AKG CK49 Reference Shotgun Condenser Microphone Capsule
Description
AKG CK49 Reference Shotgun Condenser Microphone Capsule
The AKG CK49 is a compact hypercardioid condenser capsule engineered for precision source isolation in studio and on-location recording. Its slim, rugged metal construction integrates seamlessly with modular gooseneck systems while delivering the durability needed for professional tracking, overdubs, and multi-source sessions. This is a reference-grade capsule built for producers and engineers who demand clean, focused audio capture without compromise.
Design & Build Quality
The CK49 features a slim and rugged metal housing measuring just 0.79 inches in height and 0.35 inches in diameter, keeping the capsule compact on boom poles and gooseneck modules for flexible placement in control room and tracking setups. Large-area, self-cleaning, gold-plated contacts with deep threads ensure reliable, long-term connections even through extensive session work and repeated mounting cycles.
Audio Performance
With a hypercardioid pickup pattern spanning 80°, the CK49 isolates individual sound sources effectively while rejecting off-axis room reflections and bleed—essential for capturing tight vocal performances, separating instruments in close-mic applications, and maintaining source clarity during multi-track recording. The capsule delivers a frequency response of 60 Hz to 20 kHz with a signal-to-noise ratio of 64 dB A-Weighted and an equivalent noise level of 30 dB A-Weighted, providing clean audio with minimal self-noise even in sensitive recording situations.
Key Features
- Hypercardioid condenser capsule with 80° pickup angle
- Frequency range: 60 Hz to 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 64 dB A-Weighted
- Equivalent noise level: 30 dB A-Weighted
- Slim and rugged metal housing (0.79" H × 0.35" Ø, 0.05 lbs)
- Large-area, self-cleaning, gold-plated contacts with deep threads
- Compatible with all DAM+ Series gooseneck modules and HM1000 M hanging module
- Includes windscreen for wind and pop noise reduction
The CK49 combines professional-grade rejection and modular compatibility, making it an essential choice for tracking, overdub sessions, and location recording where focused, noise-free source capture drives mix clarity and session efficiency.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | Austria |
Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG CK49 is a hypercardioid condenser capsule designed for dialogue, instrument isolation, and field recording, offering clean 60 Hz–20 kHz response with low self-noise (30 dB equivalent) and minimal off-axis coloration. Its modular design fits standard gooseneck and DAM+ mounting, making it ideal for home and portable studio setups where you need precise source rejection without room bleed. Choose it for recording vocals, instruments, and interview tracks when you want studio-grade accuracy in a field-deployable package.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Field Recording
- ✓ Broadcast
- ✓ Live Sound
- ✓ Dialogue Capture
- ✓ Instrument Isolation
Not the best pick for
- – Ambient Room Recording
- – Stereo Ensemble Capture
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a capsule, and do I need a compatible module to use it?
The CK49 is a condenser element that mounts into compatible modules like DAM+ Series gooseneck modules or the HM1000 hanging module. You will need one of these mounting modules to use the capsule; it is not a standalone microphone. Check your existing gooseneck or boom setup for DAM+ or HM1000 compatibility.
What is the pickup pattern, and why does it matter for my recording?
The CK49 uses a hypercardioid pattern with an 80° acceptance angle, meaning it captures sound from a narrow forward zone and rejects off-axis noise from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for isolating dialogue, instruments, and interviews while minimizing room reflections and background noise.
How does the CK49 perform in quiet recording situations?
The capsule delivers a 64 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 30 dB equivalent noise level, providing clean, whisper-quiet audio capture. This self-noise floor is low enough for studio dialogue, interview, and instrument isolation work without audible hiss.
What mounting options does the CK49 support?
The CK49 is compatible with all DAM+ Series gooseneck modules and the HM1000 M hanging module. Its compact size (0.79 inches high, 0.35 inches diameter) makes it unobtrusive on boom poles and tight mounting spaces.
Is a windscreen included?
Yes, the CK49 includes a windscreen to reduce wind and pop noise, extending its usability in outdoor field recording and live sound environments.