — in this case, advertised to 30,000 Hz. It was the company’s first omni mic, introduced in 1996 as the TC30K.

The mic’s extended HF response is just one component of the multiple criteria Earthworks requires of a “High Definition Microphone.” Like the company’s other HD mics, the TC30 is also characterized by:

• Fast transient response (aka “impulse response”) … “The impulse response is the single best measure of the overall sonic accuracy and fidelity of a microphone. “


• Fast diaphragm settling time … “If the diaphragm is still vibrating from the sounds it picked up previously it will tend to mask or color many or all of the subtle sounds that follow.”


• Extended frequency response … “studies have shown that acoustic sounds and overtones of musical instruments extend to beyond 100kHz.”


• Minimal signal path … Pattern controls, pads, and filters can degrade the sonic qualities of the mic.


• High SPL handling … Low distortion up to and beyond 140dB.


• Low impedance … The mic must able to put its signal through a long cable run without signal loss.


• Consistent polar pattern … maintain a consistent pickup pattern over the mic’s full frequency range, to reduce phase cancellation at the edges and “spotlighting” of higher frequencies.

The mic capsule is a small (likely 6mm) electret condenser with a relatively high self-noise rating of 27dBA.

Like all the Earthworks TC and QTC microphones, the TC30 is promoted for its fast impulse response and transparent sound.

The mic ships with a plastic clip and an individual frequency-response chart.

Matched stereo pairs are available, and ship in a padded wooden case.

The Earthworks Audio TC30 is also known as: TC30K.

The mic was released in 1996.

Specifications

Frequency Response - OmnidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!

Pickup Patterns	Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (8 mV/Pa; 9 - 30,000 Hz)

Capsule Dimensions	Impedance	SPL/Noise
Capsule diameter: 6mm	100 Ohms (Low)	Max SPL: 150 dB Self-noise: 27.0 dB(A)

Weight	Length	Max Diameter	Interface(s)
225g (7.94oz)	229mm (9.02'')	22mm (0.87'')	3-pin XLR male (1)

Power Specifications
Requires phantom power Phantom voltage: 48v

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