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AKG C451 B Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The C451 B is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser that recreates the acoustic behavior of the legendary C451 EB + CK1, a bestseller from 1969. Its airy, detailed top end and high overload limit make it a standard for drum overheads, hi-hat, acoustic guitar, and orchestral spot miking, where its fast transient response keeps stick and string detail intact.

Switchable -10 / -20 dB pads and 75 / 150 Hz bass-cut filters adapt it to loud close sources and tame proximity buildup. A handcrafted capsule and low-noise preamp keep it reliable under harsh stage conditions. It ships with the W90 windscreen, SA60 stand adapter, and a microphone bag; the matched pair provides two factory-selected mics for stereo work.

TypeSmall-diaphragm condenser
Polar PatternCardioid
Frequency Range20 - 20,000 Hz
Equivalent Noise Level18 dB-A
Sensitivity9 mV/Pa
Pad / Bass-Cut-10 / -20 dB pad; 75 / 150 Hz low-cut
Dimensions160 mm long, 19 mm diameter; 125 g
Output3-pin XLR, 9-52 V phantom; includes W90 windscreen, SA60 adapter, bag