Aim Audio Essence

The AIM ESSENCE is a cardioid large-diaphragm condenser microphone built in Berlin that delivers world-first switchable transformer or electronic output stages, a hand-built 1-inch gold-sputtered capsule, exceptional low noise performance, and class-leading 140 dBA internal headroom for high-fidelity professional studio recording.

Premium Capsule Engineering and Tonal Design

AIM builds ESSENCE around a dual 1-inch externally polarised true condenser capsule featuring a six-micron gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm, precision-machined brass backplates and premium tensioning for controlled transient response and consistent tonality. Extensive blind listening tests with engineers, producers and artists determined the most natural voicing, prioritising wide bandwidth, low distortion and effortless extension across the frequency spectrum. Teflon-coated wiring improves noise performance to feed the dedicated high-impedance electronics, ensuring the capsule breathes with clarity and accuracy across demanding vocal, acoustic and instrumental sources.

Dual Output Architecture

ESSENCE offers immediate switching between transformer-balanced and electronically balanced output topologies. The custom toroidal transformer uses a nanocrystalline VITROPERM core to enhance low-frequency density, slow transients slightly for musical weight and introduce refined harmonic depth without harsh saturation. Switching to the electronic output yields faster transient tracking, extended SPL capability and exceptional clarity on fast-moving material like percussion and acoustic strings, maintaining truthful high-frequency detail without brittleness.

Precision Electronics, Noise Control and Dynamic Capability

Four separate PCBs inside the microphone optimise signal integrity, eliminate internal crosstalk and maintain an ultra-flat internal response. ESSENCE reaches over 140 dBA internal headroom and an 8 dBA equivalent noise floor, outperforming many flagship condensers in dynamic reach and quiet-source accuracy. Standard 48-volt phantom power feeds the system without external supplies or boosters, delivering consistent performance in studio and broadcast environments.

Lighting, Metering and Control

Backlit tactile controls provide clear visibility in low-light environments, with three dimming levels and lock functionality to avoid accidental switching. Integrated peak level metering warns of approaching overload with orange indication and signals clipping risk in red, helping protect takes when preamps or interfaces fail to show fast peaks. An 80 Hz high-pass filter and gentle roll-off around 110 Hz help contain rumble, proximity buildup and environmental vibration.

Mounting, Vibration Isolation and Accessories

A direct-to-stand mounting thread on the base simplifies positioning in tight setups, while AIM’s engineered rubber isolation cradle counters mechanical noise and handling vibration. The ESSENCE optionally pairs with the AIM ORBIT multi-position shockmount and SENTRY magnetic pop filter for enhanced suspension and plosive control. A vegan-leather storage pouch and branded cable tie complete the package for transport and studio organisation.

Why Choose the AIM ESSENCE

• Achieve two distinct tonal signatures instantly, from fast and transparent to rich and harmonically enhanced

• Capture extremely quiet performances or high-SPL sources with confidence thanks to ultra-low noise and high headroom

• Maintain full clarity and detail with a hand-built capsule and elite-grade internal components

• Enjoy professional workflow refinements like peak metering, pad, low-cut and lockable backlit controls

• Benefit from precise mechanical isolation and convenient direct-mount design for flexible studio placement

• Invest in Berlin-built engineering that prioritises longevity, tonal integrity and real-world studio testing

• Cardioid condenser microphone with dual-topology output switchable between transformer and electronic stages
• Hand-built dual-diaphragm 1-inch gold-sputtered capsule with brass backplates
• Six-micron Mylar diaphragm and Teflon-coated wiring for improved signal integrity
• Custom toroidal transformer with nanocrystalline VITROPERM core for enhanced LF and harmonic character
• Electronic output mode for ultra-fast transient accuracy and extended SPL handling
• Ultra-low 8 dBA self-noise and more than 140 dBA internal headroom
• Four-PCB architecture for reduced crosstalk and flat internal response
• Backlit and lockable tactile controls with three brightness levels
• Integrated peak LED meter with warning and clipping indication
• 80 Hz low-cut filter and gentle 110 Hz roll-off
• Direct-to-stand mounting and rubber vibration isolation cradle
• Includes vegan-leather pouch and cable tie, with optional ORBIT shockmount and SENTRY pop filter

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.