Manley Labs Reference Cardioid Tube Condenser Microphone

Product Description

The Manley Labs Reference Cardioid is a large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone inspired by vintage European studio mics and hand-assembled by Manley Labs in Chino, California. Pairing a fixed cardioid capsule with a 12AX7 dual-triode vacuum tube, it offers an ultra-wide frequency response from 10 Hz all the way up to 30 kHz, with a natural midrange and a slight top-end edge. Famously used by professional voiceover artist Don LaFontaine, the Manley Reference Cardioid sounds great on vocals, as well as instruments like piano, saxophone, and even drum overheads (thanks to its max SPL of 150 dB). Learn more about the Manley Reference Cardioid microphone and discover why recording engineers, producers, and vocalists trust this modern classic for tracks that cut through any mix.

A MODERN CAPSULE INSPIRED BY VINTAGE EUROPEAN MICS

The Reference Cardioid shares most of its electronics with Manley's Reference Gold microphone, but features a center-fixed capsule with a 6-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm. This thicker diaphragm not only improves long-term stability but also delivers a sound inspired by the way classic European tube mics like the U47 sounded when they were new. With its fixed cardioid pattern, the Reference Cardioid emphasizes sound from the front while rejecting off-axis sound from the rear, making it ideal for up-front vocals, instruments, and stereo drum overheads.

ALL-TUBE CIRCUITRY FOR EXTENDED DYNAMIC RANGE

The Manley Reference Cardioid is built around a dual-triode tube stage feeding a custom Manley output transformer. This tube topology achieves typical amplifier noise of -120 dB EIN while handling a max SPL of 150 dB, giving the Reference Cardioid an exceptionally wide dynamic range. A switchable -10 dB pad near the base of the mic body ensures that even loud sources still sound clean and controlled. Manley tests its microphone-grade tubes for low noise, so the tube microphone stays quiet while adding warmth and harmonic depth to your recordings.

HAND-ASSEMBLED IN CHINO, CALIFORNIA

Like all Manley gear, each Manley Reference Cardioid tube microphone is hand-assembled and tested at Manley Labs in Chino, California. Designed with service in mind, the base and internal sub-chassis slide out of the body to expose the tube without removing the suspension. A sturdy metal swivel mount and red silicone O-ring suspension keep this condenser microphone secure and isolated on the stand, while an included leather capsule protector shields the diaphragm from dust and moisture when the mic is not in use.

WORLD-CLASS VOCAL MICROPHONE

Since its introduction in 1990, the Manley Reference Cardioid has become one of the most popular tube vocal microphones in modern recording. If you've heard the movie trailer voice-overs of the late Don LaFontaine, you've heard the Reference Cardioid. The combination of full low-end, clear mids, and an open, extended top-end gives you the perfect balance of body and presence without harshness. Many engineers find that the Reference Cardioid removes the need to boost high frequencies or lean on compression to make vocals present.

A MODERN CLASSIC FOR HIP-HOP, POP, AND ROCK VOCALS

The Manley Reference Cardioid delivers the polished, larger-than-life vocal sound that defines modern records. In hip-hop, its forward midrange keeps verses clear and present over dense, bass-heavy beats. In pop, the Reference Cardioid's airy top end adds the sheen that lead and background vocals need to shine. In rock, the mic captures aggressive performances with enough weight and punch to cut through layered guitars. Tracks recorded with this condenser microphone sound finished and sit naturally in the mix, so you can focus each session on the performance instead of corrective processing.

EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY

Since 2020, all Manley Reference Cardioid microphones ship with the MANLEY POWER switch-mode power supply. According to Manley, this PSU is quieter than the previous linear design, with faster highs and greater clarity. It accepts mains voltages from 90 VAC to 250 VAC at 50 to 60 Hz, making the microphone compatible with power systems around the world. Earlier linear power supply units were factory set for a single mains voltage, and changing it required power transformer re-wiring via internal jumpers and a fuse value change. The new PSU uses a single fuse for all voltages and connects to the microphone with a seven-pin cable, delivering clean, stable power to the Manley Reference Cardioid microphone's tube and capsule.