Solid state option
For this comparison, we’ll just focus on condenser mics. In a non-tube powered design, solid state technology consisting of diodes, transistors and integrated circuits prepare the signal for an external power supply, or phantom power, to send an electric charge.
Solid state circuitry is relatively sturdy. They are much less likely to break than their fragile tube counterparts. They also won’t overheat and need replacing. Generally, it’s uncommon to use a condenser for live performances when a dynamic mic is on hand but if you persist, steer well clear of tubes and opt for the beefier solid state.
The biggest drawback for tube is the price. If you were serious about buying one you wouldn’t mind the maintenance. But check out the sE Electronics Rupert Neve Designs RNT or the iconic Manley Reference to get an idea of what you might pay. And they get more expensive, with the likes of Telefunken and Blue mics climbing into the thousands.
Even the most universally-used famous microphones are solid state. The first that springs to mind is the Neumann U87, a large diaphragm condenser that’s made its way onto hundreds of modern-day vocals tracks. The AKG C414 meanwhile is iconic for its use on the BBC. And it’ll cost a fraction of what you could pay for tube condensers. There are loads of affordable options in the solid state market such as the AKG P420 or Neat Worker Bee clocking in at just over £100.
It doesn’t look great for tubes at the moment. But there are strong reasons to invest in one as a professional recording musician or someone looking to break onto the scene with top sound quality.
Tube sound characteristics
They excel in a studio environment above all else. When you have time to set up thoroughly, not much comes close to the exquisite sound captured by a tube microphone. Although every mic has a slightly different voicing, tubes are generally characterised by their warmth, natural compression and added harmonics. Vocal tracks sound brilliant through them because of the nuances they’re able to pick up. The speed at which they capture the sound highlights fine details in a performance.
Luckily, as highlighted in the video, because this old circuitry is growing in popularity again, there are more options than ever before. You can buy them well under £1000 and they’re great value. The brilliant Rode K2 and Rode NTK mics have gained admirers for their richness, huge dynamic range and high sound pressure headroom.
Most valve microphones also have the option of multiple polar patterns. This means the microphone can capture sound in the likes of cardioid, super cardioid and figure eight modes. It’s great for varying the presence or ambience of a recording.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong answer to microphones. It’s all about experimentation. Tube power absolutely has its place in providing more tonal variety to music. However, there are some guidelines you can follow using tried and tested methods.
The best advice is to pick the microphone based on its characteristics. Not over whether it has a tube powering it. Some solid states will sound warmer or glassier and the same with tube mics. Keep an open mind when trying them out. Listen to results, not buzzwords!
If you’d like to read our previous learn article, click here!