AKG C12 VR

AKG C12 VR – The rebirth of a legendary microphone

Considered by many sound engineers to be the “holy grail” of tube microphones, the original AKG C12, produced between 1953 and 1960, is one of the most iconic microphones in recording history. Used on countless number-one records, it is renowned for its exceptional warmth, open high frequencies and natural depth.

The AKG C12 VR carries on this legacy by preserving the sonic philosophy and key elements of the original model while benefiting from selected modern components to ensure optimized reliability, stability and low noise performance. Carefully manufactured in Vienna, Austria, this microphone is now considered one of the absolute references for professional recording studios.

At the heart of the C12 VR lies the legendary edge-terminated CK12 capsule, renowned for its extremely natural frequency response and remarkable spatial reproduction. Combined with the 6072A vacuum tube, it gives the microphone a unique sonic signature: airy presence, rich harmonics and exceptionally smooth high frequencies.

The microphone offers nine selectable polar patterns thanks to its N12 VR external power supply. This flexibility allows precise adaptation to any recording situation, whether capturing lead vocals, acoustic ensembles, orchestras, brass instruments or guitar amplifiers.

Thanks to its fully tube-based design and the use of high-end electronic components, the C12 VR delivers a three-dimensional sound image, exceptional dynamics and incomparable musicality, making it a preferred choice in top-tier studios around the world.

Supplied with its professional H15 T shockmount, N12 VR power supply and MK Tube microphone cable, the C12 VR forms a complete tube recording system designed for the most demanding recording environments.

Technical specifications:

• Type : Tube condenser microphone
  
  
• Capsule : Large-diaphragm edge-terminated CK12
  
  
• Tube : Selected 6072A vacuum tube
  
  
• Polar patterns : 9 selectable patterns via external power supply
  • Omnidirectional
  • Cardioid
  • Figure-of-eight
  • Intermediate positions
  
  
• Sonic signature : Warm, detailed and three-dimensional sound with open and natural highs
  
  
• Frequency response : 30 - 20000 Hz
  
  
• Sensitivity : 10 mV/Pa
  
  
• Equivalent noise level : 22 dB-A
  
  
• Signal-to-noise ratio : 72 dB-A
  
  
• Pad : Switchable -10 dB / -20 dB
  
  
• Bass cut filter :
  • 100 Hz
  • 130 Hz
  
  
• Output impedance : 200 ohms
  
  
• Recommended load impedance : ≥ 1000 ohms
  
  
• Audio output : Balanced 3-pin XLR
  
  
• Applications :
  • Studio vocals
  • Brass and woodwinds
  • Guitar and bass amplifiers
  • Acoustic instruments
  • Professional music production
  
  
• Dimensions : 225 mm (height) ; Ø 42 mm
  
  
• Weight : 680 g
  
  
• Finish : Green and gold (green / gold)
  
  
• Included accessories :
  • C12 VR microphone
  • H15 T shockmount
  • MK Tube microphone cable
  • N12 VR power supply
  • W42 windscreen

Key points :

• Modern reissue of the legendary AKG C12, one of the most iconic microphones in studio history.
  
  
• Edge-terminated CK12 capsule delivering extremely natural and detailed sound reproduction.
  
  
• Selected 6072A vacuum tube ensuring warmth, musicality and rich harmonics.
  
  
• Nine selectable polar patterns via external power supply for maximum flexibility.
  
  
• Legendary sound used on countless reference recordings.
  
  
• High-end electronic components ensuring low noise and high reliability.
  
  
• Ideal for studio vocals, orchestras, brass and acoustic instruments.
  
  
• Complete system supplied with power supply, shockmount and dedicated tube cable.