Sontronics > Sontronics Helios

Technical data

• Response:  20Hz - 20KHz
• Sensitivity:  20mV/Pa -34dB ±2dB (0dB=1V/Pa 1000Hz)
• Polar Pattern:  Variable from Omni to Figure 8
• Impedance:  <=200 Ohms
• Equivalent Noise Level:  18dB(A-weighted)
• Max SPL for 0.5% THD @ 1000Hz:  125dB
• Power Source:  SPS-1 115/230V Power Supply only
• Connector:  Microphone - 8-pin Connector; Power Supply - 3-pin XLR

 
Typcal Frequency Response (Cardioid)
 
Variable-pattern vacuum-tube condenser microphone

The HELIOS is a triumph of design.
 
Like its sister, ORPHEUS, the HELIOS uses the same highly sensitive 1.07" dual-diaphragm capsule, but also employs the inherent warmth of valve circuitry.
 
If you’re looking for a microphone that captures its subjects accurately, with a complete low-end response and a smooth, beautifully detailed high-end presence, then the HELIOS is for you. This precision allows you to transparently position your subject within a mix, without having to resort to heaps of EQ and dynamics processing to do the job for you.
 
In our laboratories, we have spent many hours working with some very famous vintage microphones in order to understand what makes them sound so nice. As a result of this research, the gain structure and frequency response of the HELIOS has been engineered to closely simulate these characteristics, without adding unnecessary noise or colouration to the sound.
 
The SPS-1 power supply has a variable pattern control allowing a smooth transition from OMNI to Figure 8 pattern, and anything in-between. Allied to this are switches for a low-cut filter and -10dB pad, making the HELIOS one of the most flexible microphones available in any class. We’ve even added a TUBE READY light - in cool blue, of course - to let you know when you can start working.
 
Again, we felt that this microphone should have a special name, something with relevance like the ORPHEUS. Greek mythology heralds HELIOS as the god of the sun, bringing light and warmth to the earth. We think that this fits the personality of this microphone perfectly…
 
The microphone is supplied in a luxury wooden box and, together with its power supply and cables; it is protected by a high quality aluminium flight case.