Superlux S502 MK2 test, teardown and improvements

[MicUlli]

Hi All,
based upon some ideas Reiner mentioned i decided to buy a Superlux S502 MK2 from Thomann (147€). It is a ORTF based stereo mic with 20mm capsules. The capsules are obviously interchangable with Schoeps SDC capsules.
I am very curious how these capsules perform. This is the plan:

1. Measure frequency responses on axis, 45°, 90°, 135° and 180°, gives sensivity automatically.
2. Measure capsule capacitance.
3. Measure noise performance (both capsule noise and noise of electronics with a capacitor substituting the capsule.
4. Teardown mechanics and electronic pcb with circuit diagram and component values.
5. Looking for circuit impairments and possible improvements.

Has anyone in this forum information about S502MK2 or/and experience?

Stay tuned, MicUlli

 

[bremusound]

Both capsules and circuit are Schoeps clones. PCBs are SMD with pots for Vpol and fet bias.
Capsules work with Schoeps bodies and vice versa.

 

[MicUlli]

Both capsules and circuit are Schoeps clones. PCBs are SMD with pots for Vpol and fet bias.
Capsules work with Schoeps bodies and vice versa.

Many thanks for the pictures
Unbelievable, they have copied the Schoeps circuit completely 2x
Why 2 oscillators for the pol voltage? Could produce beat frequencies in the audible range..

 

[k brown]

I'd be very surprised if the Superlux capsules are really any kind of 'clone' of the Schoeps; their capsules are very hard to make.

 

[MicUlli]

I'd be very surprised if the Superlux capsules are really any kind of 'clone' of the Schoeps; their capsules are very hard to make.

I will see how the capsules perform.

 

[bremusound]

I'd be very surprised if the Superlux capsules are really any kind of 'clone' of the Schoeps; their capsules are very hard to make.

You will be suprised HOW similar they look inside…

 

[micro1_de]

Here are pictures of the capsules in comparision to MK4.

 

[micro1_de]

Here noise of the capsules, blue is MK4.

 

[MicUlli]

Wow, noise of MK4 is 2dB higher than Superlux capsule

 

[micro1_de]

Frequences MK4 red and Superlux blue

 

[micro1_de]

Wow, noise of MK4 is 2dB higher than Supelux capsule

yes! same amp.

 

[micro1_de]

and an angle of 90 degrees

 

[MicUlli]

Frequences MK4 red and Superlux blue

That is impressive. Thanks for the post, Reiner
BR MicUlli

 

[micro1_de]

That is impressive. Thanks for the post, Reiner
BR MicUlli

yes it is! And MK4 to MK4 original

 

[micro1_de]

and 2 MK4 and 90 degrees

 

[micro1_de]

And for you Ulli, KA200 MBHO blue and MK4

 

[MicUlli]

It seems that the S502 MK2 capsules are serious competitors. I didnt believe it before

 

[MicUlli]

And for you Ulli, KA200 MBHO blue and MK4

Yes Reiner, thanks. KA200 perform a little bit brilliant in the upper highs.

 

[micro1_de]

Yes Reiner, thanks. KA200 perform a little bit brilliant in the upper highs.

that is true. But they are never harsh. KA500 are more identical to MK41.

 

[MicUlli]

that is true. But they are never harsh. KA500 are more identical to MK41.

Thats the cause why i like MBHO