Cloudvocal SonoFlex: wired or wireless instrument mic for $349

Cloudvocal has launched the SonoFlex, an instrument microphone for live performers and engineers. It can work with a wireless transmitter or a standard wired connection, and it uses a new mounting system called Rotary Lock.

Capsule and connection modes

The SonoFlex uses a cardioid capacitor capsule that handles up to 145 dB SPL. Cloudvocal names string, wind and brass instruments as its targets; the cardioid pattern is meant to limit spill from other sources on loud stages. Frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

A switch on the microphone selects one of two modes:

• Two-wire for wireless transmitters. Adapter cables are offered for Shure, Sennheiser and AKG systems, and the company also sells its own SP-10 wireless system.
• Three-wire for a standard XLR microphone input with 48 V phantom power. In this mode the output impedance drops to 29 ohms to limit signal loss on long cables.

Mounting and durability

With Rotary Lock, the microphone clicks into its mounting plate with a twist, so it can be moved between instruments quickly. Cloudvocal offers both instrument-specific and universal mounts. The gooseneck is a slow-recovery type padded with vibration-damping material, and an elastic shockmount isolates the capsule from handling noise.

Prices and packages

A single SonoFlex costs $349 and comes with one mount of the buyer's choice, an XLR adapter and a 3.5 mm wireless adapter cable. The Touring Kit costs $987; it includes three XLR adapters and lets the buyer choose six mounts and adapters. Both are available now.