This review dives into the CAD M179, a multi-pattern condenser microphone that offers a range of polar patterns from omni to cardioid and figure-8. It boasts a V-shaped sound profile with boosted high frequencies and extended bass.
What's in the Box and Build Quality
When you unbox the CAD M179, you'll find a storage box, the microphone itself, a shock mount with a thread adapter and a microphone clip mount.
The microphone feels solid, with an all-metal body and a sturdy metal mesh grill. On the front, there are two switches: a 100 Hz high-pass filter and a -20 dB pad. A dial allows you to select any polar pattern, from omnidirectional to cardioid, figure-8 or anything in between. The bottom houses the XLR port.
Plosive and Proximity Effect Tests
The microphone was tested for plosive rejection with phrases like "Please provide Pizza Pronto Pals." It was also tested at different distances: right on top, six inches away, one foot away, two feet away and four feet away to observe the proximity effect.
Noise and Room Tests
- Keyboard Noise: Tested typing on a keyboard with blue switches to see how much keyboard noise versus voice is picked up.
- Untreated Room Test: The microphone was placed six inches away in a well-treated room and then in a completely untreated room to assess its performance in different acoustic environments.
- Shock Rejection: The effectiveness of the included shock mount was tested by tapping on the desk and the boom arm.
- Resonance Tap Test: The microphone was tapped to check for any resonant frequencies.
Filter and Pad Tests
- High-Pass Filter: Tested with the 100 Hz high-pass filter engaged and disengaged to see its effect on proximity effect and mouth clicks.
- Pad Test: The -20 dB pad was engaged and disengaged to check its functionality and the immediate impact.
Music Test
A music test was conducted to evaluate the microphone's performance with instruments and vocals.
Microphone Comparisons
The CAD M179 was compared against a range of other microphones to understand its place in the market. Samples were taken with the M179 on cardioid, with no pad or high-pass filter, and gain set at 12:00 on a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Versatile polar pattern selection dial.
- Effective shock mount.
- Good rejection of background noise and room reflections.
- Low self-noise (11 dBA).
- High Max SPL (143 dB).
- Includes shock mount and clip.
Cons
- Polar pattern dial can be difficult to grip.
- Printing on the mic for pad/filter is hard to read.
- Not great at plosive rejection.
- Pad engagement/disengagement can produce static.
- Extended low-frequency response makes it susceptible to rumble.
Overall Thoughts and Recommendation
The CAD M179 mids are neutral, and the treble has a boost that adds detail but can sometimes sound a bit artificial. It performed well on electric guitar, acoustic guitar, vocals and spoken word, offering a flattering sound, especially with the high-pass filter engaged.
Overall, the M179 is a surprisingly good microphone, especially considering its price point of $160-$190. It performed well across various sound sources without any major deal-breakers.
If you're in the market for a multi-pattern condenser microphone and you like the sound profile, the CAD M179 is a solid option.
