Lewitt LCT-440-Pure Condenser Microphone

The Lewitt LCT 440 PURE is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for studio recording. It has gained a strong reputation in the pro-audio world for delivering exceptional sound quality and professional features at a highly competitive price point. It’s often considered a strong contender against more expensive microphones from brands like Neumann and AKG.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Pure Cardioid Polar Pattern: The “PURE” in its name signifies that it’s a dedicated cardioid microphone, meaning it’s most sensitive to sound directly in front of the capsule while rejecting off-axis and rear-facing sounds. This is ideal for recording a single sound source, such as a vocalist, acoustic guitar, or guitar amp, while minimizing room reflections and background noise.
• Large True Condenser Capsule: The LCT 440 PURE features a 1-inch (25.4mm) true condenser capsule with a 3-micron, gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm. This high-quality capsule is the heart of the microphone, providing a highly detailed, open, and clear sound with a fast and accurate transient response.
• Exceptionally Low Self-Noise: This is one of the most important specifications for a condenser microphone. The LCT 440 PURE has an impressively low equivalent noise level of just 7 dB (A-weighted). A low self-noise ensures that your recordings are clean and transparent, capturing the subtle nuances of a performance without unwanted hiss or noise from the microphone itself.
• High Maximum SPL: The microphone can handle extremely loud sound sources without distortion. With a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) of 140 dB SPL peak, it can be used on a wide variety of sources, from loud vocals and drums to guitar amps.
• Flat and Detailed Frequency Response: The LCT 440 PURE has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. While its response is generally neutral, it has a subtle lift in the high-frequency range, which adds a pleasant airiness and clarity to vocals without sounding harsh or brittle.
• Robust Build Quality: The microphone is built with a solid, all-metal chassis that is both durable and elegant. The included accessories are also of high quality, a rarity in this price range.
• Comprehensive Accessory Package: Unlike many microphones that come with minimal accessories, the LCT 440 PURE includes everything you need to start recording right away. The package comes with:
  • LCT 40 SH Shockmount: A high-quality shockmount to isolate the microphone from vibrations and handling noise.
  • LCT 50 PSx Magnetic Pop Filter: A unique magnetic pop filter that snaps directly onto the microphone, providing effective protection against plosives.
  • LCT 40 Wx Windscreen: A foam windscreen for outdoor use or to reduce light wind noise.
  • Cushioned Transport Bag: A protective bag for storage and transportation.
• Requires Phantom Power: Like all true condenser microphones, the LCT 440 PURE requires +48V phantom power from an audio interface, mixer, or standalone preamp to operate.

Who is the Lewitt LCT 440 PURE for?

• Home and Project Studio Owners: It’s an excellent primary microphone for recording vocals, acoustic guitars, and other instruments.
• Podcasters and Streamers: Its low self-noise and clean sound make it a fantastic choice for voice-over and broadcasting.
• Musicians and Producers on a Budget: It delivers a professional-level sound and feature set at a price that is much more accessible than that of other high-end microphones.