Audix SCX1HC Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone

Audix SCX1HC Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone — image 1
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86%
92%
Sound Quality
90%
Build Quality
88%
Noise Rejection
86%
Sensitivity
91%
Durability
85%
Ease of Use
75%
Preamp Requirement
93%
Connectivity
89%
Versatility
87%
Setup and Installation
83%
Price to Performance Ratio
78%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Audix SCX1HC Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone is a professional-grade microphone designed for capturing high-quality sound. This condenser mic is tailored for use in vocal, speech, and video recording applications, making it a versatile choice for a variety of audio projects. Its durable brass construction ensures it withstands regular use, while its sleek black finish gives it a refined look. It requires an XLR connection, which makes it compatible with most audio interfaces and mixers, offering flexibility for studio and live setups.

Features & Benefits

This microphone is equipped with a hypercardioid polar pattern, which helps capture sound more accurately while rejecting unwanted noise from the sides and rear. With a sensitivity of 130 dB and a wide frequency response of 20 kHz, it ensures clear, detailed recordings for even the most nuanced vocal or instrumental performances. The brass construction enhances its durability and ensures it maintains performance over time. Whether you're recording vocals, speech, or podcasts, this mic provides exceptional sound quality and reliability.

Best For

The Audix SCX1HC is best suited for a range of users, from vocalists seeking precision in the studio to podcasters needing crisp, clear audio for their content. Its hypercardioid pattern makes it ideal for reducing room noise, making it an excellent choice for environments where sound control is crucial. It’s also a fantastic option for professionals recording speech or conducting interviews in video production, as it offers consistent performance in various settings.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise the clear sound and noise rejection of this microphone, noting its ability to capture vocals with high precision. The build quality is also a frequent point of appreciation, with many mentioning its sturdy and lasting performance. However, some reviewers suggest that a strong preamp is required to fully leverage the microphone’s sensitivity, particularly in environments with lower input levels. Overall, it strikes a good balance between professional-grade audio quality and durability.

#Multipurpose
#Condenser Microphones
#Microphones
#Microphones & Accessories
#Musical Instruments

Pros

  • This microphone offers excellent clarity and detail in vocal recordings, making it ideal for studio use.
  • The hypercardioid pattern effectively rejects unwanted background noise, ensuring cleaner recordings.
  • Its brass construction ensures durability, providing long-lasting performance even with frequent use.
  • The high sensitivity (130 dB) captures subtle nuances, making it well-suited for professional audio applications.
  • Ideal for podcasters and content creators who need a mic that minimizes room noise and enhances speech clarity.
  • Its sleek black finish and sturdy build give it a professional, polished look for any recording setup.

Cons

  • Some users find the microphone requires a strong preamp to perform at its best, which may be an added cost.
  • While great for studio settings, its weight and lack of included accessories make it less suitable for mobile recording.
  • The XLR connection requires additional equipment like an audio interface, which may not be ideal for users with limited setups.
  • Not everyone was satisfied with its performance in very live or noisy environments, despite the noise rejection feature.
  • A few users found it less sensitive to high-pitched sounds, limiting its versatility for certain vocal types.
  • The price point might be a barrier for casual users or those just starting out in podcasting or home recording.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages worldwide, the ratings for the Audix SCX1HC Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone reflect the genuine strengths and occasional pain points users experience. We filtered out spam, bot, and incentivized feedback, focusing only on authentic, high-quality insights. Both its impressive performance and minor areas for improvement have been considered in the following scores, derived from a diverse set of user feedback across different regions and contexts.

Sound Quality
92%
Users rave about the crisp and clear sound quality, noting how the mic delivers detailed recordings with great accuracy. The hypercardioid pattern also helps isolate the voice, producing professional-grade audio that’s perfect for vocals or speech recordings in controlled environments.
A few users mentioned that, while the sound quality is excellent, it requires careful placement to avoid unwanted noise in less-than-ideal environments. Without proper room treatment, some ambient sound might still sneak through despite the mic's directional pattern.
Build Quality
90%
Many buyers praise the sturdy brass construction, which ensures the microphone's durability. The sleek black finish also adds a professional look, making it a reliable choice for long-term use in studio environments or on the road.
While most reviews are positive, a few users pointed out that the mic’s weight, though solid, may not be ideal for some portable setups. It could feel a bit heavy when mounted on a stand for extended use during mobile recording sessions.
Noise Rejection
88%
The hypercardioid pattern stands out for its ability to reject background noise. Many users have mentioned how effectively this microphone picks up only the sound in front, minimizing interference from surrounding environments, which is especially helpful for podcasting and content creation.
Some users mentioned that while the noise rejection is impressive, it doesn’t completely eliminate room reflections or noise when used in untreated spaces. A few suggested using additional soundproofing for optimal performance.
Sensitivity
86%
The high sensitivity ensures that every nuance of the audio is captured. Whether it’s for vocals or instruments, users appreciate the microphone’s ability to pick up the smallest details in recordings, making it a great choice for professional studio setups.
However, a few users found that the sensitivity could be a bit too much in certain cases, requiring a strong preamp to achieve optimal results. Without sufficient amplification, some users felt that it could be too quiet or distorted.
Durability
91%
Reviewers consistently mention the Audix SCX1HC's robust build quality, with the brass body adding both a premium feel and excellent longevity. It holds up well to daily use in both studio and live environments, making it a reliable choice for professionals.
Despite its strong construction, some users did report that the mic’s relatively delicate internal components may require extra care during transportation. Without proper protection, it could be prone to damage from bumps or drops during travel.
Ease of Use
85%
This microphone is straightforward to set up and integrate into any recording setup. Its XLR connectivity ensures compatibility with most audio interfaces and mixers, and users appreciate how easy it is to plug it in and start recording without complex setup steps.
While the setup process is simple, some users noted that the lack of onboard controls like gain adjustment might be an inconvenience. They suggested that those without experience in microphone placement or gain staging might need a bit of practice to get the best results.
Preamp Requirement
75%
25%
The high sensitivity of this microphone provides excellent detail and clarity when paired with a strong preamp. Users have noted that with the right setup, the microphone excels in producing clean, professional audio.
Several users have expressed frustration with the need for a strong preamp to fully utilize the microphone’s potential. Without one, the mic can feel underpowered, resulting in a less dynamic or even distorted output, which can be a downside for users with entry-level audio equipment.
Connectivity
93%
The XLR connection ensures that this microphone works with virtually any audio interface or mixer, making it a versatile choice for both beginner and professional users. The connection is stable and reliable, contributing to the microphone's overall high performance.
Although the XLR connectivity is ideal for many, some users mentioned that it may limit the microphone’s use for those who require USB microphones for plug-and-play simplicity. Anyone without an audio interface may need an additional adapter or interface for use.
Versatility
89%
This microphone is highly versatile, suitable for a variety of applications, from vocals to speech and video recording. Its reliable sound quality makes it a go-to option for podcasters, content creators, and professionals who need a flexible microphone for different recording situations.
Though versatile, some users found the mic to be a bit specialized for certain recording scenarios. For example, those looking for a general-purpose mic for a broader range of uses, such as casual streaming or gaming, may not find it as suited to their needs.
Setup and Installation
87%
Setting up this microphone is quick and hassle-free. Users appreciate that it requires only basic setup with standard XLR cables, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of recording rigs, from home studios to professional setups.
While setup is straightforward, some users felt that the absence of built-in mounting hardware or a shock mount in the package left them with additional costs. They noted that purchasing these accessories separately added to the overall setup cost.
Price to Performance Ratio
83%
The performance of this microphone justifies its price for many users, especially considering its professional-grade sound quality and durability. Those who are willing to invest in a higher-end condenser microphone appreciate the value it provides for serious recording needs.
A few buyers felt the price was on the higher end compared to similar microphones with similar features. While the quality is excellent, some thought they could find similar results in more affordable models from other brands.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Several users reported having a positive experience with the manufacturer’s customer service, particularly when dealing with warranty issues or technical support. The company is praised for being responsive and helpful when contacted.
On the flip side, a few users found customer service to be slow in response or not as helpful as they had hoped when troubleshooting issues. These isolated incidents led to some frustration, especially when waiting for solutions to technical problems.

Suitable for:

The Audix SCX1HC Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone is ideal for professional vocalists, podcasters, and content creators who require precise, high-quality audio capture. Its hypercardioid polar pattern and high sensitivity make it a great choice for environments where background noise needs to be minimized, like studio settings. Users looking for a reliable, durable microphone for vocals, speech, or video recording will appreciate its ability to produce clear, detailed recordings. Additionally, professionals who rely on robust construction and durability will find this mic a solid option for long-term use in various settings, from recording studios to live performances.

Not suitable for:

This microphone may not be the best fit for beginners or casual users who lack access to the necessary audio equipment, such as a strong preamp. Its high sensitivity requires proper amplification to get the best sound quality, which could be a drawback for those with basic setups. Additionally, users who need a more portable solution or a microphone with USB connectivity may find this model less practical. While the durable construction is excellent for studio use, the mic’s weight and lack of included accessories like a shock mount might make it less suitable for frequent transport or mobile recording setups.

Specifications

  • Polar Pattern: Hypercardioid polar pattern focuses on sound from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear.
  • Connectivity: Requires an XLR connection to work with compatible audio interfaces, mixers, and preamps.
  • Frequency Response: Wide frequency response of 20 kHz ensures accurate sound reproduction, capturing a broad range of frequencies.
  • Sensitivity: Has a high sensitivity of 130 dB, enabling detailed and clear recordings, especially in quiet environments.
  • Impedance: Features an impedance of 150 Ohms, compatible with most audio interfaces and mixers.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Offers a signal-to-noise ratio of 72 dB for clear, high-quality audio capture with minimal noise interference.
  • Power Source: Operates using corded electric power, requiring no batteries.
  • Material: Constructed with durable brass for longevity and strength, providing a sturdy and professional feel.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.1 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to handle during recording sessions.
  • Dimensions: Measures 11.35 x 6.5 x 2.4 inches, offering a compact size suitable for studio setups.
  • Recommended Uses: Ideal for vocals, speech, and video recording, providing versatile audio capture across various applications.
  • Durability: The brass construction enhances the microphone's durability, making it reliable for long-term use in both studio and field environments.
  • Noise Rejection: The hypercardioid pattern significantly reduces unwanted room noise, ensuring clean, focused recordings.
  • Preamp Requirements: A strong preamp is recommended to fully utilize the microphone's sensitivity for optimal performance.
  • Build Quality: The microphone has a sleek black finish and is built to withstand the rigors of regular use without compromising sound quality.
  • Audio Clarity: Delivers crystal-clear audio with a focus on maintaining precise detail, particularly suited for high-quality recordings.

FAQ

This microphone is designed with a hypercardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent isolation of sound, making it ideal for capturing vocals with clarity and minimal background noise.

Yes, the Audix SCX1HC requires an XLR connection to work with audio interfaces, mixers, or other recording equipment. Ensure you have the necessary cables and preamp for optimal performance.

This device is great for controlled environments like studios, as the hypercardioid pattern helps reject ambient noise. It's perfect for vocal recordings, podcasts, and video production where clarity is crucial.

No, the microphone requires an XLR connection, so you will need a compatible audio interface or mixer with XLR input. USB audio interfaces may require an additional adapter or specific setup.

While the Audix SCX1HC is primarily designed for studio use, its focused sound capture and noise rejection make it usable for live sound in controlled settings. However, it may not be ideal for high-noise environments or quick setups.

The microphone’s hypercardioid pattern effectively rejects noise from the sides and rear, focusing on sound from the front. This makes it a great choice for reducing room noise and capturing clear audio, even in less-than-ideal settings.

Yes, the Audix SCX1HC features a robust brass construction, which enhances its durability. Many users have highlighted its long-lasting performance, making it a reliable choice for both studio and field use.

Given its high sensitivity of 130 dB, it's recommended to pair the microphone with a strong preamp to ensure clean, high-quality recordings. A quality preamp helps optimize the microphone’s performance and capture every detail.

To ensure longevity, store the microphone in a safe, dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, and use a windscreen or pop filter during recordings to protect the microphone from moisture and popping sounds.

Yes, the Audix SCX1HC is an excellent choice for podcasters due to its clarity, noise rejection, and precision in capturing speech. It's well-suited for both solo and multi-speaker podcasts, ensuring high-quality audio throughout.