AKG D112

Microphone TypeDynamic
Polar PatternCardioid
Frequency Response20Hz – 17KHz
+48v Phantom Power Required:No
ManualAKG.com

The AKG D112 is a dynamic microphone that is commonly used in professional recording studios and live sound settings. It is known for its strong bass response and high SPL (sound pressure level) handling, making it well-suited for capturing the low-end frequencies of instruments such as bass drums and bass guitars.

The D112 also has a unique diaphragm design and construction which is essential for the microphone’s effectiveness in capturing the low-end frequencies, The bass-reflex design, which improves the handling of low frequencies.

The AKG D112 is a popular choice for recording bass drums and bass guitars, and it can also be used for other low-frequency instruments such as cellos and floor toms. It’s not only a favourite among engineers and producers, but also among touring sound engineers, thanks to its durability and built to withstand the rigors of life on the road.

Overall, the AKG D112 is one of the go-to microphones for recording low frequency instruments. Its strong bass response and high SPL handling make it well-suited for this application. With its durability and build it’s a great option for those who needs it for touring or studio recording.

In terms of using the AKG D112, it is typically placed in front of the instrument or sound source, with the grille facing the sound source.

Using the D112 MKII is simple. The microphone’s built-in clip attaches easily to a microphone stand for stability. The original AKG D112 has a separate clip. Connect the XLR cable to the bottom of the microphone and the other end to a patch bay, and select the correct input in your recording software or mixer.

AKG C451e

Microphone TypeCondenser
Polar PatternCardioid
Frequency Response30Hz – 20KHz
+48v Phantom Power Required:Yes
ManualAKG.com

The AKG C451e is a classic small diaphragm condenser microphone that has been a staple in recording studios for years. One unique feature of the C451e is its detachable capsule, allowing for the attachment of different polar patterns to suit your recording needs.

This microphone is known for its reliability and versatility, making it a great option for recording drum kits and most instruments in the studio. However, it’s not recommended for recording vocals as it does not have the same features for controlling extreme frequencies and volumes as other microphones in the AKG line. Nevertheless, the C451e is still a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and classic microphone option.

To use the C451e, begin by attaching the microphone clip to a stable stand and securing the microphone in the clip. Connect the XLR cable to the bottom of the microphone and the other end to a patch bay. Then, switch on the 48V Phantom power on the preamp or mixer and select the correct input in your recording software or mixer.

AKG C451b

Microphone TypeCondenser
Polar PatternCardioid
Frequency Response20Hz – 20KHz
+48v Phantom Power Required:Yes
ManualAKG.com

The AKG C451b is a versatile small diaphragm condenser microphone that is perfect for recording a range of musical instruments. With three bass cut filters and three pre-attenuation filters, it’s easy to reduce extreme volumes and low frequencies that can cause peaking and distortion in recordings. The C451B is great for recording instruments such as strings, percussion, and is even suitable for overhead microphone use. However, it’s not recommended for recording vocals as it’s a small diaphragm microphone and not very effective in capturing vocals.

To get started with the C451B, it’s important to properly set it up. First, attach the microphone clip to a stable stand and secure the microphone in the clip. Connect the XLR cable to the bottom of the microphone and the other end to a patch bay. Then, switch on the 48V Phantom power on the preamp or mixer and select the correct input in your recording software or mixer.

AKG C414

Tech Specs

Tech Specs

Microphone Type – Condenser
Polar Pattern – Multi – Pattern Condenser
Frequency Response – 20Hz to 20kHz
48V Phantom Power – Yes

Microphone TypeCondenser
Polar PatternMulti-Pattern:

Omnidirectional
Wide Cardioid
Cardioid
Hypercardioid
Figure of 8
Frequency Response20Hz – 20KHz
+48v Phantom Power Required:Yes
ManualAKG.com

The AKG C414 Condenser Microphone is a versatile and reliable microphone that can be used in a variety of applications. This microphone features a multi-pattern condenser, allowing you to switch between five different polar patterns:

It also features three bass cut filters (Hz) and three pre-attenuation filters (dB) so you can cut and mitigate the extremes of volume and low frequency. These features are useful as they help create clean recordings by reducing peaking and by removing the very low frequencies that, although imperceptible to the human ear, will still affect and muddy the frequencies that we can hear.

The C414 is great for recording vocals, giving them a crisp and modern sound, and for recording instruments such as acoustic guitars and pianos. It is also available as a pair and is great for getting accurate and clean recordings.

To use the C414, start by attaching the cradle to the microphone stand before putting the microphone in its cradle and twisting the bottom of the cradle until it is stable. Then, plug the XLR into the connection at the bottom of the microphone and the other end into the patch bay. Switch on the 48V Phantom power on the preamp or mixer and select the correct input in Pro Tools (the number of the input on the patch bay.) or on your mixer.

David de la Haye Nominated for Ivor Award

Music Technician David de la Haye’s work Plant Based Patterns has been nominated in the Jazz Ensemble category at the prestigious Ivor Awards.

David’s work explores underwater worlds and his recordings of these unique spaces were used as a stimulus for musical improvisation, which intertwines with the recordings of aquatic life and sonic environments. We wish David the best of luck at the award ceremony.

You can read the full university article or check out David’s work.