Oktava MC012 capsules fried-out (static)?

robeaux

New member
I have 2 Oktava MC012's with 2 cardioid, 1 hypercardioid and 1 omnidirectional capsules. As of recently, whenever I use the hypercardioid or one of the cardioid capsules, I hear static resembling (hurricaine-esque) wind-noise rendering them un-usuable (the remaining capsules are fine). I can't think of anything obvious I did that could cause this (no physical abuse, etc.).

I was wondering:

Has this happened to anyone else?

Are these condenser capsules exceptionally fragile with respect to shock, loud volumes (cymbals/screaming vocals), heat, humidity, phases of the moon...?

They're only about 3 months old, so I may be able to exchange them, but I want to know what to do to avoid repeating this experience.

Other info:
Oktava MC012 microphones / capsules - from Guitar Center
Alesis r12 mixer (phantom power)
Layla 20 soundcard
Cardioid capsules generally used as drum overheads (w/ -10 dB filters)
Have probably used all capsules for vocals (w/o -10 dB filters).

Thanks so much,
Rob Eaux
 
Sounds like a noisy FET in the mic.

Maybe I shouldn't get a matched stereo pair of these things after all.
 
Try sticking the noisy capsules in a sealed bag with some of those silicate drying pouches for a few days. If that doesn't work, try putting them in your oven for a few minutes at 100+°. It sounds like there's some moisture trapped in a couple of the capsules. IF that doesn't work, take them back to GC.
 
Back
Top