This review examines the Aston Apex, a dynamic microphone designed with a distinctive form factor and dual voicing options intended to support a range of recording applications. With a street price of approximately $210, the Apex is positioned as a versatile dynamic microphone competing with established models in both studio and live recording environments.
Included Accessories and Build Quality
The Aston Apex ships with the microphone, a standard microphone clip, a 5/8-inch to 3/8-inch thread adapter, printed documentation, and a branded sticker. The microphone features an all-metal body and metal grille, contributing to a rigid and durable construction. The voicing selector switch is recessed into the body, and the XLR output is located at the base of the microphone. Manufacturing takes place in China.
Features and Technical Specifications
The Aston Apex uses active electronics, resulting in a higher output level than many passive dynamic microphones. This design reduces the amount of gain required from a microphone preamplifier. The microphone offers two selectable voicings, each applying a different EQ curve to alter tonal response.
The Apex uses a cardioid polar pattern and has a stated frequency response of 20 Hz to 16 kHz. Sensitivity ranges from approximately -62 dB to -50 dB, depending on the selected voicing and operating mode. Maximum sound pressure handling is specified between 115 dB and 147 dB SPL, and the equivalent noise level is rated at 5 dB.
Voicing Options and Performance Evaluation
The dual voicing system is a defining feature of the Aston Apex. The first voicing presents a pronounced low and high frequency emphasis, resulting in a V-shaped tonal profile. The second voicing emphasizes the upper midrange, producing a brighter and more forward sound.
Plosive handling was evaluated using standard speech phrases at varying distances, including close-mic positioning. In these tests, plosive suppression proved limited, particularly during close vocal use. Distance testing highlighted a noticeable proximity effect, consistent with dynamic cardioid microphones.
Background noise rejection was assessed by introducing ambient sounds such as keyboard typing and mechanical key presses. The microphone’s off-axis rejection was evaluated in both acoustically treated and untreated rooms. Shock and vibration resistance were tested by tapping the desk, boom arm, and microphone body, as well as through handheld use.
Comparative Microphone Testing
To contextualize the Aston Apex’s performance, it was compared against a selection of commonly used dynamic and condenser microphones:
- Shure SM58
- Sennheiser e835
- sE Electronics V7
- Shure Beta 58A
- Audix OM3
- Mojave MA-D
- Sennheiser e935
- Beyerdynamic TG V70d
- Audio-Technica AT2020
- Lewitt MTP 350 CM
- Earthworks SR117
- Neumann U87 Ai
All comparisons were conducted using the Apex’s second voicing, with consistent microphone placement, gain staging, and recording conditions to enable direct tonal evaluation.
Music and Vocal Applications
Musical performance testing focused primarily on the second voicing. For vocal applications, the Apex delivered a forward and present sound, though with less perceived detail compared to some condenser microphones and higher-end dynamic models. The pronounced upper midrange emphasis contributed to intelligibility but could be perceived as aggressive in certain vocal contexts.
When used on electric guitar, the upper midrange boost around 3 kHz contributed to clarity and bite, which may suit some tonal preferences. Acoustic guitar recordings exhibited a more mid-focused character, with less high-frequency detail than some competing microphones in the same category.
Strengths and Limitations
The Aston Apex’s active electronics provide a strong output signal, reducing reliance on high-gain preamplifiers. The dual voicing system offers tonal flexibility, and the microphone demonstrates effective background noise rejection in controlled environments. Its physical construction is robust, and resonance testing revealed minimal ringing.
However, plosive handling performance is limited, particularly during close-mic vocal use. Handling noise rejection was less effective than that of several competing dynamic microphones, which may affect suitability for handheld or mobile applications.
Overall Assessment
The Aston Apex combines a distinctive design with technical features such as active circuitry and dual voicing options. Its tonal characteristics are pronounced and may suit specific use cases, but they are not universally applicable. The emphasis in the low end and upper mids can be polarizing, particularly for spoken-word content or users sensitive to plosives and handling noise.
While the microphone offers solid construction and high output, its performance trade-offs place it in a competitive segment where multiple alternatives are available at similar or lower price points. The Apex may be a suitable option for users seeking its specific tonal profile and feature set, but careful consideration of recording context and vocal characteristics is recommended.
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Dan Craft
Staff Report
Staff Report
