BEST ANSWER:To "David P", who provided the previous "Best Answer": Do you know for a fact that a three-way polar pattern switch actually exists? It is very curious that the images that Monoprice uses to advertise this mic show ONLY a "-10dB Pad" switch, and a "High Pass / Bass Roll-off" switch, and no other switches. If a polar pattern switch actually exists, to for Monoprice to just accidentally NOT include a photo of it is simply unimaginable, which suggests that they left it out on purpose. So, if that's true, then the question would be "Why would they omit the most significant feature the mic has to offer? The consequence of this should be obvious: it presents a very dubious impression to the consumer.
BEST ANSWER:To "David P", who provided the previous "Best Answer": Do you know for a fact that a three-way polar pattern switch actually exists? It is very curious that the images that Monoprice uses to advertise this mic show ONLY a "-10dB Pad" switch, and a "High Pass / Bass Roll-off" switch, and no other switches. If a polar pattern switch actually exists, to for Monoprice to just accidentally NOT include a photo of it is simply unimaginable, which suggests that they left it out on purpose. So, if that's true, then the question would be "Why would they omit the most significant feature the mic has to offer? The consequence of this should be obvious: it presents a very dubious impression to the consumer.
There is a small, three-way switch on the front of the mic, allowing you to switch between cardioid (left position), bi (center position) and omni (right position).
BEST ANSWER:If you go to this mic's page on Monoprice's site, then scroll down to the description (about a quarter of the way down the page), you'll see the mount that comes with the mic. It's a nice, well-built, suspension mount that the mic threads into, making for a very secure combination. I used this mic in a recording of a flute quartet. The mount is so secure, that I never worried about it, once we started the session. I hope this helps.
BEST ANSWER:If you go to this mic's page on Monoprice's site, then scroll down to the description (about a quarter of the way down the page), you'll see the mount that comes with the mic. It's a nice, well-built, suspension mount that the mic threads into, making for a very secure combination. I used this mic in a recording of a flute quartet. The mount is so secure, that I never worried about it, once we started the session. I hope this helps.
This mic is quite well built and spec'd, with the multipattern "RK 87" capsule (inset brass slot screws in a white plastic ring) and a transformer-balanced output. Making it a direct competitor of the 400-level AKG Perception line. This one has nice through-hole components with a polystyrene input capacitor feeding a K170 JFET. Dual-mesh, small 47-style headbasket, three switches for pattern, pad and low cut. Body a bit lightweight but solid and could be weighted with adhesive wheel weights. Not bad in design.
In practice? The transformer is a quite low 1.85:1 turns ratio, well below the U87's 9.5:1, so a U87 this ain't. But it's there and a nice touch (The LTM500 output transformer is a whopping 17.5:1). Also apparently absent is any de-emphasis measure, the mic is very bright and could use a darker capsule. Overall not nearly as impressive as the tube LTM500 which is a genuine steal from Monoprice. But this price is low enough it's hard to source all these parts...including a very nice 22m threaded shockmount, wallet and case...for the money.
I bought it open box and within an hour already had it stripped down and the capsule backplates isolated. Not sure what I'll do with the transformer, maybe try it backwards as a step-up for a dynamic mic. The capsule and switch set will go into a vintage 87 style body and circuit with negative feedback to tame the highs, and the LC200 body will be turned into a baby Sphere with dual output, which it kinda looks like. To pair with the LTM500 which I already did all this to, turning its power supply into an unregulated U47 supply with a nip tuck to the PCB.
For those just looking for a good deal on mics, try to stretch for the LTM500 tube version. Far better sound even without any mods, and you can refine it with the 9 pattern dial. But this LC200 mic is a nice components kit for the tinkerer, and competitive within its price range in general.
I purchased this microphone as it appears to be decent quality for vocal recording and a good value. When it arrived, there was no user manual, nor is there any downloadable manual on the web site. Called Tech Support and was told no manual or instructions are available. Can’t really rate the quality of the microphone until I know what the 3 switches do.
