First domestic vacuum tube condenser microphone C-37A and power supply unit CP-2.
"While working on microphones for recorders, Sony became the first domestic company to delve into the field of condenser microphones, which, at the time, was overwhelmed by foreign products" (Sony. n.d.). The "C-37A" was introduced in 1958, it "became the first domestic vacuum tube condenser microphone, and also this became the first of Sony's professional products." (Sony. n.d.). Sony continued developing microphones, introducing things such as the "C-38" (also known as the little brother of the "C-37A"). The "C-38" underwent changes to become the "C-38B" in 1970. "Condenser microphones that appeared about 30 years later in 1992 are the two models of C-800G and C-800, equipped with large diaphragm capsules." (Sony. n.d.).
The C-800G was released in 1992. It was marketed as a high-end studio microphone that was constructed for career professionals looking for exceptional audio quality. When the C-800G first landed in the market, it was met with praise and became very popular. Producers and Musicians alike noticed the C-800G's ability to produce vocals with pristine detail and clarity. Its versatility and ability to handle recording a wide range of vocals made it a highly sought-after piece of equipment in many studios. It became "The OG lead mic for Rap, Hip hop, and R&B" (WarmAudio. n.d.). The microphone quickly became a favourite for certain artists, such as "Dr Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and even Mariah Carey." (Martins. 2022). Over time the C-800G became synonymous with excellent vocal recording. "The Sony C800G has become an industry standard for rappers due to its high quality and widespread use. Its ability to capture every detail of a singer’s voice has made it a go-to choice for many artists." (Maverick. 2023.).
The C-800G
After the release of the C-800G in 1992, it found favour with many artists. The reason many artists use the C-800G is "its ability to capture every detail of a rapper’s voice. Hip-hop is a genre that contains a lot of emphasis on lyrics. It’s crucial for the listener to be able to hear every word. Without understanding the lyrics, no one will understand the song. Furthermore, the Sony C800G excels in this area. Providing extreme clarity and brightness to the sound." (Maverick. 2023). The C-800G is now seen as some symbol of status in the hip-hop industry, according to BayEight, the C-800G is known as the "Rolls Royce of Microphones" (Maverick. 2023). Using the C-800G is "a status symbol for an artist. This shows that they have made it to a level where they can afford to use the best equipment available." (Maverick. 2023). The C-800G is used by many notable artists in many famous tracks, such as:
Kanye West - "Through The Wire"
50 Cent - "In Da Club"
Britney Spears - "Out From Under"
Busta Rhymes - "Blessed"
Sting - "Brand New Day"
Dr Dre, Eminem, Xzibit - "What's The Difference"
BayEight, a studio for artists such as "Lil Wayne, Migos, Denzel Curry, and Jeniffer Lopez" (BayEight. n.d.), stated, "At Bay Recording Studios Miami, it has become our go-to choice for rap, hip-hop, and RnB genres. Specifically in the rap and hip-hop genres where clarity and presence are essential. While some rappers use it for its status or prestige, the Sony C800G’s sound quality and reputation have helped it stand the test of time." (Maverick. 2023.).
This video shows popular musician Rihanna using the C-800G to record her song "Bitch Better Have My Money". (Rihanna - Bitch Better Have My Money (In The Studio Behind The Scenes) (Explicit). (2015.)