Figure 8 Microphones
Figure 8 microphones are only sensitive to sounds to the front and rear of the capsule.
This bidirectional polar pattern is most often used as the “side” microphone in mid-side recordings.
Best Budget
Ambient Emesser ATE308
Although still expensive, the Ambient Emesser ATE308 is more affordable than the Sennheiser MKH 30.
The ATE308 has a self noise of 15 dBA.
Best Overall
Sennheiser MKH 30
The Sennheiser MKH 30 is the quietest figure 8 microphone available.
It has a self noise of just 13 dBA and is RF-biased.
RF-biased condensers are resistant to moisture, making them top choices for recording soundscapes outdoors.
