Mic Archive
CAD M179
Photo: CAD Audio, from its spec sheet (Recording Hacks copy), p. 1.

CAD Audio

CAD M179

Large dual-diaphragm condenser, continuously variable pattern (omni to figure-8, cardioid detent), transformerless, with pad and high-pass filter

Approximate Some readings for this mic are uncertain; see the graphs.

Type
Condenser
Pattern
Omni / wide cardioid / cardioid / hypercardioid / figure-8
Sensitivity
−36 dBV/Pa
Self-noise
11 dB(A)
Max SPL
143 dB SPL
Impedance
200 Ω
Rated range
10 – 20k Hz

Frequency response

Angle
Distance

Frequency response: from the spec sheet (Recording Hacks copy), p. 2. "Cardioid", "Figure 8", "Omni" graphs; relative dB ("RESPONSE IN dB"), the line near 0 dB at 1 kHz. Distance, room, smoothing and switch settings not stated.

Dashed: outside the rated range, or simulated (other angles and distances). Hover or tap the graphs for values.

Polar pattern

Polar pattern: from the spec sheet (Recording Hacks copy), p. 2. "card" polar; 5 dB per ring, rings labelled -5 to -25, 0 dB at the outer ring. Each half shows different frequencies: left 100 Hz, 500 Hz, 1 kHz; right 5, 10, 15 kHz. Approximate reading error up to about 1 dB.

Compare with other mics

All specs

From the spec sheet
Capsule1.1-inch dual diaphragm, gold-sputtered, externally biased; the dual-pattern version of the Equitek E-300 capsule. "the dual pattern version of the original equitek e-300 capsule, an externally biased capsule with a gold sputtered 1.1" diaphragm"; "Large 1.1" dual diaphragm external bias condenser capsule".p. 2
Sensitivity−36 dBV/Pa (16 mV/Pa). "-36 dBV (16mV) @ 1Pa". The 2001 manual: "-56 dB (0 dB = 1 volt per microbar). 15.9 mV/Pascal." Pattern not stated.
Self-noise11 dB(A). "Equivalent Noise Level: 11 dB-A". Pattern not stated.
Max SPL143 dB SPL, pad on. "143 dB SPL (with pad)". No figure without the pad.
Output impedance200 ohm. "200 ohms"; the 2001 manual: "Low (200 ohms nominal)". Transformerless balanced output.
Rated frequency range10 Hz to 20 kHz. Printed "10-20 kHz" (both documents); the graphs run from 10 Hz. No tolerance given.
Poweringphantom 24-52 V, at least 8 mA. "Minimum requirements are 24-52V phantom power capable of delivering at least 8 mA." The 2001 manual: "24, 48 Volt Phantom Power".
Current draw8 mA, the supply must deliver at least this
Low cutflat, 100 Hz; 100 Hz; 6 dB/octave. "6dB/Octave @ 100Hz high-pass filter"; "Right position = Low end roll off below 100 Hz. Left Position = Flat low end response." Not graphed.
Pad−20 dB. "20 dB non-capacitive pad"; switch positions "0dB" and "-20dB".
ConnectorXLR-3 male. "Three pin male XLR type."
Weight506 g, net. "17.8 oz. (506 grams)".
Dimensions177.8 × 57.2 mm. "2.25" (57.2 mm) Dia., x 7.00" (177.8 mm) High"; height and diameter. The drawing gives 6 11/16 in.
FinishCharcoal grey urethane, satin nickel-plated front and rear screen. "Durable charcoal gray urethane. Satin nickle plated front & rear screen." The 2001 manual: "Black urethane front & rear screen".
Supplied accessoriesMZM-5 elastic suspension shock mount. "Furnished Accessories". Optional: 40-350 (50 ft), 40-351 (100 ft) and 40-352 (25 ft) extension cables.
Total harmonic distortionLess than 0.15%
ElectronicsLaser-trimmed op-amps instead of discrete FETs, with a large amount of negative feedback; transformerless balanced output
Pop filterInternal stainless steel pop/EMI filter
Pattern controlRotary knob ("360° Variable Pattern") with a centre detent at cardioid
From the manual (Recording Hacks copy)
Dynamic range133 dB. "Dynamic Range: 133 dB." Only in the 2001 manual.p. 3

Documents

Copies kept by Mic Archive, because manufacturers move and drop their documents. Each is © CAD Audio, unchanged, with its original address.

Product page on cadaudio.comRecording Hacks

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