The Earthworks Audio SR117 is turning heads in the world of live vocal microphones, delivering the precision, clarity, and dependability that audio professionals demand. It combines the detailed performance of a condenser with the familiar toughness of a dynamic mic, creating a versatile tool equally at home in a packed concert hall or a modest home studio. From high-energy stage shows to sessions in challenging acoustic spaces, the SR117 consistently delivers outstanding sound with minimal fuss. Let’s take a closer look at the qualities that set it apart in its class.
Exceptional Clarity, Effortless Sound
Earthworks Audio has built its reputation on pristine sound, and the SR117 proudly carries that tradition forward. Many users report that the tonal balance they once chased with endless EQ tweaks comes naturally with this microphone. Its transparent frequency response preserves depth and detail across the spectrum – tight, well-defined lows, smooth, present mids, and open, airy highs, all without the muddiness or brittleness that can plague other mics. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a casual creator, the SR117 makes it easy for your true voice to shine, right out of the box.
Feedback Rejection is Top Quality
In live performance settings, feedback can quickly become a frustrating distraction. The SR117 tackles this challenge head-on with exceptional pattern control that delivers outstanding feedback rejection. Even in acoustically tricky venues, it maintains a precise, focused pickup pattern – capturing the intended sound source while keeping unwanted noise at bay. This is a huge advantage for performers who move freely on stage or play in spaces with complex acoustics. By minimizing the risk of feedback, the SR117 lets artists stay immersed in their performance without battling technical issues.
Versatility Across Any Environment
The Earthworks Audio SR117 isn’t just built for the big stage, it shines just as brightly in smaller, more personal settings, including home studios. Whether you’re commanding a packed arena or laying down a demo in your bedroom, the SR117 delivers consistent, high-quality results. Its standout feedback control in live settings also works wonders in the studio, helping to tame room noise, a major plus for home setups that often lack professional acoustic treatment.
From my own experience, the SR117’s tight pickup pattern and smooth frequency response make a noticeable difference. In my home studio, where outside noise and imperfect acoustics are constant hurdles, this mic captures clean, professional-grade audio without the clutter of unwanted sounds. It’s reassuring to know that even in less-than-ideal spaces, the SR117 keeps my recordings sounding polished. Having worked with a range of Earthworks Audio mics, I can confidently say the SR117 is a top choice for anyone who needs premium sound quality at a price that makes sense..
Pros:
- Transcendent Clarity – Produces a natural, detailed sound that needs little to no EQ.
- Outstanding Feedback Control – Handles even the toughest live acoustic environments with ease.
- Versatility at Its Best – Equally at home on big stages or in small studio spaces.
- Effortless to Use – Delivers great results straight out of the box, no heavy tweaking required.
Cons:
- Price – Its cost may feel steep for beginners or casual hobbyists, but its performance justifies the investment for serious users.
- Minimal Accessories – The SR117 package includes only the microphone, a carrying bag, and a mic clip. You’ll need to purchase additional gear, such as a stand, cable, or pop filter, for a complete setup.
Technical Details
The Earthworks Audio SR117 is a supercardioid condenser microphone designed for precision and versatility. Its frequency response spans 20Hz to 20kHz, capturing the full spectrum of sound with accuracy. With a sensitivity of 5 mV/Pa (-46 dBV/Pa), it translates sound into electrical signals with fine detail. The SR117 requires 48V Phantom Power and can handle up to 140 dB SPL, making it well-suited for powerful vocal performances.
While built primarily for live stage use, it transitions seamlessly into televised productions, worship services, and home recording environments. Its consistent pattern control, impressive off-axis rejection, and balanced frequency response produce a natural, polished sound with smooth highs and lows. The SR117 thrives in challenging acoustic settings, handling high sound pressure levels, reducing environmental noise, and maintaining clarity even in multi-mic setups or noisy venues. Its supercardioid polar pattern ensures precise isolation, making it an ideal choice for performers and engineers seeking reliability and sonic excellence.
In Conclusion
The Earthworks Audio SR117 is a premium choice for vocalists and audio professionals who demand clarity, reliability, and versatility. It delivers exceptional sound quality with minimal tweaking, making it equally at home on stage or in the studio. While its $199 price tag may be higher than entry-level options, the investment is well worth it for its superior performance and robust build. Whether you’re commanding a packed arena or tracking vocals in a home studio, the SR117 consistently meets, and often exceeds expectations. Available through the Earthworks Audio official website and authorized retailers like Sweetwater, Guitar Center, and Amazon, this microphone is a standout tool for those serious about their sound. With its advanced features, precise engineering, and user-friendly design, the SR117 is more than just a mic – it’s a reliable partner in achieving professional-grade audio
