Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Active Pair

Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Active Pair The Fat Top II Active/Passive is a short ribbon microphone with Lundahl upgrade that delivers a warm, rich, fat, rounded tone. The bi-directional polar pattern picks up sound essentially equally from both faces with a large null between faces ideal for isolating sound sources. This microphone is fitted with an active/passive switch. When switched to active mode it isolates the output of the ribbon from the microphone preamp, the ribbon is consistently loaded at an optimal value. Price: $1375.00 Order Online Here UPC: 850046454226 SKU: 357132 Part No: D-FTII-AP-ST-S

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Comprehensive Review of Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Active Pair

The Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Active Pair is a highly regarded short ribbon microphone, engineered for exceptional sound quality and versatility. Below, we delve into its key features, benefits, drawbacks, and practical usage tips.

Key Features

• Warm, Rich Tone: The Fat Top II is designed to deliver a warm, rich, and rounded sound, making it ideal for vocals and various instruments.
• Lundahl Upgrade: This model features an upgraded Lundahl transformer, enhancing the overall audio quality and providing better frequency response.
• Bi-Directional Polar Pattern: The microphone captures sound equally from both front and back, with a large null between faces, making it excellent for isolating sound sources.
• Active/Passive Switch: Users can toggle between active and passive modes, allowing for optimal loading of the ribbon and better isolation from the preamp.

Benefits

The Fat Top II excels in a variety of settings, from studio recordings to live performances. Its ability to produce a fat sound profile makes it particularly attractive for vocalists and instrumentalists looking for depth in their recordings. The bi-directional pattern is especially useful in situations where background noise needs to be minimized, allowing for clearer sound capture. Additionally, the active/passive option affords flexibility in different recording environments.

Potential Drawbacks

Despite its many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The Fat Top II might require a bit more gain than other microphones, particularly when in passive mode. This could necessitate additional investment in high-quality preamps for optimal performance. Furthermore, as a ribbon microphone, it may be more sensitive to handling noise and wind, requiring careful placement and possibly the use of pop filters or windshields.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to similar products on the market, such as the Royer R-121 or the AEA R84, the Fat Top II holds its ground with its unique tonal characteristics and flexibility. While the Royer and AEA microphones are well-known for their high fidelity, the Fat Top II's enhanced features, like the active/passive switch and Lundahl transformer, provide a competitive edge in terms of versatility and sound customization.

Practical Tips for Best Use

1. Experiment with Placement: Try positioning the microphone at different angles and distances to find the sweet spot for your specific sound source.
2. Utilize the Active Mode: For studio recordings, engage the active mode to achieve the best sound isolation and lower noise floor.
3. Use with Quality Preamp: Pair the Fat Top II with a high-quality preamp to ensure adequate gain and to fully leverage its tonal capabilities.
4. Incorporate a Pop Filter: When recording vocals, consider using a pop filter to reduce plosive sounds and maintain clarity.

Complementary Products

Customers often pair the Fat Top II with the following products for enhanced performance:

• High-Quality Preamps: Models like the Focusrite ISA One or the Universal Audio 610 can provide the necessary gain and tonal warmth.
• Isolation Shields: Products like the sE Electronics Reflexion Filter can help minimize unwanted reflections and background noise.
• Cables: High-quality XLR cables are essential to ensure the integrity of the audio signal and to prevent interference.

Current Trends in Microphone Technology

Recent trends in the microphone industry lean towards increased versatility and improved audio fidelity. Innovations like variable polar patterns and advanced transformer technology are becoming more common. The Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II fits neatly into this trend with its active/passive switch and upgraded components, catering to modern recording needs while delivering classic ribbon microphone warmth.

In summary, the Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Active Pair is a stellar choice for musicians and audio engineers seeking a high-quality ribbon microphone that combines classic sound with modern innovations. Its ability to deliver a rich, rounded tone, along with its flexible usage options, makes it a worthy investment in any audio toolkit.