Audix VX5 Professional Vocal Condenser Microphone
Description
Audix VX5 Professional Vocal Condenser Microphone
The Audix VX5 is a compact, hand-held condenser microphone engineered for professional vocal capture in both studio and live environments. Its supercardioid polar pattern delivers exceptional feedback rejection and ambient noise isolation, while the presence-peaked character flatters most vocal ranges with clarity and presence. The rugged die-cast zinc housing and included pop filter make this a dependable tool for recording sessions and stage performance alike.
Audio Performance
The VX5 captures vocal detail across a 40 Hz to 16.5 kHz frequency range, with a tight supercardioid pattern that provides over 20 dB of ambient noise rejection—essential for live stages and untreated rooms where control matters. A recessed -10 dB pad and bass roll-off give you command over proximity effect and powerful sources, while the microphone handles SPLs exceeding 140 dB, staying transparent through intense vocal performances without breaking up or feeding back.
Design & Build
At just 227 grams and 181 mm in length, the VX5 sits comfortably in the hand night after night on the road. The die-cast zinc housing with black E-coat finish protects a pre-polarized electret capsule with a 14 mm gold-sputtered diaphragm, while the acoustically ported steel mesh grille integrates a multi-stage pop filter for reduced plosives—critical for close mic'd vocal work.
Key Features
- Tight, uniformly controlled supercardioid polar pattern with over 20 dB ambient noise rejection
- 40 Hz – 16.5 kHz frequency response
- Pre-polarized electret capsule with 14 mm gold-sputtered diaphragm
- Handles SPLs in excess of 140 dB with pad and roll-off engaged
- Recessed -10 dB pad and bass roll-off switches for proximity effect and source control
- 26 dB equivalent noise level (A-weighted); 68 dB signal-to-noise ratio
- 150 ohms output impedance; 5 mV / Pa sensitivity at 1 kHz
- Gold-plated XLR connector with standard polarity (pin 2 hot)
- Die-cast zinc housing with black E-coat finish
- Acoustically ported steel mesh grille with integrated multi-stage pop filter
- Compact form factor: 181 mm / 7.1 inches long; 227 g / 8 ounces
- 9 – 52 volts phantom power requirement
The VX5 combines professional-grade specifications with a portable, road-tested design that delivers consistent vocal clarity in demanding applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | United States |
| Connection | Wired |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Audix VX5 is a compact, hand-held condenser microphone built for vocal capture on stage and in the studio, with a tight supercardioid pattern that rejects feedback and isolates vocals from room noise. Its presence-peaked character flatters most vocal ranges with clarity and detail, while the rugged die-cast housing, integrated pop filter, and pad switch make it road-reliable for touring and live performance. Choose it for dependable vocal isolation and feedback rejection in less-than-perfect venues and untreated spaces.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Vocal Recording
Not the best pick for
- – Instrument Miking
- – Drum Overhead Placement
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the VX5 different from dynamic vocal mics like the Shure SM87A?
The VX5 is a condenser microphone, which captures more detail and presence in the upper midrange and highs than a dynamic mic, giving vocals a brighter, more detailed character. Its supercardioid pattern and integrated pop filter are tuned specifically for feedback rejection and isolation in live and untreated recording spaces, whereas the SM87A is a dynamic handheld optimized for stage durability.
Can I use the VX5 in a small untreated home studio or live venue?
Yes—the VX5's supercardioid polar pattern provides over 20 dB of ambient noise rejection, making it effective in rooms with reflections and background noise. The recessed pad and bass roll-off switches let you control proximity effect and manage loud vocals, and the rugged die-cast housing withstands both studio and road use.
What's included, and do I need a preamp or interface?
The VX5 includes the microphone and an integrated multi-stage pop filter; it requires phantom power (9–52 volts) and connects via a gold-plated XLR connector. You will need an audio interface, preamp, or mixer with phantom power to operate it—it does not ship with a stand or cable.
Is the VX5 good for spoken word, podcasting, or voiceovers?
The VX5 is optimized for singing and musical vocals rather than speech; its presence peak adds clarity and air that flatters sung tones but can emphasize sibilance in spoken content. For speech-heavy applications, a flatter, cardioid microphone may be a better fit.
How does it handle very loud or belted vocals?
The VX5 handles SPLs in excess of 140 dB and includes a recessed -10 dB pad switch to prevent clipping on powerful vocals; the bass roll-off also reduces proximity effect when a singer works the microphone closely, giving you control over dynamic performance.