AKG C3000 High-Performance Large-Diaphram Condenser Microphone - 2785X
Description
AKG C3000 High-Performance Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
The AKG C3000 is a large-diaphragm condenser built around a robust die-cast metal housing that delivers the solid feel of a pro-grade instrument. Its smooth, slightly presence-peaked character captures vocals and instruments with pristine detail, sitting naturally in a mix without demanding excessive EQ work. The forgiving proximity response and intuitive handling make this microphone equally suited to tracking your own performances or capturing studio sessions.
Design & Build
Heavy-duty die-cast metal construction with a gold-sputtered one-inch capsule ensures durability and consistent performance over years of use. At 320 g and measuring 162 mm in height with a 19 mm diameter, the C3000 balances presence with practical desk or stand positioning, while the included H85 Universal Shock Mount isolates vibration and handling noise effectively.
Audio Performance
A cardioid polar pattern with 20–20,000 Hz frequency response delivers transparent high-end clarity across vocal and instrumental sources. The 150 dB maximum SPL, 14 dB-A equivalent noise level, and >80 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio combine to provide clean, dynamic capture without sacrificing headroom or introducing unwanted noise floor artifacts.
Key Features
- Gold-sputtered one-inch large-diaphragm capsule
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
- Maximum SPL: 150 dB
- Equivalent noise level: 14 dB-A
- Signal-to-noise ratio: >80 dB-A
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa
- -10 dB preattenuation pad
- Bass cut filter at 500 Hz (6 dB/octave)
- Balanced 3-pin XLR male output
- Phantom power: 9–52 V, 2 mA
- Includes H85 Universal Shock Mount
The C3000 combines transparent acoustic performance with reliable operation, delivering polished, session-ready results across diverse recording applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C3000 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone built with die-cast metal construction and a gold-sputtered one-inch capsule, designed for studio tracking and live recording applications. Its smooth, slightly presence-peaked character and forgiving proximity response make it well-suited for vocalists and musicians who need transparent capture without excessive post-processing, while the included shock mount and cardioid polar pattern isolate your sound on stage or in the studio. Choose it for reliable, detailed performance that sits naturally in a mix—a workhorse condenser that handles both intimate sessions and demanding live-sound tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the box?
The AKG C3000 comes with the microphone, an H85 Universal Shock Mount for vibration isolation, and all necessary cables. You will need a mixing console, audio interface, or mixer with phantom power (9–52 V) to operate it.
What sources does this microphone work best on?
The C3000's cardioid polar pattern and smooth, slightly presence-peaked character excel on vocals, acoustic instruments, and room recordings. The built-in 500 Hz bass cut filter and -10 dB preattenuation pad allow you to tailor response for proximity-heavy sources or high-SPL instruments without distortion.
How does the C3000 compare to other large-diaphragm condensers at this price?
The C3000 combines a die-cast metal housing and gold-sputtered capsule with transparent 20–20,000 Hz frequency response and a high signal-to-noise ratio (>80 dB-A), delivering studio-grade durability and clean capture at an affordable price point. Its forgiving proximity response and included shock mount reduce the learning curve and setup complexity.
Is this microphone suitable for live sound or only studio recording?
The C3000 is primarily engineered for studio and tracking applications, though its cardioid pattern and 150 dB maximum SPL allow it to handle dynamic sources in live-sound reinforcement or recording live performances if your system design calls for it.
What does the -10 dB pad and bass cut filter do?
The -10 dB preattenuation pad reduces input level by 10 dB to prevent clipping on very loud sources, while the 500 Hz bass cut filter (6 dB/octave) reduces proximity effect and rumble, giving you more control over your recorded tone without external EQ.
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