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OmnidirectionalCardioidBidirectionalJZ Microphones BH-1

MSRP: $2,295 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

JZ Microphones BH-1

Description

The first commercial product from JZ Microphones, the Black Hole introduced several JZ innovations:

  • Variable-sputtering technique on capsule diaphragm
  • Compact dual-diaphragm, adjustable-backplate capsule
  • Distinctive body design

variable-sputtered diaphragm on JZ BH-1 microphoneThe picture shows the “variable sputtering” in which irregularly-sized drops of the gold alloy are applied to the film substrate used in the diaphragm.

The hole in the microphone body reduces unwanted reverberation caused by sound waves hitting the flat surface of the mic; JZ engineers designed a new type of shockmount to fit into this hole.

The dual-capsule design allows switching between Cardioid, Omni, and Figure-of-8 pickup patterns, via a switch inside the “hole” in the body.

List price on the BH-1 is 1390€. The mic has a 5-year warranty.

EQ MagazineThe Black Hole is truly stunning on acoustic instruments. In fact, in cardioid mode, it produced perhaps the best acoustic guitar sound I’ve ever squeezed out of a mic.

The JZ Microphones BH-1 is also known as: Black Hole, BH1.

The mic was released in 2007.

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
  • Omnidirectional (20 - 20,000 Hz)
  • Cardioid (20 - 20,000 Hz)
  • Bidirectional (20 - 20,000 Hz)
Diaphragm size Impedance Max SPL
27mm (1.06'') 50 Ohms (Low (50-1000 Ohms)) 134 dB
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
300g (10.58oz) 203mm (7.99'') 51mm (2.01'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Requires Phantom Power
  • Phantom voltage: 48 ± 4v

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