2442Z00010 vs 3331H00010 — Compare
AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone vs AKG PCC170 Professional Boundary Layer Microphone 3331H00010
The C391 B is a handheld cardioid condenser built for close-miked studio and live work with extreme SPL headroom, while the PCC170 is a boundary-layer design meant to sit on surfaces and capture room-inclusive sources. Choose the C391 B for vocals and drums requiring precise positioning; choose the PCC170 for acoustic instruments, presentations, and conference tables where placement on a surface is natural.
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AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone
AKG PCC170 Professional Boundary Layer Microphone 3331H00010
Specs side by side
| AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone | AKG PCC170 Professional Boundary Layer Microphone 3331H00010 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499.00 | $510.00 |
| Brand | AKG | AKG |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose AKG C391 B High Performance Condenser Microphone
- ✓ Extreme SPL handling (142 dB with pad) for loud drums and percussion without distortion
- ✓ Lightweight and portable (115 g) for live performance and mobile recording
- ✓ Switchable 10 dB pad and high-pass filter for quick on-the-fly correction
- ✓ Modular capsule system allows future upgrades and customization
Why choose AKG PCC170 Professional Boundary Layer Microphone 3331H00010
- ✓ Boundary-layer design captures articulate, room-integrated audio from a single placement point
- ✓ Ideal for acoustic instruments and presentations without need for stands or hand-holding
- ✓ Smooth, balanced frequency response with presence peak that flatters multiple sources
- ✓ Professional robust construction designed for conference and presentation environments
Frequently asked questions
What's the key difference in how these mics are positioned and used?
The C391 B is a traditional handheld cardioid condenser you hold or mount on a stand for close-miking vocals, drums, and instruments. The PCC170 is a boundary-layer microphone designed to sit flat on a table, podium, or instrument surface, capturing articulate audio from that fixed point without requiring a stand or hand position.
Which mic handles louder sources better?
The C391 B has significantly higher maximum SPL—142 dB with the 10 dB pad engaged—making it suited for close-miked drums and high-output percussion. The PCC170's maximum SPL is not specified; it is not recommended for high-SPL close-miking of drum kits or extreme metal vocals.
Which is better for acoustic guitar and orchestral recording?
The PCC170's boundary-layer design and smooth, balanced frequency response are specifically praised for acoustic instruments without coloration or harshness. The C391 B can also record acoustic instruments well with its transparent neutral response, but it requires hand-holding or stand mounting rather than simple surface placement.
Are both mics professional-grade for studio use?
Yes, both are professional-level condensers with cardioid patterns and balanced XLR connections. The C391 B offers studio-grade noise performance (77 dB-A SNR) and extreme SPL headroom; the PCC170 offers professional reliability and pristine clarity optimized for room-inclusive boundary-layer applications. Choice depends on your recording method—handheld close-miking versus surface-based placement.