This multi-pattern large-diaphragm condenser microphone makes it possible to adjust the polar pattern post-recording – a concept with the potential to transform how we think about postproduction.

Changing the polar pattern after the fact

Unlike other microphones, the LCT 640 TS features a dual-output mode that enables engineers to record the front and back diaphragm of the capsule individually. This makes it possible to change and fine-tune the polar pattern seamlessly all the way from omnidirectional to figure-8 as well as to turn the recording direction of the microphone by 180° even after the recording session. This entails the ability to add as much room sound as desired post-recording and makes a wide range of unique stereo recording techniques possible. What’s more the dual capsule can also be used for interactive face to face duets between musicians.

MS stereo with only one mic

Another useful feature is the ability to record “Mid Side” stereo with only one LCT 640 TS. Musicians and engineers just have to point the side of the microphone to the source they want to record. The front capsule then serves as the left-side channel while the back capsule serves as the right side. Summing both signals together creates the mid-channel. The easiest way to create this in a DAW is to put both signals on a stereo track and adjust the stereo width.

LEWITT polarizer plug-in

The LCT 640 TS comes bundled with a newly developed, pioneering DAW plug-in called “Polarizer.” This intuitive plug-in makes it possible to easily and seamlessly change or fine-tune the polar pattern during postproduction. Polarizer works on both PCs and Macs, and it supports the following plug-in standards: VST, AU and AAX. And of course, the available polar patterns can also be created manually in any DAW or mixing console.

The specs

LEWITT’s LCT 640 TS is an all-round studio condenser mic of extraordinary quality and will add a new dimension to modern studio recording procedures. The 1-inch capsule, visible through the grill, guarantees precise transient response thanks to the 3-micron-thin, gold-layered, low-mass Mylar diaphragm. The dual diaphragm design provides a choice between five polar patterns – cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8, broad cardioid and supercardioid – for maximum flexibility in a wide variety of recording applications. Furthermore, internal capsule suspension reduces structure-borne noise.

Whereas most microphones with pad or filter options have just one of each, the new LCT 640 TS has four low-cut filter frequencies and a four-position pad switch. This Austrian-designed mic is intended for recording almost any source, including lead and background vocals, drums, piano, acoustic instruments and classical ensembles.

Robust military-grade case

The mic comes with an LCT 40 SHx suspension and an LCT 40 Wx windscreen, all packed into a robust black military-grade case. This case is molded from a single piece of material and equipped with a slip-proof, rubber-grip handle for maximum protection on the go. You can personalize it with a nameplate, and there’s also an integrated locking point for a padlock to prevent theft. Furthermore, the all-new LCT 50 PSx pop screen is included for the first time. Its clever magnetic mechanism connects it directly to the shock mount – with no gooseneck to be attached to the mic stand and no further adjustment necessary.

The LCT 640 TS will be available at the end of May 2016 for 899 USD (MAP)!