What is the main purpose of the SubZero M100?

The M100 is a reference microphone designed for room analysis and sound system calibration. It is used to identify acoustic issues like frequency imbalances or reflections in a recording or performance space.

What is the frequency response of this microphone?

The SubZero M100 features an ultra-flat frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. This wide range ensures that the microphone captures both the deep low-end and high-frequency details of a room.

Does the M100 have a specific polar pattern?

Yes, it uses an omni-directional polar pattern. This allows the microphone to pick up sound from all directions, which is necessary for measuring how sound reflects off walls and ceilings.

Can I use the M100 for recording vocals?

While technically possible, it is not recommended for traditional vocal recording. Its flat response and omni-directional pattern will capture a lot of room noise and lack the flattering 'colour' found in vocal microphones like the Sennheiser e945.

How does this microphone help with mixing?

By using the M100 to analyse your room, you can identify if your space is creating a false impression of frequencies. This allows you to apply acoustic treatment or EQ correction, leading to more accurate mixes that translate better to other systems.

Is the SubZero M100 suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is designed for both seasoned professionals and budding enthusiasts. Its low price point makes it an ideal first tool for anyone wanting to learn about the acoustics of their home studio.

How does the M100 compare to a Shure SM58?

They serve completely different purposes. The SM58 is a cardioid dynamic microphone meant for live vocals, whereas the M100 is a flat-response reference microphone meant for measurement and analysis.

What kind of cable does the M100 use?

The M100 typically uses a standard XLR connection. As a reference microphone, it usually requires phantom power from an audio interface or mixer to operate.

Can the M100 be used for live sound calibration?

Yes, it is effective for tuning live sound systems in venues. It helps engineers understand how a PA system interacts with a specific room's dimensions and materials.

Why is a flat frequency response important for this microphone?

A flat response ensures the microphone does not add its own 'sound' to the measurement. This provides an honest representation of what is actually happening in the room or coming out of the speakers.

Is the M100 similar to an Electro-Voice RE20?

No, the RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone often used for broadcasting and kick drums. The M100 is a measurement tool with an omni-directional pattern and is not intended for the same high-SPL instrument applications.

What is the typical price for a SubZero M100?

The SubZero M100 is generally available in the budget price range of approximately £20. This makes it one of the most affordable reference microphones on the market.

Gear article

SubZero M100 Reference Microphone

The SubZero M100 is a budget-friendly reference microphone designed for room analysis and sound system calibration. Featuring an omni-directional polar pattern and an ultra-flat frequency response, it allows users to identify acoustic anomalies in both professional and home studio environments.

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Overview

The SubZero M100 is a specialised tool intended for acoustic measurement rather than traditional vocal or instrument recording. Positioned as an entry-level reference microphone, it aims to provide accurate data regarding the frequency response of a given space or loudspeaker system. By identifying how a room interacts with sound, the M100 enables engineers and enthusiasts to make informed decisions regarding acoustic treatment and EQ correction.

Technical Features

The primary technical attribute of the M100 is its ultra-flat frequency response, covering the full audible spectrum from 20Hz to 20kHz. Unlike standard microphones that may have 'colouration' or frequency boosts for aesthetic purposes, the M100 is designed to capture sound as neutrally as possible. Its omni-directional polar pattern ensures that it picks up sound equally from all directions, which is essential for capturing the reflections and standing waves within a room.

Applications and Utility

The M100 is primarily used to solve performance and mixing issues caused by untreated rooms or inadequate sound systems. Untamed low-end energy or acoustic 'dead spots' can lead to inaccurate mixing decisions; the M100 serves to reveal these issues. It is suitable for:

Calibrating studio monitors to a specific room.
Testing live sound reinforcement systems in various venues.
Identifying standing waves and low-frequency build-up in home studios.
Learning about the acoustic properties of a new recording space.

Sound Character

In terms of character, the M100 is designed to be transparent and clinical. It does not possess the warmth of a classic dynamic microphone like the Shure SM58 or the mid-range presence of the Sennheiser e935. Instead, it renders the environment exactly as it is, providing a high-fidelity representation of the space's sonic profile without adding any specific tonal signature.

Comparison to Alternatives

While standard stage microphones such as the Shure SM57 or Beta 58A are designed for durability and feedback rejection, they are unsuitable for measurement due to their cardioid patterns and shaped frequency responses. Compared to higher-end reference tools, the SubZero M100 provides an accessible entry point at a significantly lower price bracket, making room analysis technology available to budding enthusiasts who may not yet require laboratory-grade equipment.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main purpose of the SubZero M100?: The M100 is a reference microphone designed for room analysis and sound system calibration. It is used to identify acoustic issues like frequency imbalances or reflections in a recording or performance space.
What is the frequency response of this microphone?: The SubZero M100 features an ultra-flat frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. This wide range ensures that the microphone captures both the deep low-end and high-frequency details of a room.
Does the M100 have a specific polar pattern?: Yes, it uses an omni-directional polar pattern. This allows the microphone to pick up sound from all directions, which is necessary for measuring how sound reflects off walls and ceilings.
Can I use the M100 for recording vocals?: While technically possible, it is not recommended for traditional vocal recording. Its flat response and omni-directional pattern will capture a lot of room noise and lack the flattering 'colour' found in vocal microphones like the Sennheiser e945.
How does this microphone help with mixing?: By using the M100 to analyse your room, you can identify if your space is creating a false impression of frequencies. This allows you to apply acoustic treatment or EQ correction, leading to more accurate mixes that translate better to other systems.
Is the SubZero M100 suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is designed for both seasoned professionals and budding enthusiasts. Its low price point makes it an ideal first tool for anyone wanting to learn about the acoustics of their home studio.
How does the M100 compare to a Shure SM58?: They serve completely different purposes. The SM58 is a cardioid dynamic microphone meant for live vocals, whereas the M100 is a flat-response reference microphone meant for measurement and analysis.
What kind of cable does the M100 use?: The M100 typically uses a standard XLR connection. As a reference microphone, it usually requires phantom power from an audio interface or mixer to operate.
Can the M100 be used for live sound calibration?: Yes, it is effective for tuning live sound systems in venues. It helps engineers understand how a PA system interacts with a specific room's dimensions and materials.
Why is a flat frequency response important for this microphone?: A flat response ensures the microphone does not add its own 'sound' to the measurement. This provides an honest representation of what is actually happening in the room or coming out of the speakers.
Is the M100 similar to an Electro-Voice RE20?: No, the RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone often used for broadcasting and kick drums. The M100 is a measurement tool with an omni-directional pattern and is not intended for the same high-SPL instrument applications.
What is the typical price for a SubZero M100?: The SubZero M100 is generally available in the budget price range of approximately £20. This makes it one of the most affordable reference microphones on the market.

Sources

MyGear catalogue and retailer price data

Last updated: 2026-10-09