The DrAlienSmith Alien8 is a figure 8 dynamic microphone designed for low frequency sources that also need to have a focused mid range to fit easily into a mix. It really shines on kick drums and bass amps by capturing a big low end and a detailed mid range. Google search 'TapeOp Alien8' for their review.
 
The Alien8 features two identical 50mm headphone drivers as capsules. Sitting one on top of the other, the top one faces forward while the bottom one faces back. These capsules pick up sound in a figure 8 pattern but like some ribbon microphones, the rear sounds different to the front. By using two capsules the Alien8 takes advantage of these tonal variations with its 3 position switch. Select top only to get a brighter sound, select bottom only for more body or choose both capsules to get the best of both worlds (our favorite setting).
 
While taking a little design inspiration from the classic AKG D30 (dual capsule) and Beyer M380 (headphone driver), the Alien8 is definitely not intended to be a clone or a remake, it has a distinct sound all of its own.
 
The Alien8 is transformer balanced and unaffected by phantom power.