OVERVIEW
The Solaris is a large diaphragm multi-pattern, condenser mic that is versatile enough for most every recording situation. M-Audio combined both vintage and modern elements into the Solaris' design to give it a unique sound. Its large diaphragm, brass capsule and circuit design make it ideal for recording vocals, guitar, piano and other high to mid-range audio sources. In addition, its three-polar patterns make it suitable for a wide range of unusual recording applications. M-Audio has earned a great reputation for offering competitively priced products with pro features and the Solaris is no exception.

USES
- versatile, entry-level, multi-pattern, condenser microphone
- recording vocals, guitar, piano and other standard audio sources from all directions

FEATURES
The Solaris has a three-pattern cardioid design, which makes it like three microphones in one. You can choose between omni (picks up sound equally from all directions), cardiod (only picks up sound from the front) and figure 8 (picks up sound mainly from the front and back). The audio signal is captured with a large (1.1" diameter) evaporated gold diaphragm and travels through all class-A discrete circuitry and hardware. M-Audio also included a transformer (an essential element of tube circuitry) in the Solaris's signal path to give the mic a warmer, "vintage" sound.

Also included on the Solaris is a 10dB switchable attenuation pad (for louder operation level) and a bass cut pad that cuts at 6dB per octave (eliminates hum, rumble and other unwanted low frequencies). Operating the Solaris requires 48v of phantom power (standard for large diaphragm mics), which can be supplied by your preamp or mixing board. The mic's outer shell has a unique, flat, moon-like shape made of double mesh brass. It comes with a shock mount and a hard case for storing the mic.

OUR OPINION
There are several competitively priced, Chinese made, large diaphragm microphones similar to the Solaris on the market today (ie Studio Projects). M-Audio separates itself from the competition by incorporating advanced American design methods and parts into the Solaris. The transformer-based design will give your recordings more character, while maintaining a subtle quality that is never too obtrusive.

There are three main differences between the Solaris and M-Audio's less expensive microphone model, the Luna. First and foremost is the inclusion of multi polar patterns. These allow the user more room for different micing techniques and experimentation. The omni-directional pattern is great for capturing an entire room, while the figure-8 pattern could be used to allow two vocalists to sing into one mic from both sides. Another difference between them is the Solaris' pad switch, which can help to amplify quiet sound sources. Lastly the bass cut can aid in eliminating annoying low-pitch rumbles and other unwanted noises.

Just like the Luna, the Solaris frequency response can handle all types of audio signals with great results, minus extremely low frequencies like a kick drum or bass amp. If you have a beginner/intermediate studio and plan to spend less than $300, the Luna is an easy option. The price point, features, and M-Audio design make this a strong buy for overall value and performance.

- Multi-pattern (omni, cardioid, figure 8) condenser
- +/- 1dB tolerance across entire frequency range
- Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Power requirement: 48-volt phantom power
- 10dB attenuation pad & 6dB bass cut pad
- Connector: 3-pin male XLR

- shock mount
- hard case