Earthworks Audio Ethos vs Earthworks Audio Ethos Black
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right Broadcast Microphones for your music.
Last updated: May 27, 2026 • Next update: June 3, 2026
Earthworks Audio Ethos
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
The Ethos is a serious contender for broadcast and voiceover work. Its transparency and low self-noise are remarkable, providing a clean and professional sound. If you need a reliable, detailed mic and are mindful of positioning, this is an excellent choice for podcasters, streamers, and voice actors.
$549
Earthworks Audio Ethos Black
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
The Ethos Black is a broadcast mic powerhouse – seriously clean and detailed. It's perfect for voiceovers, podcasting, and streaming where pristine audio is paramount and you're willing to work the mic angle. The build quality feels like it’ll last a lifetime.
$615
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Earthworks Audio Ethos | Earthworks Audio Ethos Black |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Earthworks Audio | Earthworks Audio |
| Model | Ethos | Ethos Black |
| Price | $548 | $614 |
| Expert Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
| Mic Type | Condenser | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Supercardioid | Supercardioid |
| Frequency Range | 20 Hz - 30 kHz | 20 Hz - 30 kHz |
| Max SPL | 145 dB SPL | 145 dB SPL |
| Sensitivity | -34 dBV/Pa (20 mV/Pa) | -34 dBV/Pa (20 mV/Pa) |
| Connector | XLR | XLR |
| Weight | 453 g | 453 g |
| Pros | + Exceptional clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum. | + Exceptional clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum. |
| Pros | + Robust stainless steel build feels incredibly solid and durable. | + Robust stainless steel build feels incredibly solid and durable. |
| Pros | + The multi-stage windscreen effectively tames plosives and breath noise. | + Supercardioid pattern effectively rejects off-axis noise sources. |
| Pros | + Surprisingly forgiving sweet spot for a supercardioid pattern. | + Integrated windscreen minimizes plosives and wind noise exceptionally well. |
| Cons | - The stainless steel construction makes it noticeably heavy for extended handheld use. | - Supercardioid pattern demands precise mic technique and placement. |
| Cons | - Supercardioid pattern demands careful mic placement to avoid feedback. | - The weight (almost 1 lb) can be fatiguing during extended use. |
| Cons | - Limited tonal character; excels at neutrality, not coloration. | - Limited polar pattern options restrict versatility for some applications. |
| Category | Broadcast Microphones | Broadcast Microphones |
| Article Number | 531693 | 531694 |
| Check Price | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
The SM7B offers a warmer, more colored sound, while the Ethos prioritizes pristine accuracy and detail – it’s a more neutral presentation.
16dB is very low for a broadcast mic; it’s practically inaudible in most recording scenarios, especially with a reasonable preamp gain.
While forgiving, the pattern’s narrow pickup requires a relatively quiet and controlled acoustic environment to minimize unwanted background noise.
The SM7B has a more pronounced, warmer low-end, whereas the Ethos Black is more neutral and transparent, prioritizing detail over coloration.
While the windscreen does a good job, for windy outdoor environments, a dedicated pop/windscreen is recommended to further reduce noise.
Supercardioid patterns are more sensitive to movement; expect a steeper drop-off in level if you move off-axis, requiring more careful mic placement and technique.
