OK, even though Cascade is promoting this as a "live/stage" version of the Fathead II, of course you can jam this into your studio. I think "live only" mics would have to be beer and sweat proof with and be able to resist the impact of half full plastic water bottles and electronically self cleaning for the occasional piece of underwear.

But since that technology has been needed since at least the 50's and still hasn't been developed , you'll have to settle for this super-affordable, pimptastic looking ribbon mic. So, uh, what makes it a "live" mic then?


Unlike most ribbon motors designed today with an offset ribbon element the new Cascade FAT HEAD II houses a hand-tuned ribbon element that incorporates the legendary symmetrical ribbon design. This design offers a true figure 8 pattern. The corrugated aluminum membrane itself is positioned in the center from front to back, thus producing a balanced audio input signal to both sides of the ribbon assembly. This design is very useful when executing a mid-side or Blumlein recording set-up and also great for live stage use.

Ah, OK. The normal price for this mic is $225, so your saving $25.

Comes with: Premium suspension shockmount, quality wood box with heavy-duty latch and hinges, upgrade aluminum case, micro-fiber cleaning cloth and pouch.

Quickie specs:

• Type: Ribbon (velocity) Microphone
• Ribbon type & Dimensions: 99% Pure aluminum, 5 micron, 1 3/4" (L) X 3/16" (W)
• Polar pattern: Figure 8 Symmetrical
• Sensitivity: -56 db +/- 2 dB (0 dB=1V/Pa)
• Frequency response: 30 to -18,000 Hz (+/- 3dB)
• Output Impedance: <=200 Ohms
• Recommended load impedance: >1000 Ohms
• Max.SPL (1% THD @1000 Hz): 165 dB
• Connector: 3-Pin male XLR
• Size: Diameter: 3" (O.D. grill), overall length 7 3/4", 1 3/4" (O.D. body)