United Studio Technologies UT Twin48
United Studio Technologies microphone specifications
- Two switchable discrete circuits: 47-style (true cardioid) and 48-style (active cardioid)
- NOS EF86 pentode tube
- UT K48 34 mm capsule with 6 micron 24k gold-sputtered Mylar (PET film)
- Custom UT BV-8 output transformer (made in the USA)
- Audiophile polystyrene, tantalum and film capacitors as well as PRP thin-film resistors
- Inline EMI/RFI AC input filter
- RF output filter
- Polar pattern: Omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8
- Frequency range: 20 – 20000 Hz
- max. SPL: 137 dB @ 0.5% THD
- Inherent noise: 11 dBA
- Impedance: 35 Ohm
- Includes power supply unit, shock mount, microphone case and 6 Sommer cable
- Microphone dimensions (L x D): 265 x 62.5 mm, weight: 1 kg
- Dimensions of the power supply unit (W x D x H): 195 x 180 x 92.5 mm, weight: 4 kg
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Customer Review Summary
United Studio Technologies UT Twin48 is an impressive tube microphone that surprised me with its transparency, presence, and frequency response, closely resembling the Austrian Audio OC-18. It maintains a similar noise level, which is remarkable for a tube mic.
When compared to the WA-47, the Twin48 delivers a brighter and more high-resolution sound, as the WA-47 tends to sound somewhat dull. While I haven’t directly compared it to vintage Neumann or Telefunken mics, there are comparisons available online with an authentic U48 that suggest the Twin48 holds its own.
One of the standout features of the Twin48 is its beautiful tube compression. The ability to switch between Cardioid-47 and Cardioid-48 modes provides distinct tonal characteristics, and the differences become even more pronounced when using a 1073-type preamp and an LA2A-type compressor. The Twin48 boasts more body, flattering mids, and an accurate representation of highs without exaggerated sibilance.
Crafted in America, this boutique microphone is personally assembled and tested, which adds a touch of authenticity. I particularly appreciate the way it screws into the shock mount, and the included power supply is aesthetically pleasing, featuring an integrated RF filter instead of a typical retro design.
So far, I’ve only tested the microphone with vocals, but I am eager to try it with a Chandler TG preamp. Finding reviews or videos specifically about the Twin48 has been challenging, making my purchase feel like a bit of a gamble; however, the positive information I found online reassured me.
On a minor note, it didn’t come with an EU power cable, which the manufacturer seems to have expected the distributor to include. Fortunately, this issue has been addressed, and I hope it will not be a concern in future batches. Lastly, I would love to see a traditional swivel mount and an EMI-style metal pop shield included in future designs.
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