The dynamic M 160 Double Ribbon microphone is one of the best on the market and can take your sound to new heights. Its unique sound production truly sets it apart from any other microphone, and its history gives it even more gravitas. Whether you’re a drummer or guitarist, this mic has what it takes to capture your sound in perfect quality. With its simple setup and superior design, you can trust that your recordings will look as good as they sound with this remarkable mic. No other professional microphone out there offers the same clarity and consistency that the M 160 provides, making it the ultimate choice for anyone seeking an amazing sonic experience. And on top of all that, you get unbeatable value from this one-of-a-kind mic – get ready to discover why Beyerdynamic’s M 160 is such a popular choice!
It features out- standing technical properties. This makes it predestined for a variety of sound sources such as electric guitar amplifiers, hihats or overhead. Its hypercardioid polar pattern is unique. Due to the extremely complex production process, the microphone can only be made by hand by a few employees of Beyerdynamic at the company‘s location in Heilbronn, Germany. Like its famous users, the M 160 has achieved cult status. Therefore, the microphone, which has been manufactured since 1957, was inducted into the NAMM TEC Awards Technology Hall of Fame in 2019.
The multi-award-winning M 160 dynamic double-ribbon microphone is exceptional in its sound and manufacturing: intricate handmade craftsmanship meets unique technical features. Affectionately known as a “gem”, the M 160 has enriched hit after hit with a sound character that has very little tonal coloring. A precise bass response, warm mids and silkily elegant trebles merge together to form a very unique sound. Those who are familiar with this microphone will know: there is no alternative to the M 160.
Beyerdynamic M 160 Double Ribbon Dynamic Microphone Features
- Unique, dynamic double ribbon-microphone
- Hypercardioid polar pattern
- Ideal for use with guitar amps and drums
- Extraordinary sound character
- Warm and silky sound
- High impulse fidelity and good transient response
- Handcrafted in Germany
Application
The M 160 impresses with its flexible application options. In addition to drum and amp miking, the wide frequency response and fine-detailing sound also comes into effect on acoustic guitars, brass instruments and string instruments. A special feature of the M 160 is its polar pattern. Due to its hypercardioid polar pattern, which is unusual for ribbon microphones, the M 160 is less susceptible to ambient noise, as it reduces background noise by 25 dB at 110° and also picks up less sound from behind. This makes it ideal primarily for the studio, but also on stage. Together with the M 130 double-ribbon microphone (polar pattern: figure-eight), the M 160 can be used for M/S miking.
Softens Harsh Sounds
The M 160 is ideal for miking electric guitar amps. This is due not only to its hypercardioid polar pattern, which is unique among ribbon microphones, but also to its special sound character. The M 160 delivers a warm but nevertheless natural sound. In addition, the M 160 easily masters the high sound pressures of a guitar amp and provides a signal that is perfect for processing.
Ideal for Drums
Whether as overhead, for the hi-hat or as a room microphone, the M 160 is an excellent choice for miking a drumkit. In particular, sharp sounds such as cymbals are reproduced in a well-balanced way. In addition, the low mass of the two wafer-thin double-ribbons ensures high impulse fidelity. Sounds with a strong attack are precisely reproduced thanks to the microphone’s quick transient response.
A Double-Ribbon Microphone for Every Application
The M 160 is an exceptionally versatile member of the ribbon microphone family. Its high-definition sound and wide frequency response of 40–18,000 Hz take effect when miking not only drums and amps, but also acoustic guitars, brass instruments and strings. In combination with a wind shield, the M 160 is a great choice for those who wish to give their voice a warm, vintage sound. Together with the dynamic double-ribbon M 130, which has a figure-eight polar pattern, the M 160 can also be used for M/S recording.
A Very Special Pattern
The M 160 is the only double-ribbon microphone with a hypercardioid polar pattern on the market. This polar pattern prioritizes sound coming from the front, while most of the signals from the sides and some from the back are reduced. Rear attenuation is 25 dB at 110° and 250°. This ensures excellent channel separation. Thanks to this technical refinement, the warm sound of a ribbon can be used in completely new situations.
Individual Measurement Curve
Because each one is intricately handmade, each M 160 is unique. We even go one step further and individually measure each and every microphone. A print-out of the measurement curve is included with your purchased M 160.