AKG has launched the AKG C-Series, a new line of microphones whose name refers to the company's classic devices. The line includes three condenser models for studio and creative applications.
The series consists of three models:
The AKG C104 has a large diaphragm and a single polar pattern. It is suitable for situations where you need a simple, large-diaphragm microphone for recording vocals, instruments, or content.
The AKG C114 has a large diaphragm and switchable polar patterns. It is useful for those who value versatility. Thanks to its three patterns, it can be used to record rooms, M/S, overheads, and duets.
The AKG C151 has a small diaphragm. It is useful for working with acoustic instruments and for stereo recording with good detail.
The appearance of the C104 and C114 clearly references the brand's classic AKG C414 model, with the new models featuring the same recognizable studio shape. At the same time, as the manufacturer notes, the idea behind the expansion is to provide customers with more affordable devices.
AKG stated that the microphones are suitable for musicians and content creators. The models are distinguished by low noise and high maximum sound pressure levels, as well as sufficient characteristics for "modern use cases," such as podcasting, streaming, audio and video recording.
AKG C104 – large diaphragm, cardioid polar pattern
AKG C104 – cardioid microphone with a 22mm electret capsule, designed for “universal” use: vocals, content, acoustic guitar, guitar cabinet, as well as brass and woodwind instruments, and strings.
Main Specs:
Capsule Type: 22mm Electret Condenser Diaphragm
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Sensitivity: 13.5mV/Pa (-37.5 dBV)
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Electrical Impedance: ≤200 ohms
Recommended load impedance: ≥1000 ohms
Self-Noise Level: 14dB(A) SPL
Signal to Noise: 80dB re 1 Pa
Max SPL for 0.5% THD: 143dB SPL
Temperature Range: -5 to 50 °C (23 to 122 °F)
Phantom Powering: 48V +/-4V to IEC 61938
Current Consumption: ≤5 mA
Connector: 3-pin XLR (pin 2 hot)
Net weight: 375g
AKG C114 – large diaphragm, three polar patterns
The AKG C114 is the "big brother" of the C104. It has a dual 26 mm diaphragm and switchable polar patterns. This model is ideal for recording stereo overheads, side and surround channels, and other spacious sounds.
In terms of characteristics, it is almost identical to the C104. The main differences are three polar patterns and a slightly higher maximum sound pressure level.
Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure of Eight
Sensitivity: (cardioid) 13.5mV/Pa (-37.4 dBV)
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Electrical Impedance: ≤200 ohms
Recommended load impedance: ≥1000 ohms
Self-Noise Level: 12dB(A) SPL
Signal to Noise: 82dB re 1 Pa
Max SPL for 0.5% THD: 145dB SPL
Temperature Range: -5 to 50 °C (23 to 122 °F)
Phantom Powering: 48V +/-4V to IEC 61938
Current Consumption: ≤5 mA
Connector: 3-pin XLR (pin 2 hot)
Net weight: 415g
AKG C151 — small diaphragm, cardioid polar pattern
The AKG C151 is a small-diaphragm electret condenser microphone featuring a 16-mm diaphragm, a cardioid capsule, and transformerless FET circuitry. It is designed for the accurate transmission of transients and the realistic capture of performances. AKG claims that the C151 is particularly well-suited for stereo recording of acoustic instruments.
Main Specs:
Capsule Type: 16mm Electret Condenser Diaphragm
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Sensitivity: 11mV/Pa (-39 dBV)
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Electrical Impedance: ≤200 ohms
Recommended load impedance: ≥1000 ohms
Self-Noise Level: 21dB(A) SPL
Signal to Noise: 73dB re 1 Pa
Max SPL for 0.5% THD: 147dB SPL
Temperature Range: -5 to 50 °C (23 to 122 °F)
Phantom Powering: 48V +/-4V to IEC 61938
Current Consumption: ≤5 mA
Connector: 3-pin XLR (pin 2 hot)
Net weight: 147g
According to the official AKG website, the C104 and C151 microphones cost $129, while the C114 microphone costs $229. Prices at dealers and retailers may differ from the recommended prices. Visit the official AKG website for more details about the AKG C-Series microphone models.
