STUDIO PROJECTS C1 User manual

Studio Projects is manufactured and marketed under the direction of
PMI AUDIO GROUP
23775 Madison Street, Torrance, CA 90505
voice [phone] Facsimile [phone]
toll-free USA [phone]
Email [email protected]
Studio Projects Instruction Manual
• Professional Studio Microphones
• Ultimate professional build quality
• Pressure-gradient transducer
• Transformerless circuitry
• Large diameter pressure gradient capsule
employing 6 um gold sputtered Mylar diaphragms
visit our web site at studioprojectsusa.com
C SERIES MICROPHONES
• Ultra low-noise FET Preamplifier
• Dual Triode "6072" hand tested tubes (T3 Only)
• Multi-Pattern variable power supply (T3 Only)
• Heavy duty road case (All Models)
• Elastic heavy duty shock mount (All Models)
• Quality German "WIMA" components
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INSTRUCTION BOOK CONTENTS
What is Studio Projects............................................................................................2
Description, Care .....................................................................................................2
Operation, Problems, Connecting up.......................................................................3
Using Studio Projects, Specification ......................................................................4
Origins and manufacture..........................................................................................4
Applications...............................................................................................................4
C1...............................................................................................................................5
C3.......................................................................................................................................6
T3...............................................................................................................................7
WHAT IS STUDIO PROJECTS?
There are many microphone brands on today’s market, and German microphones are the most
sought after. Studio Projects was created to offer a better microphone for a better price to meet a
need in today’s market. Studio Projects was designed with German engineering in mind. We offer
German quality and sound for a fraction of the cost. The proof is in the listening. By using custom 6
um capsules and German WIMA components, Studio Projects competes both in quality build, and
sonic performance with those famous German brands.
Studio Projects has partnered with 797 Audio, a leading manufacturer in China for over 50 years
that has been building some German brand microphones. We like them so much, we put their
name on all of our microphones. As a result of this partnership, our quality is significantly better than
other brands, as our partner has a vested interest in Studio Projects, mainly their name! PMI Audio
Group is a leading distributor of professional audio products.
Having many years of experience with microphones, Studio Projects was created to provide a quali-
ty product at an affordable price. This will be evident as soon as you plug them in. Studio Projects
will continue to bring quality products to market.
DESCRIPTION / CARE
Although the “Mylar” membrane on the capacitor is more robust than the gold foil used by the
original German designs of the 1930s, it is extremely fine and liable to damage if mishandled.
There are two safety factors that MUST be remembered when handling these microphones:
1) Keep the microphone dry.
2) Avoid wind or air blasts directly onto the capsule.
All electronic equipment should be kept dry, but it is even more important to avoid any damp
conditions when using high quality condensor microphones. Damp can cause partial short cir-
cuits in the polarizing voltage, this will cause crackling noises and low output. The most impor-
tant instruction for condensor microphones is NEVER blow at the capsule. Damage caused
by blast of air on the capsule are often permanent and require the complete replacement of
the capacitor element (capsule). Never use the microphone in the open air without substan-
tial wind protection.
ELECTRICAL FEATURES
The C1 & C3 is a “transformerless microphone”. With transformerless technology, the usual
output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. The C1 & C3 ensures good common
mode rejection, and prevents RF interference, that may influence the balanced audio signal.
The C1 & C3 when compared to other microphones has very low noise and is capable of han-
dling sound pressure levels up to 138 dB without distortion.
OPERATION
The C1 & T3 is capable of handling high sound volume levels so it can be used safely close to
musical instrument amplifiers, however, the C1 is best suited for those high volume applications.
If the amplifier sound is very loud, this may overload the microphone amplifier. Simply adjust the
level to the microphone or reposition it. It is a very low noise microphone and suitable for vocal
recording to the highest quality. The C3 and T3 are more suited for critical vocal recordings,
strings, overheads, Broadcast, and production use. Experimentation is critical for optimum per-
formance. Microphone placement is crucial to a proper recording.
The C1 & C3 is addressed from the front, marked with the Studio Projects logo. The large
diaphragm capsule inside the headgrille has a very smooth frequency response, therefore the
acoustic information is not affected in its tonal quality when recorded by the microphone. The
microphone maintains an excellent response reproducing all transient material of music and
speech without coloration.
PROBLEMS
Should any microphone accidentally become damp and fail to operate properly (start crack-
ling, or go very quiet) then place it in a warm and very dry environment for 24 hours. The ideal
environment is an airing cupboard. Studio Projects are extremely resistant to physical dam-
age, but if the microphone fails to work after being dropped, it should be returned in adequate
packing to the supplier. A double test and inspection system means that manufacturing faults
are non-existent but should any fault occur, it will be repaired (or replaced) free of charge
excepting where the fault has been caused by physical damage.
CONNECTING UP
Using a high quality balanced and screened(shielded) audio cable, connect the C1 or C3
microphone to the microphone amplifier input and switch on the 48V phantom power. NOTE,
the microphone will not operate unless 48V phantom power is provided. The microphone
should be powered up for at least one minute before it will operate correctly as the polarizing
voltage on the capsule needs to stabilize. Some background noise is possible during the first
few seconds after switch on. Keep the gain controls on the microphone amplifier or mixer well
down as the output from the microphone is high (as most capacitor microphones). For the T3,
use the supplied cable to hook the microphone and power supply (PST3) together. Use a bal-
anced and screened(shielded) audio cable to connect to a mic amplifier. DO NOT USE A
PHANTOM POWER SOURCE FOR THE T3. The T3’s supply powers the mic.
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C1
The C1 is a high quality true condensor pressure gradient microphone
with an FET impedance converter. It is a large diaphragm microphone
with a cardiod polar pattern and a 6 um capsule for thick natural repro-
duction of the vocal and instrument range. The C1 uses a transformerless
circuit, that features extremely low noise and wide dynamic range. The
C1’s polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle. Signals
coming from the side are reproduced accurately and without any col-
oration. The microphone capsule is immune to typical interference and
outside contamination. The microphone is supplied with a shock mount,
windscreen and heavy duty road case with locking latches.
C1 SPECIFICATIONS
Type: FET 6 um single diaphragm
Polar pattern: cardioid.
Frequency response: 20~20000Hz.
Sensitivity: 14mV/Pa=-37dB(0dB=1V/Pa).
Output impedance: <200 Ohm.
Load impedance: >1000 Ohm.
Max. SPL: 131 dB SPL for 1% THD @1000Hz(0dB
SPL=0.00002Pa).
Noise: (Line): 27 dB (A weighted)---17 dB.
S/N ratio: 77 dB.
Power requirement: 48 +/- 4V.
Current consumption: <2.5mA.
Circuit: transformerless circuit, featuring
extremely low self noise and large
dynamic range.
Connector: Gold-plated 3-pin XLR
Pad: 10 dB
Low cut: 6 dB/Octave at 150 Hz.
Size: dia: 2.1" length: 8.9"
Weight: 26.9oz
USING STUDIO PROJECTS MICROPHONES
Studio Projects is a high quality true condensor pressure gradient microphone with FET
impedance converter. (NOTE, this is NOT an electret microphone).
The capacitor element is manufactured to the classic ‘center electrode’ design which provides
smooth extended frequency response without low frequency boominess. Quality is further
enhanced by using dynamic feedback actually at the capacitor element. This original tech-
nique eliminates distortions which can occur when using this type of microphone for high vol-
ume levels. The capacitor membrane is microfine 6 um ‘mylar’ with gold sputtering, voltage
polarized by phantom power.
The polar response is linear over a wide incidence angle, so signals coming from the side are
reproduced without coloration. All models are supplied with an elastic shock mount system.
Although the microphones are not particularly susceptible to sounds transmitted through the
case, it is advisable to use this shock mount wherever possible.
The C1 & C3 is more sensitive to sounds from the front than from the rear when used in the
CARDIOD pattern. The front of the microphone is indicated by the Studio Projects logo. To get
the best quality, be sure the sound source is in line with the front of the microphone. For
vocals, a ‘nylon’ pop shield is recommended. AVOID using foam plastic ‘pop’ shields. These
may be effective at stopping ‘popping’, but can also affect the working of the microphone so
the sound is dulled. To get that classic early capacitor microphone sound, the singer should
sing across the front of the microphone at a distance of 6" to 24" from the microphone.
The C3 and T3 are Multi-Pattern microphones that provide Cardiod, Omni, and Figure Eight
patterns. These multiple patterns allow the user more flexibility in their recordings. The Omni
pattern picks up sounds uniformly from all over the capsule, while Figure 8 rejects sounds
from the sides (left/right). Using these patterns correctly will give the user a wide variety of
recording applications. The T3 offers 6 variable patterns between the three patterns for even
more flexibility of nine total patterns.
ORIGINS AND MANUFACTURE
Studio Projects Microphones are manufactured in Beijing, China by 797 Audio to a specification
created by Studio Projects, Torrance, California. All Studio Projects microphones are inspect-
ed and tested at the factory, then inspected and tested again at PMI Audio Groups facility prior
to shipping. Studio Projects microphones meet the requirements of electronic equipment sold
both in the USA, Canada, and the European Union.
APPLICATIONS
• Close miking of instruments with high sound pressure levels
• Announcer’s mic for broadcasting/dubbing
• Home recording and project studios
• Vocalist recording
• Spot mic for: wind instruments, strings, percussion and guitar amps.
5
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T3
The T3 is a high quality condenser pressure gradient microphone with an
hand selected 6072 "Dual Triode" tube for that sought after classic warm
sound. It is a large diaphragm microphone with three selectable polar
patterns, Cardiod, Omni, and Figure Eight. Via it’s supplied power sup-
ply, an additional six variable patterns are available for a total of nine pat-
terns. The T3 uses a 6 um dual capsule for thick warm natural repro-
duction of the vocal range. The features extremely low noise and wide
dynamic range.
The T3’s polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle.
Signals coming from the side and rear are reproduced accurately and with-
out any coloration. The microphone capsule is immune to typical interfer-
ence and outside contamination. The microphone is supplied with a shock
mount, variable pattern power supply, dedicated 7pin XLR cable, windscreen
and heavy duty road case with locking latches.
T3 SPECIFICATIONS
Type: 1” large dual diaphragm vacuum tube.
Polar pattern: cardioid/ Omni-directional/figure 8 and
6 intermediate stages.
Frequency response: 20~20000Hz.
Sensitivity: 14mV/Pa=-37 dB(0dB=1V/Pa).
Output impedance: <250 Ohm.
Load impedance: >1000 Ohm.
Max. SPL: 125dB SPL for 1% THD @1000Hz(0 dB
SPL=0.00002Pa).
Noise: (Line)---28 dB (A weighted)---18 dB-A.
S/N ratio: 76 dB.
Power requirement: Supplied Power Supply (SPT3) 110/220
Current: 200V DC high voltage, <1.5mA
Filament 6.3V DC, <370mA.
Connector: Gold-plated 7-pin XLR
Size: dia: 2.1" length: 8.9"
Weight: 26.9oz
76
C3
The C3 is a high quality true condensor pressure gradient microphone
with an FET impedance converter. It is a large diaphragm microphone
with three selectable polar patterns, Cardiod, Omni, and Figure Eight. The
C3 uses a 6 um capsule for thick natural reproduction of the vocal range.
The C3 uses a transformerless circuit, that features extremely low noise
and wide dynamic range.
The C3’s polar response is very linear over a wide incidence angle.
Signals coming from the side and rear are reproduced accurately and with-
out any coloration. The microphone capsule is immune to typical interfer-
ence and outside contamination. The microphone is supplied with a shock
mount, windscreen and heavy duty road case with locking latches.
C3 SPECIFICATIONS
Type: 1 inch large dual diaphragm
FET condenser microphone .
Polar pattern: cardioid/Omni-directional/figure 8.
Frequency response: 20~20000Hz.
Sensitivity: 12mV/Pa=-38dB(0dB=1V/Pa).
Output impedance: <200 Ohm.
Load impedance: >1000 Ohm.
Max. SPL: 132/142dB SPL for 1% THD
@1000Hz(0 dB/-10 dB pad, 0 dB
SPL=0.00002Pa).
Noise: (Line)---28 dB (A weighted)---18 dB.
S/N ratio: 76 dB.
Power requirement: 48 +/- 4V.
Current consumption: <2.5mA.
Circuit: transformerless circuit, featuring
extremely low self noise and large
dynamic range.
Connector: Gold-plated 3-pin XLR .
Pad: 10 dB
Low cut: 6 dB/Octave at 150 Hz.
Size: dia: 2.1" length: 8.9"
Weight: 26.9oz
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STUDIO PROJECTS LIMITED WARRANTY
THIS PRODUCT IS FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY
PMI Audio Group warrants that all products will be free from defects in material or workmanship:
A: For a period of (1) one year from the date of purchase (hereinafter the labor warranty period),
PMI Audio Group will repair or replace this Product if determined to be defective. After the expi-
ration of the labor warranty period, the Purchaser must pay labor charges.
B: In addition, PMI Audio Group will supply, at no charge, replacements for defective parts for a
period of (one year) from the date of purchase. During the labor warranty period, to repair the
Product, Purchaser must return the defective Product, freight prepaid, or deliver it to PMI Audio
Group Service Center. The product to be repaired is to be returned in either its original carton or
a similar package affording an equal degree of production. PMI Audio Group will return the
repaired Product freight prepaid to the Purchaser. PMI Audio Group is not obligated to provide
Purchaser with a substitute unit during the warranty period or at any time.
CONDITIONS
1. Notification of claims: Warranty Service: If Purchaser discovers that the Product has proven
defective in material or workmanship, then written notice with an explanation of the claim shall
be given promptly by Purchaser to PMI but all claims for warranty service must be made within
the warranty period. If after investigation PMI determines that the reported problem was not cov-
ered by the warranty, Purchaser shall pay PMI for the cost of investigating the problem at its then
prevailing time-and-materials rate. No repair or replacement by Purchaser of any Product or part
thereof shall extend the warranty period as to the entire Product. The specific warranty on the
repaired part only shall be in effect for a period of ninety (90) days following the repair or replace-
ment of that part or the remaining period of the Product warranty, whichever is greater.
2. Exclusive Remedy: Acceptance: Purchaser’s exclusive remedy and PMI’s sole obligation is to
supply (or pay for) all labor necessary to repair any product found to be defective within the war-
ranty period and to supply, at no extra charge, new or rebuilt replacements for defective parts. If
repair or replacement fails to remedy the defect, then and only in such an event, shall PMI
exchange to Purchaser a new or reconditioned unit. Purchaser’s failure to make a claim as pro-
vided in paragraph 1 above or continued use of the product shall constitute an unqualified
acceptance of such Product and a waiver by Purchaser of all claims thereto.
3. Exceptions to Limited warranty: PMI shall have no liability or obligation to Purchaser with
respect to any Product subjected to abuse, improper use, negligence, accident, modification, fail-
ure of the end-user to follow the operating and maintenance procedures outlined in the users
manual, attempted repair by non-qualified personnel, operation of the unit outside of the pub-
lished environmental and electrical parameters, or if such products original identification (trade-
mark, serial number) markings have been defaced, altered, or removed. PMI excludes from war-
ranty coverage, Products sold AS IS and/or WITH ALL FAULTS and excludes used products
which have not been sold by PMI to the Purchaser. PMI also excludes from warranty coverage,
Products sold or located outside of the United States and Puerto Rico, and consumables (such
as fuses and batteries).
4. Proof of purchase: The dealer’s dated bill of sale must be retained as evidence or the date of
purchase and to establish warranty eligibility.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
EXCEPT FOR THE FORGOING WARRANTIES, PMI HEREBY DISCLAIM S AND EXCLUDES
ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR LIMITED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY/OR ALL
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT ABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND/OR
ANY WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO ANY CLAIM OF INFRINGEMENT THAT MAY BE PROVED
IN SECTION 2-312(3) OF THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE AND/OR IN ANY COMPARABLE STATE
STATUE. PMI HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTY THAT THE PRODUCT IS
COMPATIBLE WITH ANY COMBINATION OF NON-JOEMEEK PRODUCTS PURCHASER MAY
CHOOSE TO CONNECT TO THE PRODUCT.
LIMITATION ON LIABILITY
THE LIABILITY OF PMI, IF ANY, AND PURCHASER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR
DAMAGES FOR ANY CLAIM OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER, REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY
AND WHETHER ARISING IN TORT OR CONTRACT, SHALL NOT BE GREATER THAN THE ACTUAL
PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT WITH RESPECT TO WHICH SUCH CLAIM IS MADE. IN NO
EVENT SHALL PMI BE LIABLE TO PURCHASER FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COMPENSATION,
REIMBURSEMENT OR DAMAGES ON ACCOUNT OF THE LOSS OF PRESENT OR
PROSPECTIVE PROFITS OR ANY OTHER REASON WHATSOEVER.
OWNERS REGISTRATION CARD
TO BE COMPLETED AT TIME OF PURCHASE
Name ____________________________________________________
Date of Purchase ____________________________________________________
Serial Number ____________________________________________________
Dealer’s Name ____________________________________________________
RETAIN FOR YOUR RECORDS
PLEASE DISPATCH AND RETURN YOUR REGISTRATION TO
STUDIO PROJECTS WITHIN 14 DAYS OF PURCHASE
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Place
Stamp
Here
STUDIO PROJECTS
DISTRIBUTED BY PMI AUDIO GROUP
23775 Madison Street
Torrance, California 90505 USA
PRODUCT REGISTRATION
PLEASE FILL THE BELOW SECTION OUT AND RETURN
Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Telephone Number: email Address: Model Purchased: Date Purchased: Serial Number: Dealer: Comments:
What magazines do you read to influence your buying decision: (please check all that apply)
❏MIX ❏Electronic Musician ❏EQ ❏Home Recording ❏Pro Audio Review ❏Recording ❏Pro Sound News
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