This review examines the Beyerdynamic M130, a figure-8 ribbon microphone known for its classic ribbon voicing and smooth high-frequency response. The microphone is evaluated on its own and in comparison with several commonly used microphones to provide context for its position in the current market.
First Impressions and Included Accessories
The Beyerdynamic M130 typically falls within the $1,100 to $1,300 price range. Included accessories consist of a zippered storage case, microphone clip, 5/8" to 3/8" thread adapter, documentation with individual measurement data, and stickers. The microphone features an all-metal body with a rigid metal grille and is manufactured in Germany.
Build Quality and Specifications
The M130 uses a solid metal chassis with no onboard switches or controls. Connectivity is provided via a standard XLR output located at the base of the microphone. Key specifications include a figure-8 polar pattern, a frequency response of 40 Hz to 18 kHz, sensitivity rated at –57.5 dBV, and a nominal impedance of 200 ohms.
Polar Pattern and Proximity Effect
The figure-8 pattern exhibits clear null points at 90 degrees, with audible tonal differences between the front and rear lobes. Due to the delicate nature of ribbon elements, plosive stress testing was not performed. Use of a pop filter is recommended for vocal applications or environments with airflow.
Proximity effect is prominent at close distances, producing a noticeable increase in low-frequency content. As distance increases, the frequency balance becomes more neutral. Tests were conducted at multiple distances ranging from very close placement to approximately four feet from the source.
Noise and Room Tests
Background noise handling was evaluated using a mechanical keyboard as an incidental noise source. Additional tests compared microphone performance in treated and untreated rooms at a distance of approximately six inches to assess room interaction and ambient pickup.
Shock Rejection and Resonance
Shock rejection was assessed by tapping the desk and boom arm, while resonance was evaluated by gently tapping the microphone body to identify any audible ringing or resonant frequencies.
Mid-Side Recording with M130 and M160
A common application for the M130 is use as the side microphone in a mid-side (M/S) stereo configuration alongside the Beyerdynamic M160. This pairing enables stereo imaging with a classic ribbon tonal character. Accurate microphone alignment is important to maintain balanced stereo imaging.
ASMR Evaluation
The M130 was tested for close-range detail capture to evaluate its suitability for ASMR-style recording. Movement around the microphone was used to assess spatial response, noise floor, and sensitivity without introducing plosives.
Microphone Comparisons
For comparative testing, the M130 was positioned six inches from the source with approximately 53 dB of gain. It was evaluated alongside the following microphones:
- Shure SM7B
- sE Electronics VR2
- Royer R10
- Rode NTR
- Beyerdynamic M160
- Shure KSM 313/NE
- AEA KU5A
- Shure SM57
- Neumann U87 Ai
These comparisons demonstrate differences in tonal balance, sensitivity, and design philosophy across dynamic, ribbon, and condenser microphones at various price points.
Music Test and EQ
Instrument recordings were used to demonstrate the M130’s tonal characteristics in a musical context. Equalization was applied using a UA LA-610, with modest boosts in the high frequencies and cuts in the low-mid range. This EQ curve was maintained for subsequent demonstrations.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Smooth, traditional ribbon microphone tonality
- Strong off-axis rejection from the figure-8 pattern
Cons
- Significant low-frequency buildup at close distances
- Limited shock isolation from the microphone and mount
- Low sensitivity requiring a capable preamp
Overall Assessment
The Beyerdynamic M130 exhibits a warm, dark tonal balance with substantial low-frequency and low-mid presence. High frequencies are gently rolled off, resulting in a smooth, vintage-style sound rather than a highly detailed or bright presentation.
For electric guitar, the microphone emphasizes body and depth, with low-frequency content that may benefit from filtering. On vocals, similar characteristics apply, with potential for an intimate and subdued sound once low-end buildup is controlled. For spoken-word applications, the strong proximity effect and figure-8 pickup pattern may present challenges depending on the recording environment, though usable results can be achieved with appropriate EQ.
Recommendation
The Beyerdynamic M130 is best suited for applications that benefit from added low-frequency weight and a classic ribbon aesthetic. It may be less suitable for users seeking minimal EQ or a modern, bright sound profile.
Its most specialized and well-known use remains mid-side stereo recording when paired with the Beyerdynamic M160, where it serves as a dedicated side microphone for creating a cohesive ribbon-based stereo image.
