Sontronics ARIA 2 Valve/Tube Condenser Microphone

Sontronics ARIA 2 Valve/Tube Condenser Microphone

The Sontronics ARIA 2 is a professional-grade valve (tube) condenser microphone designed and engineered in the UK to deliver a "classic, silky-smooth, and expensive-sounding" audio character. As the successor to the multi-award-winning original ARIA, this version introduces enhanced features and refined internals while maintaining the signature sonic profile that has made its predecessor a staple in world-class studios like Abbey Road.

Sonic Signature and Engineering

At its core, the ARIA 2 is characterized by a "lush, vibrant, and natural" response. It features a large, 27mm edge-terminated capsule that provides exceptional detail across the frequency spectrum. The microphone’s circuitry is built around a hand-selected European 12AX7/ECC83 vacuum tube, which imparts a subtle harmonic richness and a classic warmth particularly sought after for vocal recordings.

One of the standout attributes of the ARIA 2 is its natural high-frequency roll-off. Sontronics specifically engineered the microphone to avoid the harsh, brittle top-end often associated with modern condensers. Instead, it offers a smooth, "finished" sound that requires very little equalization in the mix, capturing vocals, acoustic guitars, and piano with a "silky" presence that sits perfectly in a track.

The SPS-2 Power Supply and New Features

The ARIA 2 is powered by the dedicated SPS-2 external power supply, which has been updated for this second-generation model. A significant addition to the SPS-2 is the inclusion of a 3-step pad switch (0dB, -10dB, -20dB). This allows the microphone to handle much higher sound pressure levels (SPL), making it versatile enough to capture loud sources like brass or percussion without distortion.

Additionally, the power supply features a linear filter switch, providing options for a flat response or a 75Hz high-pass filter to eliminate low-end rumble or proximity effect. The SPS-2 also features a medical-grade power filter to ensure the signal remains ultra-quiet and free from electrical interference.

Versatility in the Studio

While primarily celebrated as a world-class vocal microphone—used by artists like Adele and Coldplay—the ARIA 2 is an "all-round workhorse." Its smooth character makes it ideal for taming the brightness of acoustic instruments, such as violins or acoustic guitars, while its depth and detail make it a popular choice for cello, piano, and even drum overheads.

Premium Construction and Accessories

Every ARIA 2 is meticulously hand-built in the UK and subjected to rigorous testing. Reflecting its premium status, the microphone comes in a comprehensive package designed for professional use. It is housed in a luxury wooden box, which is then stored inside a rugged, aluminum-flight case alongside its accessories.

The ARIA 2 also carries Sontronics' unique Lifetime Warranty, underscoring the brand's confidence in the microphone's durability and long-term performance. Whether capturing intimate voice-overs or powerful lead vocals, the ARIA 2 provides a "boutique" recording experience with professional reliability.

Why We Love This

Our Gear Experts value the Sontronics ARIA 2 for its ability to deliver a "finished" vocal sound straight out of the box. Its hand-selected European valve provides a silky, expensive-sounding warmth that tames harsh frequencies, while the large 27mm capsule captures stunning, natural detail. Whether recording intimate vocals or bright acoustic instruments, its smooth high-frequency roll-off ensures tracks sit perfectly in the mix. Hand-built in the UK, it offers boutique quality and reliability for world-class results.

Features:

• Hand-Selected European 12AX7/ECC83 Valve: Features a high-quality vacuum tube that imparts a classic, silky-smooth warmth and harmonic richness to every recording.
• Large 27mm Edge-Terminated Capsule: A precision-engineered capsule designed to capture a lush, vibrant, and natural sound with exceptional detail.
• New SPS-2 Power Supply: Includes an updated, dedicated external power unit with a medical-grade interference filter to ensure an ultra-quiet signal path.
• Integrated 3-Step Pad Switch: Located on the power supply, this allows for 0dB, -10dB, and -20dB settings, enabling the mic to handle much higher sound pressure levels.
• Linear Filter Control: Offers a 75Hz high-pass filter option to eliminate unwanted low-end rumble and proximity effect, or a flat response for full-range capture.
• Silky High-Frequency Roll-Off: Specifically engineered to deliver a "finished" sound by taming harsh frequencies, ensuring vocals sit perfectly in a mix without heavy EQ.
• Boutique Flight Case and Wooden Box: The microphone is protected by a luxury wooden presentation box and a rugged aluminum flight case for secure transport.
• Custom Shockmount and 8-Pin Cable: Comes complete with a high-quality, custom-designed suspension mount and a premium multi-core cable for reliable connectivity.
• UK Engineering and Hand-Assembly: Every unit is meticulously designed, engineered, and hand-built in the United Kingdom to exacting professional standards.
• Sontronics Lifetime Warranty: Reflects the brand’s commitment to durability and long-term performance with a unique, industry-leading guarantee.