AKG P820 Tube High-Performance Dual-Capsule Tube Microphone
AKG P820 Tube High-Performance Dual-Capsule Tube Microphone
Out of stock
- SKU
- 3101H00440
Description
AKG P820 Tube High-Performance Dual-Capsule Tube Microphone
The AKG P820 captures the distinctive warmth and presence that define tube condenser recordings, built on a dual one-inch diaphragm design engineered for exceptional sensitivity to vocal nuance, acoustic detail, and instrument character. Its solid construction and intuitive remote control streamline studio workflow, making it an essential workhorse for tracking silky lead vocals, acoustic instruments, and spoken word with consistent sonic character across extended session work.
Audio Performance & Circuitry
Centered on an ECC83 dual-triode tube circuit with K67-type capsule and transformer-coupled output, the P820 achieves a Signal to Noise Ratio of 78 dB-A and an Equivalent Noise Level of 16 dB-A—critical specs that preserve recording clarity at modest input levels and reduce noise floor contamination during mixing. The 20 mV/Pa sensitivity captures fine detail without forcing excessive preamp gain, while the 155 dB maximum SPL (with -20 dB pad engaged) accommodates everything from intimate vocal takes to close-mic'd drums and amplifiers in the same session.
Design, Control & Flexibility
Nine selectable polar patterns accessible via remote control let you dial in the exact room interaction and proximity character each source demands—switch between tight cardioid isolation for lead vocals and open omnidirectional pickup for stereo acoustic work without leaving the console. The -20 dB pre-attenuation pad and 80 Hz bass cut filter (both remote-selectable) provide essential recording tools for controlling proximity bass buildup and protecting against hot transients, while the balanced 3-pin XLR output and ≤ 200 Ohms electrical impedance guarantee clean, interference-free signal delivery to any professional preamp or audio interface.
Key Features
- Dual one-inch diaphragm capsule with K67-type design
- ECC83 dual-triode tube circuitry with transformer-coupled output
- Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa
- Equivalent noise level: 16 dB-A
- Signal to noise ratio: 78 dB-A
- Maximum SPL: 155 dB with -20 dB pad engaged
- Nine selectable polar patterns via remote control
- Switchable -20 dB pre-attenuation pad
- 80 Hz bass cut filter with 12 dB/octave roll-off
- Balanced 3-pin XLR male output; ≤ 200 Ohms impedance
- Includes remote control unit, 7-pin connection cable, shock mount, and aluminum carrying case
The P820 merges classic tube character with engineered studio reliability, delivering professional recording results across vocal, acoustic, and instrument applications with the versatility to serve as a primary large-diaphragm choice across multiple production contexts.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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At a Glance
The AKG P820 is a professional tube condenser built for capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and spoken word with the warmth and presence only tube electronics deliver. Its dual one-inch K67 capsule, ECC83 tube circuit, and transformer-coupled output achieve a 78 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 16 dB-A equivalent noise floor—letting you record clean, detailed performances even at lower input levels. Nine polar patterns, a switchable -20 dB pad, and 80 Hz bass filter give you precise control over mic placement and room interaction, making it versatile for any tracking scenario in a home or professional studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes tube microphones different, and is the P820 worth the investment?
Tube mics add harmonic warmth and presence that solid-state condensers struggle to replicate, especially on vocals and acoustic sources. The P820's ECC83 dual-triode circuit with transformer-coupled output delivers that character while maintaining a low 16 dB-A noise floor, so you get classic tone without sacrificing recording clarity.
What polar patterns does it offer, and can I change them during a session?
The P820 provides nine selectable polar patterns via remote control, so you can shift from tight cardioid to omnidirectional pickup without unplugging the microphone. This flexibility lets you adapt to different room acoustics or instrument positions on the fly.
What's included, and what preamp or interface do I need?
The P820 ships with a remote control unit, 7-pin connection cable, shock mount, and aluminum carrying case. It outputs balanced 3-pin XLR with an impedance of 200 Ohms or less, so it connects to any professional preamp or audio interface with a standard XLR input.
How loud can it get, and what's the pad for?
Maximum SPL is 155 dB with the -20 dB pad engaged, and the pad is remote-switchable—ideal for protecting against loud transients or controlling proximity bass on close-miked sources like drums or loud amplifiers. The 80 Hz bass cut filter (also remote-selectable) helps further manage low-end buildup.
Does it work for both vocals and instruments?
Yes; the P820 is equally at home on lead vocals, acoustic guitar, strings, and spoken word. Its 20 mV/Pa sensitivity and low noise floor capture nuance across all these sources without requiring excessive preamp gain.
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