Superlux S502

345

Stereo Microphone

2 Matched cardioid capsules
1/2" Gold diaphragm
Peak SPL: 135 dB
Impedance: 200 Ohm
Frequency range: 40 - 20,000 Hz
48V Phantom power necessary
5-pin XLR connector
Black metal housing
Includes microphone cable (5-pin female to 2x 3-pin male) and wind protector

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

3-Year Thomann Warranty

Available since September 2010

Item number 239398

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characteristic cardoid

$95

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in Stereo Microphones

Two mics in one

The Superlux S502 is an affordably-priced stereo microphone that combines a pair of matched cardioid mics, which are arranged in a fixed "ORTF" setup that places the capsules 17cm apart and at an angle of 110° to each other, in a sturdy black metallic casing. The S502 delivers a highly transparent and well-balanced sound, while its simple design also makes it very easy to use. The scope of delivery additionally includes a matching shock mount, two windshields, a short microphone cable with 5-pin female to 2x3-pin male connectors, and a sturdy plastic transport case.

Superlux stereo microphone with carrying case

True condenser capsules with gold-sputtered diaphragms

In place of permanently magnetised diaphragms, the Superlux S502 features true condenser capsules equipped with gold-sputtered 1/2" diaphragms and, as mentioned above, a fixed cardioid polar pattern. The mic's maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 135dB is fully sufficient for ORTF applications, while its frequency response of 40Hz to 20kHz is also a match for the demands usually placed on small-diaphragm microphones. The S502's equivalent output noise in turn is 18dB (A-weighted), and it has a signal-to-noise ratio of 76dB. Connecting to a mixing desk or audio interface is of course quick and easy thanks to the included FM0.6AMM microphone cable.

ORTF for dummies

While the Superlux S502's design admittedly makes it less flexible than two individual microphones, its two-in-one concept provides enhanced practicality in that the user no longer has to spend time arranging the separate mics to achieve an ORTF arrangement. Another convincing argument in the Superlux S502's favour is of course its well-balanced sound, which together with the mic's affordable price makes it a budget-friendly all-in-one solution for achieving an ORTF sound without the laborious task of manually putting together a stereo setup with two separate mics and finding the sweet spot first.

Superlux microphone shock mount and XLR connection

About Superlux

Anyone looking for microphones and headphones with an excellent price-performance ratio will certainly find what they are looking for from Superlux. The company employs experienced specialists and produces its articles at various locations in its own factories in China and Taiwan, where the products are developed, tested, and manufactured under one roof. Everything can therefore be manufactured on site, from the raw material to the finished device, which has a positive effect on the selling price. The products are often praised in test reports for their sound and manufacturing quality. With Superlux products, private users can achieve solid recording and mixing results even without a large budget.

Alone or with a backup mic

Depending on the signal source being recorded, combining the Superlux S502 with a backup microphone can also pay off. When recording an acoustic guitar, for example, the addition of an extra microphone close to the instrument adds a more intimate feel to the recording and allows the transient oscillation of the strings to be picked up. Of course, the S502 will still deliver an impressive guitar sound by itself, and it will also cut a fine figure when used as an overhead mic, where it will provide an appealing sound with accurate localisation - provided of course that it is positioned correctly!

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345 Customer ratings

5 216 Customers 4 98 Customers 3 18 Customers 2 7 Customers 1 6 Customers

4.5 / 5

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221 Reviews

Positive surprise!

Nota Bene Records 15.03.2019

I ordered this mic as for simple curiosity, to record authentic latin-american instruments from Bolivia and Peru. Ayllu group plays authentic music from Ands..and what surprise this was. Full collection of instruments from bass drum (bombo) all the way to highly pitched kenas and charango this microphone covered without any issue whatsoever! Stereo definition from this ORTF setup was clearly presenteded with realistic and clear stereo image with very low self-noise.Sound is much more controlled - no over-brightness (in comparison with all popular Rode NT's).
Small remark goes to bass, namely the "deepness" of bass freq. but for this price something that can easily be forgiven...Manufactured in metal housing, very solid made, with included clip/holder.Be smart and order additional Y-type cable 'cause included cable in package is to short if you intend to use this microphone on higher positions.

Conclusion: buy now, this is excellent addition to your collection of microphones that can give you great results for studio and live recordings.

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Very good mic for stereo recording!

FunkyM 13.01.2018

Use
For drum overhead maily. Also suitable for percussion, acoustic guitar. Very good results in studio as well as live recording.

Clarity
This mic gives very realistic and clear stereo image (ORTF system).
The capsules very good matchedand low noice level. Self noise if very low. Comparing to other SDC - this pair is winner in rpice/prefomance and stereo image.

Pros:
Very good stereo mic for this price, no competitors can beat it.
Quality of Superlux is alvays on top. No any issues during 9 month of usage in studio. Personal advice: to buy additional 6 meter long Y-type cable.

Cons:
Y-type cable included in package is very short. But it is not problem - you can get 6 meter long Superlux cable here, at thomann.

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Fixed angle

CSingh 18.01.2022

Good sound, good build quality and overall nice for the price.

Only downside is that the angles of the mic "branches" are fixed so you cannot customise the angle to work in "all" situations.

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Good sound, sloppy QC

mha_ 01.06.2019

The microphone is very good for my semi-pro use. When I was choosing mike I was listening A/B comparisons with Schoeps 64U, and you couldn’t even find differences. The sound is crystal clear, not too bright, but very sensitive, so in an untreated room, you will have problems. Fixed ORTF form is very practical, you are more inclined to experiment instead of just connecting mono and opening a bear.

I had one problem, one channel (probably capsule) was a bit erratic from start, but superb Thomann intervention fixed it – kudos! Bad factory quality control is probably in line with price, so be just prepared for it and you will enjoy little diamond.

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Superlux S502

Stereo Microphone

Two mics in one