What is the primary purpose of the Audix TM1 Plus?

It is designed for acoustic test and measurement, allowing engineers to analyse the frequency response and acoustic characteristics of a room or sound system.

What type of polar pattern does the TM1 Plus use?

It features an omnidirectional polar pattern, which captures sound from all directions to ensure a comprehensive measurement of the environment.

What is the capsule size of this microphone?

The TM1 Plus utilizes a 6mm pre-polarized condenser capsule.

Is the TM1 Plus suitable for recording vocals?

While it can record sound, it is designed for a flat, neutral response for measurement rather than the flattering characteristics usually desired for vocal recording.

Does this microphone require phantom power?

Yes, as a pre-polarized condenser microphone, it requires phantom power to operate.

How does the TM1 Plus help in studio design?

It provides precise data on room nuances and frequency response, helping designers identify where acoustic treatment is needed for a perfect mix environment.

Is the frequency response of the TM1 Plus flat?

Yes, it is engineered with a flat frequency response to ensure that no part of the spectrum is artificially boosted or cut during measurement.

What is the typical price range for the Audix TM1 Plus?

The typical price for the TM1 Plus is approximately £283.

Can I use the TM1 Plus for live sound system tuning?

Yes, it is an indispensable tool for live sound engineers who need to calibrate PA systems to the specific acoustics of a venue.

How does it differ from the Shure SM7B?

The SM7B is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern designed for broadcast and vocals, whereas the TM1 Plus is an omnidirectional condenser designed for measurement accuracy.

What does 'pre-polarized condenser' mean?

It refers to a back-electret design where the capsule holds a permanent charge, typically offering high reliability and consistency for measurement tasks.

Is the Audix TM1 Plus considered an intuitive tool?

Yes, it is described as having an intuitive design that allows for fast and accurate results in various measurement applications.

Gear article

Audix TM1 Plus Highly Accurate Test and Measurement Microphone

The Audix TM1 Plus is a 6mm pre-polarized condenser microphone designed specifically for acoustic test and measurement applications. It features an omnidirectional polar pattern and a flat frequency response to provide surgical precision for studio design and room analysis.

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Overview

The Audix TM1 Plus is a precision instrument tailored for sound engineers and acoustic consultants who require accurate data regarding the acoustic properties of a space. As a pre-polarized condenser microphone, it is built to capture sound with a high degree of transparency. The 'Plus' designation typically refers to the inclusion of specific accessories or calibration data intended to streamline the measurement process in professional environments.

Design and Operation

Built around a 6mm capsule, the TM1 Plus utilizes an omnidirectional polar pattern. This design ensures that the microphone captures sound equally from all directions, which is a critical requirement for measuring room reflections, frequency response, and sound pressure levels accurately. The microphone's intuitive design is intended to provide fast results without complex setup procedures, making it a practical choice for on-site analysis.

Acoustic Character

Unlike standard recording microphones that may have a specific 'colour' or frequency boost to flatter a performance, the TM1 Plus is engineered for neutrality. It offers a flat frequency response, ensuring that the audio relay is a faithful representation of the room's actual acoustics. This surgical precision allows engineers to identify problematic frequencies or acoustic anomalies that could interfere with mixing or recording tasks.

Target Audience

This microphone is an essential tool for those involved in studio design, live sound system tuning, and architectural acoustics. It is particularly suited for:

Sound engineers seeking to calibrate monitoring systems.
Acoustic consultants measuring reverberation times and room modes.
Studio owners looking to treat their environment for professional mixing.
Live sound technicians performing RTA (Real Time Analysis) of concert venues.

Comparison to Alternatives

While standard studio microphones like the Neumann TLM 102 or Shure SM7B are designed for aesthetic recording, the TM1 Plus is a dedicated measurement tool. It differs from cardioid condensers, such as the Neumann KM 185, by focusing on a non-directional pickup to capture the full room environment rather than isolating a specific source. Compared to entry-level recording packs like the G4M Studio Condenser, the TM1 Plus offers the specialised accuracy required for scientific measurement rather than general-purpose vocal capture.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Audix TM1 Plus?: It is designed for acoustic test and measurement, allowing engineers to analyse the frequency response and acoustic characteristics of a room or sound system.
What type of polar pattern does the TM1 Plus use?: It features an omnidirectional polar pattern, which captures sound from all directions to ensure a comprehensive measurement of the environment.
What is the capsule size of this microphone?: The TM1 Plus utilizes a 6mm pre-polarized condenser capsule.
Is the TM1 Plus suitable for recording vocals?: While it can record sound, it is designed for a flat, neutral response for measurement rather than the flattering characteristics usually desired for vocal recording.
Does this microphone require phantom power?: Yes, as a pre-polarized condenser microphone, it requires phantom power to operate.
How does the TM1 Plus help in studio design?: It provides precise data on room nuances and frequency response, helping designers identify where acoustic treatment is needed for a perfect mix environment.
Is the frequency response of the TM1 Plus flat?: Yes, it is engineered with a flat frequency response to ensure that no part of the spectrum is artificially boosted or cut during measurement.
What is the typical price range for the Audix TM1 Plus?: The typical price for the TM1 Plus is approximately £283.
Can I use the TM1 Plus for live sound system tuning?: Yes, it is an indispensable tool for live sound engineers who need to calibrate PA systems to the specific acoustics of a venue.
How does it differ from the Shure SM7B?: The SM7B is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern designed for broadcast and vocals, whereas the TM1 Plus is an omnidirectional condenser designed for measurement accuracy.
What does 'pre-polarized condenser' mean?: It refers to a back-electret design where the capsule holds a permanent charge, typically offering high reliability and consistency for measurement tasks.
Is the Audix TM1 Plus considered an intuitive tool?: Yes, it is described as having an intuitive design that allows for fast and accurate results in various measurement applications.