Audix VX5 Professional Vocal Condenser Microphone
Description
Audix VX5 Professional Vocal Condenser Microphone
The Audix VX5 is a compact condenser microphone engineered to capture vocal performances with clarity and control in studio and live tracking environments. Its supercardioid polar pattern delivers exceptional feedback rejection and ambient noise isolation—valuable assets for recording in untreated spaces or capturing multiple vocal layers in close proximity. The presence-peaked character flatters most vocal ranges with articulate clarity and presence, while the rugged die-cast zinc housing and integrated pop filter make this a reliable workhorse for extended recording sessions.
Recording Performance
The VX5 reproduces vocal detail across a 40 Hz to 16.5 kHz frequency range, with a tight supercardioid pattern that rejects over 20 dB of ambient noise—critical for capturing clean takes in home studios and untreated rooms. The recessed -10 dB pad and bass roll-off switches let you tame proximity effect on close vocal work and control loud, powerful performances without distortion, while the microphone handles SPLs exceeding 140 dB for maximum headroom during intense vocal tracking.
Design & Build
At just 227 grams and 181 mm in length, the VX5 combines professional durability with practical ergonomics ideal for marathon recording sessions. The die-cast zinc housing with black E-coat finish houses a pre-polarized electret capsule with a 14 mm gold-sputtered diaphragm, while the acoustically ported steel mesh grille integrates a multi-stage pop filter for reduced plosives during close vocal miking.
Key Features
- Tight, uniformly controlled supercardioid polar pattern with over 20 dB ambient noise rejection
- 40 Hz – 16.5 kHz frequency response
- Pre-polarized electret capsule with 14 mm gold-sputtered diaphragm
- Handles SPLs in excess of 140 dB with pad and roll-off engaged
- Recessed -10 dB pad and bass roll-off switches for proximity effect and source control
- 26 dB equivalent noise level (A-weighted); 68 dB signal-to-noise ratio
- 150 ohms output impedance; 5 mV / Pa sensitivity at 1 kHz
- Gold-plated XLR connector with standard polarity (pin 2 hot)
- Die-cast zinc housing with black E-coat finish
- Acoustically ported steel mesh grille with integrated multi-stage pop filter
- Compact form factor: 181 mm / 7.1 inches long; 227 g / 8 ounces
- 9 – 52 volts phantom power requirement
The VX5 combines professional-grade specifications with a portable, road-tested design that delivers consistent vocal clarity across multiple takes and tracking sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | United States |
| Connection | Wired |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Audix VX5 is a professional condenser microphone engineered for clear, detailed vocal recording across studio and home-recording environments, with a presence-peaked tone that sits forward in a mix and cuts through without harshness. Its supercardioid polar pattern isolates vocals from room reflections and ambient noise, making it ideal for recording in untreated spaces, while the integrated pop filter, pad switch, and 140 dB SPL handling give you flexibility with dynamic singers and proximity-heavy vocal techniques. Choose it for a budget-friendly, presence-driven vocal sound that translates well to mixing and needs minimal room treatment.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Vocal Recording
Not the best pick for
- – Instrument Miking
- – Drum Overhead Placement
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the VX5 different from dynamic vocal mics like the Shure SM87A?
The VX5 is a condenser microphone, which captures more detail and presence in the upper midrange and highs than a dynamic mic, giving vocals a brighter, more detailed character. Its supercardioid pattern and integrated pop filter are tuned specifically for feedback rejection and isolation in live and untreated recording spaces, whereas the SM87A is a dynamic handheld optimized for stage durability.
Can I use the VX5 in a small untreated home studio or live venue?
Yes—the VX5's supercardioid polar pattern provides over 20 dB of ambient noise rejection, making it effective in rooms with reflections and background noise. The recessed pad and bass roll-off switches let you control proximity effect and manage loud vocals, and the rugged die-cast housing withstands both studio and road use.
What's included, and do I need a preamp or interface?
The VX5 includes the microphone and an integrated multi-stage pop filter; it requires phantom power (9–52 volts) and connects via a gold-plated XLR connector. You will need an audio interface, preamp, or mixer with phantom power to operate it—it does not ship with a stand or cable.
Is the VX5 good for spoken word, podcasting, or voiceovers?
The VX5 is optimized for singing and musical vocals rather than speech; its presence peak adds clarity and air that flatters sung tones but can emphasize sibilance in spoken content. For speech-heavy applications, a flatter, cardioid microphone may be a better fit.
How does it handle very loud or belted vocals?
The VX5 handles SPLs in excess of 140 dB and includes a recessed -10 dB pad switch to prevent clipping on powerful vocals; the bass roll-off also reduces proximity effect when a singer works the microphone closely, giving you control over dynamic performance.