Lewitt Audio LCT640TS
Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
The Lewitt LCT640TS is a large-diaphragm, multipattern condenser microphone with a unique dual XLR output that provides additional features.
The 640TS is based on Lewitt’s multi-pattern LCT640, and shares all of its core features with that mic, including capsule, body design, and the user interface for pattern selection, pad, and low cut filter. If none of the new features are used, the 640TS can operate just like its sister mic. But as the TS — “Twin System” — designation would indicate, the newer microphone has unique features.
The 640TS has two outputs. The first is a standard XLR3 connector on the barrel of the mic, and the second is a mini-XLR connector on the side of the mic which gives access to the rear diaphragm of the microphone separately from the front diaphragm. (A mini-XLR to XLR adapter cable is included with purchase.) Connecting this second output to a second mic preamp and recording channel (both preamps must provide phantom power) allows the user to change the polar pattern of the microphone after recording.
The post-recording adjustment of polar patterns is accomplished in a DAW using Lewitt’s free “Polarizer” plugin for PC and Mac (VST, AU and AAX formats). Within the plugin, the polar pattern is adjustable using a slider bar that continuously varies the pattern selection. The plugin is stereo-only, so for mono polar pattern adjustment, left and right should be panned to the same location.
If left and right are hard panned on the Polarizer track, stereo recording is possible using only the 640TS. That is, both the front and rear diaphragms are heard simultaneously and with panning, stereo is created. The Polarizer plugin allows widening or narrowing of the stereo field.
This technique is different from recording the side channel in mid-side recording, as side channel recording is accomplished by hearing two sides of one diaphragm. In contrast, the 640TS has two separate diaphragms back to back. Therefore, stereo recording with the 640TS is mono compatible. The manual also spells out how to achieve M/S recording and other stereo techniques.
The LCT640TS has four pad settings: 0, -6, -12, and -18. With no attenuation, the mic can handle 132db of SPL before clipping.
When it does clip, the LCT640TS’ logo lights red on the front of the mic. And like most of the mics in Lewitt’s LCT line, the microphone remembers whether or not it has clipped during recording: the user can hold down the front middle button to see if the mic has clipped recently.
Lewitt states that its “Perfect Match” technology allows every LCT640TS to deliver the same output level as measured at 1kHz. This helps any two LCT640TS capsule a balanced stereo image. However, this is not the same thing as a truly “stereo matched pair,” which would also require that the frequency response of the two microphones be within some small range (typically 1.5dB).
The microphone ships with a flat-front shock mount, allowing the mic to be placed flush against the source. It also comes with a magnetic pop filter, the mini-XLR to XLR cable, a foam windscreen, and a cushioned mic bag.
The entire package is sold in a military-grade, foam-lined, high impact plastic case.
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The mic was released in 2016.
Specifications
Pickup Patterns | Pads & Filters |
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Omnidirectional
(30.3 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz) Cardioid (31.4 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz) Bidirectional (34.1 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz) Supercardioid (20 - 20,000 Hz) Wide Cardioid (20 - 20,000 Hz) |
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Capsule Dimensions | Impedance | SPL/Noise |
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Diaphragm diameter: 25.4mm Capsule diameter: 33mm Diaphragm gauge: 3 microns |
150 Ohms (Low) | Max SPL: 134 dB Self-noise: 10.5 dB(A) |
Weight | Length | Max Diameter | Interface(s) |
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425g (14.99oz) | 158mm (6.22'') | n/a |
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Power Specifications |
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