Aim Audio ESSENCE Cardioid Studio Microphone

The Aim Audio ESSENCE is a groundbreaking high-performance studio microphone designed and handcrafted in Berlin, Germany. Combining advanced engineering, precision manufacturing, and exceptional sonic quality, ESSENCE delivers studio-grade performance that challenges the world’s best microphones — all at an outstanding price-to-performance ratio.

Main Features

• Professional cardioid condenser microphone handmade in Berlin, Germany
• Switchable Transformer/Electronic Output stages for variable tonal character
• Custom Toroidal Audio Transformer with VITROPERM core for rich, musical warmth
• 1” Gold-sputtered Mylar large-diaphragm condenser capsule for exceptional clarity
• All-metal housing with unique oval design and robust construction
• Class-leading audio performance with >140 dBA internal headroom
• -10 dB Pad and 80 Hz Low Cut Filter for flexible recording control
• Integrated Peak-Level Metering for real-time monitoring
• Backlit, dimmable and lockable controls for easy use in low light
• Direct-to-stand mounting for quick setup and stability
• Powered by standard 48 V phantom power
• Includes vegan-leather carry pouch and branded Velcro cable tie

The ESSENCE represents a world first in microphone design, featuring a patented switchable Transformer/Electronic Output stage that allows users to switch instantly between two distinct tonal profiles. From an open, detailed and transparent sound to a rich, harmonically enhanced tone, ESSENCE adapts perfectly to any source or recording scenario.

Featuring a hand-built 1” gold-sputtered Mylar true condenser capsule, backlit tactile controls, built-in peak level metering, and a reversible orientation system, the ESSENCE is designed for engineers and artists who demand absolute control and precision in every take.

The Sound of Success

At the heart of ESSENCE lies a handmade dual 1” externally polarised capsule, developed through extensive blind listening tests with leading studio engineers, artists, and producers. Its 6-micron gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm and isolated brass backplates are meticulously tuned for a smooth, detailed response with outstanding signal-to-noise ratio.

To complement this world-class capsule, the ESSENCE employs Teflon-coated internal wiring and separate Hi-Z circuitry to preserve clarity and minimise noise. The result is a microphone that captures every nuance with incredible transparency and depth.

Transformer or Electronic Output – Choose Your Sound

ESSENCE allows you to switch between two distinct output stages:

• Transformer Output: Adds subtle warmth, thicker low frequencies, and silky high-end harmonics. Perfect for vocals, guitars, and brass instruments.
• Electronic Output: Offers ultra-fast transient response, precision detail, and exceptional headroom. Ideal for acoustic instruments, percussion, and modern studio production.

This patented feature provides unmatched versatility, allowing you to capture the perfect tone directly from the source — no need for external colouration or additional circuitry.

See It Your Way

The LED backlit controls make setup effortless, even in dark studio environments. You can dim or disable the lights entirely, and lock the buttons to prevent accidental changes during recording.

ESSENCE’s built-in Peak LED Level Meter provides instant visual feedback, warning you when signal levels approach clipping. This ensures your recordings remain clean and undistorted, even at high sound pressure levels.

The 80 Hz Low Cut Filter helps remove unwanted rumble or proximity effect, keeping your recordings balanced and controlled.

Built to Perform

Constructed with four independent circuit boards, ESSENCE achieves superior noise isolation, minimal crosstalk, and flat internal frequency response. This ensures pristine signal integrity and a noise floor as low as 8 dBA — all powered by standard 48 V phantom power.

The integral direct-to-stand mount makes setup easy, while the anti-vibration capsule holder minimises handling noise and mechanical interference. For even greater isolation, ESSENCE is fully compatible with the optional ORBIT Shockmount and SENTRY Magnetic Pop Filter, available separately.

Technical Specifications

• Transducer Type: True Condenser
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity (1 kHz into 1 kΩ): 24.1 mV/Pa (rel. 94 dB SPL)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 86 dBA (rel. 94 dB SPL)
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Equivalent Noise Level: 8 dBA
• Maximum SPL: 140 dB (at 0.05% THD – no pad)
• Pad Switch: -10 dB
• Low Cut Filter: 80 Hz
• Internal Headroom: >140 dBA
• Power Requirement: 48 V Phantom Power