DrAlienSmith Alien8

Dual-capsule figure-8 microphone

The DrAlienSmith Alien8 is a figure-8 dynamic microphone designed for low-frequency sources while keeping a rich, clear and detailed midrange. It excels on kick drums, bass amps and guitar amps, with a detailed, physical low end and a very distinctive presence.

The sound is remarkably polished right at the source: an almost "finished" sound that needs little or no EQ to sit naturally at the front of the mix. A microphone built for efficiency, without sacrificing character.

Dual-capsule design

The Alien8 is built on an unusual architecture, using two 50 mm headphone drivers as microphone capsules.

The top capsule picks up towards the front, while the bottom capsule picks up towards the rear. Each capsule works in a figure-8 pattern but, as on some ribbon microphones, the rear lobe has a different sonic signature from the front lobe.

This is put to use through a three-position switch. Top capsule only: brighter, more incisive sound. Bottom capsule only: more body and density. Both capsules: the ideal balance between depth and presence (our favourite setting).

Whatever the setting, the polar pattern stays figure-8.

A unique colour and character

Although it borrows some ideas from classic microphones such as the AKG D30 (dual capsule) or the Beyer M380 (headphone driver), the Alien8 is neither a clone nor a reissue.

It has a unique, instantly recognisable sound, with massive low end, an expressive midrange and a presence that makes it much easier to place in a modern mix.

Design and build, 2026 version

In 2026, the Alien8 gets a new design. Its body has been completely redesigned and is now 3D printed in cast-grade aluminium, using an industrial metal additive manufacturing process (Laser Powder Bed Fusion). The capsules sit 5 mm closer to the grilles than on the original version.

The result is a robust, precise microphone with a distinctive look, built for heavy studio use.

Specifications

• Type: dynamic microphone
• Polar pattern: figure-8 (bidirectional) in all 3 switch positions
• Capsules: 2 identical 50 mm headphone drivers, stacked (top capsule facing forward, bottom capsule facing back)
• Switch: 3 positions (top capsule only, bottom capsule only, both capsules)
• Output: transformer-balanced, unaffected by phantom power
• Connector: XLR, at the base of the body
• Body (2026 version): cast-grade aluminium, metal 3D printed by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
• Designed and assembled in: Perth, Australia
• Manufacturer part number: DRA000A81

In the box

• DrAlienSmith Alien8
• Deluxe Mic Mount
• Hard carrying case