Audix ADX51 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone Reviews
The ADX51 is a pre-polarized condenser microphone designed to handle a wide variety of live, studio, and broadcast applications. Characterized with a cardioid pickup pattern and a smooth uniform response over a frequency range of 40-18kHz, the ADX51 is precision machined from solid brass with a low reflective black e-coat finish. Low-noise electronic circuitry, low impedance, and balanced output allow interference-free performance even with long cable runs. Road-worthy and capable of reproducing high SPLs of 132dB, the ADX51 is perfect for studio or stage.
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Highest Rated Reviews
Insanely Underrated Microphone
Okay, I bought this mic because I thought it beat out the classic Shure SM81 in a mic shoot out on YouTube — and then since having it, I've only been more and more impressed by it. It sounds absolutely incredible on acoustic guitars, as an overhead, and even for mic'ing a guitar cab! And the fact that it's $ is insane. Then when you get a nice preamp behind it (I have the Neve 511), it only sounds more glorious. Do not hesitate to get this mic. You can check me out using it on YouTube: "John Paris Hang Me" or "John Paris These Days" and decide for yourself.
Get this mic!!
I was ABOUT to buy the Shure SM51, which everyone raves about for acoustic guitars, overheads, etc., but then I checked out a mic shootout between this and the Shure and I said "hmmm this kinda sounds better ...AND it's cheaper."
I went ahead and bought it. It sounds glorious - makes my acoustic sound like gold. Couldn't be happier with the sound. Looking forward to buying a 2nd at some point for a stereo pair.
Only, small small con is that you need a small tool (like a toothpic) to change the polar pattern on the mic - the switch is recessed within the surface of the microphone. Not a big deal in my opinion, but good to know.
Audix ADX51 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Great quality overhead microphone that delivers crisp sounding cymbals.
My go to mic for overheads...
My choice for over heads, especially for xylophones or marimbas. They take EQ well and are built to last the challenges of the tour. Enjoy...
Added a new ADX51 mic.
I have 3 ADX51 mics two overheads and one on hi hats. 8 Audix mics on my drums. We also us Audix D2 to mic our guitar amps to our mixer board.
ADX51 - A Great Snare Drum Choice
I purchased the Audix ADX51 for my Pearl 3x13 piccolo snare drum because of the mic"s ability to react to fast transients at high sound pressure levels. The ADX51 was an excellent choice! The 40-18kHz frequency response is exactly what I needed to cover the drum. I"m very, very happy with the choice of this mic and with Sweetwater"s excellent customer service and professionalism. I"m a customer for life!
Stellar!
Let's just say I bought a pair of these not expecting all that much. After a weak of them as my drum overheads in my home studio, I sold my Neumann and Mojave pairs and kept these. I love them and found no need for anything else for my overhead duties!
My go-to small diaphragm condenser
I own a pair of these and have no regrets at all. I'd agree with others that this would be similar in character to the Shure SM81. To my ear, it sounds a bit more refined in the upper mids.
I haven't found a situation yet where this mic gave me a "bad" sound, which is more than I can say for my Neumann KM184 pair, which tends to sound overly bright and can verge on harsh. From acoustic guitar, to overheads, to percussion, the Audix has always given a faithful, non-hyped representation of the sound source, which I appreciate.
As I'm writing this review I'm actually asking myself why I haven't sold my KM184's yet... Hmmmmm....
Given the fact that I've played over 100 shows so far with my ADX51s with ZERO problems, I'd say I'm confident recommending it for touring. For the studio, where you would baby it, it's a no-brainer. I've recommended the ADX51 to friends who have purchased them and LOVE them. In fact, I was going to give it 4.5 stars, but I literally can't come up with one single reason not to give it 5.
Overall, it's a solid, road-tested, super-quiet, articulate, detailed mic. You will NOT be disappointed with this mic.
Great Pencil Condenser
Bought the Audix expanded drum mic kit which included three of these - two overheads and one for hi-hat. I've also used this mic recording acoustic guitars and upright bass with great results. This mic is quite good for many sound sources. If you're considering this mic, don't be afraid to pull the trigger. I have no problems using it on serious tracking sessions in a variety of applications. The roll-off and pad are nice options to have.
Surprisingly good
I got a pair of these from Audix's DP7 drum pack and was very skeptical that these mics could actually be any good, after all they cost a couple hundred dollars. Not to mention they are so light they feel cheap.
Much to my surprise they are excellent workhorse mics. These puppies are clear, consistent and very transparent. I own and use a variety of small diaphragm condensers and I can see no reason NOT to use these microphones thanks to their transparent character. In many situations its better use these than a "superior" microfone such as the KM184 or the MA100.
Mad props for Audix as their mics kick butt.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Great Sound but have had reliability issues
These sounds similar to and would compete with a Shure SM81. I like the mic, but I have had 3 develop a 10k hissing sound and can no longer use them except for backup on loud micing situations (drum overhead). I will buy the SM81 next time
