Matched pair of C 451 B

Precise artistic work deserves precise artistic craftsmanship. A classic by now, the CMS Series CK 1 capsule from AKG was a best seller from the moment it was launched in 1969. Comprising a range of interchangeable capsules and preamps as well as then innovative, dedicated accessories, the CMS Series from AKG quickly became a legend. It was discontinued in 1993. Responding to growing demand from recording engineers, AKG decided to produce the C 451 B with identical acoustical behaviour of the popular original C 451 EB + CK 1 microphone again, with dramatically improved specifications and outstanding price/ performance. The capsule of the new version is fixed permanently to the preamp to eliminate the mechanical problems of the screw joint. Using an extremely light diaphragm, the new C 451 B is almost totally insensitive to handling noise. An all-metal body provides excellent protection from RF interference and the microphone is rugged enough to give excellent results even under very harsh conditions.

The C 451 B is an excellent tool for accurately capturing signals rich in transients such as drums, overhead miking, or other instruments with a percussive sound. The airy sound, high overload limit of the capsule and electronic circuitry, and improved engineering details of the C 451 B are a solid foundation for creating another legend.

The matched pairs consist of two microphones that are within 1 dB to each other in sensitivity and also within 1 dB to each other in the range of 200 Hz to 15,000 Hz of the individual frequency response when used in cardioid mode and are selected from a large quantity of individual microphones using the described criteria by using a proprietary computer program.

Using this matched pair for stereo recordings utilizing various techniques will provide for a good and stable balance without frequency-dependent shifting of the stereo panorama.

The kit includes all the standard accessories of the individual package along with a stereo bar and proof of performance charts in an attractive carrying case (Soundtool case, middle size).

AKG C451 B/ST matched pair main features include:

• Identical acoustics of the legendary CK 1.
  
• Rugged construction.
  
• Ruler-flat on-axis frequency response.
  
• Precise, nearly frequency independent cardioid.
  
• Extremely accurate signal transfer.
  
• Transformerless output stage for minimum distortion at low frequencies.
  
• Protected against electrostatic and magnetic interference.
  
• Selectable 10-dB and 20-dB preattenuation pads.
  
• Switchable highpass filter (75 Hz or 150 Hz, 12dB/octave).
  
• Operates on phantom power to DIN/IEC between 12 V and 48 V.
  
• Complete with SA 40 stand adapter and W 90 windscreen.
  
• Each microphone comes with its own individual frequency response plot.
  

Specifications:

• Polar pattern: Cardioid
  
• Frequency range: 20 to 20,000 Hz
  
• Sensitivity: 9 mV/Pa (-41 dBV)
  
• Max. SPL: 135/145/155 dB (0/-10/-20 dB) (k=0,5%)
  
• Equivalent noise level (CCIR 468-3): 29 dB
  
• Equivalent noise level: 18 dB-A
  
• Signal/noise ratio (A-weighted): 76 dB
  
• Preattenuation pad: 0 dB, 10 dB, 20 dB selectable
  
• Bass filter: Flat, 12 dB/octave at 75 or 150 Hz, selectable
  
• Impedance: <200 ohms
  
• Recommended load impedance: >1000 ohms
  
• Supply voltage: 9 to 52 V phantom power to DIN 45596
  
• Current consumption: <2 mA
  
• Connector: 3-pin XLR
  
• Finish: Satin nickel plated
  
• Dimensions: 19 dia. x 160 mm / 0.75 dia. x 6.3 in.
  
• Net weight: 125 g / 4.4 oz.
  
• Shipping weight: 760 g / 1.7 lbs.