Sanken CSS-50

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Sanken CSS-50

Sanken

CSS-50

4.5 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 489855
Brand: Sanken
Model: CSS-50
Price: $1,859.00

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The Sanken CSS-50 is a phenomenal stereo mic, especially for location sound recording and film production. Its three modes offer impressive flexibility, and the clarity and detail it captures are truly remarkable. If you need a reliable, high-performance stereo mic that rejects unwanted noise, this is a top contender.

Product Description

  • Sanken CSS-50
  • Condenser stereo shotgun microphone
  • Three operating modes: mono (high directivity)
  • normal (precise stereo imaging)
  • wide (open
  • wide stereo effect)
  • Rectangular capsules
  • 3 Rlectret condensors
  • Supercardioid (lobar)
  • 2 Channel stereo
  • Frequency range: 70 - 18
  • 000 Hz
  • Sensitivity (nominal at 1kHz): Mono 56mV / P (-25DB
  • 0dB = 1V / Pa)
  • Normal 100mV / Pa (-20dB)
  • Wide 141mV / Pa (-17dB)
  • Equivalent noise level: Mono 16dBa SPL
  • Normal and Wide 17dBa SPL
  • Max. SPL: 120 dB
  • Output impedance: 140 ohms
  • Phantom power: + 48V +/- 4V
  • Power consumption: 4 mA
  • 5 Pin XLR
  • Length: 215 mm
  • Diameter: 22 mm
  • Weight: 160g
  • Colour: Matte black
  • Includes foam windshield WM-R2
PROS
  • • Rectangular capsules deliver exceptionally accurate stereo imaging.
  • • Supercardioid pickup minimizes bleed, crucial for location work.
  • • Low self-noise across all modes ensures clean recordings.
  • • Robust, lightweight build feels exceptionally durable for field use.
CONS
  • • High-end price point puts it out of reach for many users.
  • • Impedance may require a preamp with sufficient gain for optimal performance.
  • • Limited polar pattern options compared to some other small-diaphragm mics.

Product Video

Key Features

Mic Type Condenser Stereo Shotgun
Polar Pattern Supercardioid (lobar)
Frequency Range 70 - 18,000 Hz
Max SPL 120 dB
Sensitivity Mono 56mV/Pa, Normal 100mV/Pa, Wide 141mV/Pa
Connector 5 Pin XLR
Weight 160g

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Schoeps is generally considered more refined, but the Sanken offers a more aggressive, characterful sound and a more compact form factor for easier handling.
While primarily designed for location, it can work well in a studio; however, a more versatile small-diaphragm mic might offer broader tonal options.
A preamp with a low noise floor and sufficient gain to handle the microphone's relatively higher impedance (140 ohms) will provide the best results.

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