Specifications
the t.bone BD 500 Beta
Condenser Boundary Microphone
- Polar pattern: Semi-cardioid
- Switchable frequency response for bass drum or piano / voice applications
- Frequency range: 30 – 20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 230 Ohm
- Sensitivity: -53 dB
- Robust metal housing
- XLR male output
- Holes on the back for suspending
- Bottom with 3/8″ internal thread and non-slip rubber for stability and to protect sensitive surfaces
- Dimensions: 95 x 123 mm
- Weight: 480 g
Flat can sound huge!
Inside a bass drum, the round shell acts a bit like an infinite surface. But of course, the element inside the BD 500 also captures mids and trebles, in addition to low frequencies. This microphone can literally be thrown into any kick drum and produces a “complete” sound. And you don’t have to fiddle around for exact positions!
Despite the “BD”: The BD 500 isn’t just for bass drum!
This boundary layer microphone has many uses beside the bass drum. It also works perfectly inside a cajon, where it captures everything from thunderous bass thumps to delicate finger taps. Boundary layer mics are also helpful when the microphone shouldn’t be visible. On stage or on set in front of an ensemble, an orchestra, an instrumentalist or even actors – the t.bone BD 500 is a really versatile piece of audio gear! A big pro of this kind of mic is that it produces a rather dry sound, even at a slightly longer distance. That’s because there are no delayed reflections from nearby surfaces – it literally sits on the closest one!
Professional features
The half-cardioid polar pattern ensures that unwanted signals can be avoided. An all-metal housing, an XLR connector and a frequency range from 30 Hz to 20 kHz are truly professional features. When used inside the kick drum, the BD 500 Beta delivers a very welcome boost of the sub bass frequencies. Furthermore, an EQ switch can be activated to scoop the mids if desired. You might want to set that for bass drum miking, as it results in the typical combination of body and kick favoured by many. The BD 500 is a condenser microphone, but still handles sound pressure levels up to 140 dB.
