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AKG C12 Reference Tube Condenser Microphone

The AKG C12 is a multi pattern valve condenser studio microphone with a lineage dating back to the 1950s, widely recognised as one of the most significant large diaphragm microphones ever produced. The modern AKG C12 VR represents the contemporary continuation of this design.
AKG C12
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AKG C12 Reference Tube Condenser Microphone Details

The AKG C12 VR is a reference multi pattern tube condenser microphone designed for professional recording studio use. It employs an edge terminated CK12 capsule combined with a 6072A vacuum tube, a pairing derived from the original AKG C12 microphones built between 1953 and 1960.

Polar pattern selection is handled remotely via the dedicated power supply, allowing nine selectable patterns for flexible studio operation. The microphone is constructed using selected modern components intended to ensure consistent performance, low noise operation, and long term reliability.

Assembly is carried out in Vienna, Austria by AKG, with emphasis placed on build precision and quality control. The AKG C12 VR is supplied as a complete system including power supply, dedicated tube cable, shockmount, and windscreen.

AKG C12 Reference Tube Condenser Microphone Heritage

  • 1953 to 1960

    designated as AKG C12

    Valve condenser microphone using a 6072 vacuum tube with transformer coupled output and remote polar pattern selection via external power supply.

    The original AKG C12 was introduced in the early 1950s and became one of the first large diaphragm valve condenser microphones to offer remotely selectable polar patterns. It utilised the edge terminated CK12 capsule and a 6072 vacuum tube, establishing a design that would influence numerous later studio microphones. Production continued through to 1960, during which time the C12 was widely adopted in professional recording studios and became closely associated with high end studio recording practices.

Specifications

Released in: 1953
Made in: Austria
  • Microphone Type: Valve condenser
  • Capsule Type: Edge terminated CK12
  • Valve Type: 6072A vacuum tube
  • Polar Patterns: Nine remotely selectable patterns
  • Frequency Response: 30Hz to 20000Hz
  • Equivalent Noise Level: 22 dB-A
  • Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa
  • Signal To Noise Ratio: 72 dB-A
  • Preattenuation Pad: -10 dB, -20 dB
  • Bass Cut Filter: 100Hz, 130Hz
  • Output Connector: Balanced XLR, 3-pin male
  • Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
  • Recommended Load Impedance: 1000 Ohms
  • Dimensions: 225mm x 42mm x 42mm
  • Weight: 680 g
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Morph The Cat

Donald Fagen

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Random Access Memories

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Further Reading on the AKG C12 Reference Tube Condenser Microphone

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The details provided above are drawn from historical documents like advertising brochures or user manuals. They’re shared without bias or review. This info is given solely for your consideration, helping you gauge its usefulness to you.

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