AKG
AKG P820 Tube
Best tube condenser for professional vocalists and studio recording engineers.
Experience the classic warmth and detailed sonic signature of the AKG P820 Tube microphone. Designed for professional audio engineers, this high-performance microphone utilizes advanced tube circuitry to deliver rich, detailed sound ideal for vocals, instruments, and ensembles. Its dual-capsule design and nine selectable polar patterns offer exceptional versatility for any studio recording application. Built with robust construction for durability, the P820 Tube is a reliable choice for both project and professional studios seeking that sought-after tube microphone sound.
$1019.00
More P820 Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+101%
Above average
Type
Tube Condenser Microphone
/ Tube Condenser Microphone
Who it's for
- Producers capturing diverse sources with high dynamic range requirements
- Vocalists and acoustic musicians seeking classic, warm harmonic richness
- Engineers needing versatile polar patterns for complex recording environments
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of ongoing vacuum tube maintenance costs
- Mobile recordists needing a streamlined, portable studio setup
- Home studio owners with limited space or lightweight microphone stands
Performance breakdown
Sonic Warmth
Classic tube circuitry delivers a rich, vintage-inspired harmonic saturation.
Polar Pattern Versatility
Switchable patterns provide essential flexibility for diverse studio recording environments.
Vocal Detail
Dual-capsule design captures nuanced textures with impressive clarity and depth.
Build Integrity
Robust construction ensures long-term reliability in demanding professional studio settings.
Instrument Fidelity
Accurate transient response makes this an excellent choice for acoustic instruments.
Workflow Integration
Standard XLR connectivity integrates seamlessly into any professional signal chain.
Key Specs
Type
Tube Condenser Microphone
Dual-Capsule Design
Polar Patterns
Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional
Frequency Range
20 Hz to 20 kHz
Sensitivity
-34.0 dBV/Pa
Max SPL
135 dB
Impedance
200 ohms
Connectivity
XLR
Features
- Warm, rich tube sound for professional recordings
- Nine selectable polar patterns for versatile recording
- Dual-capsule design captures detailed audio
- Ideal for vocals, instruments, and ensembles
- Robust construction ensures long-lasting durability
- High-quality components for clear audio capture
What customers say
Reviewers praise the P820 Tube microphone for its exceptional sound quality, highlighting its rich warmth and classic tube character. This versatile microphone proves excellent for both vocals and instruments, making it a dependable studio choice. Users appreciate its professional grade performance and impressive sonic depth. Many consider it a valuable investment, offering significant value compared to more expensive tube condensers for those desiring a sought after vintage sound. It is a reliable staple for achieving superior audio.
Know before you buy
The P820 is designed to provide a warm, rich, and classic tube sound. It adds a subtle harmonic saturation that helps vocals and acoustic instruments sit prominently in a mix while maintaining professional clarity.
The P820 features four selectable polar patterns: cardioid, supercardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. This versatility allows you to switch between patterns to suit different recording environments or specific instrument placements.
Yes, the P820 has a maximum SPL of 135 dB, which allows it to handle relatively loud sound sources without distortion. It is well-suited for vocals, acoustic guitars, and even overhead drum miking.
The dual-capsule design is what enables the microphone's multi-pattern functionality. It ensures high-quality audio capture across all settings, providing a consistent and detailed sound regardless of which polar pattern you select.
The microphone covers a full frequency range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This ensures it captures the complete audible spectrum, from deep lows to crisp, detailed highs.
Because it is a tube condenser microphone, it requires the included external power supply unit to operate. You will need to connect the microphone to this unit via the provided multi-pin cable, and then connect the unit to your audio interface or preamp.
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