Product Price Diaphragm Size (mm) Polar Pattern Frequency Response (Hz) Max SPL (dB) Self Noise Level (dBA) Pad Attenuation (dB) Phantom Power Required
Audio-Technica ATM450
US
£187.45 Small diaphragm Cardioid 40 Hz to 20 kHz 152 dB SPL 10 dB

The Audio-Technica ATM450 is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone with a side-address design, an 80 Hz high-pass filter, and a switchable 10 dB pad. Its high 152 dB SPL capability makes it well suited to recording drums, percussion, acoustic guitar, piano, strings, and other loud acoustic instruments in studios or live setups.

★ Ideal for

It suits affordable studio condenser microphone setups under $300 because Thomann lists the ATM450 at 255 USD, while its small-diaphragm design, 40 Hz to 20 kHz response, cardioid pattern, and 152 dB SPL handling provide detailed recording for acoustic instruments and loud sources.