The Bottom Line
The Superlx S241/U3 is another great microphone from Avlex; not only does it offer the fantastic blend of low cost and high performance that Superlux microphones have become known for, it also features stellar construction quality and great included accessories. Available now for around $125, the Superlx S241/U3 is a great addition to any studio or live sound engineer's microphone locker.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality.
- Robust construction.
- Great included accessories.
Cons
- None.
Description
- Microphone Type: Pressure Gradient Condenser Microphone with 1/3" Gold-sputtered diaphragm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz, slight bump in upper-high-range response. Max SPL of 143dB.
- Included accessories: Cardioid capsule, shockmount, pop filter, windscreen, hard case.
Guide Review - Review: Superlx S241/U3 Condenser Microphone
The Superlx S241/U3 is a bargain at only $125. Gone are the days that cheap microphones automatically meant cheap sound -- and the S241 proves that again.Construction Quality & Accessories
The S241 is constructed extremely well. The microphone body is machined metal, with a very solid feel to it. This isn't a microphone I'd be afraid to take on location recording gigs -- this microphone could easily withstand abuse with the best of them.Included in the foam-lined hard carrying case are several fantastic accessories: a shockmount, pop filter (for vocals or instruments which produce air pressure), and a windscreen.
Sound Quality
I found the S241 to be really amazing on two specific tasks: drum micing and acoustic guitar micing. Used on high-hat, the S241 produced a wonderful, rich tone with plenty of attack and transient detail. I loved using the S241 on live sound gigs, as the included shockmount made setting up for hat micing a breeze.On acoustic guitar, I found the S241 to beat my previous favorite inexpensive condenser, the Oktava MC012. Acoustic guitar reproduction was warm, detailed, and crisp. I even was able to use the S241 during a live sound session on acoustic guitar -- the tone held up even on a fairly busy stage, and feedback wasn't an issue (a well-tuned monitor setup helped). Given the build quality, I wouldn't hesitate using the S241 every night on stage.
Overall Impressions
The S241 is a fantastic design, worth way more than you'll pay for it. Ten years ago, a microphone on caliber with the S241 would've set you back many times more than the asking price; it's also great to see a company dedicated to bringing value-priced products with superior construction and stellar sound quality.The S241 is available now for around $125.
