2439Z00040 vs 2442Z00010 — Compare
AKG CK98 High Performance Short Shotgun Condenser Microphone Capsule vs AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone
The CK98 is a modular shotgun capsule requiring a separate preamp, designed for highly directional close-miking and boom work; the C391 B is a complete cardioid microphone ready to use, suited for studio vocals and instruments. Choose the CK98 for precision directional recording in live/field settings; choose the C391 B for studio work where a finished microphone and cardioid pattern serve better.
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AKG CK98 High Performance Short Shotgun Condenser Microphone Capsule
AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone
Specs side by side
| AKG CK98 High Performance Short Shotgun Condenser Microphone Capsule | AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499.00 | $499.00 |
| Brand | AKG | AKG |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose AKG CK98 High Performance Short Shotgun Condenser Microphone Capsule
- ✓ Hypercardioid shotgun pattern provides extreme directional focus with minimal off-axis pickup
- ✓ Compact 19mm diameter and short 247–262mm length fit tight mic placements and boom arms
- ✓ Maximum SPL reaches 134 dB with pad, handling very loud sources without distortion
- ✓ Modular capsule system allows future preamp or coupling upgrades
Why choose AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone
- ✓ Complete ready-to-use microphone with integrated XLR output—no preamp module required
- ✓ Cardioid pattern and switchable high-pass filter ideal for studio vocals and acoustic instruments
- ✓ Lightweight at 115g with ergonomic design for both fixed studio and portable use
- ✓ Switchable 10 dB pad and high-pass filter provide on-board tone shaping without external gear
Frequently asked questions
Which is ready to use out of the box?
The C391 B is a complete microphone with XLR output and phantom power compatibility. The CK98 is a capsule only and requires purchase of a separate SE300 B preamp module and Modulock coupling to function.
Which pattern works best for studio vocals and acoustic instruments?
The C391 B's cardioid pattern is ideal for isolated studio sources like vocals and acoustic guitars, offering natural rejection of room reflections. The CK98's hypercardioid shotgun pattern is designed for highly directional field recording and close-miking applications.
Can either handle very loud sources?
Both handle loud sources well: the CK98 reaches 134 dB SPL with pad; the C391 B reaches 142 dB SPL with its pad engaged. The CK98's higher maximum is marginal and both exceed typical studio needs.
Which is more portable?
The C391 B is more portable since it arrives as a finished microphone ready to connect to any mixer or interface. The CK98 requires additional components and setup, making it less practical for quick transport or single-mic portable sessions.