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9 polar patternsStudio Projects T3

Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone

The T3 is a multipattern tube condenser microphone built by 797 Audio in China.

The capsule in the T3 can also be found in the other C-series mics; it is a dual-diaphragm (6-micron), 27mm, center-terminated K67 copy, with an outside diameter of 34.5mm.

The mic’s tube is a 12AY7/6072 dual-triode; the output circuit is transformerless.

The mic was introduced in 2000 at an MSRP of $1099. The MSRP appears to have changed every few months, typically ranging from $699 to $839.

The current version of the mic, released around 2006, differs from the original in numerous repects:

  • A capacitor in the high-impedance section of the circuit was changed (acc. to MIX).
  • The XLRM jack on the bottom of the mic was centered on the bottom of the mic body.
  • The 797 Audio branding was removed.
  • A heavier-gauge metal mesh was used to manufacture the new headgrille.

SoundOnSound (2003)

The bottom line then is that the T3 does indeed offer a high level of performance… it has the advantage of fully switchable patterns, but there will be some sound sources that it suits better than others.

[B]ecause the tube sound of the T3 isn’t over-hyped, it’s more likely to turn in consistently good results in different applications than a mic that’s designed to deliver a specific tonal flavor. If you don’t need the multiple patterns, there are more economical choices that I think sound every bit as good, not least Rode’s mellifluously smooth NTK, but if you need the flexibility of pattern control and demand quality without paying through the nose for it, the T3 could be just what you’re looking for.

MIX (2007)

I love this mic. Is it a spot-on C 12 clone? Not really. Although it’s certainly of the same ilk, I believe that the T3 is actually better-sounding in most cases.

The mic includes a foam windscreen, an elastic shockmount, the power supply and cable, and an aluminum flightcase.

The Studio Projects T3 is also known as: T-3.

The mic was released in 2000.

Specifications

Frequency Response - OmnidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!
T3 Omnidirectional Frequency Response Chart
Frequency Response - CardioidClick Graph to Compare!
T3 Cardioid Frequency Response Chart
Frequency Response - BidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!
T3 Bidirectional Frequency Response Chart
Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (14 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Cardioid (14 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Bidirectional (14 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Diaphragm diameter: 27mm
Capsule diameter: 34.5mm
Diaphragm gauge: 6 microns
250 Ohms (Low) Max SPL: 125 dB
Self-noise: 18.0 dB(A)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
763g (26.91oz) 226mm (8.90'') 53mm (2.09'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Includes tube power supply

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