Endora Microphone Kit

Product Overview

The Endora Microphone Kit is a dual-channel condenser microphone solution built on the Sound Sleuth OPA platform. It combines a dual-diaphragm condenser capsule with independent signal paths, effectively providing two independent microphones in one enclosure.

Endora expands on the Serena platform by allowing each side of the capsule to be accessed independently, enabling flexible polar pattern control during post-processing rather than being fixed at the time of recording.

Design & Performance

Endora is like having two Serenas in one microphone. It uses a dual-diaphragm capsule, where each side of the capsule functions as an independent microphone facing in opposite directions.

While multi-pattern microphones use this same principle internally, Endora brings each side out as a separate signal. This allows you to create the desired polar pattern after recording, using any DAW or audio software.

The microphone uses a 5-pin to dual 3-pin XLR breakout cable, with each channel corresponding to one side of the capsule.. Channels are identified by markings on the microphone body: an open circle for channel one, and a filled circle for channel two.

The two channels are electrically independent, with one exception: the polarization voltage is supplied from channel one. When using a single side of the capsule (for example, as a cardioid microphone), channel one must be connected to ensure proper operation.

The underlying electronics follow the same design approach as Serena, using a low-noise OPA-based impedance converter and a DC-DC polarization supply to provide stable operation, high headroom, and consistent performance.

Recording with Endora involves capturing each channel separately. Some recorders allow two inputs to be recorded as a stereo file, which can later be split for processing. Gain should be matched between channels to ensure accurate pattern control during post-production.

In post-processing, the two signals can be combined in-phase or out-of-phase to create a wide range of polar patterns, from cardioid to figure-eight and beyond, providing a level of flexibility not available in fixed-pattern microphones.

What’s Included

• Dual Channel OPA PCB
• DC-DC Hex Inverter PCB
• JLI TSC-2 pure condenser microphone capsule
• 3D printed microphone saddle
• Microphone body and headbasket
• Internal chassis
• Shockmount
• Hard case with custom foam cutouts
• All required connectors, wiring, and hardware

Key Features

• Dual-channel condenser microphone system
• Independent capsule outputs for post-processing flexibility
• Low-noise OPA-based electronics
• Integrated DC-DC polarization supply

Applications

• Studio recording (vocals, instruments)
• Stereo and multi-pattern recording techniques
• Advanced microphone experimentation and design

Who This Kit Is For

Endora is intended for builders and engineers looking for maximum flexibility in a condenser microphone system. It is well suited for users who want to experiment with polar patterns or implement advanced recording techniques.

Technical Description

The dual-diaphragm capsule requires a stable polarization voltage, provided by the included DC-DC converter. Each diaphragm is buffered independently, allowing separate output signals to be processed externally.

The OPA-based impedance converter provides a low-noise interface for each channel, ensuring stable operation and compatibility with standard microphone preamps.

• Independent Channels
  Each diaphragm is brought out as a separate signal path.
• Flexible Polar Pattern Control
  Patterns are created in post-processing rather than fixed during recording.
• High Dynamic Range
  Supports a wide range of signal levels without distortion.
• Stable Polarization Supply
  Ensures consistent capsule performance.

Build & Demo Resources

Video Overview:
Endora Microphone Demo

Build Guide:
Step-by-step build instructions

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from a standard multi-pattern microphone?
Endora outputs each diaphragm separately, allowing polar patterns to be created in post-processing rather than selected on the microphone.

Can I use only one channel?
Yes, but channel one must be connected as it supplies the polarization voltage for both sides of the capsule.

Is this a complete kit?
Yes. This kit includes the capsule, electronics, body, and all hardware required to build a complete microphone.