Austrian Audio OD505 WL1
Best professional microphone for demanding live vocal performances.
This dynamic microphone capsule offers a supercardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 35 Hz to 16 kHz, making it suitable for vocal recording and speech applications. It boasts a high maximum SPL of 150 dB and a sensitivity of 4.4 mV/Pa. Designed as a replacement capsule for Shure, Sony, and Lectrosonics handheld transmitters, it provides an excellent alternative to standard capsules, delivering a fat, punchy sound with enhanced resolution and sensitivity. Its open acoustic design helps to soften cymbal bleed and reduce unwanted frequencies, though it can be susceptible to plosives and handling noise without a low-cut filter.
$241.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-53%
Below average
Capsule type
Dynamic
/ Dynamic
Who it's for
- Vocalists seeking studio-quality sound on stage
- Live performers and sound engineers battling stage feedback
- Professionals with existing Shure wireless microphone systems
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious musicians or venues with limited funds
- New users without an existing Shure wireless setup
- Artists preferring a more traditional or colored dynamic microphone tone
Performance breakdown
Vocal Presence
Delivers a fat, punchy sound that cuts through dense live mixes.
Off-Axis Rejection
Open acoustic design effectively minimizes distracting cymbal bleed on stage.
System Compatibility
Seamlessly upgrades standard wireless handhelds from major industry manufacturers.
SPL Handling
Easily manages high-volume sources without introducing unwanted distortion.
Plosive Control
Requires careful mic technique or a low-cut filter to manage pops.
Handling Noise
Sensitive to physical vibrations, necessitating steady hands during live performances.
Key Specs
Capsule type
Dynamic
Directional characteristic
Supercardioid
Frequency range
35 Hz - 16 kHz
Sensitivity
4.4 mV/Pa
Max. SPL
150 dB
Compatible with
Shure, Sony, Lectrosonics handheld transmitters
Features
- Enhanced resolution and sensitivity
- Open Acoustic design for clarity
- Reduces cymbal bleed and unwanted frequencies
- Replacement for major wireless systems
- Fat and punchy vocal sound
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Austrian Audio OD505 WL1 for its exceptional sound quality, noting its pristine clarity and detailed vocal reproduction. Many highlight the robust build, emphasizing its durability and reliable performance in demanding live and studio environments. Users appreciate the professional grade construction, which contributes to a sense of long term value and trustworthiness. The overall sentiment points to a product that delivers on its promise of high fidelity audio and enduring quality, making it a favored choice among discerning audio professionals seeking consistent, top tier performance.
Know before you buy
The OD505 WL1 is designed as a direct replacement capsule for handheld transmitters from Shure, Sony, and Lectrosonics. It allows you to upgrade your existing wireless system with Austrian Audio's signature sound profile.
The Open Acoustic design minimizes unwanted reflections and helps reduce cymbal bleed from nearby drums. This results in a cleaner, more isolated vocal signal, which is particularly useful on busy stages.
While not strictly required, using a low-cut filter is highly recommended. Because the capsule is sensitive, it can be prone to plosives and handling noise, which a high-pass or low-cut filter will effectively manage.
The OD505 WL1 offers a noticeably 'fatter' and punchier sound compared to most standard dynamic capsules. It provides higher resolution and sensitivity, making it a great choice if you want your vocals to cut through a dense mix with more detail.
Yes, the capsule features a high maximum SPL of 150 dB. This makes it capable of handling very loud vocalists or high-pressure sound sources without distorting.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.