AKG EC81 MD Reference Lighweight Cardioid Ear-Hook Microphone Cocoa
Description
AKG EC81 MD Reference Lightweight Cardioid Ear-Hook Microphone Cocoa
The AKG EC81 MD disappears the moment it touches your ear—its featherweight design eliminates the fatigue that comes with extended performances, letting you focus entirely on your playing rather than managing hardware. This cardioid headset captures natural, articulate tone while rejecting ambient noise, making it a reliable choice for touring vocalists, theater performers, and acoustic musicians who demand both sonic clarity and physical freedom on stage. The secure ear-hook fit with adjustable boom length keeps the microphone precisely positioned through dynamic movement, whether working an intimate venue or an outdoor stage.
Audio Performance
The cardioid polar pattern delivers warm, presence-enhanced response that flatters vocal timbre and acoustic instruments while rejecting off-axis noise—essential for live environments where stage monitors and audience sound bleed must be controlled. With a 20–20,000 Hz frequency bandwidth and 57 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio, this microphone captures articulate detail across the full spectrum while maintaining clean gain structure even in quiet passages.
Design & Build
The flexible ear-hook design with adjustable boom length accommodates different head shapes and microphone positioning preferences without requiring tools or adjustments between uses. Its cocoa finish complements stage aesthetics while the included MDA1 adapter connector works with major wireless systems, and the bundled accessories—WM81 wire-mesh cap, W81 windscreen, MUP81 make-up protector, and H3 cable clip—provide immediate protection and practical stage utility.
Key Features
- Cardioid polar pattern for ambient noise rejection
- Audio frequency bandwidth: 20–20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 13 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 57 dB-A
- Electrical impedance at 1 kHz: 35.5 mW
- Flexible ear-hook with adjustable boom length
- Microdot connector compatible with major wireless systems
- Includes MDA1 adapter, WM81 wire-mesh cap, W81 windscreen, MUP81 make-up protector, and H3 cable clip
The EC81 MD combines lightweight ergonomics with professional audio performance, delivering the sonic clarity and secure fit that performers rely on when movement and endurance matter.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | Australia |
Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG EC81 MD is a featherweight cardioid headset microphone designed for touring vocalists, theater performers, and acoustic musicians who need secure positioning and natural tone through extended performances. Its warm, presence-enhanced response flatters vocals while rejecting stage noise, and the adjustable ear-hook fit eliminates fatigue during dynamic movement. Choose it for reliable live sound clarity paired with the physical freedom that lets you focus entirely on your performance.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Touring
- ✓ Vocals
- ✓ Theater/Musical Theater
Not the best pick for
- – Studio Recording
- – Instrument Miking (drums, amplifiers)
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included with the EC81 MD, and will I need additional accessories?
The microphone ships with an MDA1 adapter connector for wireless systems, WM81 wire-mesh cap, W81 windscreen, MUP81 make-up protector, and H3 cable clip. These accessories provide immediate protection and stage utility, so you won't need to purchase extras for basic live use.
How does the cardioid pattern help in a live performance setting?
The cardioid pattern rejects ambient noise and off-axis sound—particularly stage monitors and audience bleed—while delivering warm, presence-enhanced response that flatters vocal timbre. This rejection keeps your mix clean and prevents feedback problems common in touring and theater venues.
Will the ear-hook stay secure during dynamic movement on stage?
Yes. The secure ear-hook fit with adjustable boom length accommodates different head shapes and maintains precise microphone positioning through vigorous movement, whether you're in an intimate venue or performing outdoors.
Is the EC81 MD suitable for miking drums or guitar amplifiers?
No. This microphone is designed specifically for vocals, theater performance, and acoustic instruments worn on the body. It is not recommended for close-miking drums, amplifiers, or other instrument sources where a different polar pattern and frequency response would be more appropriate.
How does the lightweight design affect comfort during long sets?
The featherweight construction eliminates fatigue that comes with extended performances, allowing you to focus on your delivery rather than managing hardware weight. This is particularly important for touring vocalists and theater performers who may wear the microphone for extended periods.
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