In searching for the top home studio stereo microphone pairs, there are a number of options to choose from. There are an overwhelming amount of home studio microphone pairs available, but some of the well known brands for the home studio recording include; Fostex, MXL, AMT, M-Audio, and Behringer. Each microphone pair is unique, and can serve a specific purpose for recording in your home studio. The following explains the differences between the brands of microphone pairs.
The Behringer matched pair of microphones (C-2 and C-4) are small diaphragm lightweight condenser microphones which can function for live or home studio recording. Their polar pattern is cardioid, including a low frequency roll-off filter along with a -10dB pad for versititly. The Behringer stereo microphone pair features a wide frequency response, which makes it apt for use in home recordings for a variety of instruments, such as pianos and acoustic guitars, but also including drums and electric guitar. Their small size allows for a variety of placement options and also function well as stereo overhead microphones.
The Fostex MC10ST electret condenser stereo microphone pair are small diaphragm microphones which offer low-distortion and a light weight design. They feature a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency-response range of 40 Hz to 40 kHz. Uses for the Fostex microphone pair can vary, but they are most effective on acoustic instruments and as stereo room microphones for home and studio recordings. They can also withstand high sound pressure levels, which means they can be used to record drums and loud electric instruments.
The MXL 993 stereo condenser microphone pair is another small diaphragm set with sturdy brass and removable capsules. The MXL stereo pair offer a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range with a -10dB pad switch along with a -10dB low-frequency roll-off switch. The MXL 993 microphone pair can function for home and studio recording scenarios and is ideal for capturing acoustic guitars as well as drum overheads and room ambiance. These mic’s are often described as having a warm, natural sound, the MXL 993 stereo pair is a very popular choice for home studio recording.
The Applied Microphone Technology microphone, or AMT, is another brand of small diaphragm microphone pairs. The AMT 404 features a cardioid polar pattern, a wide frequency response, and can withstand high SPL’s (Sound Pressure Level). The AMT 404 works well for drum overhead recording, acoustic instruments, vocals, piano, and a number of other instruments.
M-Audio makes a matched stereo microphone pair, called M-Audio Pulsar II. These small diaphragm stereo microphone pairs are ideal for both overhead and room recording. They feature a -10dB pad as well as an 80Hz high-pass filter switch which lets only higher frequencies pass through. This allows the M-Audio Pulsar II stereo microphone pair to be used in both the home studio and live recording enviornments. An added feature is included in the T-shaped mounting bracket which allows you to easily set up your microphone pair in specific positions for stereo recording.
Each of these microphones has its own unique sonic character and may be the right tool for your project. As usual the best method when choosing a microphone to add to your toolbox is to listen and experiment. Having a variety of microphone flavors at your disposal is optimal, allowing the ability to match the microphone to the sound-source for excellent recording results.