A six-micron, gold-evaporated mylar diaphragm delivers a good high-end frequency response and miniature switches on the mic body bring in a 15dB pad and a low-cut filter, the response of which is identical to that of the AM11. Three different capsules are available providing a choice of cardioid, super-cardioid or omni polar patterns, all of which have a frequency response which is flat within ±2dB all the way up to 20kHz, though their low-end response varies slightly — the cardioid model quotes 50Hz, the super-cardioid 80Hz and the omni 30Hz. The equivalent noise is quoted at 20dBA with a sensitivity of 16mV/Pa at 1kHz — all very respectable figures. The maximum SPL is 130dB with a dynamic range of 115dB and, like all the mics in the range, the output is transformer balanced.

Constructionally, the microphone is both simple and elegant with a satin black cylindrical body and a stainless-steel grille assembly. The grille cover unscrews to provide access to the capsule while a locking ring above the outlet XLR allows the body sleeve to be removed for access to the circuitry. The standard of build quality is high with neatly assembled glass-fibre circuit boards, and the mic is presented in a sturdy aluminium camera case.