Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Blck Ribbon Mic Pr

Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Blck Ribbon Mic Pr

Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Blck Ribbon Mic Pr


The Fat Top II is a short ribbon passive microphone with a Lundahl upgrade that delivers a smooth, warm, rich, fat, rounded tone. Produces a well-rounded sound without the need to EQ out the brittle or sharp highs. This microphone will roll off the high frequencies that will help with perceived warmth. The bi-directional polar pattern picks up sound essentially equally from both faces with a large null between faces, ideal for isolating sound sources.
Price: $979.00 Order Online Here
UPC: 850046454066 SKU: 357105 Part No: D-FTII-ST-S
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Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Ribbon Mic Review

The Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II is a standout choice for audio professionals seeking a unique ribbon microphone experience. With its specialized features and thoughtful design, it presents a compelling option for both studio recording and live sound applications.

Key Features

  • Short Ribbon Design: The Fat Top II utilizes a short ribbon element that is known for producing a warm, rich, and rounded tone.
  • Lundahl Upgrade: This microphone is equipped with a Lundahl transformer, enhancing its performance by delivering a smoother audio quality.
  • High Frequency Roll-off: The design inherently rolls off sharp high frequencies while maintaining a well-rounded sound, reducing the need for heavy EQ adjustments.
  • Bi-Directional Polar Pattern: The microphone captures sound equally from both sides, featuring a pronounced null between the faces, making it ideal for isolating sound sources.
  • Passive Operation: Being a passive microphone, it does not require phantom power, which can simplify setup and compatibility with various audio interfaces.

Benefits

The Fat Top II excels in delivering a smooth and warm audio profile, which is particularly beneficial for vocal performances and certain instruments, such as strings and brass. Its bi-directional polar pattern allows users to effectively isolate instruments or vocals, making it an excellent choice for duo performances or interviews.

Potential Drawbacks

While the Fat Top II offers numerous advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  • Limited High Frequencies: The inherent high-frequency roll-off may not suit all genres, particularly those requiring bright and clear high-end response.
  • Fragility: Ribbon microphones can be more delicate than dynamic microphones, requiring careful handling and storage.

Comparison to Similar Products

When compared to other ribbon microphones in the market, such as the Royer R-121 and the AEA R84, the Fat Top II stands out for its unique tonal characteristics and affordability. While the Royer R-121 is often praised for its versatility and durability, it comes at a higher price point. Similarly, the AEA R84 is known for its rich sound but can be cost-prohibitive for some users. The Fat Top II provides a middle ground with its superior tonal warmth at a more accessible price.

Practical Tips for Use

  1. Placement: Experiment with positioning the microphone at different angles and distances to find the sweet spot that best captures the desired sound.
  2. Use Pop Filters: To further reduce plosives and sibilance, especially when recording vocals, consider using a pop filter in front of the microphone.
  3. Monitor Levels: Due to its passive nature, ensure that your input gain is adequately set to avoid signal loss when recording.

Complementary Products

To enhance the user experience with the Fat Top II, consider pairing it with:

  • Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1: This inline preamp provides clean gain to passive microphones, ensuring optimal signal levels.
  • Shock Mount: A dedicated shock mount will help in isolating the microphone from vibrations and handling noise during recordings.
  • High-Quality Audio Interface: A reliable audio interface will ensure the best sound quality and conversion, complementing the microphone’s performance.

Current Trends and Innovations

The rise of home studios and remote recording has led to an increased interest in ribbon microphones for their unique sound characteristics. The trend of using vintage-style microphones for modern recordings aligns well with the Fat Top II’s vintage-inspired design and tonal qualities. As artists and producers search for warmth and character in their recordings, the Fat Top II fits perfectly into this trend, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

Overall, the Pinnacle Microphones Fat Top II Black Ribbon Mic is a versatile and high-quality option for anyone looking to capture warm and rich audio. With its unique attributes, thoughtful design, and compatibility with various setups, it’s a valuable addition to any audio engineer or musician's toolkit.