Icon Martian

If you’re looking for a mic to lend weight to lean sources, the characterful Martian could be just the thing.

Icon mics are manufactured in Latvia, which is already well‑known for other high‑quality microphone brands. The Martian mic reviewed here is part of Icon Pro Audio’s Space series of microphones. While the two alien ‘eyes’ mounted on this mic’s spherical basket might lead you to believe that it is some type of stereo microphone, it is in fact a fixed cardioid‑pattern, mono mic. Like those employed by compatriots JZ Microphones, the handbuilt capsule uses Golden Drop technology, which aims to allow the diaphragm to move more rapidly in response to transients and thus deliver a precise HF response. The capsule is shockmounted internally, and the bespoke cradle provides further shock isolation as well as support for the included metal pop filter. An elegant two‑part aluminium storage case for the microphone itself is included, though this doesn’t hold the shockmount and accessories.

Taking a closer look at the hardware, the standard of engineering is impressive, though I can’t help wondering if those two circular ‘eyes’ were added purely for cosmetic purposes rather than as some kind of acoustic adjustment. It is possible to tilt Martian’s head up and down over a very wide range: a mechanical stop kicks in at just under one complete revolution. The mesh...