AKG
AKG C 104
Best professional audio capture for discerning creators.
The AKG C104 is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed for creators. It delivers clean, confident sound with a nickel-sputtered 22mm capsule and a wide 20Hz-20kHz frequency response. This mic handles up to 143dB SPL and offers an ultra-wide dynamic range with low self-noise for transparent recordings. Built with 100% recycled metals and alloys, it combines professional performance with sustainable design, making it ideal for vocals, instruments, podcasting, and streaming.
$129.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1986
/ 3337
#1986 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-75%
Below average
Diaphragm
22
/ mm
Who it's for
- Musicians and podcasters seeking clear, detailed recordings.
- Content creators needing reliable, long-lasting audio equipment.
- Home studio owners desiring a flexible all-around microphone.
Who should skip it
- Beginners with basic audio interfaces lacking phantom power.
- Users recording in untreated or acoustically challenging spaces.
- Audio engineers needing advanced sound shaping capabilities.
Key Specs
Diaphragm
22 mm
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Response
20Hz–20kHz
Max SPL
143 dB
Self-Noise
14dB
Power Source
48V Phantom Power
Build Material
100% recycled PIR metals and alloys
Weight
830 g
Features
- Stable, articulate vocal and speech capture
- Full-range clarity for voice and instruments
- High SPL handling up to 143dB
- Wide dynamic range for subtle detail
- Low self-noise for transparent recordings
- Sustainable design with recycled materials
- Classic AKG sonics and reliability
- Versatile for various sources
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the AKG C 104 for its exceptional sound quality, often highlighting its clear and detailed audio capture across various applications. Many users find it delivers professional grade performance, making it a reliable choice for recording vocals and instruments. While some note its price point, the general consensus suggests strong value for money given its robust build and consistent output. Its straightforward operation also contributes to a positive user experience, reinforcing its reputation as a high quality, dependable microphone.
Know before you buy
Because this is a condenser microphone, you will need an audio interface or mixer that provides 48V phantom power. It connects via a standard XLR cable, which is the industry standard for professional recording setups.
Yes, it is well-suited for loud sources. With a maximum SPL handling of 143dB, it can capture high-volume instruments and percussion without distortion or clipping.
The cardioid pattern is designed to focus on sound directly in front of the microphone while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This makes it an excellent choice for home studios or untreated rooms where you want to minimize background spill.
No, the AKG C104 is a plug-and-play analog device. As long as your interface provides the necessary phantom power, it will work with any recording software or DAW.
With a self-noise rating of 14dB, this microphone is quiet enough to capture subtle vocal nuances without adding a distracting hiss to your tracks. It provides a clean, professional noise floor suitable for podcasting and voice-over work.
The transformerless FET circuit helps maintain a clean, transparent signal path. This design choice ensures that the microphone captures audio with high accuracy and minimal coloration, keeping your recordings sounding natural.
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