Pictured at AES 2009 in New York City are, from left: Ed Cherney, George Massenburg, Phil Ramone, Sanken President Michiko Takeuchi, Yutaka Chiba of Sanken R&D, Ryoichi Asada (Sanken’s General Manager, Product & Marketing), Chuck Ainlay, and Frank Filipetti.
Photo: David Goggin
The Music Engineering & Technology Alliance (METAlliance) has certified Sanken Microphones’ CU-44X MkII transformerless condenser microphone. Sanken, based in Tokyo, Japan, manufactures products for broadcast, film, studio and live recording.
The company’s new CU-44X MkII is a dual-titanium capsule microphone offering a small capsule for high frequencies and a large capsule for low frequencies. The CU-44X MkII features a unique capsule mounting scheme that is said to ensure phase coherency between the two capsules. The mic’s titanium membranes are said to be immune to the effects of humidity and temperature change, resulting in a totally consistent response, regardless of the recording environment. It’s said to have a frequency response on axis, at 90 degrees, and at 135 degrees. The smooth cardioid polar pattern and uniform response over the entire frequency range allow the CU-44X MkII to capture both the designated audio target as well as the naturally reflected sounds, with identical optimum response.
The METAlliance is comprised of a group of globally-recognized, award-winning audio engineers and producers who have been deeply involved in establishing techniques and technical standards that are the foundation of modern music recording. The METAlliance founders are Chuck Ainlay, Ed Cherney, Frank Filipetti, George Massenburg, Phil Ramone, Elliot Scheiner and Al Schmitt.
METAlliance co-founder George Massenburg remarks, “Sanken’s visionary research & development efforts consistently give me microphones that exceed my expectations. Their CO-100K and the new CU-44X MkII are part of my ‘must-have’ kit.”
“On a list of mics I would never want to be without, my Sanken CU-44X MkII is at the top,” says Frank Filipetti. “In a world of specialization, it simply does everything well. It’s my first choice on vocals, drum overheads, pianos and strings. The dual capsule design, coupled with high SPL durability, makes it second to none.”
Phil Ramone states: “After Mr. Filipetti introduce me to this new Sanken mic, I have found that vocals come alive and artists love their sound.”
Chuck Ainlay adds, “The Sanken CU-44X MkII is an improved version of one of my already-favorite microphones.”
“My Sanken is my problem solver,” says Ed Cherney. “If my singer is honking, or too sibilant, I get out my CU-44X MkII and nine times out of 10, our problems are solved. I also like to use them on woodwinds, pianos, bass amps and percussion. Usually, if you just push up the fader, the only other thing you have to do is hit Record. My Sankens are an integral part of my studio arsenal.”
Al Schmitt adds, “I just love the new Sanken mic, an essential addition to my collection.”
For more information, visit www.metalliance.com and Sanken Microphones.
