Earthworks ETHOS Streaming and Broadcasting Microphone — Silver

Product Information

Content creators tend to spring for a mic that covers more avenues like video narration and live streaming, usually starting with a USB all-in-one solution.

In particular, the level of detail present in the initial transient is responsible for much of our sense of content, meaning, and frequency balance. It doesn't overly color the source or embellish it - it feels accurate, but not clinical or sterile. This condenser design handles like a dynamic mic but can capture exceptional detail, nuance and character.

The simplicity and setup speed make this mic a little more versatile than a podcast-focused XLR model. The 416 would require discipline from the user in the sense that they would need to be speaking directly at the microphone for the best pickup.

I’ve only ever encountered a similar mount on one other mic, an obscure Pearl model from the ’70s, and it’s a genius idea that deserves to be much more widely used. My first impressions of the Ethos microphone lined up with the mission statement advertised by Earthworks Audio; to be sophisticated and uncomplicated. When we speak, some of the sound we hear gets conducted through the bones in our skull, reaching us faster than soundwaves travelling through the air. However, those good looks would be nothing without the specs to match; without a doubt, the ETHOS tech specs utterly astound!As mentioned earlier, Earthworks Audio doesn't manufacture any, but the partnership with Triad-Orbit for its mount implies there could be options for official recommendations. This was pretty much the deciding factor in my decision, since some of these will be shipped out to various people with wildly varying technical abilities. Operating with a single thumb screw, the Triad-Orbit attachment spins around to help find the perfect position, with four cutout sections for an even firmer lock.

You can be sure that the tone of your podcast, narration, commentary, or audiobook will be unmistakably you. Transients are everywhere though – from the pick attack on your guitar strings to the consonants of your vocal. Keyboard typing tests are usually at best seen as rough examples of how a keyboard will sound in real life.

For example, it can be used up close for a warmer effect or positioned over a foot away for improved plosive rejection and clarity- it truly blurs the lines between broadcast and studio microphones. Sitting further away doesn't drop the quality, though I recommend choosing a better recording location than my bare-walled home office.