A New Take on an AKG Legend
The AKG C12 VR is a 9-pattern large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone based on the legendary AKG C12. Mere mention of a vintage C12 here at Sweetwater will spark a serious discussion. The original C12, which was manufactured from 1953-1960, is considered by many recording engineers to be one of the holy grails of tube condenser mics. Handcrafted in Vienna, today's C12 VR uses the original 6072A vacuum tube and dual-diaphragm design but incorporates an updated, edge-terminated CK12 capsule and state-of-the-art componentry for lower noise and distortion and reliable operation.
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Nine polar patterns for critical recording applications
The C12 VR's nine polar patterns — cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8; plus 6 intermediate stages — give you immense flexibility when it comes to exploring the sonic possibilities offered by different recording techniques. And owning a pair of them vastly increases the versatility of this microphone, opening up highly effective stereo recording techniques such as Spaced Pair (A/B), X-Y (including Blumlein), ORTF array, and Mid-Side (MS).
Full-featured for impressive versatility
The C12 VR features high SPL handling and is equipped with a 10/20dB pad — which means you can use it on the loudest sources without fear of overload, while a 100/130Hz highpass filter lets you roll off structure-borne rumble that could derail a perfect performance. The C12 VR includes an external power supply with polar pattern selector, a spider-type shockmount, and an aluminum flight case.
AKG C 12 VR Tube Microphone Features:
- An enhanced version of the highly sought-after AKG C12
- Edge-terminated CK12 capsule and original 6072A vacuum tube
- Selected state-of-the-art component for low noise and reliable operation
- Dual-diaphragm, 1" diameter gold sputtered mylar foil
- 9 remotely selectable polar patterns for maximum flexibility
- Multiple patterns with silent switching, remotely controlled from power supply
- Polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8, with 6 intermediate patterns (silent switching)
- Frequency response: 30Hz–20kHz (±2.5dB from published curves)
- Impedance: 200 ohms (±25%); recommended load impedance: 1000 ohms or greater
- Output connector (from control unit): XLR (pin 2 positive)
- Output connector (from microphone): Tuchel 12-pin
- Sensitivity at 1kHz: 10 mV/Pa for all patterns; -40dB (dB re 1 V/Pa)
- Equivalent noise level (A-weighted): 22dB (DIN 45412)
- Sound pressure level for 3% THD: 128dB (equivalent to 50 Pa)
- 2-position pre-attenuation pad: 10dB, 20dB
- 2-position highpass filter: 100Hz, 130Hz
- Aluminum flight case, N 12 VR remote power supply, H 15/T elastic suspension, MK 12V R 30-foot connecting cable, and W 42 foam windscreen included
