Contact Microphone
Capture body sounds from inside objects.
With the Contact Microphone every surface becomes a canvas.
Unlike traditional recording methods that capture sound waves traveling through air, contact microphones pick up vibrations directly from materials – allowing you to "listen" to objects, plants or even soil from the inside out. This unique perspective unlocks a world of intriguing and sometimes abstract sounds, making it an essential tool for experimental recording and sound design.
Thanks to its universal clamp mechanism and strong rubber bands, it can be mounted on almost any surface. Additionally, the newly developed probe mechanism – created in collaboration with sound designer Robert Dudzic – lets you capture sounds even from inside objects, soil, and more, expanding the creative possibilities even further.
Equipped with a high-quality 2m (6.5ft) SC-Onyx Tynee cable by Sommer Cable, the microphone is available in two versions: one with a 3.5mm (1/8") Amphenol connector and another with a 6.3mm (1/4") Hicon connector.
The 2025 edition of the Contact Microphone has been completely re-engineered for maximum flexibility and features full electrical shielding for optimal performance. This upgraded model comes in a set with a durable neoprene zip-bag, ensuring safe transport while providing space for all included accessories.
„We've been using Leaf Audio Contact Microphones, as well as the Field Amp, for years. Especially the latest Universal Clamp & Probeholder have allowed us to explore the material from new perspectives and with greater definition.
In the "cabecos," "il sentiero della memoria," and "cramars" projects, they were fundamental for defining the timbre during the research and performance phases.“
– Molom, Italian multidisciplinary duo of Milena Berta and Alessandro Pedretti
Mechanical Data
Height / width: 10 x 36mm (housing)
Weight: ~59 g
Fres: 4.6 kHz
Zres: 200 Ω
Includes