AKG D112 MKII Professional Dynamic Bass Drum Microphone
Description
AKG D112 MKII Professional Dynamic Bass Drum Microphone
The AKG D112 MKII is a compact, purpose-built kick drum microphone that mounts securely and captures articulate low-end with minimal fuss. Its presence peak is tailored to lock in every detail of your bass drum technique—from beater click to shell resonance—delivering tight, defined tone whether you're tracking in the studio or dialing in your kit for a live gig. The design prioritizes professional reliability and straightforward setup, yielding a naturally balanced kick drum sound that sits right in the mix without heavy EQ work.
Audio Performance & Polar Characteristics
Operating across a 20–17,000 Hz frequency bandwidth, the D112 MKII captures the full spectrum of kick drum articulation with clarity. Its cardioid polar pattern focuses on-axis pickup while rejecting off-axis bleed, and the integrated hum-compensation coil eliminates electrical interference—essential for tight kick drum isolation on crowded stages. With a maximum SPL rating exceeding 160 dB, this mic handles the peak transients of hard-struck drums without breakup.
Design & Connectivity
Weighing just 300 g (10.6 oz.) and measuring 115 mm in length with a 70 mm diameter, the D112 MKII mounts easily on drum hardware without adding mass or resonance coloration. Output is delivered via a balanced XLR male 3-pin connector with a sensitivity of 1.8 mV/Pa (−55 dBV), and the mic's 210 Ohm electrical impedance integrates cleanly with standard console inputs requiring ≥2,000 Ohm load impedance.
Key Features
- Frequency bandwidth: 20–17,000 Hz
- Maximum SPL (0.5% THD): >160 dB
- Cardioid polar pattern for focused pickup
- Dynamic microphone capsule
- Integrated hum-compensation coil
- Sensitivity: 1.8 mV/Pa (−55 dBV)
- Electrical impedance: 210 Ohms
- Balanced XLR male 3-pin output
- Operating temperature range: −10°C to +60°C (14°F–140°F)
- Length: 115 mm (4.53 in.)
- Diameter: 70 mm
- Net weight: 300 g (10.6 oz.)
The D112 MKII combines high-SPL handling, intuitive cardioid rejection, and AKG's trusted engineering into a mic built for consistent, defined kick drum tone whether you're recording or playing out.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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At a Glance
The AKG D112 MKII is a compact, cardioid dynamic microphone purpose-built for kick drum capture in both studio and live settings. Its presence peak extracts beater click and shell articulation with minimal EQ, while the 160+ dB SPL rating and hum-compensation coil handle hard-struck drums and electrical interference without compromise. Choose it for reliable, naturally balanced kick tone that works equally well in rock, jazz, electronic, and studio recording contexts.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Kick drum isolation
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Jazz
Not the best pick for
- – Vocal recording
- – Ambient instrument miking
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the frequency range and SPL handling of the D112 MKII?
The D112 MKII operates from 20–17,000 Hz and handles a maximum SPL exceeding 160 dB at 0.5% THD, making it capable of capturing the full articulation of kick drums without distortion even under hard striking.
How does the cardioid pattern help isolate the kick drum?
The cardioid polar pattern provides focused on-axis pickup of the kick drum while rejecting off-axis sound, and the integrated hum-compensation coil minimizes electrical interference, both critical for clean kick drum isolation in live and studio environments.
What connector and impedance does the D112 MKII use?
The mic outputs via a balanced XLR male 3-pin connector with 210 Ohm electrical impedance and 1.8 mV/Pa sensitivity; it requires a console or interface input impedance of at least 2,000 Ohms.
Is the D112 MKII suitable for both studio and live performance?
Yes, the D112 MKII is engineered for both studio sessions and live performance, delivering consistent, defined kick drum tone across rock, jazz, electronic, and recording contexts with straightforward operation and professional durability.
How compact is the D112 MKII and how does it mount?
The D112 MKII weighs 300 g (10.6 oz.) and measures 115 mm long with a 70 mm diameter, allowing it to clip securely to drum hardware without adding unwanted mass or affecting resonance.