Centrance PivotMic PM1

I have tested these mics several times over a period of a year. They have been used exclusively with the Centrance Mixerface R4R for which they are designed. For the purpose of this review it is important that I have only used the R4R unit with top-of-the-line profession mics and wind rigs in field recording circumstances. The mics were purchased for mobility and to feel more comfortable using the unit as a 'drop' recorder for overnight recordings.

The positives: Size-wise, they are so small that they only add 2.5cm to the overall length of the unit, I easily built a 'rocker' to keep them firmly in place...although this is probably unnecessary as they fit in to the XLR plugs very firmly, still it helps keep them together and in position when not in use.I also found foam wind protectors and a mini-deadcat (by Rycote and supplied by Thomann) which were be customized with elastic collars to meet fieldwork standards. I also purchased two 1m extension cables so to be able to get one or both of them up high or into nooks and crannies when needed.

The units have a solid, crafted feel to them and the workmanship and materials seem impeccable.

The negatives: While obviously very sensitive and accurate or producing a 'flat' frequency response, it is also the case that the PM1's consistently produce recordings that are noticeably 'bright' sounding. This quality can be modified and toned down in different ways in post production. Never the less, it is, compared to high-end mics, something that stands out. Compared to the outstanding care and quality put into the components of R4R unit itself, this will seem awkward to some. At the price point the sound quality of the PM1's may in fact be relatively high...but I am not informed enough to be able to compare them to the highly evaluated budget microphones available in today's market.