AKG C516 ML Professional Miniature Condenser Instrument Microphone
Description
AKG C516 ML Professional Miniature Condenser Instrument Microphone
The AKG C516 ML is a miniature condenser microphone engineered for direct instrument mounting in studio and live recording applications. Its compact form factor and featherweight construction—just 46 grams—eliminate the load penalty of traditional clip-on mics, making it transparent to player dynamics and instrument response. This professional-grade condenser captures detailed harmonic complexity with remarkable clarity across a wide frequency range, making it an essential tool for classical strings, woodwinds, acoustic percussion, and ensemble recording sessions where precision and isolation are paramount.
Audio Performance
The C516 ML delivers a frequency response of 60 to 20,000 Hz with a cardioid polar pattern that isolates your instrument's direct signal from room ambience, bleed, and off-axis sources. With a maximum SPL of 130 dB (1% THD) and 132 dB (3% THD), this microphone captures both intimate passages and aggressive dynamics without breaking up, while the 63 dB signal-to-noise ratio guarantees clean, noise-free tracking in professional recording environments. The 5 mV/Pa sensitivity and 31 dB-A equivalent noise level yield pristine source material that sits naturally in a mix.
Design & Build
Built from metal construction with a matte black finish, the C516 ML measures just 235 mm (9.3") in length and 47 mm (1.9") in width, weighing only 46 grams (1.6 oz) for minimal instrument load. Its mini XLR (3-pin female) connector requires a standard 2 to 12 V power supply at 2 mA, with 200 Ohm electrical impedance and a recommended load impedance of 2,000 Ohms.
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency response: 60 to 20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 5 mV/Pa
- Equivalent noise level: 31 dB-A
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 63 dB-A
- Maximum SPL: 130 dB (1% THD) / 132 dB (3% THD)
- Mini XLR (3-pin female) connector
- Electrical impedance: 200 Ohms with 2,000 Ohm recommended load
- Power requirement: 2 to 12 V, 2 mA
- Metal body with matte black finish
- Dimensions: 235 mm length × 47 mm width; Weight: 46 g
- Includes A400 adapter plate, mounting hardware, microphone bag, adhesive pads, and W44 windscreen
The AKG C516 ML delivers transparent, accurate source capture that preserves your instrument's authentic character and integrates seamlessly into multitrack sessions and ensemble recordings.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C516 ML is a clip-on miniature condenser designed for tracking acoustic instruments with minimal room coloration and maximum harmonic detail, ideal for classical, jazz, and chamber ensemble sessions. Its cardioid pattern and 63 dB signal-to-noise ratio keep your instrument's true tone front and center in the mix, while the wide 60–20 kHz response captures everything from bowed strings to air transients on woodwinds. Use it when you need transparent, artifact-free recordings of individual acoustic sources in the studio.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Classical strings
- ✓ Woodwinds
- ✓ Acoustic percussion
- ✓ Ensemble recording
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Live Performance
- – Touring
- – High-movement playing
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What instruments is the C516 ML designed for?
The C516 ML works best on classical strings, woodwinds, acoustic percussion, and ensemble instruments in studio settings. It is not designed for live performance or touring situations where movement or durability under stage conditions is required.
How does the cardioid pattern help with recording?
The cardioid polar pattern isolates your instrument's sound from surrounding noise and ambient room reflections, keeping the mic focused on the source and minimizing unwanted background pickup.
What comes in the box?
The package includes the C516 ML microphone, A400 adapter plate, mounting hardware, adhesive pads, a W44 windscreen, and a microphone bag for storage and transport.
What are the power requirements?
The C516 ML requires 2 to 12 V phantom power at 2 mA and connects via a mini XLR (3-pin female) connector, standard on most professional audio interfaces and preamps.
Can this mic handle dynamic playing?
Yes—it handles a maximum SPL of 130 dB (1% THD) and 132 dB (3% THD), so it captures both delicate passages and aggressive playing without distortion.