M-Audio Sputnik [3/20] User guide english

User Guide (English)

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of M-Audio's Sputnik multi-pattern vacuum tube large-diaphragm

condenser microphone. Studio artists around the world rely on M-Audio microphones to capture acoustic

performances with clarity and accurate tonal balance. The Sputnik tube microphone from M-Audio improves

upon that reputation as a top-of-the-line solution for applications requiring the smoothest, world-class sound.

Engineered to the highest sonic standards, the Sputnik addresses the needs of the most critical professional

users.

The Sputnik microphone represents the culmination of over a year of design and development. Based on a

classic vacuum tube design and manufactured in modern facilities to exacting standards, this multi-pattern,

dual-sided large-diaphragm studio condenser mic delivers the lush, classic sound normally associated with

rare and expensive vintage mics like the Neumann U47 and AKG C12. In fact, its rich low-mid and smooth

upper-mid response makes it a good bridge between these two venerable mics.

The Sputnik's combination of military-grade vacuum tube, ultra-sensitive gold evaporated Mylar diaphragm,

solid brass construction, and multiple polar patterns makes it ideal for a wide variety of voices, instruments,

and applications—especially putting that signature sound in the spotlight. Engineered from scratch, we

designed Sputnik with input from some of L.A.'s top recording engineers and producers—and it's an instant

classic in their hands. We are pleased to present what we believe to be the most versatile and natural-

sounding microphone solution for professional and high-end applications.

Box Contents

y Sputnik microphone y Grounded IEC power cable y Soft cloth bag

y Power supply y Flight case y User guide

y 7-pin cable y Shock mount y Safety & warranty manual

Support

For complete system requirements, compatibility information, and product registration, visit the support

section of the M-Audio website: www.m-audio.com/support.

Using the Sputnik Microphone

Even if you're a seasoned expert in microphone use and placement, we recommend you read the following

instructions when setting up the Sputnik for the first time.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

The Sputnik power supply comes factory-programmed for 100V~50/60Hz, 120V~50/60Hz, or

230V~50/60Hz operation. The label on the bottom face of the power supply indicates the AC mains

voltage operation. The only way to change it is by altering the internal circuitry, but you (the customer)

cannot do that without voiding your warranty. Before using the mic, please check the label on the

bottom of the power supply unit to make sure it is set up to accept the AC line voltage in your location.

(This should not be a problem if you bought it in the country in which you are using it.)

However, if you need to use it in another location with a different AC mains voltage, we recommend

you use a high-quality general-purpose step-up or step-down transformer, rather than one of those

inexpensive voltage converters suitable for an electric razor. If you use the latter, rather than the

former, the voltage output may be a square wave (rather than a sine wave)—which will probably result

in noisy operation and will eventually cook the mic!

Please note that the mains fuse is user replaceable. If you need to change it, please follow the table

on the bottom of the power supply in order to select an appropriate fuse with the proper current rating.