Chandler Limited REDD Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Built-In Tube Preamplifier

Make no mistake, this is an unmistakably EMI-style, large-diaphragm condenser sporting a handmade, hand-milled platinum membrane. It provides both cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns.

However, as this microphone integrates with a version of the classic REDD.47 tube preamp, use of an external pre is not necessary. Many of the preamplifier’s controls are available right from the microphone. For changing the harmonic content/tonal character, NORM and DRIVE settings are found at the bottom of the mic. You’ll also note the polarity-invert switch, as well as a pad switch, the polar pattern selector, and a prominent gain knob.

On the included PSU, you’ll find a low-contour control, which acts similarly to—but not exactly like—a high-pass filter, which emphasizes top-end while simultaneously tightening the lows. This feature is located on the variable-output control knob. Simply pull the knob to engage low-contour mode.

A 7-pin receptacle on the PSU is provided for connecting the microphone, as is your standard 3-pin XLR jack for outputting to an interface, a converter, or a separate, dedicated preamp, should you wish to color the sound further before hitting any other processor. A shockmount, an AC cable, a pattern-select screwdriver, and a flight case are all included.

When the toggle switch is set to NORM, the REDD Microphone preamplifier is considered in its normal operational condition. The sound, in this state, is more organic, natural, and "laid-back" in comparison to DRIVE mode. The DRIVE setting, on the other hand, has an overall effect over the adjustable gain range, both in terms of structure, and, more importantly, harmonic content. This feature is similar to the FINE GAIN on the rackmount version of the REDD.47 amplifier. However, with this unit, the setting is always fully on and non-variable. For further tonal tweaking, investigate the LOW-CONTOUR function, which triggers an alternate voicing of the microphone, one with a tighter sound that emphasizes the top-end.