In this article, I’ll be reviewing the Lauten Audio LA-120 small-diaphragm condenser microphone pair. As a small family-run company, Lauten Audio has been crafting intriguing boutique microphones since 2006. Now, let’s see what the LA-120 has to offer.
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Final verdict on the Lauten LA-120
The LA-120 microphones deliver professional results for a moderately affordable price. While they may be more suited towards smaller studio setups, I can easily see them being used in higher-grade studios for their neutral performance and versatility.
What I like
- Natural performance.
- Versatile.
- Somewhat affordable.
What I don’t like
- Omni capsules sound significantly brighter.
Contents
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Polar pattern and frequency response
The LA-120 has a reported frequency response of 20 Hz – 20 kHz, a dynamic range of 120 dB, as well as an output impedance of 200 ohms.
The microphones come with a pair of cardioid capsules, a pair of omnidirectional capsules, two mic clips, and two foam windshields. Lauten Audio also provides with the mics a pair of attenuators, which screw onto the body and heighten the max SPL by 10 dB.
Overall, the LA-120 microphones have an incredibly flat frequency response, only boosting around 7 kHz. Each microphone also has 50 Hz and 150 Hz hi-pass filters, as well as 10 kHz and 15 kHz lo-pass filters, allowing for more versatility in your recordings.
Switching in the omni capsules delivers a brighter, and bolder sound. For most purposes, I would probably opt for the cardioid capsules, although for darker, roomier sounds may do well with the omnis.
Studio vocals
While small-diaphragm condensers are lauded for their naturality and detail, they’re not often used on vocals. Large-diaphragms are often used for the way they deal with proximity effect, adding warmth to the low-end of the voice without becoming overbearing.
Live vocals
While these microphones do a decent job at off-axis rejection with the cardioid capsules on, I wouldn’t use them for live vocals. Better to use something that could take more of a beating, like an SM58.
Guitar amps
The LA-120 microphones are ideal for recording electric guitar, due to their transparency and high SPL, especially with the cardioid capsules engaged.
Bass amps
I probably wouldn’t use these for bass unless I were trying to capture more body in the mid-range.
Acoustic guitars
The omnidirectional capsules can add some brightness to any dull strings, although the cardioids are equally great when it comes to capturing a true representation of your guitar’s tonal characteristics.
Drums
The LA-120 is a perfect candidate for overhead mics, especially when engaging one of the low-pass filters. Without the low-pass engaged, you may find the sound to be a bit too brash and modern for your liking.
Switch to the 15 kHz setting, and you’ll have something darker, without sacrificing too much air on the top end.
They also work well for capturing the snappiness off of a snare, although an SM57 may allow it to sit better in the mix.
Build quality
The LA-120 microphones are well built, although since they’re small-diaphragm condensers, they’re more delicate by design. With good care, the microphones are sure to last you for years.
Compared to other microphones
Here are a few microphones to compare against the Lauten Audio LA-120.
Lauten LA-120 vs Studio Projects C-4
These are really great for the price, as they come with all the same features as the LA-120, although with an added hypercardioid capsule. The main caveat is that their general sound has less depth.
Lauten LA-120 vs Ear Trumpet Labs Edwina
The Edwinas are pleasantly dark, warm and lush, but they are significantly more expensive. With the low-pass filters you can achieve comparable results with the LA-120, although it won’t have the same lushness.
Lauten LA-120 vs Audio-Technica AT4041
These are okay, but not as good as the LA-120. Plus you’re stuck with the cardioid polar pattern, making them less versatile.
Who is the Lauten LA-120 best suited for?
If you’re looking for a solid set of overhead mics, or just a reliable pair of small-diaphragm condensers, the LA-120 leave little room for criticism.
Buy Lauten Audio LA-120 at: SweetwaterAmazon