This year marks a monumental milestone for Sontronics, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating our 20th Anniversary at NAMM 2025! For two decades, we’ve been designing and manufacturing microphones that bring out the truth in every sound, and we’re excited to showcase our range of award-winning products at the ultimate music industry gathering.

From January 23rd–25th, we’ll be at Booth 15408, ready to connect with the incredible community of musicians, engineers, retailers, and distributors who’ve helped shape our journey. Whether you’re already part of the Sontronics family or discovering our microphones for the first time, we can’t wait to share what makes Sontronics stand out.

Experience the Best of Sontronics

Our booth will feature some of our most beloved microphones, including the iconic SATURN 2 with its 9 polar patterns, the sleek and stylish PODCAST PRO (available in 7 colours!), our flagship ARIA and MERCURY microphones, and robust & stage-ready SOLO. Each mic is crafted with precision and passion in our British-based facility in the South of England, and comes with our industry-leading Lifetime Warranty.

NAMM is the perfect opportunity to get hands-on with our gear, hear the difference for yourself, and chat with our team about why Sontronics mics have become a staple in studios and live settings worldwide.

Sontronics Headlines the Pre-NAMM JAMM

As part of our 20th Anniversary celebrations, we’re thrilled to be joining DiGiCo as a main sponsor of the Pre-NAMM JAMM, presented by Headliner Magazine in partnership with LD Systems. This event promises to be an unforgettable kick-off to NAMM 2025, packed with incredible talent and energy, all amplified by the unmistakable quality of Sontronics microphones.

“Having our microphones on stage for the Pre-NAMM JAMM is a fantastic way to celebrate 20 years of Sontronics,” said Sam Nankivell, Director of Sontronics. “It’s a true testament to the quality and versatility of our microphones. We can’t wait to see some amazing performances and showcase just what Sontronics can do.”

This partnership reflects everything Sontronics stands for: supporting live music, driving innovation in sound, and empowering artists to be heard and felt. We couldn’t think of a better way to launch this milestone year than by bringing our microphones to the centre of the action at one of the most exciting events on the NAMM calendar.

Building Connections

As much as NAMM is about showcasing products, it’s also about relationships. We’re looking forward to reconnecting with our international network of distributors and retailers, hearing your feedback, and exploring how we can support your success in 2025 and beyond.

Join the Celebration

We’ll be sharing live updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and highlights from NAMM across all our social media platforms, so be sure to follow @Sontronics on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X.

If you’re attending NAMM, we’d love to see you at Booth 15408 to chat, test out our microphones, and celebrate 20 years of Sontronics innovation. Here’s to the next chapter of amazing sound!

In the world of audio recording, the ribbon microphone holds a special place. Renowned for their warm, natural tone, they have been a favourite of sound engineers and musicians for decades. As audio technology evolves, ribbon mics remain a staple - celebrated for their unique characteristics. But what makes these microphones stand out, and why should they be handled with care? Here’s everything you need to know about ribbon microphones.

What Are Ribbon Microphones?

The ribbon microphone, named for the thin metal ribbon suspended between magnetic poles inside the mic, capture sound by responding to the velocity of air particles rather than the sound pressure in the air.  This unique design gives ribbon mics their characteristic smooth frequency response and exceptional sensitivity to dynamics.

Unlike condenser or dynamic microphones, ribbon mics excel at providing a natural sound, often described as "vintage" or "organic." Their figure-8 polar pattern (which picks up sound equally from the front and back while rejecting it from the sides) adds another layer of utility, making them a preferred choice for certain recording environments.

Why Choose a Ribbon Microphone?

Ribbon mics are prized for their ability to reproduce audio with unmatched realism. Here are some of their standout benefits:

• Warm, Smooth Sound: Ribbon microphones naturally attenuate high-frequency harshness, which results in a silky and smooth sound. This quality makes them ideal for capturing vocals, strings, and brass instruments.
• Rich Detail: The ability to pick up subtle nuances means the ribbon mic is a favourite for recording acoustic instruments and orchestras.
• Natural Frequency Response: The design of ribbon microphones allows them to capture sound without the overemphasis or artificial boost of certain frequencies, resulting in a more balanced and authentic recording.
• Versatile Placement: With their figure-8 pattern, ribbon mics can be used creatively to capture room ambiance or isolate sound sources when placed strategically.

What Sounds Do Ribbon Microphones Work Best With?

Ribbon microphones shine in a variety of applications, including:

• Vocals: They are particularly effective for singers with brighter or harsher vocal tones, as they smooth out unwanted sibilance and shrillness.
• Acoustic Instruments: Guitars, violins, and pianos benefit from the detailed and natural sound capture of ribbon mics.
• Brass and Woodwinds: Their ability to tame sharp transients makes them excellent for trumpets, saxophones, and flutes.
• Drum Overheads: a ribbon mic delivers a balanced and warm tone for cymbals and room ambiance.
• Electric Guitar Amps: They capture the midrange growl of electric guitars without adding harshness, making them a go-to for recording amps.

Special Considerations When Using Ribbon Microphones

While ribbon mics offer incredible benefits, they require extra care due to their delicate construction. The ribbon element is extremely thin and sensitive to physical damage. Dropping a ribbon mic or exposing it to strong air pressure (like blowing into it) can tear the ribbon.

Recent advancements have addressed some traditional weaknesses of ribbon microphones. Modern models, such as active ribbon mics, integrate built-in
preamplifiers, meaning they are capable of handling a wider range of
recording situations. This innovation bridges the gap between vintage charm and
contemporary convenience.

Sontronics Ribbon Mics

Whether you're recording a soulful vocal performance, a delicate acoustic guitar, or a roaring electric guitar amp, a ribbon microphone can add a touch of magic to your sound.

For more information you can visit our Ribbon Mics page to view the Sontronics product range or watch our Facebook reel about ribbon mics.

Starting a podcast is an exciting journey, and providing high-quality audio is essential to making it a success. Choosing the right equipment can make all the difference, whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your sound. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to select the best gear for your podcast, with some recommendations based on what works well for different needs.

Choosing the right microphone

A good microphone is crucial for any podcast, broadcast or recording project because it serves as the primary tool for capturing clear, detailed and professional-quality audio. The right microphone can significantly reduce background noise, enhance vocal presence and ensure that every word is heard with precision and clarity. This not only improves the overall listening experience for your audience but also adds credibility to your content. Investing in a high-quality microphone is an essential step in producing engaging and polished audio that stands out in a crowded digital landscape. Here are our recommendations to start your podcasting journey right:

PODCAST PRO Dynamic Microphone

The PODCAST PRO dynamic microphone is a game-changer for podcasters, radio broadcasters, voiceover artists and gamers. This best-selling, multi-award-winning microphone is available in seven vibrant colours and is designed and developed in the UK. The Podcast Pro captures exceptional detail, presence and depth while minimising background noise with its tightly focused supercardioid pickup. Its high output level means you won’t need an expensive signal-boosting device and the internal protection and built-in popshield provide superb control over sibilance and plosives.

STC-3X Pack 3-Pattern Condenser Microphone with Accessories

The STC-3X Pack offers a versatile studio microphone without breaking the bank. This award-winning microphone package includes essential accessories such as a popshield, shockmount, cable and pouch. The STC-3X condenser microphone features three switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omni and figure-of-eight) for supreme versatility, making it ideal for various applications including vocals, instruments, overhead and room miking.

Voicecasting Pack

The Sontronics Voicecasting Pack is a comprehensive solution designed specifically for voiceover artists, podcasters, and broadcasters. This all-in-one package includes everything you need to achieve professional-quality recordings right out of the box. Featuring our acclaimed STC-3X condenser microphone, a high-quality shock mount, pop shield, and an XLR cable, the Voicecasting Pack is tailored to deliver exceptional clarity and warmth in your vocal recordings. Whether you're in a home studio or a professional setup, this pack ensures your voice is captured with precision and detail, making it the ideal choice for anyone serious about their vocal work.

STC-20 PACK cardioid condenser mic with accessories

The STC-20 Pack is an affordable recording package that includes everything you need to achieve professional-quality recordings. Ideal for vocals, instruments and home recording, this pack offers the award-winning STC-20 cardioid condenser mic along with a spider-style shockmount, popshield, cable and pouch.

Choosing the right podcast accessories

Accessories can play a crucial role in optimising your recording setup and achieving professional audio quality. Investing in the right accessories ensures that your equipment functions at its best, making your podcast or broadcast sound more polished and engaging.

Here are the ones we think you should look into to get started:

ELEVATE Multi-Position Mic Mounting Arm Stand

The ELEVATE is a flexible and sturdy desktop mic stand designed to position your microphone exactly where you need it. Supporting mics weighing up to 1kg, the Elevate stand features three angled joints for easy adjustment and channels with clips to keep your cables tidy. It’s perfect for any podcasting, voiceover, gaming or home working setup.

XLR-USB microphone cable

The XLR-USB microphone cable allows you to connect any dynamic microphone directly to your computer, tablet or iOS device, making it perfect for mobile recording. With its high-quality and low-latency A/D conversion, this cable ensures professional results for podcasting, video calls and live-streaming.

ST-POP Popshield

The ST-POP popshield is essential for reducing sibilance, plosives and mouth noise, ensuring your microphone captures the best possible performance. Its dual-layer fabric screen and flexible gooseneck arm make it easy to position for optimal results, protecting your mic from moisture and condensation build-up.

Selecting the right equipment is key to ensuring your podcast delivers excellent audio quality. Whether you're new to podcasting or considering an upgrade, finding gear that meets your needs can significantly enhance your sound. With a focus on precision engineering and craftsmanship, the right tools can make all the difference. Happy podcasting!

About Sontronics

At Sontronics, all our products are designed and developed on the south coast of England. We take pride in our meticulous craftsmanship, with our high-end microphones featuring proprietary circuit designs and hand-wound transformers made within two miles of our facility. Every new prototype undergoes rigorous beta-testing with top British producers and engineers, including those at Abbey Road Studios. We are proud to lead innovations in electronics engineering and product design right here in Dorset.

Selecting the right microphone for live performance can significantly impact the quality of your sound and overall performance experience. With numerous options available, understanding the key features that influence microphone performance is essential. From application-specific needs to the nuances of polar patterns and durability, each factor plays a crucial role in ensuring you choose the best microphone for your particular requirements. This guide will explore these critical aspects, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your performance environment and goals.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a live performance microphone, consider the following features:

• Application

It is essential to think about the task at hand while selecting a microphone. Different applications require different types of microphones to achieve the best results. For instance, a studio recording might benefit from a high-quality condenser microphone. At the same time, a live performance may be better suited to a dynamic microphone due to its durability and feedback rejection. Understanding the specific needs of your application will help you select the most suitable microphone for the task.

• Durability

When selecting a microphone for live applications, durability is a key consideration, especially for those who frequently work in demanding environments. At Sontronics, our microphones are meticulously designed and developed on the South Coast of England to ensure exceptional build quality and reliability. Each new prototype undergoes rigorous beta-testing with top British producers, ensuring that our microphones can withstand the rigours of professional use while maintaining superior performance. This commitment to durability means you can trust our microphones to deliver consistent results in any setting.

• Polar Pattern

The microphone's polar pattern is a crucial factor to consider, as it determines the direction from which the microphone captures sound. Different situations call for different varieties of polar patterns. Cardioid microphones are commonly used for capturing the performance in front of the mic while minimising background noise, making them perfect for live performances and solo recordings. Omnidirectional microphones, on the other hand, capture sound from all directions, which is beneficial in situations where a natural and ambient sound is desired. Understanding the polar pattern that best fits your recording environment and application will help you make an informed decision.

• Frequency Response

When choosing a microphone you should also consider its frequency response characteristics, particularly for live vocals. A microphone with a tailored frequency response can significantly enhance the clarity and presence of the vocalist's sound. This tailored response typically emphasises frequencies that are essential for vocal projection and intelligibility, ensuring that the singer's voice cuts through the mix clearly and with the desired presence.

By combining durability in materials and construction with a microphone that offers a tailored frequency response, performers can achieve reliable and high-quality sound reinforcement during live performances, even in challenging environments where physical stressors may be prevalent.

• Handling Noise on Vocals

Live performance microphones should have good isolation from handling noise. Make sure to consider this if you move about on stage a lot.

Microphones for other applications, such as drums, guitar or piano, can often come with a shock mount to help minimise unwanted vibrations on stage. 

Dynamic mics typically offer far greater protection in live environments due to their rugged capsule design. Condenser, Valve and Ribbon mics are more sensitive to their environment and often provide more power, detail and energy to the overall sound.

Our Recommendations:

• Live Vocals: SOLO

The Sontronics Solo is a standout dynamic microphone, celebrated for its exceptional performance and affordability. Solo features a high-output capsule that captures the presence, depth and clarity of your performance while minimising feedback and distortion. Its supercardioid pickup ensures superb off-axis rejection, making it ideal for studio, stage and home environments. The Solo integrates seamlessly into any mix minimal need EQ, making it the best-performing and easiest-to-use dynamic mic available. With its growing popularity among artists and sound engineers, this British-made mic is fast becoming an industry standard, offering outstanding results with all the depth, presence and detail desired.

The Solo comes with a mic clip, storage pouch and boasts impressive specs, making it perfect for live vocals, studio recording, podcasts, home recording and even gaming/streaming.

• Drums: DRUMPACK and DRUMPACK PLUS

The Sontronics DrumPack and DrumPack Plus offer the ultimate solutions for drum recording, providing exceptional results in any setting—studio, stage, or home.

Featuring the DM-1B for kick drum, DM-1S for snare, DM-1T for tom toms, and STC-10 for overhead miking (DrumPack Plus only), these condenser mics with cardioid patterns are designed to capture the perfect sound from each drum. The five-piece DrumPack includes all essential mics and clips, housed in a rugged ABS flight case to ensure safety on tour. The seven-piece DrumPack Plus adds two STC-10 mics for overheads, ensuring comprehensive coverage of your drumkit.

Trusted by top drummers like Muse’s Dom Howard and Aerosmith’s Joey Kramer, these sets represent the most cost-effective way to achieve professional-grade recordings. With robust build quality and exceptional performance on stage, the Sontronics DrumPack and DrumPack Plus are fast becoming industry standards for drum recording.

• Guitar cab / amp:  Halo / Delta 2

The Sontronics HALO and DELTA 2 microphones are unrivalled choices for guitar cab and amp recording. 

The HALO is a dynamic mic with high output and a tuned frequency response that ensures the guitar cuts through a busy mix in live settings. The DELTA 2, an active (+48V) phantom-powered ribbon mic, features a figure-of-8 pickup pattern. Despite this pattern, its proximity to the amplifier minimises audience noise. 

Together, these mics offer an incredibly smooth response, with the HALO providing clarity and presence, while the DELTA 2 adds delicate detail, warmth, and depth. This combination delivers the perfect blend of precision and richness for recording guitar cabs and amps.

• Bass Cab: DM-1B

The Sontronics DM-1B is a large-diaphragm end-fire cardioid condenser microphone, ideal for capturing low-frequency content with detail and energy, making it perfect for bass instruments such as kick drum and bass cab. It's not suitable guitar and amp recording. Originally designed for kick drum, this mic's incredible sensitivity and ability to handle high sound pressure levels of up to 155dB ensure it reproduces big, powerful sounds with exceptional clarity.

Top producers and studios worldwide recommend the DM-1B for its outstanding performance with bass instruments, including bass guitar cabinets, baritone sax, and double bass. Hand-made in the UK and developed over three years with input from top producers and engineers, the DM-1B comes in a sturdy aluminium flightcase, ensuring durability and protection. Its versatility and precision make it a must-have for anyone serious about capturing the perfect sound, whether for live performance or studio recording.

Additional Considerations for Monitor Placement on Stage

When setting up monitors for vocals on stage, the type of microphone being used plays a crucial role in determining the optimal placement. For a cardioid microphone, the monitor should be facing the vocalist. However, if you're using a supercardioid vocal microphone, such as the Solo, it’s important to account for the slight rear-lobe pickup. In this case, place the monitor should face the vocalist but also be also be wedged slightly to the side of the vocalist. This placement aligns the monitor with the microphone's null spot, significantly reducing the risk of feedback. For an enhanced listening experience, you can also position a monitor wedge on either side of the microphone, allowing  the vocalist to perform with a stereo feed of the band.

In summary, choosing the ideal microphone for live performance involves careful consideration of several key features. By assessing the application, durability, polar pattern, and frequency response, you can select a microphone that meets your specific needs and withstands the demands of professional use. Sontronics' range of microphones, designed and rigorously tested in the UK, offers exceptional reliability and performance for various applications, from live vocals to drum recording and guitar amplification. By understanding these features and leveraging high-quality options like the Sontronics Solo, DrumPack, HALO, DELTA 2, and DM-1B, you can ensure a superior sound experience on stage and in the studio, ultimately enhancing both the performer and audience experience. Whenever you choose Sontronics, you choose a ​​range of microphones that will provide added clarity, power and detail to all of your performances.

To view our full range, visit our website.

When it comes to capturing the nuances of sound with precision, ribbon microphones are one of the best options out there. Among the variety of ribbon microphones available, the Sontronics SIGMA 2 and DELTA 2 microphones are often celebrated by professionals and enthusiasts alike. While both models share a common lineage, they each serve distinct purposes, catering to different needs within the realm of audio recording. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between the Sontronics SIGMA 2 and DELTA 2, helping you determine which microphone is best suited for your specific application.

Sontronics’ Ribbon Microphones

Sontronics SIGMA 2: A Symphony of Sensitivity and Detail

The Sontronics SIGMA 2 is an elegant, phantom-powered ribbon microphone that exudes vintage charm in both appearance and sound. This microphone has carved out a niche for itself in studios and live venues around the world, renowned for its high sensitivity and low self-noise. The SIGMA 2 delivers a level of intimacy in its recordings that is perfect for capturing the subtleties of vocals, solo woodwind and string instruments.

Key Features:

• Ribbon Microphone with Phantom Power:

Unlike traditional ribbon microphones that don’t require phantom power, the SIGMA 2 uses it to deliver enhanced performance, making it more versatile and compatible with modern audio interfaces, preamps and mixers.

• High Sensitivity, Low Noise: 

The SIGMA 2’s 18mV/Pa sensitivity and low self-noise of 10dB (A-weighted) mean it captures even the quietest of details with precision, providing a clear and natural sound without unwanted background noise.

• Wide Application: 

Whether you’re recording vocals, solo instruments, or amplifiers, the SIGMA 2’s figure-of-eight polar pattern and frequency response of 20Hz to 15kHz ensures a balanced and true-to-life sound.

• Vintage Aesthetics with Modern Capability: 

The SIGMA 2 is as much a visual delight as it is an auditory one, with a design that harks back to the golden age of ribbon microphones while offering modern-day functionality and reliability.

Sontronics DELTA 2: Rugged Precision for Powerful Performances

The Sontronics DELTA 2 is engineered for a different kind of performance—one that requires the microphone to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) without compromising on the ribbon microphone’s characteristic warmth and detail. This rugged ribbon microphone is a favourite among guitarists, brass players and live sound engineers for its ability to capture the full intensity of loud sound sources like guitar amps, brass instruments and saxophones, all while maintaining clarity and reducing the chances of distortion.

Key Features:

• Designed for High-SPL Environments: 

The DELTA 2’s ability to handle SPLs up to 140dB makes it ideal for use with loud instruments that would overwhelm other ribbon microphones due to its internal pop-filtering and increased head-room from the transformer. This feature is crucial for capturing the dynamic range of powerful sources like guitar amplifiers and brass sections.

• Durability Meets Detail: 

Constructed to withstand the rigours of live performances, the DELTA 2 combines rugged build quality with the delicate tonality typical of ribbon microphones, making it a versatile tool for both the stage and studio.

• Phantom-Powered for Enhanced Performance: 

Similar to the SIGMA 2, the DELTA 2 also requires phantom power, which enhances its performance capabilities, making it more adaptable across different recording environments.

• Favoured by Professionals: 

The DELTA 2’s reliability and precision have made it a go-to choice for artists and engineers who need a microphone that can deliver consistent results in demanding settings. The microphone’s rugged design ensures it can handle the wear and tear of frequent use while still delivering the high-fidelity sound that professionals demand.

Comparing the SIGMA 2 and DELTA 2: Which Ribbon Microphone Right for You?

While both the SIGMA 2 and DELTA 2 offer the signature warmth and intimate tone associated with ribbon microphones, their design and application set them apart.

Sensitivity vs. Strength: 

The SIGMA 2 is all about capturing delicate, nuanced performances with incredible sensitivity and low noise, making it ideal for quieter, more detailed sources like vocals and solo instruments. On the other hand, the DELTA 2 is built to handle the intensity of loud sound sources without distortion, making it perfect for electric guitars, brass instruments and live performances.

Aesthetic vs. Application:

The SIGMA 2’s vintage aesthetic and versatile application in studio environments make it a favourite for those looking to capture the essence of classic ribbon microphone sound. Meanwhile, the DELTA 2’s rugged build and ability to withstand high SPLs make it indispensable for musicians and engineers who need a microphone that can deliver under pressure, whether on stage or in the studio.

Versatility vs. Specialisation: 

If your work primarily involves recording a wide range of instruments, especially in quieter and professional settings the SIGMA 2’s versatility and high sensitivity make it an excellent choice. However, if your focus is on capturing powerful performances from electric guitars, brass and similar instruments, the DELTA 2’s specialised design will serve you better.

Both the Sontronics SIGMA 2 and DELTA 2 represent the pinnacle of ribbon microphone technology, each excelling in their respective fields. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to your specific needs as a musician, producer or engineer. If you need a microphone that offers vintage charm with modern versatility, the SIGMA 2 is the way to go. But if your work demands a microphone that can handle high SPLs without sacrificing detail, the DELTA 2 is your best bet.

Whichever you choose, you can be assured of Sontronics’ commitment to quality and precision. Both microphones offer a unique blend of performance, durability and sonic excellence, ensuring that your recordings will stand out in any context.