The Lauten LA-120 is a transformerless condenser microphone with world-class transparency and sonic flexibility. This uniquely configurable design is equipped with analog sound shaping on board and includes interchangeable cardioid and omni capsules for added flexibility. Unlike traditional microphone designs that utilize a transformer to introduce color and saturation, the LA-120 is built around a U.S.-made JFET to capture vibrance and character with unprecedented realism and authenticity. More Than Meets the Eye The LA-120s onboard sound shaping eliminates the need for mic swaps and wasted time. Jump from crisp to smooth to ribbon-like sonics at the flip of a switch. Take the edge off harsh overheads, or warm up a bright piano. Add picking articulation to an acoustic guitar or perfectly capture a string quartet, all at the flip of a switch. Custom Capsules Lautens hand-tuned 17 mm capsules provide transparent, lifelike sound with a musical blend of transient response and natural compression. This makes the LA-120 an ideal choice for use on drum overheads, percussion, acoustic guitar and piano. Omni and Cardioid Polar Patters Cardioid capsules will focus each microphones attention directly to where it is pointed, reducing the overall sound of a room in a recording. Omnidirectional capsules allow room reflections or other off-axis instrumentation to be captured naturally and with uncolored authenticity. Transformerless Transparency The LA-120 signal path is hand-populated with high-resolution, low-distortion polypropylene capacitors and resistors, built around a U.S.-made JFET for articulate, uncolored and high-impact performance. High SPL Assistance Lauten designed the LA-120s to excel in numerous applications, but you may want to use them on something extra loud. The optional in-line pads (sold separately) allow the LA-120s dynamic range and depth to be fully utilized on high-SPL sound sources like toms, snare drums and more.