AKG CM311 Headworn Condenser Microphone

The legendary CM311 is ideal for active singers, drummers who sing, and anyone who wants a truly great-sounding headset mic with high gain before feedback.

$525.00

  • 8 x  
    $65.63
  • No Credit Check
    6 x  
    $87.50
  • No Credit Check
    4 x  
    $131.25

AKG C420 Headset Cardioid Condenser Microphone

No longer available at zZounds
zZounds Gear Experts Say...
Microphone with adjustable head band and ear pieces; terminated in XLR connector. 20-20kHz response and max SPL of 126 dB @1% THD. Requires 9-52 VDC phantom power and includes windscreen and cable clip.

The second generation of the AKG MicroMics is the result of long-lasting research work conducted with well-known musicians and experienced sound engineers. Several different types of microphones serve every possible situation for vocal and instrumental users:

The C420 includes an elastomer shock mount suspension system that isolates the capsule. It offers a 20-20kHz resonse, and a max SPL of 126 dB @ 1% THD.The C 420 is a vocal microphone with a new, behind-the-ear band for anyone who needs high-quality vocals in a handsfree application.

Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Polar Pattern: Cardioid

Sensitivity: 7 mV/Pa (-43 dBV)

Impedance: 200 ohms

Connector: XLR

Maximum SPL for 1% THD: 126 dB

Size: 130 mm (appr. 5.1 in. circular)

Net/Shipping Weight: 30/540 g (1.1/19 oz.)

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 818-920-3212

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. (30 ratings)
Submitted March 19, 2006 by a customer from storydynamics.com

"Excellent sound, comfortable and rugged."

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Purchaser zZounds has verified that this reviewer purchased this specific product from us.
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
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!

Features
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 read more 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.

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.

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!

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

The Wow Factor
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.

Musical Background:
Active musician and storyteller

Musical Style:
Folk. Spoken word.
read less
11 of 11 people (100%) people found this review helpful. Did you?
Thanks for your opinion!