AKG CK31 High Performance Cardioid Condenser Microphone Capsule
Description
AKG CK31 High Performance Cardioid Condenser Microphone Capsule
The AKG CK31 is a compact, precision condenser capsule engineered for close-miked instrument recording where focused presence and rejection of ambient noise are essential. Its tight cardioid pattern isolates your source effectively while its modest 5-gram weight and 13.5mm diameter make it an unobtrusive addition to any mounting module. This capsule delivers articulate, naturally detailed response across the full audio spectrum, making it equally effective capturing classical instruments, acoustic guitars, or drums in tracking sessions and studio work.
Recording & Mix Characteristics
The CK31 maintains a transparent frequency response from 50 Hz to 20 kHz, capturing both warmth in the low mids and crystalline detail in the highs. With a signal-to-noise ratio of 73 dB-A and equivalent noise level of 21 dB-A, this capsule delivers broadcast-quality clarity without introducing audible noise floor, even in quiet classical recording sessions or when layering multiple takes with gain-stage amplification.
Design & Build
Housed in a rugged metal body with a matte dark gray finish, the CK31 features large-area, self-cleaning gold-plated contacts that resist oxidation and maintain reliable signal integrity over years of use. Its compact dimensions and lightweight construction integrate seamlessly into the DAM Series mounting ecosystem, allowing quick installation and repositioning without adding visible hardware to your instrument.
Key Features
- Cardioid polar pattern for focused isolation and minimal room pickup
- Frequency response: 50 to 20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 73 dB-A
- Equivalent noise level: 21 dB-A
- Electrical impedance: 600 Ohms
- Recommended load impedance: 2,000 Ohms
- Power supply: 9 to 52 V phantom power at 3 mA
- Compact dimensions: 20 mm height × 13.5 mm diameter
- Net weight: 5 grams
- Gold-plated, self-cleaning contacts for long-term reliability
- Compatible with all AKG DAM Series mounting modules
The CK31 combines transparent audio capture with robust, practical engineering—a capsule that rewards proper technique with honest, detailed reproduction across any instrument or source.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | China |
Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG CK31 is a precision condenser capsule designed for close-miked instrument recording, offering a transparent frequency response and 73 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio that captures articulate highs and warm low mids without audible noise floor. Its tight cardioid pattern minimizes room bleed, making it ideal for multi-track recording of acoustic guitars, strings, and drums in home or project studios. Choose it when you need honest, naturally detailed instrument reproduction that sits cleanly in a mix without coloration.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Classical recording
- ✓ Acoustic instrument miking
Not the best pick for
- – Vocal close-miking
- – High-SPL drum kit overhead work
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the CK31 different from standard large-diaphragm vocal condensers?
The CK31 is a compact instrument capsule, not a vocal mic. Its tight cardioid pattern isolates the source and rejects room noise, making it ideal for miking individual instruments on stage or in the studio. Its modest 5-gram weight and 13.5mm diameter allow it to mount invisibly without adding visible hardware.
What instruments does the CK31 work best on?
The CK31 excels on acoustic guitars, classical instruments, piano lids, drum overheads, and other acoustic sources that benefit from transparent, articulate capture. Its cardioid pattern works well for isolation in live and studio settings. It is not designed for vocal close-miking or extreme high-SPL applications like drum kit close-miking.
Does this capsule work with my existing microphone system?
The CK31 is compatible with all AKG DAM Series mounting modules. If you use a different mounting system, check compatibility before purchasing. The capsule requires 9 to 52 V phantom power at 3 mA and has 600 Ohms electrical impedance.
How quiet is the CK31 in a silent recording environment?
The CK31 delivers a 73 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio with an equivalent noise level of 21 dB-A, providing broadcast-quality clarity suitable for quiet classical recording sessions and amplified gain-stage work without introducing audible noise floor.
How durable is the CK31 for touring and repeated use?
The capsule is housed in a rugged metal body with large-area, self-cleaning gold-plated contacts that resist oxidation and maintain reliable signal integrity over years of use. Its compact, lightweight design makes it road-friendly and easy to reposition without damage.