M-Audio has announced the Luna II ($399.99) professional cardioid studio condenser microphone. According to the manufacturer, the Luna II adds new features to its predecessor, the Luna, and allows you to capture a broader array of sound sources with better detail and clarity.

Ideal for recording vocals, guitar, piano, and other instruments, the Luna II offers Class-A, solid-state electronics and a 1.1-inch, thin 3-micron evaporated-gold diaphragm with a brass capsule. A -10 dB pad extends the maximum SPL to 140 dB, allowing you to record kick drums, brass instruments, guitar amps, and other intense sound sources. The microphone has a switchable low-frequency roll-off filter that gently slopes to cut rumble and stand-transmitted vibrations. The Luna II ships in a wooden case and includes a heavy-duty shockmount.

The company expects to ship the Luna II in November 2008. To learn more, please visit m-audio.com.