Sanken Chromatic CUP-X1 and CU-M2M: Sonic Espionage
Tiny low-proximity mics for capturing ultra-realistic recordings.
Sanken Chromatic CUP-X1 and CU-M2M: Sonic Espionage · Source: Sanken Chromatic
Sanken Chromatic CUP-X1 and CU-M2M · Source: Sanken Chromatic
At this year’s NAMM show, you can check out two new mics in the Sanken Chromatic series: the CUP-X1, now available, and the CU-M2M coming this Spring.
Based in Tokyo, Japan, the Sanken Microphone Company was founded as the Takeuchi Factory back in 1925. This makes Sanken one of the oldest manufacturers of recording equipment today. Building on this legacy, the Sanken Chromatic series is designed around the principle of transparency to deliver the most transparent and focused recordings possible.
Sanken Chromatic CUP-X1 and CU-M2M
The CUP-X1 is a very small-diaphragm condenser microphone with a self-polarized transducer and a cardioid pickup pattern, incorporating the same renowned technology as the CUX-100K extended frequency range microphone. In situations where capturing realism is essential, but you might not have the space for large microphone arrays, the CUP-X1 is the ideal solution for vocals and instruments.
The microphone’s body is only 2.3 inches (5.84 cm) in length, so the CUP-X1 is ultra-compact – the mic is actually smaller than an XLR connector! However, unique enhancements like the rectangle-shaped diaphragm allow the CUP-X1 to capture a wide frequency range and astounding dynamics without relying too heavily on placement proximity.
Meanwhile, the new CU-M2M is a slightly larger (but only just) design that is 3 inches (76 mm) long. Although it doesn’t have the same rectangular diaphragm as the CUP-X1, the CU-M2M is designed to capture high-SPL sources like brass instruments and drums with the same low-proximity recording approach.
With the slightly longer body, the CU-M2M is able to provide increased off-axis rejection capabilities. This allows you to carefully direct the capsule at the source while avoiding unwanted reflections.
Visit Sanken Microphones at NAMM 2026 at Booth #15120 ACC North Level 1
Pricing and Availability:
The Sanken Chromatic CUP-X1 is currently available, while the CU-M2M is coming this Spring, pricing info to follow. Get them at Thomann.*
More about the Sanken Chromatic CUP-X1 and CU-M2M
- Sanken Chromatic Official
- Browse Sanken Chromatic on Thomann
- Read more about Sanken Chromatic on Gearnews
*Note: This article contains affiliate links that help us finance our site. Don’t worry – the price for you always remains the same! If you buy something through these links, we receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!
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