What is the maximum SPL the Audix i5 can handle?

The Audix i5 is capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 140dB. This high tolerance allows it to be used on very loud sources like snare drums and guitar cabinets without clipping.

What does 'VLM Type-B' mean?

VLM stands for Very Low Mass. The Type-B capsule is a specific design by Audix that allows the diaphragm to react quickly to sound, resulting in accurate transient response.

Is the Audix i5 suitable for vocals?

Yes, while it is primarily an instrument microphone, its versatile design and VLM technology make it suitable for vocal applications in both live and studio settings.

How does the Audix i5 compare to the Shure SM57?

Both are dynamic instrument microphones, but the Audix i5 features a more compact, sleek design and is often noted for a different frequency character. It is a direct competitor for snare and guitar amp duties.

Can the i5 be used for recording brass instruments?

Yes, the i5 is highly effective for brass due to its ability to handle the high sound pressure levels and sharp transients typical of trumpets and trombones.

What is the typical price range for the Audix i5?

The Audix i5 typically retails for approximately £94.00, making it an affordable professional-grade dynamic microphone.

Does the i5 require phantom power?

No, the Audix i5 is a dynamic microphone and does not require 48V phantom power to operate. It can be connected directly to any standard XLR mixer or interface input.

Is the Audix i5 good for live sound?

The i5 is specifically designed for live sound 'on-the-road' as well as studio use. Its rugged build and compact size make it ideal for touring environments.

How does the compact design benefit the user?

The ultra-discrete and compact chassis allows for perfect positioning in tight spots. This is particularly useful when miking drum kits where space between cymbals and stands is limited.

Can I use the Audix i5 on a guitar cabinet?

Yes, the i5 is an excellent choice for guitar cabinets. Its high SPL handling allows it to be placed right against the speaker grille even at high volumes.

What makes the i5 an 'all-purpose' microphone?

It is considered all-purpose because it performs well on a wide range of sources, including drums, guitar amps, brass, and vocals, without needing specific model-switching.

How does the i5 differ from the Sennheiser e945?

The Sennheiser e945 is a dedicated supercardioid vocal microphone, whereas the Audix i5 is a versatile instrument microphone that can also be used for vocals, offering a different form factor and application focus.

Gear article

Audix i5 Dynamic Instrument Microphone

The Audix i5 is a professional all-purpose dynamic instrument microphone featuring a VLM Type-B capsule design. It is engineered for both live sound and studio recording, offering a high SPL handling of up to 140dB for loud sources such as drums and guitar cabinets.

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Overview

The Audix i5 is an all-purpose dynamic microphone designed to handle a vast array of sound sources in professional environments. Recognised for its sleek and compact profile, the i5 is built to serve as a versatile workhorse for engineers working on the road or in the studio. It is specifically marketed as a 'must-have' tool due to its ability to capture everything from vocals to brass with clarity and accuracy.

Design and VLM Technology

Central to the performance of the i5 is the Audix Very Low Mass (VLM) Type-B technology. This design allows the microphone to respond quickly to transients, providing a precise reproduction of the sound source. The physical construction is ultra-discrete and compact, which facilitates easy positioning in tight spaces, such as around a drum kit or crowded stage setups, without compromising on sound quality or durability.

Performance and Sound Character

The i5 is characterised by its ability to handle extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL) of up to 140dB. This makes it particularly effective for high-volume sources like snare drums, brass instruments, and guitar amplifiers 'cranked to 11'. The microphone is engineered to resist clipping and distortion even when placed in close proximity to the sound source, such as right against a drum skin or a speaker grille. It is designed to be 'plug-and-play', requiring minimal adjustment at the mixer or interface to achieve a professional result.

Suitability

Due to its rugged dynamic design and high SPL tolerance, the i5 suits touring engineers and studio producers who require a reliable microphone for loud, percussive, or high-gain instruments. While primarily an instrument microphone, its frequency response and VLM capsule make it suitable for vocal applications as well, providing a versatile alternative to specialised vocal mics.

Comparison to Market Alternatives

The Audix i5 is often compared to other industry-standard dynamic microphones. While the Shure SM57 is a traditional choice for snare and cabinets, the i5 offers a different tonal character and a modern, compact chassis. It sits alongside other high-performance dynamics such as the Sennheiser MD 441-U and the Electro-Voice RE20, though it is generally more affordable and compact. For those seeking dedicated vocal alternatives, it competes with models like the Sennheiser e935 and e945, or the Shure Beta 58A, though the i5 retains a more instrument-focused form factor.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum SPL the Audix i5 can handle?: The Audix i5 is capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 140dB. This high tolerance allows it to be used on very loud sources like snare drums and guitar cabinets without clipping.
What does 'VLM Type-B' mean?: VLM stands for Very Low Mass. The Type-B capsule is a specific design by Audix that allows the diaphragm to react quickly to sound, resulting in accurate transient response.
Is the Audix i5 suitable for vocals?: Yes, while it is primarily an instrument microphone, its versatile design and VLM technology make it suitable for vocal applications in both live and studio settings.
How does the Audix i5 compare to the Shure SM57?: Both are dynamic instrument microphones, but the Audix i5 features a more compact, sleek design and is often noted for a different frequency character. It is a direct competitor for snare and guitar amp duties.
Can the i5 be used for recording brass instruments?: Yes, the i5 is highly effective for brass due to its ability to handle the high sound pressure levels and sharp transients typical of trumpets and trombones.
What is the typical price range for the Audix i5?: The Audix i5 typically retails for approximately £94.00, making it an affordable professional-grade dynamic microphone.
Does the i5 require phantom power?: No, the Audix i5 is a dynamic microphone and does not require 48V phantom power to operate. It can be connected directly to any standard XLR mixer or interface input.
Is the Audix i5 good for live sound?: The i5 is specifically designed for live sound 'on-the-road' as well as studio use. Its rugged build and compact size make it ideal for touring environments.
How does the compact design benefit the user?: The ultra-discrete and compact chassis allows for perfect positioning in tight spots. This is particularly useful when miking drum kits where space between cymbals and stands is limited.
Can I use the Audix i5 on a guitar cabinet?: Yes, the i5 is an excellent choice for guitar cabinets. Its high SPL handling allows it to be placed right against the speaker grille even at high volumes.
What makes the i5 an 'all-purpose' microphone?: It is considered all-purpose because it performs well on a wide range of sources, including drums, guitar amps, brass, and vocals, without needing specific model-switching.
How does the i5 differ from the Sennheiser e945?: The Sennheiser e945 is a dedicated supercardioid vocal microphone, whereas the Audix i5 is a versatile instrument microphone that can also be used for vocals, offering a different form factor and application focus.