The CU-55 is Sanken’s latest addition to their famed line of studio microphones. It is a side-address, cardioid (only) condenser microphone with a 16-mm capsule encased in a resonant chamber like the Sanken CU-44x. This new microphone is said to have a flat frequency (40Hz to 20,000Hz) response on axis and exhibit very little proximity effect (low frequency buildup when cardioid microphones are close to sound sources). The CU-55 uses the same diaphragm material as the Sanken CU-100 and CUW-180 microphones and makes a good choice for acoustic instruments like guitars, cello, harp and piano. Capable of 147dB SPL with its -10dB pad switched in, the CU-55 easily handles close-mic applications such as brass, guitar cabinets and drums.
The CU-55’s small dimensions (113mm long by 30mm diameter), side-address, and ability to not “fold” under the pressure of high SPL make it a good choice for getting into tight positions around drum kits. It is +48-volt phantom-powered, lightweight and unobtrusive looking—it sort of melts into the backline if you were to use one for live stage sound. Being a professional tool, I like its matte brown finish and price point. An optional accessory worth getting is the S-55 Elastic Suspension Holder (shown above).
The Sanken CU-55 sells for $1,195 MSRP. Find more information at http://sanken-mic.com or http://plus24.net.
By Barry Rudolph
miniBIO: Barry Rudolph is a recording engineer/mixer with over 30 gold and platinum RIAA awards to his credit. He has recorded and/or mixed: Lynyrd Skynyrd, Hall & Oates, Pat Benatar, Rod Stewart, the Corrs and Robbie Nevil. Barry has his own futuristic music mixing facility and also teaches recording engineering at Musician’s Institute, Hollywood, CA. http://www.barryrudolph.com
