The United Studio Technologies UT Twin48 is a revolutionary studio microphone that combines the sonic characteristics of two iconic vintage tube microphones from the late 1940s and 1950s into a single enclosure, offering dual operational modes, multiple polar patterns, a NOS EF86 vacuum tube, a custom-built K48 capsule, and a premium US-made transformer for unparalleled adaptability and performance in professional audio production.
Twin Mode Operation with Distinct Polar Patterns
The UT Twin48 takes innovation to a new level by integrating two distinct microphone operational modes, faithfully recreating the legendary 47 and 48 microphone designs. Each mode alters both polar pattern and tonal behaviour, giving audio professionals an unmatched range of sound-capture possibilities.
The 47 mode provides Cardioid and Omni polar patterns, relying on a “True Cardioid” configuration. This decouples the rear diaphragm to produce a louder sound with heightened sensitivity and exceptional top-end detail, making it ideal for open, detailed recordings. Meanwhile, the 48 mode delivers Cardioid and Figure-of-8 polar patterns using “Active Cardioid” polarisation, which polarises the rear diaphragm with the same voltage as the backplate. This method creates a more intimate, warm tone with slightly reduced sensitivity, perfect for capturing close-up or detailed performances.
These tonal distinctions provide audio engineers with an extraordinary level of versatility, enabling precision in tailoring sound capture to suit any recording scenario.
Vintage Tube Sound with Modern Precision
At the heart of the UT Twin48 lies a carefully selected NOS EF86 pentode glass vacuum tube, a direct descendent of the tubes used in the original designs. Unlike modern dual-triode tubes, the EF86 pentode produces a rich harmonic profile, delivering bold, authentic vintage tone with a distinctive warmth and depth. This tube ensures recordings carry the unmistakable character of classic studio microphones while maintaining modern reliability.
Precision-Crafted Components for Superior Sound
United Studio Technologies has engineered the UT Twin48 with no compromise on quality. Central to its performance is the custom-designed United UT K48 capsule. This dual-diaphragm, single-backplate capsule is crafted with historical accuracy, featuring 24k gold-sputtered 6-micron Mylar for smooth, resonance-free sound. The meticulous construction minimises sibilance and ensures a balanced frequency response, allowing the microphone to capture vocals and instruments with exceptional clarity and detail.
Complementing the capsule is the UT-BV8 transformer, a US-made component wound to exacting Braunbuch specifications. This high-nickel alloy transformer includes a copper Faraday shield to maintain signal integrity while rejecting noise and interference. Together, these components provide an authentic yet refined sound that meets the demands of the most discerning engineers.
Innovative Power Supply and Accessories
The UT Twin48’s performance is further enhanced by its robust power supply, designed with uncompromising attention to detail. United employs discrete Zener diode regulation and premium EMI/RFI filters, ensuring stable, noise-free operation. This high-grade power unit works seamlessly with the included Sommer Octave 7 conductor cable, which is optimised specifically for the microphone to ensure signal clarity and reliability.
To complement its professional-grade components, the UT Twin48 comes with a vintage-inspired briefcase, designed to house the microphone and its accessories. This practical yet elegant inclusion adds a touch of classic appeal, underscoring the microphone’s timeless design.
Unrivalled Versatility for Modern Studios
The UT Twin48 is a workhorse microphone that serves as an indispensable tool for professional studios and demanding audio applications. Its unique ability to switch between 47-style and 48-style modes, combined with adjustable polar patterns, makes it ideal for a wide range of uses, from voiceover work to high-fidelity music recordings. It delivers a clean, clear, and articulate sound with remarkable dynamic range and minimal noise, ensuring it can handle even the most challenging recording environments.
In addition, the modular RF filter design offers users a new level of control, allowing them to customise the microphone’s response to match their specific requirements. This flexibility ensures that the UT Twin48 not only captures the essence of classic microphones but also pushes their capabilities into the modern age.