Austrian Audio OC818 Dual Set Go
Best professional stereo pair for studio engineers seeking precise sonic control.
The Austrian Audio OC818 Dual Set Plus is a matched pair of large-diaphragm studio condenser microphones, engineered for exceptional detail and sonic customization. Ideal for stereo miking instruments and ensembles, they feature a handmade 1-inch ceramic capsule with dual gold-plated membranes, offering five primary polar patterns. Advanced users can craft unique patterns using separate outputs and the PolarDesigner plug-in, or opt for wireless control of 255 patterns with the optional Bluetooth module. Front-panel switches manage pad settings and a high-pass filter, all within a durable zinc-aluminum alloy housing. Essential accessories are included for immediate professional use.
$2799.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+451%
Above average
Microphone Type
Matched Pair Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser
/ Matched Pair Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser
Who it's for
- Studio engineers needing flexible post-production pattern control
- Producers seeking transparent, high-fidelity vocal and instrument captures
- Solo recordists requiring remote polar pattern adjustments
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious creators prioritizing cost-effective recording solutions
- Users wanting full functionality without additional accessory purchases
- Home studio owners with limited space or lightweight stands
Performance breakdown
Stereo Imaging Precision
Factory-matched capsules ensure perfect phase coherence for professional stereo recording.
Polar Pattern Versatility
Unmatched flexibility through software-based pattern shaping and remote control options.
Build Integrity
Robust zinc-aluminum housing provides long-term durability for demanding studio environments.
Sonic Detail
Handmade ceramic capsules capture transient response with exceptional clarity and depth.
Workflow Integration
Advanced digital features streamline complex miking setups for modern production workflows.
Control Customization
Deep software integration allows for precise post-recording polar pattern adjustments.
Key Specs
Microphone Type
Matched Pair Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser
Diaphragm Size
1 inch
Polar Patterns
Figure-8, Hypercardioid, Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Wide Cardioid
Pad Settings
-10 dB or -20 dB
High-Pass Filter Frequencies
40 Hz, 80 Hz, or 160 Hz
Housing Material
Zinc-aluminum alloy
Connectivity
Dual-channel output (XLR), optional wireless via OCR8 module
Model Number
17002F11000
Features
- Matched pair for precise stereo imaging
- Dual-diaphragm design for advanced pattern control
- Five switchable polar patterns
- Separate outputs for custom pattern design
- Optional wireless control capability
- Front-panel pad and roll-off switches
- Handmade 1-inch ceramic capsule
- Durable zinc-aluminum alloy construction
What customers say
Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the Austrian Audio OC818 Dual Set for its exceptional sound quality and versatility. Users consistently describe the sonic character as detailed, transparent, and featuring a smooth, nonfatiguing high end, honoring its heritage. The matched dual set is highly valued for superior stereo imaging and phase coherence in applications like overheads. A standout feature is the innovative dual output, which, with the accompanying plugin, offers engineers remarkable flexibility to adjust polar patterns later. Despite its professional price, the robust build and world-class performance across various sources justify the investment. The core sentiment centers on its ability to deliver both vintage warmth and modern precision, making it a serious studio contender.
Know before you buy
The OC818 Dual Set is factory-matched to ensure the frequency response and sensitivity of both microphones are nearly identical. This is critical for stereo recording applications, such as drum overheads or acoustic ensembles, where balanced imaging is essential.
Yes, you can manually select between five primary polar patterns—Figure-8, Hypercardioid, Cardioid, Omnidirectional, and Wide Cardioid—using the physical switches located on the microphone body.
The secondary output allows you to record the rear diaphragm signal independently. By using the PolarDesigner plug-in in your DAW, you can adjust the polar pattern and proximity effect during post-production, giving you immense flexibility after the performance is finished.
The pad settings (-10 dB or -20 dB) help prevent distortion when recording very loud sources like drums or guitar amps. The high-pass filter (40 Hz, 80 Hz, or 160 Hz) helps remove unwanted low-end rumble or mud from your signal before it even hits your preamp.
No, the handmade ceramic capsule is chosen for its thermal stability and structural rigidity. This material helps maintain consistent performance and precise sonic detail even during long recording sessions.
To enable wireless control, you must purchase the optional Austrian Audio OCR8 Bluetooth module. Once attached to the microphone, it allows you to adjust 255 different polar patterns remotely via a mobile app.
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