Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K Multi-Pattern Studio Condenser Microphone
The Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K is a handmade multi-pattern large diaphragm condenser microphone designed as a true all-round studio microphone for vocals, acoustic instruments, drums, guitar amps, orchestras and almost any recording source. As the original Nordic Audio Labs large diaphragm multi-pattern condenser, the updated NU-100K now features FloFET™ technology, giving it added tube-style glow, dimension and musicality without using tubes or transformers.
Powered by standard 48V phantom power, the NU-100K combines the smooth richness often associated with ribbon microphones with the crisp, classy air of a high-quality condenser. The result is a vivid, lifelike and emotionally detailed microphone that can cover a wide range of recording tasks with confidence.
A desert-island microphone for serious studio work
The NU-100K is voiced to sound great on virtually anything. It delivers big realism, smooth musicality and striking clarity, making it a strong choice for engineers and producers who want one versatile microphone that can handle many different sources.
Whether used on lead vocals, acoustic guitar, drums, guitar cabinets, room ambience or classical instruments, the NU-100K is designed to capture performances with depth, authority and natural detail. Its forgiving frequency response also allows it to take EQ and processing extremely well, without quickly sounding over-processed or artificial.
Three polar patterns for flexible recording
The Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K offers cardioid, omni and figure-of-eight polar patterns, giving it the flexibility required for a wide range of studio applications.
Cardioid mode is ideal for focused vocal and instrument recording. Omni mode can be used when a more open, natural room sound is desired. Figure-of-eight mode opens up classic recording techniques, side-address ambience capture and creative placement options. This makes the NU-100K a highly adaptable microphone for modern production, traditional studio recording and experimental setups.
D100K capsule with smooth top end and excellent off-axis response
At the heart of the NU-100K is Martin Kantola’s proprietary D100K 30 mm edge-terminated large diaphragm capsule. This capsule is designed to deliver an extremely smooth top end, superb off-axis phase response and a clear, natural sound.
This is one of the key reasons the NU-100K works across so many different sources. Instead of becoming harsh, brittle or overly hyped, it delivers a smooth and balanced sound that remains musical and easy to shape in the mix.
FloFET™ technology: tube character without tubes
The updated NU-100K uses Nordic Audio Labs’ FloFET™ technology, implemented in the microphone amplifier. Although the microphone uses neither tubes nor transformers, FloFET™ gives the NU-100K a tone far removed from what many engineers expect from a transformerless solid-state microphone.
It is smooth, flattering and dimensional like a great tube microphone, while still offering the precision, speed and lifelike detail of a solid-state condenser. This makes the NU-100K a practical choice for engineers who want classic musicality without tube maintenance, external power supplies or vintage reliability concerns.
Robust, phantom powered and easy to integrate
The NU-100K runs on standard +48V phantom power, so it can be used with typical microphone preamps, audio interfaces and recording consoles. Because there are no tubes or external power supplies, it is a robust and low-maintenance solution for professional studios, project rooms, mobile rigs and live recording environments.
Its low output impedance and strong signal-to-noise performance help it work predictably with a wide range of preamps, including more basic interface preamps. This makes the NU-100K suitable not only for high-end recording chains, but also for compact modern studio setups.
Key Features
- Multi-pattern large diaphragm studio condenser microphone
- Updated version of the original Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K
- FloFET™ technology for added glow, dimension and musicality
- No tubes, no transformers and no external power supply
- Standard +48V phantom powered operation
- Three polar patterns: cardioid, omni and figure-of-eight
- Proprietary D100K 30 mm edge-terminated capsule
- Smooth top end and excellent off-axis response
- Big, lifelike realism with ribbon-like smoothness and condenser clarity
- Suitable for vocals, acoustic instruments, drums, guitar amps, orchestras and room recording
- Takes EQ and processing well without sounding overly processed
- Supplied with shock mount and pouch
- Hard case included as an extra accessory
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K |
|---|---|
| Microphone type | Multi-pattern large diaphragm condenser |
| Series | Standard |
| Polar patterns | Cardioid, omni and figure-of-eight |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz, -5/0 dB |
| Sensitivity | 14.8 mV/Pa |
| Power requirement | +48V phantom power |
| Current draw | 5.3 mA |
| Max SPL before clipping | 137 dBA at 6k load |
| Self noise | 17 dBA |
| Weight | 395 g |
| Dimensions | 192 x 38 mm |
| Included accessories | Shock mount and pouch |
| Extra accessory | Hard case |
Who is the Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K for?
The NU-100K is ideal for recording engineers, producers, artists and studio owners who want one high-quality condenser microphone that can handle almost any source. Its multi-pattern design makes it especially useful in studios where flexibility matters, while its smooth, musical sound makes it easy to use on vocals, acoustic instruments and more complex recording setups.
For anyone looking for a versatile studio condenser with tube-inspired depth, ribbon-like richness and condenser detail, the NU-100K is designed to be a reliable everyday workhorse and a serious creative microphone.
FAQ
What is the Nordic Audio Labs NU-100K?
The NU-100K is a multi-pattern large diaphragm condenser microphone from Nordic Audio Labs. It is designed as a versatile studio microphone for vocals, instruments, drums, guitar amps, orchestras and many other recording sources.
What polar patterns does the NU-100K have?
The NU-100K offers three polar patterns: cardioid, omni and figure-of-eight. This makes it suitable for focused close-miking, open room capture, ambience recording and creative stereo or side-address techniques.
Does the NU-100K use tubes?
No. The NU-100K does not use tubes or transformers. It uses Nordic Audio Labs’ FloFET™ technology to deliver tube-like glow, warmth and dimension with the reliability of a solid-state microphone.
Does the NU-100K need an external power supply?
No. The NU-100K runs on standard +48V phantom power, so it can be used with compatible microphone preamps, interfaces and consoles.
What capsule does the NU-100K use?
The NU-100K uses Martin Kantola’s proprietary D100K 30 mm edge-terminated large diaphragm capsule, designed for a smooth top end and excellent off-axis response.
Is the NU-100K good for vocals?
Yes. The NU-100K is designed to sound great on vocals, offering smoothness, richness, clarity and lifelike detail. Its three polar patterns also make it flexible for different vocal recording situations.
Can the NU-100K be used on instruments?
Yes. The NU-100K is suitable for acoustic instruments, drums, guitar amps, orchestras and other studio sources. It is voiced as an all-round microphone for a wide range of recording tasks.
What is included with the NU-100K?
The NU-100K includes a shock mount and pouch, with a hard case listed as an extra accessory.
