Robust full metal housing with direct tripod mounting
Optional ORBIT shockmount & SENTRY magnetic pop filter
Powered via 48V phantom power
Aim Audio ESSENCE - The core of pure sound aesthetics
The Aim Audio ESSENCE is an exceptional studio condenser microphone that combines innovation and sound culture in an elegant design. Developed and handcrafted in Berlin, it defines new standards for professional vocal and instrumental recordings. With its patented, switchable transformer/electronic output stage, the ESSENCE offers two completely different sound characters - from ultra-clear and transparent to warm, velvety and musical.
Two sound worlds - one microphone
The special feature of the ESSENCE is its switchable output stage:
Transformer mode produces organic warmth, smooth transients and silky highs - ideal for vocals, guitars or brass.
Electronic mode delivers maximum clarity, precision and fast response - perfect for drums, acoustic instruments or voice recordings.
This dual sound architecture is a world first - developed by Aim Audio and exclusively available in this form.
Innovative technology, iconic design
The ESSENCE impresses with its illuminated, dimmable and lockable controls, which are clearly legible even in low light. An integrated peak level meter displays level peaks directly on the microphone, while a low-cut filter at 80 Hz removes unwanted low frequencies. The robust all-metal housing with direct stand mounting stands for long-lasting reliability and German precision.
Sound quality without compromise
Inside is a handmade 1" gold Mylar capsule with a 6 μm diaphragm, which has been tuned by experienced sound engineers in double-blind tests. Four separate circuit boards minimize crosstalk and enable an internal headroom of over 140 dBA - a value that is otherwise only achieved by high-end studio technology.
Difference to its big brother - INSPIRE
While the ESSENCE was designed for users looking for the highest sound quality and intuitive operation, the INSPIRE + Pack is aimed at sound professionals with extended functional requirements.
The INSPIRE also offers:
Five switchable polar patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, supercardioid, wide cardioid, figure of eight)
Reversible microphone orientation for flexible positioning
Two switchable pad levels (-10 / -20 dB)
Dual filter system (80 Hz low cut, 110 Hz roll-off)
ORBIT shockmount & SENTRY magnetic pop filter included
The ESSENCE is therefore the direct, compact brother of the INSPIRE - focused on pure sound fidelity, fewer features, but maximum performance.
Technical data
Transducer principle: True Condenser
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity: 24.1 mV/Pa (at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ)
Signal-to-noise ratio: 86 dBA (referred to 94 dB SPL)
Max. SPL: 140 dB (at 0.05 % THD, without pad)
Pad switch: -10 dB
Low-cut: 80 Hz
Self-noise: 8 dBA
Power supply: 48 V phantom power
Aim Audio Essence in test
Test report keyboards.de
Read the independent opinion of a renowned editor about this product on keyboards.de. KEYBOARDS has been the leading trade magazine for music equipment for over 30 years.
Manufacturer information
Aim Audio Tabbertstr. 10-11 12459 Berlin Germany https://aimaudio.com/contact/
Warm Audio WA-47
Neumann TLM 102 ni Studio Set
Audio-Technica AT4050
Neumann TLM 102 bk Studio Set
Rode NT2-A Studio Solution