Achieving the near impossible, Soyuz resurrects a microphone legend with the SU-017 Large-Diaphragm FET Condenser Microphone. More than just another clone of the classic U47, the SU-017 offers a meticulously engineered design that provides a graceful high end, warm midrange, and full, balanced low-end response.
The unique character of the SU-017 is compliments of the custom S17 capsule, which sports a gold-sputtered, hand-tuned 34mm dual-membrane diaphragm. While the SU-017 FET ships with a cardioid pattern, the S17 is built with a modular design, allowing it to be optionally swapped with an omnidirectional capsule for special applications. When combined with the toroidal transformer, the result is oodles of color, depth, and a uniquely musical character. Hand built in Russia, these mics are carefully tuned and robustly constructed for years of studio work. The SU-017 FET includes a wooden oak hard case and a custom-machined shockmount.
The Tsar of Mics
The classic sound of the 017 was previously considered impossible to achieve with new microphones. Engineers routinely spent small fortunes on vintage condensers and fought to keep them operational as they aged as new models—and even reissues—often lacked the same desired characteristics despite their hefty price tags. With its open top-end, smooth midrange, powerful, yet balanced low-end, and remarkably robust build quality, the 017 is destined to be the future benchmark of that elusive mixture of accuracy and sonic flattery that has sent vintage prices soaring.
Tube or FET?
The 017 Series is comprised of FET (field effect transistor) and tube (valve) powered models. Though the FET and Tube models are similar—the two share identical capsules, form factors, and sonic signatures—there are subtle differences between them. The 017 FET captures transients with a somewhat faster, tighter response than the tube version, perfect for applications that require accuracy, high SPLs, and a cleaner sound.
The S17 Capsule
The unique pool of knowledge, craft, and skill of Soyuz engineers—combined with the ears of numerous musicians, producers, and audio engineers—has culminated in the creation of the 017 Series’ custom S17 capsule. Featuring a gold-sputtered, hand-tuned 34mm diaphragm, the S17 is loosely based on the original K67 capsule originally developed in 1960.
Far from creating another clone of a classic, however, Soyuz has further developed the design, modifying its assembly and tuning. The result, when paired with Soyuz’s original schematic, is unique and uniquely musical.
Endorsed by the Industry
You don't have to just believe Soyuz when they extoll the virtues of the SU-017 microphone, they're also wildly popular with some of the biggest names in music production. Producers who have endorsed and regularly use the 017 as a vital part of their mic locker include:
- Nigel Godrich (Radiohead, Paul McCartney, Beck)
- Greg Wells (Adele, Ariana Grande, Keith Urban)
- Steve Albini (Nirvana, Pixies, Breeders)
- Sylvia Massy (Prince, Johnny Cash, Tool, System of a Down)
- Butch Walker (Taylor Swift, Fall Out Boy, Pink)
UPC: 868902000210