Aston Microphones Apex

Background and Design

The Aston Apex is developed by the British brand Aston Microphones as a versatile solution for live vocalists. It draws its technical heritage from the Aston Stealth, specifically adopting a switchable voicing system that adapts the microphone's hardware to the source. Unlike many modern competitors that rely on digital signal processing (DSP) or software modelling, the Apex utilizes purely analogue discrete signal paths to achieve its tonal characteristics. Its physical construction features an aerodynamically-tuned head designed to focus strictly on on-axis signals while maintaining clarity for the performer.

Active and Passive Operation

A defining feature of the Apex is its ability to operate in both passive and active modes. When supplied with 48V phantom power, the internal Class A preamp engages, providing a 20 dB clean gain boost. This active circuitry is particularly useful for ensuring vocals cut through dense live mixes without requiring excessive gain from the front-of-house mixing console. If phantom power is unavailable, the microphone functions as a standard high-quality passive dynamic microphone.

Dual Voicing System

The Apex offers two distinct sound profiles, selectable via a switch on the microphone body. Rather than applying EQ filters that can introduce phase shift or artifacts, the Apex switches between two completely different internal signal paths:

• Low-pitch voicing: Optimised for deeper voices, providing warmth and body.
• High-pitch voicing: Tailored for higher registers, offering enhanced presence and articulation.

This architecture makes the Apex a flexible tool for various genres and vocal styles, from speech to aggressive singing.

Sound Character

The microphone is characterized by its ability to maintain a 'forward' and upfront sound. The aerodynamic head design is engineered to enhance the focus on the source directly in front of the capsule, which helps in rejecting off-axis noise and reducing feedback in loud stage environments. Because it avoids digital modelling, the sound remains natural and responsive, behaving like a traditional dynamic microphone but with the sensitivity and output level typically associated with condenser microphones when in active mode.

Comparative Analysis

In the live microphone market, the Apex sits alongside industry standards like the Shure SM58 and Beta 58A. However, it distinguishes itself through its active circuitry and dual-voicing, features not found on standard dynamic alternatives. While the Sennheiser e945 and e935 are noted for their specific frequency responses, the Apex allows the user to switch profiles to match the singer. Its high-output active mode also provides a performance closer to a Sennheiser MD 441-U or Electro-Voice RE20 in terms of detail and gain, but in a handheld form factor suitable for touring.