Contact Microphone

Capture 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 accessories, it can be mounted on almost any surface. Use the universal clamp and rubber bands to strap it to objects, attach it directly to metal surfaces with the magnetic ring or explore sounds from within objects using the probe mechanism, developed in collaboration with sound designer Robert Dudzic.

Equipped with a high-quality 2 m (6.5 ft) SC-Onyx Tynee cable by Sommer Cable, the microphone is available in two versions: one with a 3.5 mm (1/8") Amphenol connector and another with a 6.3 mm (1/4") Hicon connector.

A black cable with a round microphone on one end and a 3.5mm male connector on the other end, used for audio recording or communication.

The Contact Microphone is engineered for maximum flexibility and optimal performance. Full electrical shielding ensures a cleaner signal, while the included neoprene zip bag keeps the microphone and accessories safely stored and ready to travel.

Close-up of a boat or dock railing with a black plastic cover, attached with red rubber bands, and a black cable running through it, near a body of water.

„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

Molom musicians using a long, slender tool to work on a textured stone or sculpture on a dark surface, with a LeafAudio contact microphone attached to capture bodysound.

Mechanical Data
Height × width: 10 × 36mm (housing)
Weight: ~59g
Fres: 4.6kHz
Zres: 200Ω
Cable: 2m with unbalanced jack plug

Includes
• Contact Microphone
• Neoprene zip-bag
• Universal holder
• Magnetic ring
• Probe mechanism
• 2 rubber bands
• Allen key