Josephson Engineering e22S Side-Address Cardioid Condenser Microphone
The Josephson Engineering e22S has become a standard in studios worldwide where precise
close-range pickup is needed for drums, acoustic and amplified
instruments.
The
Josephson Engineering e22S side-address cardioid was designed to meet
the needs of noted recording engineer Steve Albini. The physical profile
allows unobtrusive placement, even with tight percussion layouts.
Unique among studio condenser microphones, the e22S capsule geometry is
optimized for spot miking performance. The circuit uses a cascode
discrete FET front end, combined with a custom Lundahl output
transformer. The electronics were designed to interface easily with
either transformer or direct coupled mic preamps. The e22S has low
self-noise, so it delivers low level detail, and handles high sound
pressure levels for minimal distortion on extremely loud passages. The
microphone housing is very rugged, with a precision machined, satin
black chrome finish.
“The specific need addressed by the e22S
was drum kit recording, and the mics are used in that capacity nearly
every day, but once they were in our hands, they quickly became a
favorite mic for many instruments, including acoustic guitar, mandolin,
banjo, guitar amplifiers, organ and horns. The e22S is easily the most
versatile microphone in our cabinet.
“On loud sounds like drums
and guitar cabinets, the 609 head amplifier delivers a crisp, clear
signal that is free of distortion, at a level that doesn't require an
external pad.”
—Steve Albini