Audio Array AM-C43 Budget Condenser Microphone Review: A Detailed Look

This review dives into the Audio Array AM-C43, a budget-friendly condenser microphone, examining its features, setup, and initial impressions. We unpack the complete package, detailing the included accessories such as the shock mount, pop filter, and cables, assessing their quality and practicality for the price point. The AM-C43's design and build quality are evaluated based on a hands-on inspection, highlighting its compact and sleek appearance. Ease of setup and the functionality of the included mounting hardware are also scrutinized.However, due to limitations in available equipment, a complete audio quality assessment is currently pending. This review focuses on the initial unboxing experience, setup process, and a preliminary examination of the microphone's physical attributes. A comprehensive review, including a thorough sound quality analysis compared to other microphones in its class, will be published once an appropriate audio interface is acquired and testing under ideal conditions is completed. This ensures a fair and accurate evaluation of the AM-C43's performance capabilities.

Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review

Unboxing and First Impressions

The package arrived containing the microphone, pop filter, user manual, and all necessary accessories. The black condenser microphone itself looks quite sleek and compact.

Unboxing the Audio Array AM-C43 microphone and accessories.
Unboxing the Audio Array AM-C43 microphone and accessories.

Included were a shock mount to reduce vibrations, a Y-splitter cable, and cable ties for secure setup. A short 3.5mm to XLR cable was also provided, although its usefulness was limited in this review.

Close-up of the black condenser microphone.
Close-up of the black condenser microphone.

Initial impressions are positive; the microphone appears well-constructed and the included accessories are comprehensive for its price range.

The shock mount, Y-splitter, and cable ties.
The shock mount, Y-splitter, and cable ties.

Setup and Mounting

Setting up the microphone is straightforward. The boom arm clip allows for easy placement on a table or desk.

Demonstrating the boom arm clip and its adjustable nature.
Demonstrating the boom arm clip and its adjustable nature.

The clip is securely tightened to ensure stability, while the adjustable boom arm itself allows for flexible positioning.

Attaching the boom arm to the clip.
Attaching the boom arm to the clip.

The reviewer shows how to attach the microphone to the boom arm and adjust its position. This setup provides a convenient and stable mounting solution.

The final setup of the microphone on the table.
The final setup of the microphone on the table.

Testing and Limitations

Due to the lack of an audio interface, a proper test of the microphone's audio quality was not possible at the time of this review.

The reviewer demonstrated a temporary setup using a direct connection, highlighting the method used in previous videos. The provided 3.5mm to XLR cable didn't work directly with a phone due to the need for phantom power.

A full evaluation and comparison with other microphones will be completed once an audio interface is available.

Conclusion

The Audio Array AM-C43 shows promise as a budget-friendly condenser microphone. The included accessories and ease of setup are definite pluses.

However, a full audio quality assessment is pending, awaiting the use of an audio interface for proper testing and comparison.

Overall, the AM-C43 seems like a decent option in its price range, though a more comprehensive review will follow once it's tested under ideal conditions.