AKG Microphones

AKG Acoustics was one of many great things that happened to the music industry around 1950. Founded in 1947 in Vienna, the company was envisioned by a physicist, Dr. Rudolf Gorike, and an engineer, Ernst Pless. With its founders coming from careers like those, it makes a lot of sense that AKG microphones have always had a strong focus on technical performance and quality design. Some of their early designs were already being used in theaters, clubs and radio broadcasting, but it was the release of the D12 microphone in 1953 that really pushed AKG into the international spotlight. In the decades since, AKG microphones have continued to deliver outstanding performance, even racking up a Technical Grammy win in 2010.

Along with the original D12 microphone, AKG also introduced the C12 in the same year. Today, the 'C' and 'D' prefixes are still used to designate AKG's professional-grade mics. For example, the C214 and C414 microphones are the modern descendants of the C12, the originals of which are now major collector's items. Today's 'C' microphones are well-rounded condenser mics that sound amazing with vocals and instruments, both in the studio and on the stage. Some, like the C516ML and C519ML, are miniature microphones in a wearable design, making them great for high-energy live shows. For vocalists, emcees, or musicians in need of a dynamic supercardioid microphone, take a look at the 'D' line. The D5 and D7 are solid and versatile choices for a wide variety of applications, and if you need a bank of microphones to outfit a large venue or record a whole choir, you'll appreciate the D8000M, which is available in packs of 2, 3, 4, 6 or 10 with stands and cables included.

AKG's Perception microphones are another series to watch, especially if you're planning to set up a home recording studio. These condenser mics make AKG's quality more accessible than ever, and there are a number of models to choose from. Try the P120 for general project recording, the P220 for lead vocals, acoustic guitar or brass instruments, or the P420 when you need multi-pattern sensitivity for advanced mic setups. If you work digitally, you might also consider the P120 USB, which simplifies the professional-quality recording process with a direct USB connection.

To help in setting up your complete home studio, the Perception series as well as some of AKG's other models can be taken home in mic & headphone bundles. These not only make good studio partners - they also mean you'll have a set of AKG's outstanding headphones around when you just want to listen to your favorite tunes on your downtime.

Whether it's down to business or just having a little fun, AKG microphones are a solid choice for every musician. These mics are ready to set up on the stage or the studio, and you'll be impressed by how accurately they capture every nuance of your vocals or your instrument.