Sterling Audio ST59 Review – Truly Refined Performance

Design:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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Sterling Audio is one of those brands which flirt with boutique title, but rarely cross the line. All you need to do is look at Sterling Audio ST59 to understand what we mean. It's easily one of the most capable condenser microphones you can get for under $300 right now.

Design

There is something profoundly vintage about the way Sterling Audio ST59 looks. It brings that classic UK look and feel. If we had to describe it in one word, it would be ‘tubular'. The chassis itself is simple and features a solid black finish. The capsule features a side/top address layout with a matte chrome grill and a simple cage finished with the same material. This is one of those heavy microphones that inspire confidence when you pick them up. There is nothing wonky nor cheap about this thing, no matter where you look.

Despite it being one of the least important things, the aesthetics are just impressive. If microphones were rated by their appearance alone, Sterling Audio ST59 would rank pretty high. With that said, the real fun starts when you plug this bad boy in and set it up properly.

Features

Under that attractive exterior hides pretty high end hardware. Naturally, the most defining component is the diaphragm, or should we say diaphragms. Sterling Audio ST59 features not one, but two super light diaphragms which gives a good hint at what this mic is capable of. First thing that comes to mind are switchable polar patterns. You get to choose between the omnidirectional, figure eight and standard cardioid pattens.

On top of that, there is the -10dB attenuation pod as well as a low frequency filter switch. In terms of raw specs, ST59 offers a frequency response range that spans from 20Hz to 20kHz and a max SPL set at 132dB without attenuation. When you witch on the attenuation pad, that value goes up to 142dB. Overall, it is a promising package powered by a quality Class-A FET preamp. Speaking of which, you will definitely need a good phantom power source.

Performance

The core Sterling Audio ST59's performance revolves around its flat response. That is something you will experience no matter which polar pattern you choose to use. One byproduct of transparency is that vocals tend to come out naturally, no matter what your voice is like. Additionally, ST59 brings plenty of mid range warmth to the table, thus enhancing your ability to cut through the mix. Compared to most of its competition, ST59 is tangibly smoother. Recording instruments is also an option, especially considering that -10dB pad.

You can get away with acoustic guitars, but also a whole array of more aggressive instruments. You could even stretch its application to drums, although we have to suggest you apply caution when doing so. Overall, Sterling Audio ST59 does it all with a great amount of consistency. It easily one of the more attractive sounding microphones out there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yg3bVq8M1sQ

Conclusion

Great, reliable performance is usually something that you see in models which are neutral and subtle. Sterling Audio ST59 breaks that pattern with its somewhat unique character. The warmth, transparency and versatility it offers is extremely well balanced. Add to that Sterling’s meticulously selected components, and you have a winner.

For more info about the Sterling Audio ST59, click here.
For more Condenser Microphone Under $300 you might like, click here.