AKG C417 Professional Lavalier Microphone
Description
AKG C417 Professional Lavalier Microphone
The C417 is an exceptionally compact and lightweight lavalier designed to capture dialogue, vocals, and acoustic sources in studio, location, and hybrid recording environments without compromising audio quality. Its diminutive 15mm height and 7.5mm diameter allow discreet placement on talent or instruments while remaining sonically transparent. The omnidirectional pickup pattern delivers consistent, open sound from all angles—essential for tracking versatile talent movement or positioning in close-miking scenarios.
Design & Build
This pre-polarized condenser microphone ships in two connector variants: the C417 PP with standard XLR for mixer and interface integration, and the C417 L with professional three-pin mini XLR for direct connection to AKG wireless body pack transmitters during location recording or multi-track session work. The matte black finish and included tie clip, tie pin, windscreen, and microphone bag enable rapid setup and repositioning across multiple recording scenarios.
Audio Performance
The C417 delivers balanced, natural sound reproduction across a 20–20,000 Hz bandwidth with 7 mV/Pa sensitivity and a maximum SPL of 126 dB, accommodating everything from intimate vocal tracking to amplified instrument isolation. A low equivalent noise level of 34 dB-A and 60 dB signal-to-noise ratio ensure clean, low-noise audio for layered production work where background hum and self-noise degrade final mix clarity.
Key Features
- Pre-polarized condenser microphone
- Omnidirectional polar pattern for unchanging sound quality in all directions
- Audio frequency bandwidth: 20–20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 7 mV/Pa
- Maximum SPL: 126 dB (3% THD)
- Equivalent noise level: 34 dB-A; Signal-to-noise ratio: 60 dB-A
- Extremely lightweight and inconspicuous—15mm height, 7.5mm diameter, 68g net weight
- Electrical impedance: 200 Ohms; Recommended load: 1,000 Ohms
- 2 to 12V phantom power; 2 mA current consumption
- Available in C417 PP (standard XLR) or C417 L (three-pin mini XLR) connectors
- 1.5m cable included
- Supplied with tie clip, tie pin, windscreen, and microphone bag
The AKG C417 remains the trusted choice for recording professionals, producers, and location sound engineers who demand invisible mic placement without sacrificing sonic integrity.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | China |
Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C417 is a professional lavalier condenser offering transparent, low-noise audio capture for dialogue, voiceover, and live recording sessions. Its omnidirectional pattern and 34 dB-A self-noise floor make it ideal for overdubbing speech and ambient recording in home or portable studio setups. Select it when you need a small-diaphragm condenser that stays out of the way sonically and physically.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Theater/Stage Performance
- ✓ Broadcast/Television
- ✓ Conference/Presentation
- ✓ Live Event Coverage
Not the best pick for
- – Studio Instrument Recording
- – High-SPL Drum Kits
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the C417 PP and C417 L?
The C417 PP features a standard XLR connector for use with mixer inputs or wireless mic systems. The C417 L has a three-pin mini XLR connector designed to plug directly into AKG wireless body pack transmitters for seamless integration.
Is this mic suitable for recording singing or instruments in the studio?
No—the C417 is optimized for dialogue, speech, and ambient sound in live and broadcast settings. For instrument recording, a studio-focused condenser microphone will perform better.
How discreet is the C417 when clipped to clothing?
At 15mm in height and 7.5mm in diameter, the C417 is exceptionally small and lightweight at 68g, allowing it to hide on jackets, collars, and costumes without drawing visual attention during performance or presentation.
What comes in the box?
The C417 includes a 1.5m cable (XLR or mini XLR depending on model), tie clip, tie pin, foam windscreen, and microphone carrying bag—everything needed for immediate deployment.
How clean is the audio in quiet environments like theaters and conferences?
The C417 has an equivalent noise level of 34 dB-A and a 60 dB signal-to-noise ratio, delivering minimal self-noise even in silent venues where background hum and hiss can be problematic.