Sony C-800 Tube Condensor Microphone

The Sony C-800 series is a vacuum tube condenser microphone platform developed for high-end studio recording applications, with a focus on capturing detailed vocal performances under demanding conditions.

Sony C-800 Tube Condensor Microphone Details

The Sony C-800G is a vacuum tube condenser microphone designed as a dedicated solution for critical vocal recording in professional studio and post-production environments. Developed to deliver full dynamic range while maintaining the ability to reproduce delicate and subtle nuances of sound, the microphone is engineered for high-level performance without compromising detail or clarity.

At the core of the design is a carefully selected vacuum tube chosen for optimum performance, contributing to low noise operation and minimal distortion. The microphone is built to maintain consistent performance even under high sound pressure levels, allowing it to resolve fine transient detail while preserving overall signal integrity.

A defining feature of the Sony C-800G is its integrated thermo-electric cooling system, which incorporates a semiconductor device, heat pipe, and heat sink. This system is designed to stabilise the operating temperature of the vacuum tube, directly contributing to reduced noise and distortion during operation.

The mechanical construction employs a two-part body design that reduces the transmission of vibration to the capsule, improving isolation and maintaining clarity of reproduction. The microphone also provides electronically selectable directivity, allowing operation in either omni-directional or uni-directional modes, giving flexibility across different recording situations.

With high sensitivity and a wide dynamic range, the Sony C-800G is capable of capturing subtle high-frequency detail while maintaining low inherent noise. The microphone is supplied with supporting accessories including a dedicated power supply unit, suspension mount, and connection system, forming a complete recording solution for professional use.

Sony C-800 Tube Condensor Microphone Heritage

  • 1987 to 1992

    designated as C-800 (development prototypes)

    Development of a new vacuum tube condenser platform using 6AU6A valve technology, with emphasis on noise performance, stability, and integration of modern electronic design techniques.

    Development of the Sony C-800 series began around 1987, combining Sony’s earlier tube microphone experience with updated electronic and mechanical design approaches. The objective was to create a new generation of tube condenser microphone suited to contemporary recording requirements.

Specifications

Released in: 1987
Made in: Japan
  • Capsule Type: Condenser
  • Vacuum Tube: 6AU6A
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz to 18kHz
  • Directivity: Uni-directional / Omni-directional
  • Output Impedance: 100Ω ±20% balanced
  • Sensitivity: -32.0dB/Pa (uni), -35.0dB/Pa (omni)
  • Signal To Noise Ratio: 76dB or more (uni), 73dB or more (omni)
  • Inherent Noise: Less than 18dB SPL (uni), less than 21dB SPL (omni)
  • Maximum SPL: 131dB SPL (uni), 134dB SPL (omni)
  • Dynamic Range: 113dB or more
  • Power Requirements: AC120V, 60Hz (AC-MC800G)
  • Power Consumption: 65W (AC-MC800G)
  • Dimensions: 191mm x 57mm x 237mm
  • Weight: 900g
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Sony C-800 Tube Condensor Microphone Used on these Recordings

If I Ever Lose My Faith In You

Sting

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I/O

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Further Reading on the Sony C-800 Tube Condensor Microphone

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The details provided above are drawn from historical documents like advertising brochures or user manuals. They’re shared without bias or review. This info is given solely for your consideration, helping you gauge its usefulness to you.

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