PROS: Fantastic sound, unique look, no need for shock mounting.
CONS: None.
PRICE: $499
Steampunk has been a popular design aesthetic for years now, usually combining a Victorian appearance with a modern device’s functionality and/or looks. It’s been popular on cell phones, computers, and now microphones. The Edwina model is quite a sight, with its rustic “old-timey” look. Amazingly enough, it fits into a standard microphone stand clip. It’s a condenser mic, with a large, rotating 26mm capsule that also has a pop filter behind the grille.
Sound-wise, it’s great, with plenty of range and applications, and sounds wonderful in any acoustic application (guitars and drums, especially). Although, with its unique look, it’s definitely meant for live use, specifically for vocals. It has unique warmth, and it’s quite tunable just by adjusting the location of the capsule. There are plenty of clear and pure tones, and even when getting right on top of it, the Edwina features really solid feedback control. As it’s hand made with matched transistors, resistors, and capacitors, it’s not surprising that it has a very natural quality to its overall tone.
Also not surprisingly, as with most handmade items, it’s a little more expensive than your run-of-the-mill vocal mic; but the $499 price tag isn’t really out of this world considering the quality you get. Condenser microphones can cost up to several thousand dollars, and there are plenty of others in this price range, but none with this aesthetic. However, like most condensers it will require phantom power, so make sure the system you’re using can handle it. Bottom line: the Edwina delivers great sound quality and it’s durable enough for live use, and will certainly look unique on stage, especially if your band has a similar theme or style.
FEATURES
Diaphragm Condenser Capsule: 26mm, mounted in a pivoting bracket with a cardioid pickup pattern
Pop Filter: integral silk and mesh, for effective control of plosives without loss of clarity
Hand-wired Components: film caps, precision resistors, hand tested and matched transistors, with component values tuned for the individual circuit.
Dimensions: 8 3/4″ x 4″ x 1 3/4″; head is 3″ in diameter
Case Provided: metal tool case with foam padding
Phantom Power Required: 48V