AKG C420 Headset Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Feature:
This mic has no accessories. It requires phantom power, which may be in a problem in certain on-the-road situations. So far, it has been durable. I have carried it around at times in the ample-sized foam-lined cardboard box in which it came. I guess a real travel-case would be even better (like the 414 comes in) But I have had no problems! I find the "behind the neck" style very comfortable and unobtrusive. I regularly wear it with headphones over it and it doesn't squish my ears enough to be a problem. Because so little of the unit is beside or in front of my face, I would consider this a good performing mic. It doesn't obscure my face. But I have used it strictly for recording.

Quality:
This has been reliable throughout the three years I have owned it. I am very satisfied and would recommend it to anyone who has the ability to eq the bass and can accommodate the phantom power and XLR connector.

Value:
I paid $320 about 3 years ago. At its current price of about $200, it's a steal!

Desirability:
I traded in a supposedly "top of the line" headset for this one. The other was uncomfortable and obtrusive. I could never get used to it. This one just sits lightly and moves easily with my head. For that and the excellent sound quality, it's very cool.

Sound:
Very good sound quality. I have made over 30 commercial recordings (voice only) using this mic, and I have been very happy with the sound. I prefer a headset to my AKG 414, since its high ambient-sound rejection allows me to record in a normal room. The 414 has superior sound but requires a quieter space. I also prefer the headset because I can look down at notes, etc., without changing my mouth's relationship to the mic. If I could make one change to this mic, it would only be to reduce the proximity-effect low end boost. This is not a deal-breaker, but it means that every recording needs immediate eq to reduce the extra bass. Note: this may not be a problem with a female voice!

Ease of Use:
The greatest conveniences are the easy fit and the shirt-collar clip for the cord. The clip keeps clothing moving from causing spurious sounds in the mic. It's a nice touch, well done. The ony inconvenience is having to eq the bass boost.

Support:
This has been so reliable I have needed no support!

Overall:
I have no plans to change this. If there were even better sound quality I would consider another headset - but it would have to be as easy to wear as this one. This is one of my favorite pieces of gear!

Sound:


Overall:
I've had this mic for a couple of months, and have this to say: It sounds great, as long as you're nowhere near your drum kit. It has no separation, and very little off-axis rejection - the snare and cymbals are often louder than the wearer's voice, even though hisher mouth is much closer (1/4" or less). You'd almost be better off trying to sing into your overheads. This mic is going back to the store where I bought it.