Similar to the M 160, the M 130 dynamic double-ribbon microphone is exceptional in terms of production and sound. This classic microphone has been intricately hand-made at the company headquarters in Heilbronn, Germany, since 1957. Thanks to the globally unique double-ribbon system and naturally intricate sound recording, the M 130 continues to set standards to this day.
Ribbon sound an for a variety of sources
Depending on its positioning and spatial situation, the dynamic double-ribbon M 130 can be used to record drums, electric guitar amps, pianos, acoustic guitars, orchestras, choirs or room ambience. Thanks to its broad and balanced frequency response of 40–18.000 Hz, the M 130 offers impressive natural, authentic sound. Its high impulse fidelity is achieved thanks to the low mass of the two pure aluminium ribbons. The M 130, which has a figure-eight polar pattern, is also the perfect choice when sound from the sides needs to be blocked when recording.
A microphone with Ambience
The figure-eight polar pattern of the M 130 makes it ideal for stereo recording. For example, two M 130 can be used to create a Blumlein pair for superb-sounding room ambience recording.
The M 130 can be used with another hypercardioid or supercardioid microphone such as the dynamic double-ribbon M 160 or the MC 950 true-condenser microphone for M/S recording. The combination of two double-ribbon microphones with a hypercardioid or figure-eight polar pattern is unique on the market and offered only by beyerdynamic.
A Closer Look: The Figure-Eight Polar Pattern
Microphones with a figure-eight polar pattern record signals equally well from the front and back of the microphone. This means that they demonstrate superb off-axis behaviour and block out signals from the sides (at 90° and 270°). Compared to double-ribbon microphones that imitate a figure of eight by using two capsules, real figure-eight capsules such as that of the M 130 have exceptionally high sound and frequency stability.
A Compact Sound Sensation
With a length of 12.8 centimetres and weight of 150 grams, the M 130 can undoubtably be called compact and lightweight. This makes it quick and easy to position in any situation. Used predominantly in the studio, the M 130 is extraordinarily robust for a ribbon microphone. This classic microphone now comes safely stored in a sturdy hard case.
A Closer Look: The Figure-Eight Polar Pattern
Microphones with a figure-eight polar pattern record signals equally well from the front and back of the microphone. This means that they demonstrate superb off-axis behaviour and block out signals from the sides (at 90° and 270°). Compared to double-ribbon microphones that imitate a figure of eight by using two capsules, real figure-eight capsules such as that of the M 130 have exceptionally high sound and frequency stability.
A Compact Sound Sensation
With a length of 12.8 centimetres and weight of 150 grams, the M 130 can undoubtably be called compact and lightweight. This makes it quick and easy to position in any situation. Used predominantly in the studio, the M 130 is extraordinarily robust for a ribbon microphone. This classic microphone now comes safely stored in a sturdy hard case.
Handmade in Germany since 1957
The M 130 and M 160 set new standards for microphones “Made in Germany”. During the production process, two hand-stamped wafer-thin pure aluminium ribbons (0.003 mm thick) are inserted into a magnet gap that is only a few millimetres wide. The space between the two ribbons is just 0.5 mm. Because this job requires extreme dexterity, there are currently only a few employees able to build this microphone.
In addition, sound-relevant components such as the triple-layered microphone grille are handmade. All of this is reflected in its excellent quality. Every microphone is a masterpiece thanks to exacting precision “Made in Germany”.
Individual Measurement Curve
Because each one is intricately handmade, each M 130 is unique. We even go one step further and individually measure each and every microphone. A print-out of the measurement curve is included with your purchased M 130.
Durable Materials
Our microphones are designed for daily use in professional conditions, which is why only durable materials are used in their construction. If the microphone nevertheless gets damaged, our service policy means that we can replace almost every part.
SOUND SAMPLES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the reasons for the facelift?
The M Series microphones are an important part of our microphone history and have been synonymous with outstanding product quality for decades. With the facelift, we are leading the microphones into the future. Since the products have been produced for almost 70 years, it is important that production processes are regularly checked and adjusted. In addition, the design was adapted to comply with our current corporate design. All these measures enable us to have stable microphone production in the years to come.
What changes were made to the microphones?
First and foremost, the printing on the mics was changed. This way, our classic microphones speak the current design language of beyerdynamic. In addition, the heritage band recognizes the important fact that these mics are made in Germany. The new look combines tradition with future and expresses our microphone DNA. Sound-relevant components such as membranes or transformers have not been changed. The microphone grille of the M 88 is an exception (see the following points).
Does the sound of the microphones change?
As a company, it is important to us that the known and beloved acoustic properties of the M Series microphones stay unchanged – that is why the microphone transducers and other sound-absorbing parts will be produced in the same way they have always been. Only the grille of the M 88 is an exception. As requested by many of our customers, the microphone grille will be available again in its original three-layered and fine-meshed form with the facelift.
What influences does the new head grille of the M 88 have on the mic sound?
Thanks to the now three-layer fabric, plosive sounds are dampened in a better way than in the previous version. The changed material of the microphone grille results in subtle changes in sound without changing the outstanding basic sound of the microphone.
Does the facelift serve to replace manual labor with machines?
No. We still manufacture in filigree handwork in Germany. What has changed are simply production processes to facilitate the work of our qualified personnel. In addition, we have replaced some glue connections with screw connections to provide better serviceability.
How were the names of the products changed?
The names only change for the M 88 and the M 201, which will lose the suffix “TG”. For all other microphones, there is no change.
Why are the products no longer named "TG" at the end? Does this effect the construction?
Eliminating the suffix ”TG“ for the M 88 and the M 201 is a way to clearly separate our M and TG product lines and move back to a consistent naming. Nothing has changed in terms of the robust construction of the microphones. The TG Series are touring gear and made for live performances. While ideal for studio use, the M Series microphones are still suitable for use in demanding live situations.
Will service continue for the current models?
The service for the current models will continue for the next years.
