Austrian Audio OD5 Cardioid Active-Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Best active-dynamic microphone for studio and live instrument recording.
Experience transparent instrument sound with the Austrian Audio OD5, a cardioid active-dynamic microphone handmade in Vienna. Its Open Acoustics technology ensures a linear-cardioid pattern, effectively managing crosstalk for clear audio. Ideal for studio or live stages, it features a convenient swivel-joint for precise angle adjustments. With a wide frequency response and high SPL handling, the OD5 excels on drums, guitar cabinets, and wind instruments, making it a versatile tool for musicians and sound engineers.
$299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-41%
Below average
Frequency Response
2018
/ Hz to kHz
Who it's for
- Engineers seeking condenser sensitivity with dynamic microphone durability
- Studio technicians needing precise placement in tight instrument spaces
- Live sound mixers recording high-volume drums and guitar cabinets
Who should skip it
- Field recordists using gear without 48V phantom power capabilities
- Home studio owners operating on a strict equipment budget
- Engineers preferring the classic, colored sound of industry-standard mics
Performance breakdown
SPL Handling
Easily captures aggressive drum hits without a hint of distortion.
Transient Response
Active-dynamic design delivers the punch and speed of a condenser.
Off-Axis Rejection
Open Acoustics technology keeps bleed from neighboring instruments remarkably low.
Positioning Versatility
The integrated swivel-joint makes tight mic placements effortless and precise.
Frequency Transparency
Provides a natural, uncolored sound profile across the entire spectrum.
Build Quality
Handmade in Vienna with a rugged construction built for touring.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 18 kHz
Maximum SPL Handling
151 dB
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Power Requirement
48V Phantom Power
Connectivity
XLR
Microphone Type
Active-Dynamic
Included Accessories
XLR Cable
Recommended Use
Instrument Recording
Features
- Active-Dynamic capsule needs 48V Phantom power
- Swivel-joint for easy angle adjustments
- Open Acoustics technology for clear sound
- Handles high sound pressure levels
- Integrated low-cut filters for control
- Delivers open and transparent instrument sound
What customers say
Customers highly value the Austrian Audio OD5 for its exceptional clarity and detailed high-frequency response, offering an open sound usually found in condensers while retaining dynamic microphone robustness. The Active Dynamic design is praised for delivering significantly higher output and consistent performance across different preamps. Reviewers find its superb transient response excellent for drums, acoustic instruments, and guitar cabinets where precision matters. Build quality is consistently described as professional and road ready. While the price is premium, users overwhelmingly agree the superior sonic performance justifies the investment, positioning the OD5 as a modern evolution in instrument microphones.
Know before you buy
Yes, because it uses an active-dynamic capsule, it requires 48V phantom power from your audio interface or mixer to operate.
Open Acoustics technology is designed to minimize unwanted reflections and crosstalk, resulting in a more transparent, natural sound that captures your instrument accurately without coloration.
Absolutely. The OD5 is built to handle high sound pressure levels up to 151 dB, making it an excellent choice for loud drums, percussion, and cranked guitar cabinets.
The integrated low-cut filters at 80 Hz and 120 Hz help you clean up your signal by removing unwanted rumble, mud, or low-frequency interference before the sound even hits your preamp.
Yes, the swivel-joint is engineered for precision and reliability, allowing you to easily position the mic in tight spaces or at specific angles without it slipping during a performance.
An active-dynamic microphone uses internal electronics to provide a more consistent frequency response and output level, bridging the gap between the ruggedness of a dynamic mic and the detail of a condenser.
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