The sE2300 is the multi-pattern sibling of the hugely popular sE2200, famously adopted by vocal powerhouses such as Amy Winehouse. This smooth-sounding microphone builds upon its predecessor by adding an optimised signal path that delivers even lower noise and increased clarity. Frequency response is very smooth, with little emphasis on the upper region, which generally help the sources cut through the mix. In fact, at this low price, I would recommend that beginners consider purchasing a pair of LCT 440 PURE models for dual-mic and stereo work. If you don’t need multiple patterns yet, and you use your mic preamp and/or DAW for highpass filtering (gain control at the preamp isn’t the same as a pad on the mic itself), you can get two wonderfully clean mics that will do great service in all sorts of applications for about the same price as a single LCT 450, and for far less than the fancier LCT models.

Personally, I prefer condensers that sound bright and modern. That being said, the KSM32 isn’t the type of microphone I’d choose over the TLM-103, that’s for sure! The Lewitt LCT 440 PURE’s name speaks for itself, providing a pure and clear sound, utilising premium-grade components to ensure the best possible audio performance. The LCT 440 Pure is ideal for capturing studio-grade vocal recordings as well as some instruments. Lewitt’s new vocal and instrument microphone retains the essence of their established models, but at a much more attractive price. I think most will agree with me that the strength of a condenser microphone lies in its ability to capture high-frequencies with crystal-clear response. All other things being equal, capsule size can have a huge impact on the sonic characteristics of a microphone. A smaller capsule has less mass than a larger capsule, and so can respond to transients faster than a larger capsule. There are also benefits to high-frequency response and to directionality when using small-diaphragm cardioid capsules.

Customer Added Media

I’ve never had the pleasure of working with a Neumann TLM-103 or a Shure KSM32, but based on the data collected on these microphones… Trying to find things i don't like is hard as the LCT440 is a dynamite performer on everything i've put in front of it so far.The leap in quality of recorded sound has made a big impression upon me and i'm over the moon i made the choice of Lewitt. Actually, the RODE NT1 is a perfect example of what more affordable condenser microphones can produce in regards to frequency response. The first thing I did when I received my LCT 440 PURE, one of the first production models to arrive in the country, was to compare it to the previously-reviewed LCT 640 TS in cardioid pattern. Sonically I could perceive little difference between the two. The LCT 440 PURE lives up to its name and does its big brothers proud, being ultra-clean and natural sounding. It’s very much in the “what your source sounds like is what you get” camp.

Given that, there is no place or source where I would be hesitant to use the LCT 440 PURE. Despite its slimmed-down feature set compared to its siblings, it provides the LEWITT sound through and through. This is an entry-level mic that no studio would ever outgrow! The microphone features impressive specs with self noise of 7dB (A) and a sensitivity of 27.4mV/Pa which means it will not introduce any noise in the signal chain and you'll need less preamp gain. It is therefor suitable for recording quiet sources such as Foley.

Today we're looking specifically at the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure, which is its mid-range condenser aimed at a range of studio applications including vocals, speech and acoustic instruments, although Lewitt claims it has more than enough ability to be classed as a proper studio all-rounder.