AKG C 451B – Condenser cardioid microphone

This new mic is a performance / price breakthrough. It has an acoustically identical version of the legendary CK1 capsule that is permanently mounted. This combination can handle high output transients as well as subtle harmonics. Also included are switchable 75 and 150Hz 12dB per octave rolloff, and switchable -10 & -20 dB input pad. It is a single pattern (cardioid), and has a frequency response of 20 to 20kHz with 135 dB SPL. Requires 12 to 48V phantom power. Kit comes with bag, windscreen and clip.

For more than twenty years, the AKG C 451 with the CK 1 condenser capsule was a standard item on tour riders for sound companies and required by leading engineers for studio projects. When it was discontinued in 1993, there was still a big demand for this microphone. AKG now has an updated version of this classic microphone.

The new C 451B provides the same frequency response as the legendary CK 1 with the same slight high-end rise that was the signature of the original. This characteristic makes the C 451B an ideal tool for capturing signals rich in transients such as acoustic guitars, snare drums, hi-hats and for overhead micing of drum kits. The C 451B?s response eliminates the need for heavy EQ on these instruments.

The new C 451B has also benefited from newer electronic technology with machine soldering and surface-mount components that improve noise performance and make the microphone much more reliable than the original.

Other special features include switchable 10 dB and 20 dB preattenuation pads and switchable low cut filters at 75 Hz or 150 Hz. Standard accessories included are an SA 40 stand adaptor, W 90 windscreen and a rugged zippered bag. Each C 451B also comes with an individual frequency response printout.
Three-year warranty.

Specification

Polar pattern: cardioid
Frequency range: 20?20,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 9 mV/Pa (-41 dBV re 1 V/Pa)
Max. SPL for 0.5 % THD: 135/145/155 dB SPL (-0/-10/-20 dB)
Equivalent noise level: 18 dB-A to DIN 45 412
Signal/noise ratio (A-weighted): 76 dB
Preattenuation pad: switchable, 0, -10,-20 dB Bass cut filter: switchable to flat or 12 dB/octave at 75 Hz or 150 Hz
Electrical impedance: Recommended load impedance: >1.000 Ohms
Power requirement: 9?52 Volt phantom power to DIN 45 596/IEC 268-15
Current consumption: Connector: 3-pin male XLR
Finish: satin nickel plated
Size: dia.: 190 mm (0.7 in.); length: 160 mm (6.3 in.)
Net/shipping weight: 125/760 g (4.4 oz./1.7 lbs.)
Standard accessories: W 90 windscreen, SA 40 stand adapter