TC20 - Microphone Earthworks - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Measurement Microphone
Brand	Earthworks
Model	TC20
Transducer Type	Pre-polarized Condenser
Polar Pattern	Omnidirectional
Frequency Response	3 Hz – 30 kHz ±1 dB
Impedance	65 Ω
Sensitivity	11 mV/Pa (–39 dBV/Pa)
Maximum SPL	142 dB SPL
Self-Noise	16 dB SPL (A-weighted)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	78 dB (A-weighted)
Phantom Power Required	48 V ± 4 V, 5 mA
Connector Type	XLR-3M
Dimensions (Length x Diameter)	165 mm x 6 mm (6.5 in x 0.25 in)
Weight	0.23 kg (0.5 lb)
Housing Material	Stainless Steel
Finish	Matte Black
Application	Acoustic measurement, recording, scientific testing
Recommended Use	Indoor and outdoor measurements
Cleaning Instructions	Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth; avoid moisture on capsule
Included Accessories	Windscreen, calibration certificate, stand clip
Warranty	2 years (subject to terms)

Frequently Asked Questions - TC20 Earthworks

What is the polar pattern of the Earthworks TC20?

The Earthworks TC20 has an omnidirectional polar pattern, meaning it captures sound equally from all directions.

Does the TC20 require phantom power?

Yes, the TC20 requires 48V phantom power (5 mA) to operate.

What type of connector does the TC20 use?

It uses a standard XLR-3M male connector.

What is the frequency response of the TC20?

The frequency response is 3 Hz to 30 kHz ±1 dB, making it suitable for precise measurements.

Can the TC20 be used for live sound recording?

While primarily designed for measurement, its flat response makes it excellent for acoustic recording and critical listening.

What is the maximum SPL the TC20 can handle?

The maximum SPL is 142 dB SPL, allowing measurement of very loud sources without distortion.

How do I clean the Earthworks TC20?

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the exterior. Avoid moisture on the diaphragm. Do not insert objects into the grille.

Is the TC20 suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, but use the included windscreen to minimize wind noise. Avoid exposure to rain or extreme humidity.

What accessories come with the TC20?

It includes a windscreen, calibration certificate, and stand clip.

What is the self-noise level of the TC20?

The self-noise is 16 dB SPL (A-weighted), which is very low and suitable for quiet measurements.

USER MANUAL TC20 Earthworks

Product Registration

To help you get the most out of your Earthworks purchase, please take a moment and register your product with us online at earthworksaudio.com/register.

Service & Repair

If you have any problems with your Earthworks products, please contact our Service & Repair Department.

Email: [e-mail]

Telephone: [phone], ext. 119

Description

The Earthworks TC20 is an omnidirectional (pressure) pre-polarized condenser microphone directly coupled to a dedicated wideband, low output impedance preamplifier. The TC20 requires a standard 24-48V phantom power supply. It features a linear free-field frequency response from 9Hz to 20kHz, fast impulse response, very low handling noise, uniform polar pattern, and very high SPL handling capabilities. It exhibits no proximity effect.

Applications

The Earthworks TC20 is easy to operate. Connect the microphone to a microphone preamplifier supplying 48V phantom power using a standard XLR microphone cable. Please allow up to one minute for the microphone to settle. Plugging in the microphone “hot” (phantom power already present at the input) will not damage the microphone, and is actually preferred for faster settling. It is normal for any phantom powered mic to “pop” when plugged in or powered up. Make sure to mute the signal to speakers or headphones when phantom power is first applied.

The TC20 is our least expensive general-purpose omni. It is a good choice for close-miking louder sources such as instrument amps, drums, or close-miked brass. It is also very popular for drum overheads. A pair of TC20s connected to a stereo recorder will provide excellent results for recording rehearsals and performances. The TC20 is great for general studio use and is an exceptional value. It has no handling noise, no proximity effect, and is very forgiving in terms of placement.

A mounting clip is included with the microphone. This microphone has no removable parts.

Care of Microphone

The Earthworks TC20 microphone is a precision instrument designed and built to provide years of excellent performance. Following these simple rules will help to protect your investment in the TC20:

• Avoid touching the front protective screen.
• Never attempt to disassemble the microphone – it cannot be opened.
• Avoid extreme heat and condensing humidity. Allow the microphone to warm up in the case when bringing it in from the cold weather.
• Rough handling may damage the microphone even if no visible marks are left.
• When not in use keep the TC20 in its case.

Specifications

Frequency response: 10Hz to 20kHz +1/-3dB

Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional

Sensitivity: 8mV/Pa (Typical)

Power Requirements: 24-48V Phantom, 10mA

Peak Acoustic Input: 150dB SPL

Output: XLR-3

Output Impedance: 65Ω, balanced between pins 2 & 3

Minimum Load: 600Ω btw. pins 2 & 3

Noise: 26dB, A equivalent

Dimensions L x D: 165 x 22 mm (6.5 x .860 in.)

Weight: 160g (.3lb)

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

XLR Output Connector Assignment of TC20

Frequency Response of TC20 (typical)

Impulse Response of TC20 (typical)

Polar Response of TC20 (typical)