Tabitha.pdfProduct Overview
The Tabitha Microphone Kit is a complete mid-side (MS) microphone solution designed for stereo recording, field recording, and studio applications. It integrates both the mid and side microphone elements into a single body, simplifying the implementation of mid-side recording techniques.
The Mid Side microphone technique was first described by Alan Blumlein in the 1930’s. At the time there was no equipment available to actually execute the technique. It uses two microphones, one cardioid facing front or the “Mid” microphone and one figure of eight microphone for the Side. Tabitha puts both into one microphone body, simplifying the execution of Mid Side recording.
Built around JLI capsules and a low-noise OPA-based impedance converter, Tabitha provides a clean, transparent signal path with low self-noise and full-range frequency response.
What’s Included
- Dual Channel OPA PCB
- 1 × JLI-2555BXZ3-GP capsule (mid microphone)
- 2 × JLI-165A capsules (side microphone)
- Microphone body
- 3D printed microphone saddle
- 5-pin XLR connector
- All required wiring and hardware
Key Features
- Self-contained mid-side (MS) microphone in a single enclosure
- Low-noise OPA-based electronics for clean signal capture
- High output capability that will not limit typical signal chains
Applications
- Studio recording (vocals, instruments, ensembles)
- Field recording and ambient capture
- Mid-side stereo recording setups
- Experimental and immersive microphone arrays
Who This Kit Is For
This kit is intended for builders looking for a complete microphone solution without sourcing individual components. It is well suited for users interested in mid-side recording or those looking to experiment with stereo microphone techniques in a compact format.
Technical Description
Tabitha combines a cardioid mid microphone and a figure-of-eight side microphone into a single housing. This configuration enables mid-side (MS) recording, a stereo technique that allows for flexible control of stereo width during post-processing.
The circuit uses a low-noise Texas Instruments operational amplifier in an impedance conversion configuration, providing high headroom and low distortion for clean integration with standard microphone preamps.
- Low Self-Noise
Measured at <13 dBA, allowing capture of low-level detail. - Full Frequency Response
Approximately 20Hz–20kHz for full-range audio capture. - Integrated MS Configuration
Combines mid and side microphones into a single compact system. - High Output Capability
Provides sufficient output to fully drive most microphone preamps.
What Else Is Required
Assembly requires basic tools and soldering of a small number of connections. A compatible audio interface or mixer with phantom power is required for operation.
Helpful Pairings
For additional components and customization options, see our DIY microphone parts and accessories.
Build & Demo Resources
For a step-by-step build walkthrough and demonstration of the Tabitha microphone, see the resources below:
YouTube Demo:
Watch Tabitha Microphone Demo
Build Guide:
View Step-by-Step Build Instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mid-side (MS) microphone?
An MS microphone uses a forward-facing (mid) capsule and a side-facing figure-of-eight configuration to capture stereo information that can be adjusted in post-production.
Is this a complete kit?
Yes. This kit includes the capsules, electronics, body, and hardware required to build a working microphone.
How difficult is assembly?
Assembly is straightforward and involves a small number of solder connections and mechanical assembly.
