For many recording enthusiasts building their microphone collection, a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser mic is the logical "second mic" after a workhorse dynamic mic. Thing is, the AKG Perception 220 sounds so good, it makes sense as your very first microphone purchase. With a sophisticated condenser circuit engineered by the maker of the legendary C 414 and C 12 studio condensers, the Perception 220 delivers a sound that's leagues above its price tag. If you're looking to capture pro-quality vocals or voiceover, the AKG Perception 220 is a serious mic.

Detailed Vocal and Acoustic Instrument Tracking

Dynamic mics have a simple and robust build that makes them great for live use or on the loudest of sound sources, but for the detail and depth required of studio recordings, only a condenser microphone like the AKG Perception 220 will do. Designed by AKG for a wide variety of applications, the Perception 220 excels at recording vocals and acoustic instruments like acoustic guitar. Two simple switches tune the mic for different sources. For example, leaving the bass roll-off flat yields a beefy proximity effect, perfect for capturing rich, present, and resonant sung or spoken vocals (think Eddie Vedder or Don Imus). By engaging the bass roll-off, the Perception 220 becomes the perfect tool for capturing an acoustic guitar sound that's detailed, articulate, and cuts through any mix. That's nowhere near the limit… read more of this microphone's applications, of course. Violins, choirs, percussion, and even sound effect/Foley design elements are well served by the Perception 220, and when you engage the -20 dB pad switch, the mic can handle loud sources like electric guitar, bass amps, and drum kits. Just point and hit record; you'll be pleased with the results.

Premium Build Quality, Plus Included Accessories

Designed by AKG in Austria and rigorously quality-controlled, your Perception 220 will be part of your mic locker for many years to come. To add to the microphone's value, AKG includes accessories that many other brands consider "optional" -- accessories such as a metal carrying case and "spider" shock mount. They even throw in an extra elastic band for the shock mount.

Expand Your Recording Options

The AKG Perception 220 sounds so good, you might want two of them. With a price this low, you won't have to think twice about it. The Perception 220 is already a versatile microphone, but a pair of Perception 220s will open your setup to the world of stereo recording techniques. Drum overheads, lifelike acoustic instruments, pianos, sophisticated guitar textures, ambient recording, and much more. If you really want to up the ante on your recording technique vocabulary, the AKG Perception 220 condenser is an excellent starting point.

At some point in your recording career, you're going to own an AKG condenser. Start off on the right foot with the Perception 220, an unbeatable value in affordable recording from AKG. read less