Thanks so much for taking the time to do this Carl! You've got a great voice. You mentioned in the comments that you prefer the sound of the 320 with the high cut engaged. This flexibility is actually why we chose the tube we did, but if you want to increase the body further and reduce the air - you can swap the stock tube with a Genalex Gold Lion (about $35). Our UA-cam channel has a video on how to do the swap. Hope this helps!
Much appreciation for you guys checking out the video and commenting! Stock tube and settings, I feel like this mic definitely has a place in my locker. Are there sound examples on your channel that shows the difference tonally with the tube replacement?
Great stuff! I love my LA 320 man! I smashed all the smashers, big howdy from where they call them valves, ludicrously wet and still sorta weirdly not back to normal Ireland! ☘☮🤘🏽🤠👍🏽☮☘
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting. I definitely agree that it’s a modern sounding tube condenser. I actually prefer the high cut filter mode, but I left it off for this video. But I do believe the mic could be useful on the right source. And of course, paired with the right pre and processing for the source/source material.
Carl, wonderful work as always. Your channel is really a fantastic resource for those in the market for studio vocal condenser mics and equipment. A real plus for UA-cam.
Much appreciation for the kind words. Again, it’s rare to find a variety of mic reviews on sources in this genre. I just wanted to fill a line that was empty and share information in the audio community. I’m grateful people like you enjoy the content!
The BLA is more mid-forward (when it's actually more flat frequency) while the LA320 sounds like there's a slight mid-scoop, making the sheeny high-end appear to sound glossier than the BLA. Very different mics but nice in their own respects. That BLA has a lot going for it tonally and would take EQ quite well. I would for sure check it out. Longevity is the next question - will they both withstand the test of time?
That's my worry too. £500 or so isn't up there in Neumann territory, but it's definitely not money I can afford to throw away. Still, I'd hope with careful use, either one should last a few decades in a home studio.
Lauten truly sounds clean and clear in a professional way, and on top has a vibrance to it. I would choose this mic over many many more, way expensive mics
Thank you much for checking out the video, stopping by the channel and commenting. From my experience with Lauten Audio, they great folks. And then I believe they make quality gear at multiple price points. It took me some time to appreciate the LA320 but that required me to find the right chain to accompany the mic. I’m a fan of Black Lion Audio as well an the cv12 BLA is smooth to me. I like the body it gives without being boomy. And for my use with it, the mic took processing well. Again, thanks for checking out the channel!
If that’s your need, then a $100 Shure Sm57 is great. It’s super clean and clear. Many people like a mic that’s a dirty sounding because it adds a little thick meat to the sound. Keep in mind that many mics used on famous records are not that clean sounding because it adds character to the mix.
Man what a good song! Its so crazy hearing the 320 with the original tube i switched mine out like a little over a year ago. It sounds so much better here than i remember. I was thinking about the bla version of that avanton mic too but now that i heard it in comparison i think im gonna pass.
Much appreciation for you checking the video out, commenting and the kind words. I chose to leave the filters off of the LA-320 but I think I actually prefer it with the high cut. Although it’s much more of a modern sounding tube without the top end cut. I actually dig both mics and realize I can create a space for both of them in my work. I know not everyone will be able to say the same thing but the tone for the price is cool to me. I do feel like the LA-320 is on the cheaper side from a construct/build perspective.
I dug the Avantone in this shootout. It sits better in the mix, has a smoother top end, doesn't poke out. Matches the 90s vibe I'm getting from the track. For a crispier track maybe the Lauten would be better.
I purchased a CV12-BLA and that sucker has had a hum and buzz since day 1. Power conditioners and a replacement tube came in today. We'll see... I'm not happy so far!
Hate to hear that! I’m currently working on another video featuring it and I haven’t experienced that issue. However, hopefully those new pieces you mentioned will alleviate the issue you’re having!
Nice! I used the regular cv-12 for a while but felt for my voice the mids were a little harsh and was told the top sounded a bit plasticy from a mixer. Finally bought a telefunken but the cv-12 did me well for a while!
Alex , thanks for checking out the video and commenting. Was the cv-12 you had the stock version or the modded one from black lion audio? Also, which telefunken mic did you upgrade to?
I’m 100% not sure as the mic came modded. I didn’t send it into them but it was sold this way. I could look at the specs of the original avantone mic and see what BLA lists on their website.
l purchased a Lauten LA-320 new because l needed to know what my voice really sounds like as the 320 is an almost flat lined neutral mic. What you put in is what will come out. l can learn to be a better vocalist using it. l have a Avantone with a 179.00 micparts CK 12 upgrade like the BLA used in this comparison. The CK-12 has a (though substandard) transformer even so that's like mixing apples and oranges with the Lauten. l like them both for two different reasons. The Lauten stays. The Aventone?
Thanks for checking out the video and sharing. The intent of this video wasn’t to compare similar microphones at all. That notion alone validates the comparison of tones you see in the video.
Immediately when I heard the sound of LA 320 I didn't like it as much as Avantone CV12's. In my experience I'm passed the stage of initial time of when I liked Lauren Audio's mics a lot, but now I'm not confident in their mics--I also own a pair of LA 120 and LA 220, and also LS 208 (this one I tend to like, along with my RE20 and MKH 416). They are alright, although my copy of LA 120 has a VERY HIGH self-noise (ugh). I also happen to not like the design of LA 320, I find it a bit coarse and flashy. I'm selling all my Lauren Audio mics soon.
l've heard tell the LA 320 sounds better? with a JJ 5751 tube. That's an AX7 l believe but then again Ax's are more suitable for guitar amps than mics arnt they ?
Thanks Carl for the review. Last time I bought WA-47Jr base on your review and it sounds nice but bit harsh for my voice. Now I'm looking for an upgrade to a tube mic, which one would you recommend for my upgrade?
I think better is subjective. I have the origin from Aston and I’ve got my method of tweaking that makes it usable. But I’m a fan of the black lion modded cv12. It’s got body/girth that I like personally compared to the la320
Definitely humbled by the kind words. The “open” statement seems a little vague and maybe is missing just a little specificity for the sake of application. But I do understand summing mixers can add “mojo/a vibe” if that’s the intention with the mix. Thanks for commenting and watching the content. You could’ve used your viewing time for anything else and I realize that.
@@CarlMooreMusic openness is a good thing. As an engineer myself, I can tell you know what your doing when it comes to recording and mixing - if your mixing your music. I believe summing your stems, or even running it through tape could be of a benefit to you.
I actually already incorporate that idea in my process! (Yessir I do mix my own work but I send it off for mastering. lol needs another set of fresh ears and more appropriate tools for that process.)
Thanks so much for taking the time to do this Carl! You've got a great voice. You mentioned in the comments that you prefer the sound of the 320 with the high cut engaged. This flexibility is actually why we chose the tube we did, but if you want to increase the body further and reduce the air - you can swap the stock tube with a Genalex Gold Lion (about $35). Our UA-cam channel has a video on how to do the swap. Hope this helps!
Much appreciation for you guys checking out the video and commenting! Stock tube and settings, I feel like this mic definitely has a place in my locker. Are there sound examples on your channel that shows the difference tonally with the tube replacement?
Thank you for the kinds words as well!
@@CarlMooreMusic Not at this time, no.
@@CarlMooreMusic And glad to hear that!
How much mid range would that actually add to the signal because it felt very thin compared to the CV12
Came for the mic, stayed for the song and subscribed. You have some nice music, man.
Totally appreciate you coming by the channel, commenting and subscribing! Definitely means a lot! Seriously
Great stuff! I love my LA 320 man! I smashed all the smashers, big howdy from where they call them valves, ludicrously wet and still sorta weirdly not back to normal Ireland! ☘☮🤘🏽🤠👍🏽☮☘
Much appreciation for checking out the video and commenting!!! Definitely means a lot!!
320 has a smoother top that sounds more suited for modern style vocals. I’m digging it. Dope comparison and dope song
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting. I definitely agree that it’s a modern sounding tube condenser. I actually prefer the high cut filter mode, but I left it off for this video. But I do believe the mic could be useful on the right source. And of course, paired with the right pre and processing for the source/source material.
Cool video!! If you’re into old rack gear I’ve just uploaded a few videos!! Thanks for this video
Definitely appreciate the kind words. I’ll be heading over to your channel
Wow. The CV-12 sounded better soloed but in the mix, the LA-320 had more presence. Be interested to hear a comparison with the BV-12.
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting!
I'm prone to agree. They are way different but both sound good. But in this context the Avantone has a sort of convincing thing to it.
My oh my!!!!!!! Bruh you bringing that heat!!!!!!! Great review and great music!!!!!
Much appreciation for checking out the content and the kind words!!!
Carl, wonderful work as always. Your channel is really a fantastic resource for those in the market for studio vocal
condenser mics and equipment. A real plus for UA-cam.
Much appreciation for the kind words. Again, it’s rare to find a variety of mic reviews on sources in this genre. I just wanted to fill a line that was empty and share information in the audio community. I’m grateful people like you enjoy the content!
The BLA is more mid-forward (when it's actually more flat frequency) while the LA320 sounds like there's a slight mid-scoop, making the sheeny high-end appear to sound glossier than the BLA. Very different mics but nice in their own respects. That BLA has a lot going for it tonally and would take EQ quite well. I would for sure check it out. Longevity is the next question - will they both withstand the test of time?
That's my worry too. £500 or so isn't up there in Neumann territory, but it's definitely not money I can afford to throw away. Still, I'd hope with careful use, either one should last a few decades in a home studio.
*YO when that beat dropped and those keys....., YEAH BRO!*
Thanks for checking out the video, and the kind words!
Lauten truly sounds clean and clear in a professional way, and on top has a vibrance to it. I would choose this mic over many many more, way expensive mics
Thank you much for checking out the video, stopping by the channel and commenting.
From my experience with Lauten Audio, they great folks. And then I believe they make quality gear at multiple price points. It took me some time to appreciate the LA320 but that required me to find the right chain to accompany the mic.
I’m a fan of Black Lion Audio as well an the cv12 BLA is smooth to me. I like the body it gives without being boomy. And for my use with it, the mic took processing well.
Again, thanks for checking out the channel!
If that’s your need, then a $100 Shure Sm57 is great. It’s super clean and clear. Many people like a mic that’s a dirty sounding because it adds a little thick meat to the sound. Keep in mind that many mics used on famous records are not that clean sounding because it adds character to the mix.
Yep, British viewer right here. I'm interested in a 320 v1 as I've found a NOS one cheap this side of the pond and considering pulling the trigger.
I’m in the process of putting something together to compare the 320 v1 and v2. And I’ll say the v2 is well worth it!
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting
Man what a good song! Its so crazy hearing the 320 with the original tube i switched mine out like a little over a year ago. It sounds so much better here than i remember. I was thinking about the bla version of that avanton mic too but now that i heard it in comparison i think im gonna pass.
Much appreciation for you checking the video out, commenting and the kind words.
I chose to leave the filters off of the LA-320 but I think I actually prefer it with the high cut. Although it’s much more of a modern sounding tube without the top end cut. I actually dig both mics and realize I can create a space for both of them in my work. I know not everyone will be able to say the same thing but the tone for the price is cool to me. I do feel like the LA-320 is on the cheaper side from a construct/build perspective.
Which tube u put in ur la 320
It’s the stock tube that came with the mic
I dug the Avantone in this shootout. It sits better in the mix, has a smoother top end, doesn't poke out. Matches the 90s vibe I'm getting from the track. For a crispier track maybe the Lauten would be better.
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting!
I purchased a CV12-BLA and that sucker has had a hum and buzz since day 1. Power conditioners and a replacement tube came in today. We'll see... I'm not happy so far!
Hate to hear that! I’m currently working on another video featuring it and I haven’t experienced that issue. However, hopefully those new pieces you mentioned will alleviate the issue you’re having!
Nice! I used the regular cv-12 for a while but felt for my voice the mids were a little harsh and was told the top sounded a bit plasticy from a mixer. Finally bought a telefunken but the cv-12 did me well for a while!
Alex , thanks for checking out the video and commenting. Was the cv-12 you had the stock version or the modded one from black lion audio?
Also, which telefunken mic did you upgrade to?
@@CarlMooreMusic it was the stock cv12. I upgraded to the telefunken tf51. Plan on pairing it with a neve asap!
thanks for the video, what exactly were the mods done on the cv12 sounds great. do you know the cost
I’m 100% not sure as the mic came modded. I didn’t send it into them but it was sold this way. I could look at the specs of the original avantone mic and see what BLA lists on their website.
earned a subb
Definitely appreciate the support!
l purchased a Lauten LA-320 new because l needed to know what my voice really sounds like as the 320 is an almost flat lined neutral mic. What you put in is what will come out. l can learn to be a better vocalist using it. l have a Avantone with a 179.00 micparts CK 12 upgrade like the BLA used in this comparison. The CK-12 has a (though substandard) transformer even so that's like mixing apples and oranges with the Lauten. l like them both for two different reasons. The Lauten stays. The Aventone?
Thanks for checking out the video and sharing.
The intent of this video wasn’t to compare similar microphones at all. That notion alone validates the comparison of tones you see in the video.
Immediately when I heard the sound of LA 320 I didn't like it as much as Avantone CV12's. In my experience I'm passed the stage of initial time of when I liked Lauren Audio's mics a lot, but now I'm not confident in their mics--I also own a pair of LA 120 and LA 220, and also LS 208 (this one I tend to like, along with my RE20 and MKH 416). They are alright, although my copy of LA 120 has a VERY HIGH self-noise (ugh). I also happen to not like the design of LA 320, I find it a bit coarse and flashy. I'm selling all my Lauren Audio mics soon.
l've heard tell the LA 320 sounds better? with a JJ 5751 tube. That's an AX7 l believe but then again Ax's are more suitable for guitar amps than mics arnt they ?
Thanks Carl for the review. Last time I bought WA-47Jr base on your review and it sounds nice but bit harsh for my voice. Now I'm looking for an upgrade to a tube mic, which one would you recommend for my upgrade?
amazing
Much appreciation for the love and checking out the video!
@@CarlMooreMusic im also a fellow musician just added you on ig to keep up with you hopefully one day we can collab on some music, @iamericgordon
320 sits nicely. CV12 BLA is great but didn't sound comfy like the 320, not today anyway. Both fantastic mics
Much appreciation for checking out the video and commenting.
yo this song is dope
please can you compare wa 67 vs Lauten audio la 320 🙏🏻
Most definitely can! Thanks for checking out the video and commenting!
@@CarlMooreMusic thanks brother 🙏
the cv12 bla was better for your voice methinks
That was my initial thoughts too! Appreciate you for interacting on the channel
Any these better then spirit quality on vocals??
I think better is subjective. I have the origin from Aston and I’ve got my method of tweaking that makes it usable. But I’m a fan of the black lion modded cv12. It’s got body/girth that I like personally compared to the la320
great video. Your songs are very open. Maybe consider a summing mixer to your outboard.
Definitely humbled by the kind words. The “open” statement seems a little vague and maybe is missing just a little specificity for the sake of application. But I do understand summing mixers can add “mojo/a vibe” if that’s the intention with the mix.
Thanks for commenting and watching the content. You could’ve used your viewing time for anything else and I realize that.
@@CarlMooreMusic openness is a good thing. As an engineer myself, I can tell you know what your doing when it comes to recording and mixing - if your mixing your music. I believe summing your stems, or even running it through tape could be of a benefit to you.
I actually already incorporate that idea in my process! (Yessir I do mix my own work but I send it off for mastering. lol needs another set of fresh ears and more appropriate tools for that process.)
@@CarlMooreMusic ok cool. What do you use? Summing mixer or tape