Capsule and Pattern Characteristics
At the heart of the Cactus is a multi-pattern variation of the B7
Bottle microphone capsule. This large diaphragm, single back-
plate capsule is our contemporary version of the unmistakably
warm sound ascribed to the great 1950’s tube microphones. A
boost in the upper midrange response brings out just the right
amount of intimate detail for vocal tracks, without emphasizing
sibilance.
The B7 exhibits a silky, slightly compressed tone, with less high
end presence boost than the B6/B0 Bottle capsules and related
capsules in our Mouse and Blueberry microphones. Its smooth,
natural highs and abundance of tone make the Cactus ideally
suited to saxophones, electric guitar, organ, acoustic bass, and
other solo instruments as well. Acoustic guitar, hand percussion,
drums, and other critical high end sources also shine in front of
the Cactus. The precision-crafted Blue electronics add an extra
measure of presence that enables the most delicate sounds to cut
through a mix, even when miked at a distance or mixed at very
low levels.
You will notice that the sound of the Cactus B7 capsule changes
when adjustments are made to the nine-position pickup pattern
switch on the Power Stream power supply. In general, the
omnidirectional pattern offers the flattest frequency response,
with an absence of proximity effect. As the pattern becomes more
directional (by clicking clockwise through the switch settings,
towards the figure of eight position) bass frequencies increase
proportionally due to proximity effect, and subtle changes also
occur on the high end response. These shifts in overall timbre
can be used to fine-tune the response of the Cactus, as well as
for unconventional, creative ends.
Cactus | Figure of 8
Each Concentric Circle = +5 dB
Cactus | Cardioid
Each Concentric Circle = +5 dB
Cactus | Omni
Each Concentric Circle = +5 dB
Summary of Contents for Cactus
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