The beyerdynamic M 160 is a dynamic double-ribbon microphone that combines intricate handmade craftsmanship with a distinctive hypercardioid polar pattern. Manufactured at the beyerdynamic headquarters in Heilbronn, Germany, the beyerdynamic M 160 features carefully assembled components including two hand-stamped pure aluminium ribbons positioned with precision within the magnet gap. Various components, such as the microphone grille and transformer, are produced in-house to maintain consistent quality standards.
Operating on the pressure gradient principle, the beyerdynamic M 160 delivers a wide frequency response of 40 Hz to 18,000 Hz. Its double-ribbon design ensures high impulse fidelity and good transient response, enabling accurate reproduction of sources with strong attack characteristics. The microphone is suited to drum and amplifier miking, while its wide frequency response and fine-detailing capabilities also extend to acoustic guitars, brass instruments and string instruments.
A defining technical feature of the beyerdynamic M 160 is its hypercardioid polar pattern, which is unusual for ribbon microphones. This pattern prioritises sound from the front while reducing signals from the sides and rear. Rear attenuation exceeds 25 dB at 110 degrees, contributing to reduced ambient noise pickup and improved channel separation. This makes the beyerdynamic M 160 suitable for studio use and controlled stage environments.
The beyerdynamic M 160 can be paired with the beyerdynamic M 130 double-ribbon microphone, which features a figure-eight polar pattern, for M/S miking applications. Its compact dimensions and low weight allow flexible positioning, and its construction uses durable materials intended for daily professional use. Each microphone is individually measured, and a print-out of the measurement curve is included. The beyerdynamic M 160 is supplied with the MA-CL 25 microphone clamp featuring a 3/8 inch internal thread and 25 mm internal diameter.