Beyerdynamic M160 Review

When it comes to microphones that have stood the test of time, few can rival the Beyerdynamic M160. Introduced in the late 1950s, this double-ribbon microphone has earned a reputation as a go-to tool for engineers, producers, and musicians seeking a warm, natural sound with a distinct character. Often overshadowed by more ubiquitous condenser mics like the Neumann U87 or dynamic staples like the Shure SM57, the M160 occupies a niche that blends the best of both worlds: the smoothness of a ribbon mic with a practicality that makes it a studio workhorse. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its design, sound quality, applications, and whether it still holds up in 2025’s ever-evolving audio world.

Beyerdynamic M160 Review

Beyerdynamic, a German audio company founded in 1924, has a long history of crafting high-quality microphones and headphones. The M160 emerged during a period when ribbon microphones were still a dominant force in recording, before the rise of affordable condensers shifted the market. Unlike its sibling, the M130 (a figure-8 pattern ribbon mic), the M160 features a hypercardioid polar pattern, making it more directional and versatile for targeted sound capture. Its double-ribbon design—a departure from the single-ribbon construction of many competitors—promised greater durability and a refined frequency response.

The M160 gained fame through its use in iconic recordings, most notably as the microphone of choice for capturing David Bowie’s vocals on Heroes and the drum sound on Led Zeppelin’s When the Levee Breaks. These legendary applications cemented its status as a classic, but does it still deserve a place in modern studios? Let’s break it down.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Beyerdynamic M160 is a study in understated elegance. Measuring just 156mm in length and weighing 156 grams, it’s compact and lightweight compared to many modern microphones. Its all-metal body, finished in a matte black coating, exudes durability and a no-nonsense aesthetic. The grille protecting the ribbon element is fine yet robust, designed to shield the delicate internals from plosives and physical damage.

The double-ribbon assembly is the heart of the M160. Unlike traditional single-ribbon designs, which can be fragile and prone to distortion at high sound pressure levels (SPL), the M160’s dual ribbons work in tandem to improve output and resilience. Beyerdynamic claims this design allows the mic to handle up to 127 dB SPL, which, while modest compared to dynamic mics like the SM57, is impressive for a ribbon. This makes it suitable for louder sources like guitar amps or drums, though caution is still advised with extreme volumes.

The hypercardioid polar pattern is another standout feature. It offers a tighter pickup area than a cardioid mic, with significant rejection at the sides and rear. This makes the M160 excellent for isolating sound sources in less-than-ideal recording environments—a rarity for ribbon mics, which typically favor figure-8 patterns with broader pickup zones. The mic ships with a simple clip mount, though many users opt for a shock mount (sold separately) to reduce handling noise and vibrations.

One minor critique is the lack of onboard features like a high-pass filter or pad, which are common on modern mics. This keeps the M160 pure and analog in its approach, but it does mean you’ll rely on your preamp or mixer for additional control. Speaking of preamps, the M160’s low output (1 mV/Pa) demands a high-quality, high-gain preamp—preferably one with at least 60 dB of clean gain—to bring out its full potential.

Sound Quality: The Ribbon Magic

The Beyerdynamic M160’s sound is where it truly shines. Ribbon microphones are prized for their smooth, natural reproduction of sound, and the M160 delivers this in spades. Its frequency response spans 40 Hz to 18 kHz, with a gentle roll-off in the highs and a subtle boost around 2-4 kHz that adds presence without harshness. The low end is warm and full, though not as extended as a large-diaphragm condenser, making it less suited for capturing sub-bass frequencies.

What sets the M160 apart is its ability to tame transients and harshness. On vocals, it softens sibilance and delivers a velvety texture that flatters a wide range of singers. Compared to a bright condenser like the Audio-Technica AT4040, the M160 feels more intimate and less clinical, with a midrange that’s rich and musical. This makes it a favorite for vocalists with thinner or raspier tones who want a fuller, more polished sound without heavy EQ.

On instruments, the M160’s versatility shines. When placed in front of a guitar amplifier, it captures the warmth of the speaker while smoothing out the aggressive highs that can plague brighter mics. Its hypercardioid pattern helps reduce bleed from other instruments, making it a strong choice for live recording or tight studio setups. On acoustic guitar, the M160 imparts a woody, organic quality, though it may lack the airy detail of a small-diaphragm condenser like the AKG C451.

Perhaps its most famous application is on drums. The M160 excels as an overhead or room mic, capturing cymbals with a silky sheen and toms with a rounded punch. Its ability to handle high SPLs (within reason) makes it viable for close-miking snares or kicks, though you’ll want to pair it with a dynamic mic for the latter to capture the deepest thumps. The hypercardioid pattern also aids in rejecting unwanted spill, a boon in multi-mic setups.

The M160’s off-axis rejection is worth noting. While not as pristine as a modern condenser, it maintains a consistent tone even when sources move slightly off-axis, avoiding the dramatic coloration you’d get with some cardioids. This forgiving nature enhances its usability in dynamic recording scenarios.

Practical Applications

The Beyerdynamic M160’s unique blend of warmth, directionality, and durability makes it a Swiss Army knife in the studio. Here are some key applications where it excels:

1. Vocals: For singers seeking a vintage, intimate sound, the M160 is a dream. It’s less forgiving of poor room acoustics than a condenser, so a treated space or vocal booth is ideal.
2. Electric Guitar: Positioned 6-12 inches from a cab, it delivers a balanced tone that’s easy to mix, avoiding the brittleness of some dynamics.
3. Drums: As an overhead or spot mic, it captures the kit’s natural ambiance with a smooth top end. Pair it with a kick mic like an AKG D112 for a complete picture.
4. Brass and Woodwinds: The M160’s ability to handle high SPLs and tame shrillness makes it a secret weapon for horns and saxophones.
5. Strings: On violin or cello, it imparts a lush, classical warmth, though it may miss some upper harmonic sparkle.

One caveat: the M160 is sensitive to phantom power. While most ribbon mics can be damaged by 48V, Beyerdynamic states the M160 can tolerate it due to its design. Still, it’s best to avoid phantom power unless absolutely necessary, as it serves no benefit and could risk long-term wear.

Comparisons to the Competition

How does the M160 stack up against other mics in its class? Let’s compare it to a few contemporaries:

• Royer R-121: Another modern ribbon mic, the R-121 offers a fuller low end and higher SPL handling (135 dB). However, its figure-8 pattern is less directional than the M160’s hypercardioid, making the Beyerdynamic better for isolation.
• Shure SM57: The SM57 is a dynamic mic with a brighter, more aggressive tone and far greater durability. It’s cheaper and louder-source-friendly but lacks the M160’s smoothness and nuance.
• AEA R84: A high-end ribbon mic, the R84 delivers a bigger, more open sound but at triple the M160’s price and with less focus due to its figure-8 pattern.
• Beyerdynamic M130: The M160’s sibling offers a figure-8 pattern and a slightly darker tone. It’s ideal for stereo techniques like Blumlein but less versatile for single-source recording.

Priced around $700-$800 in 2025, the M160 sits in a sweet spot: more affordable than boutique ribbons but pricier than budget options like the Cascade Fat Head. Its value lies in its proven track record and unique sonic fingerprint.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Warm, natural sound with smooth highs
• Hypercardioid pattern for excellent isolation
• Durable double-ribbon design
• Versatile across vocals and instruments
• Compact and well-built

Cons:

• Low output requires a strong preamp
• No onboard filters or pads
• Limited low-end extension
• Not ideal for untreated rooms

Does It Hold Up in 2025?

In an era dominated by USB mics, AI-enhanced recording tools, and affordable condensers, the Beyerdynamic M160 remains a bit of an outlier. It’s an analog purist’s delight, offering a sound that digital modeling struggles to replicate fully. While it may not compete with the convenience of a $100 USB mic or the pristine clarity of a $2,000 Neumann, its character and versatility keep it relevant.

For home studio owners with decent preamps and treated spaces, the M160 is a worthy investment. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution—pair it with a brighter condenser or dynamic mic for maximum flexibility—but it brings a vintage vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. Professionals will appreciate its reliability and the subtle magic it adds to tracks, especially in genres like rock, jazz, or folk.

The Bottom Line

The Beyerdynamic M160 is more than a microphone; it’s a piece of audio history that continues to prove its worth. Its double-ribbon design, hypercardioid precision, and lush sound make it a standout choice for those who value character over convenience. While it demands careful setup and quality gear to shine, the payoff is a recording tool that can elevate vocals, guitars, drums, and more with an unmistakable warmth.

In 2025, the M160 isn’t the flashiest or most cutting-edge option, but it doesn’t need to be. Its legacy speaks for itself, and for engineers chasing that elusive “vintage sound” without breaking the bank, it’s a near-perfect companion. If you’re ready to step up from entry-level mics and explore the world of ribbons, the Beyerdynamic M160 is a classic that won’t disappoint.