LAUTEN AUDIO LS-508 Pressure Gradient Fet Condenser Tom Mic 783214387883

( Brand: Lauten Audio ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: LS-508 ), ( Part Type: Pressure Condenser ), ( Form Factor: Hoop Clip ), ( Maximum Spl: 135db ), ( Polar Pattern: Supercardioid ), ( Color: Black ), ( Connectivity: Xlr 3 Pin ), ( Diaphragm Size: Medium ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Transducer Type: Condenser ), ( Suitable For: Live Performance / Studio Performance ), ( UPC: 783214387883 )

Review LAUTEN AUDIO Side address Pressure Gradient Fet Condenser Tom Mic Black

The **Lauten Audio LS-508 Side-Address Pressure Gradient FET Condenser Tom Mic** is a meticulously engineered studio microphone designed specifically for capturing the deep, resonant tones of tom drums with unparalleled clarity and dynamic control. Combining the precision of a side-address condenser capsule with the low-noise performance of a FET (Field-Effect Transistor) preamplifier, this mic delivers a rich, natural sound that highlights the intricate overtones and attack of tom shells while minimizing unwanted room reflections and bleed. Its pressure gradient design ensures a balanced frequency response, capturing both the tight, punchy low-end and the crisp, articulate highs of the tom head with exceptional transparency. The side-address configuration allows for optimal placement on the drumhead, reducing proximity effect and ensuring a more even pickup pattern, whether positioned close to the drum or slightly off-axis for a more ambient tone. Built with high-quality components, including a low-mass condenser capsule and a carefully tuned FET circuit, the LS-508 offers an extended frequency range with minimal coloration, making it ideal for both live recording and studio applications where precision and detail are paramount. Its robust construction and durable build ensure longevity, while the included shock mount and protective foam windscreen help mitigate handling noise and plosives, allowing engineers to focus solely on capturing the pure essence of the tom s sound. Whether used in a home studio, recording session, or live performance setup, the LS-508 stands out as a versatile and high-performance tool for drum enthusiasts and professionals seeking a microphone that elevates the clarity and depth of their tom recordings.

The **Lauten Audio LS-508** is a high-end side-address pressure-gradient FET condenser microphone designed primarily for drum overheads, but it can also be used for other acoustic instruments and vocals. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the Lauten Audio LS-508**

1. **Superior Transient Response and Attack**

The LS-508 excels at capturing fast transients, making it ideal for drum overheads where clarity and definition of cymbals, snare, and toms are critical. Its FET-based design delivers a natural, extended high-end response without excessive harshness, which is rare in condenser mics at this price point.

2. **Wide Frequency Response with Controlled High-End**

The mic features a smooth, extended frequency response (20Hz 20kHz) with a subtle high-pass filter (settable at 20Hz or 40Hz) to reduce rumble. Unlike many condenser mics that roll off too aggressively in the low-mids or highs, the LS-508 maintains a balanced, airy sound without artificial coloring.

3. **Low Self-Noise and High Sensitivity**

With a self-noise of just **12dBA** (A-weighted), the LS-508 is among the quietest condensers in its class. This allows for clean recordings even in less-than-ideal acoustic environments. Its high sensitivity (10mV/Pa) ensures strong output levels, reducing the need for excessive gain, which helps minimize noise and distortion.

4. **Side-Address Design for Versatility**

While primarily marketed for overheads, the side-address pattern (a hybrid of cardioid and omnidirectional) makes it useful for other applications, such as acoustic guitars, pianos, and even vocals in controlled spaces. The side-address design helps reduce proximity effect and room reflections compared to a traditional cardioid pattern.

5. **Durable and Rugged Build**

Lauten Audio mics are known for their robust construction. The LS-508 features a metal body, shock mount, and a sturdy grille, making it suitable for live and studio use where durability is important. The internal circuitry is also well-shielded against electromagnetic interference.

6. **Flat, Neutral Sound with Minimal Coloration**

Unlike some FET condensers that add warmth or brightness, the LS-508 delivers a transparent, accurate reproduction of sound. This makes it a favorite among engineers who prefer a "clean slate" for mixing flexibility.

7. **Great for Blending in Stereo Pairs**

The LS-508 s smooth response and low noise make it an excellent choice for stereo drum overheads. When paired with another LS-508 or a compatible mic (e.g., another FET condenser), it helps create a wide, natural stereo image without phase cancellation issues common with ribbon mics.

8. **Affordable for a High-End FET Condenser**

While not cheap, the LS-508 is priced competitively compared to other premium FET condensers (e.g., Neumann KM 184, Sennheiser MKH 416). For the performance it offers, it represents good value, especially for drum overheads.

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### **Cons of the Lauten Audio LS-508**

1. **Not Ideal for All Drum Applications**

While excellent for overheads, the LS-508 may not be the best choice for close-miking drums (e.g., kick, snare, toms). Its FET design lacks the punch and low-end focus of a dynamic mic (e.g., Shure SM57) or a ribbon mic (e.g., Royer R-121). For a complete drum kit, you d still need additional mics.

2. **Limited Polar Pattern Options**

The LS-508 only offers a single polar pattern (side-address, effectively a cardioid variant). This lack of variability (e.g., no omnidirectional or figure-8 modes) can be a drawback for certain recording scenarios where pattern selection is crucial.

3. **Requires Phantom Power (48V)**

As a condenser mic, the LS-508 needs phantom power, which may not be available on all interfaces or in field recording situations. This is a standard requirement for condensers, but it s worth noting if you re working in environments where power is unreliable.

4. **No Built-in Pad or Low-Cut Switch**

Unlike some mics in this range (e.g., Neumann KM 184), the LS-508 lacks a built-in pad (-10dB) or a low-cut switch for extreme proximity situations. While the 20Hz/40Hz high-pass filter helps, this can be a minor inconvenience in loud environments.

5. **Not as "Vocal-Friendly" as Other FET Condensers**

While the LS-508 can handle vocals in small, treated rooms, it may not have the same presence or warmth as mics designed specifically for vocals (e.g., Neumann U87, AKG C414). Its extended high-end can make vocals sound slightly "airy" without proper EQ.

6. **No Internal Pop Filter**

The LS-508 does not come with a pop filter, which means you ll need to provide your own if recording vocals or breathy instruments. This is a minor inconvenience but adds to the cost if you don t already own one.

7. **Slightly Bulky for Some Applications**

The mic s metal body and shock mount make it heavier and larger than some smaller FET condensers (e.g., Rode NT5). While not overly cumbersome, this may be a consideration for portable setups or when working with limited space.

8. **No Built-in Attenuator for Loud Sources**

While the LS-508 handles overheads well, extremely loud sources (e.g., close-miking a snare or tom) may require an external attenuator or preamp gain reduction, as the mic lacks a built-in pad.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Lauten Audio LS-508** is one of the best FET condenser mics for drum overheads, offering a rare combination of clarity, low noise, and a natural high-end response. Its side-address design, durability, and neutral sound make it a versatile tool beyond drums, though it may not be the best choice for close-miking or vocals alone. For engineers who prioritize transient accuracy, wide frequency response, and a clean, uncolored sound, the LS-508 is an excellent investment.

However, if you need a mic that excels in multiple roles (e.g., vocals, acoustic instruments, and drums) or require additional polar patterns, pads, or low-cut switches, you might consider alternatives like the **Neumann KM 184** or **Sennheiser MKH 416**. That said, for drum overheads specifically, the LS-508 is hard to beat in its price range.

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### **Recommendation**

- You primarily record drums and need a high-quality overhead mic with exceptional transient response.

- You want a versatile FET condenser that can also handle acoustic instruments, pianos, or vocals in controlled environments.

- You prefer a low-noise, neutral-sounding mic with a smooth high-end and durable build.

- You re looking for a cost-effective alternative to Neumann or Sennheiser FET condensers.

- You need a mic for close-miking drums (e.g., kick, snare) or require additional polar patterns.

- You want a mic with built-in pads, low-cut switches, or more vocal-friendly characteristics.

- You re on a tight budget and can find a similarly performing used mic (e.g., Neumann KM 184) at a lower price.

**Final Verdict:** The LS-508 is a **highly recommended** purchase for drum overheads and engineers who demand a clean, accurate, and reliable FET condenser. Its strengths in transient response, low noise, and versatility make it a standout choice in its category.

Details:

Otherwise, the mic fully functions perfectly. Microphone Type: Condenser. Packed in the manufacturers box that's showing wear, and repacked a generic. Used Condition, FET Condenser Microphone with Supercardioid Capsule, 20Hz-20kHz Frequency Response, 6 Filters, and 135dB Max SPL - Black, The grille has a deep dent in it.

Also check the photos for power cords, supplies, tremolo arms, or other important accessories when applicable. Swivel mount and carrying bag are included in good working order.

part #: ls508 price

• $359.00

specifications micwisys:

• brand: Lauten Audio
• mpn: Ls-508
• part type: Pressure Condenser
• form factor: Hoop Clip
• maximum spl: 135db
• polar pattern: Supercardioid
• color: Black
• connectivity: Xlr 3 Pin
• diaphragm size: Medium
• country of origin: United States
• transducer type: Condenser
• suitable for: Live Performance / Studio Performance
• upc: 783214387883

payments micwisys:

• other
• wallet: Apple-pay
• credit card: Visa

general micwisys:

• condition: Used
• Musical Instruments Gear > Pro Audio Equipment > Microphones Wireless Systems

offer micwisys:

• sold: 0
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• started: April 29, 2026
• availability: In Stock

returns micwisys:

• method: Money back
• paid by: Seller
• time: 30 Days
• policy: Returns Accepted

shipping micwisys:

• type: Fixed
• transit: 2-5 Days
• class: Standard
• service: Standard
• cost: $0.00

seller micwisys:

• rating: 99.8%
• # reviews: 32500
• city: Fort Wayne, Indiana

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