Austrian Audio SB1 Stereo Bar for Two Microphones

Austrian Audio SB1 Stereo Bar: Accurate Stereo, Simplified

The Austrian Audio SB1 is a stereo bar that mounts two microphones on a single stand for coincident and near-coincident stereo recording. Its 9.8-inch (25 cm) span lets you set the exact angle and spacing that stereo techniques require. Compatible across the OC818, OC18, OC16, CC8, OC7, and OD5, it turns any matched pair into a precise stereo tool. As the bar included in the OC818 Dual Set Plus, it is the genuine mount for these mics. This is how you get repeatable, accurate stereo imaging from a pair.

Why Stereo Geometry Matters

Stereo recording depends on the precise angle and distance between two microphones, because those two variables shape the width and focus of the stereo image. Trying to match angles by eye on two separate stands is slow and rarely repeatable, which smears the image and can cause phase problems in mono. A stereo bar fixes both mics in a known geometry so the array is consistent every time. The 25 cm bar gives enough span for classic spacing while keeping the pair coincident when needed. Accurate geometry is the foundation of a solid stereo recording.

XY, ORTF and Spaced Techniques

The SB1 supports the common stereo techniques engineers rely on, including XY, ORTF, and spaced-pair arrays. XY places the capsules together at an angle for a mono-compatible image, ORTF spreads them to roughly 17 cm and 110 degrees for a natural width, and spaced pairs widen further for a big room sound. Having one bar that sets all three means you can choose the right technique for the source without improvising hardware. That flexibility is valuable on drum overheads, ensembles, and acoustic instruments. It makes proven stereo methods quick to deploy.

Broad Compatibility and Build

The SB1 fits the OC818, OC18, OC16, CC8, OC7, and OD5, so one bar covers most Austrian Audio pairs a studio might own. It mounts on a standard stand and holds both microphones securely for stable, aligned capture. As a genuine Austrian Audio accessory, it is built to the same standard as the mics it carries. Whether for XY overheads or an ORTF room array, it keeps the pair precisely positioned. For any engineer recording in stereo, it is an essential piece of hardware.