The defining feature of the mic is its directional patterns. While most ribbon microphones rely on a figure 8 polar pattern, the M 160 distinguishes itself with hypercardioid. It is less sensitive to ambient noise as a result because it lowers noise suppression at 110° by 25 dB and captures less noise from behind. The mic offers good bass response, warm mid-ranges and silky highs meld together in a special vintage sound.
The M 160 was inducted into the NAMM TEC Awards Technology Hall of Fame in 2019 for its contribution to the advancement of audio technology.