What is the primary use for the Audix OM2?

The Audix OM2 is primarily designed for live vocal performances, though its accurate capsule also makes it suitable for studio recording and broadcast applications.

What polar pattern does the OM2 use?

It utilizes a hypercardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent isolation by rejecting sound from the sides of the microphone.

How does the OM2 handle feedback?

Thanks to its hypercardioid design, the OM2 offers high gain before feedback, allowing it to perform well on loud stages where monitors might otherwise cause issues.

Is the Audix OM2 suitable for recording instruments?

While tailored for vocals, its dynamic capsule and ability to handle high volume levels mean it can be used for various instruments, similar to the versatile Shure SM57.

What is the build quality of the OM2?

The microphone features a rugged construction designed to resist scratches, drops, and general wear and tear associated with touring and frequent live use.

How does the OM2 compare to the Shure SM58?

The OM2 has a tighter hypercardioid pattern compared to the SM58's cardioid pattern, often resulting in better off-axis rejection and a more modern, clear mid-range response.

Does the OM2 require phantom power?

No, the Audix OM2 is a passive dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate.

What is included with the Audix OM2?

The microphone typically includes a carrying pouch and a mic clip to ensure it is ready for immediate use on a stand.

Can the OM2 be used for podcasting?

Yes, its tailored mid-range and excellent noise rejection make it a good choice for podcasters working in environments that are not acoustically treated.

How does the price of the OM2 compare to competitors?

With a typical price of around £94, it sits in a similar bracket to the Sennheiser e935 and Shure SM58, offering a professional alternative at a competitive price point.

What makes the OM2 unique compared to the Sennheiser MD 441-U?

The OM2 is a compact, handheld vocal mic designed for stage use, whereas the MD 441-U is a high-end, larger-format dynamic mic often reserved for specific studio tasks or high-fidelity broadcast.

Gear article

Audix OM2 Dynamic Microphone

The Audix OM2 is a professional dynamic vocal microphone designed specifically for live performance and studio recording. It features a hypercardioid polar pattern to provide high gain before feedback and a tailored mid-range for vocal clarity.

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Overview

The Audix OM2 is a workhorse dynamic microphone engineered to provide clear and accurate sound reproduction for vocalists. Positioned as a versatile tool for both the stage and the vocal booth, it prioritises isolation and durability. The microphone is designed to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it a reliable choice for energetic performances.

Technical Features

The core of the OM2 is its dynamic capsule, which utilizes a hypercardioid polar pattern. This tight pickup pattern is essential for stage environments as it focuses on the sound source directly in front of the mic while rejecting off-axis noise from the sides and rear. This design allows for maximum gain before feedback, enabling the user to monitor their voice clearly even in loud settings. The frequency response is specifically tailored with a mid-range emphasis to ensure vocals cut through a dense musical mix.

Build and Durability

Constructed to withstand the rigours of professional touring, the OM2 features a rugged chassis designed to protect the internal components from knocks, drops, and scratches. Its construction ensures longevity from the tour bus to the stage, providing peace of mind for performers who require equipment that can survive frequent handling and physical stress.

Sonic Character

The OM2 is characterised by its transparency and detail. Unlike generic dynamic microphones that may sound muffled, the OM2 offers a crisp response that captures the nuances of a performance. The tailored mid-range ensures that speech and singing remain intelligible, while the hypercardioid pattern prevents unwanted stage bleed from colouring the vocal signal.

Market Comparison

Within the live vocal microphone market, the Audix OM2 competes with industry standards such as the Shure SM58 and the Sennheiser e935. While the SM58 is known for its classic cardioid response, the OM2 offers a tighter hypercardioid pattern for better feedback rejection. Compared to the Sennheiser e945, which also features a supercardioid/hypercardioid design, the OM2 provides a distinct mid-range character suited for voices that need extra presence to be heard in a mix.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary use for the Audix OM2?: The Audix OM2 is primarily designed for live vocal performances, though its accurate capsule also makes it suitable for studio recording and broadcast applications.
What polar pattern does the OM2 use?: It utilizes a hypercardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent isolation by rejecting sound from the sides of the microphone.
How does the OM2 handle feedback?: Thanks to its hypercardioid design, the OM2 offers high gain before feedback, allowing it to perform well on loud stages where monitors might otherwise cause issues.
Is the Audix OM2 suitable for recording instruments?: While tailored for vocals, its dynamic capsule and ability to handle high volume levels mean it can be used for various instruments, similar to the versatile Shure SM57.
What is the build quality of the OM2?: The microphone features a rugged construction designed to resist scratches, drops, and general wear and tear associated with touring and frequent live use.
How does the OM2 compare to the Shure SM58?: The OM2 has a tighter hypercardioid pattern compared to the SM58's cardioid pattern, often resulting in better off-axis rejection and a more modern, clear mid-range response.
Does the OM2 require phantom power?: No, the Audix OM2 is a passive dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate.
What is included with the Audix OM2?: The microphone typically includes a carrying pouch and a mic clip to ensure it is ready for immediate use on a stand.
Can the OM2 be used for podcasting?: Yes, its tailored mid-range and excellent noise rejection make it a good choice for podcasters working in environments that are not acoustically treated.
How does the price of the OM2 compare to competitors?: With a typical price of around £94, it sits in a similar bracket to the Sennheiser e935 and Shure SM58, offering a professional alternative at a competitive price point.
Is the OM2 good for loud vocalists?: Yes, the microphone is designed to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it ideal for powerful singers.
What makes the OM2 unique compared to the Sennheiser MD 441-U?: The OM2 is a compact, handheld vocal mic designed for stage use, whereas the MD 441-U is a high-end, larger-format dynamic mic often reserved for specific studio tasks or high-fidelity broadcast.