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AKG C417 Professional Lavalier Microphone vs AKG C518M Professional Miniature Clamp-On Condenser Microphone
The C417 is a lavalier designed for body-worn, hands-free vocal capture in theater, broadcast, and presentations; the C518M is an instrument microphone with a clamp mount for drums, amps, and live sound reinforcement. Choose the C417 if you need discreet talent miking; choose the C518M if you're recording or reinforcing loud instruments.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
AKG C518M Professional Miniature Clamp-On Condenser Microphone
Specs side by side
| AKG C417 Professional Lavalier Microphone | AKG C518M Professional Miniature Clamp-On Condenser Microphone | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $165.00 | $395.00 |
| Brand | AKG | AKG |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose AKG C417 Professional Lavalier Microphone
- ✓ Tiny 15mm height fits discreetly on clothing and costumes
- ✓ Omnidirectional pattern captures consistent sound from any talent movement
- ✓ Comes in pack of 30 with tie clip, windscreen, and bag included
- ✓ Pre-polarized with optional mini-XLR for direct wireless body pack integration
Why choose AKG C518M Professional Miniature Clamp-On Condenser Microphone
- ✓ Cardioid pattern with off-axis rejection for clean instrument isolation
- ✓ Integrated clamp mount with gooseneck for secure drum and amp positioning
- ✓ Handles 130–132 dB SPL without distortion for loud sources
- ✓ Built-in shock mount reduces vibration noise from percussion and amplifiers
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the C417 to record drums or amplifiers?
No. The C417 maxes out at 126 dB SPL and is designed for voices and dialogue. The C518M reaches 130–132 dB SPL and is built with a cardioid pattern and shock mount specifically for instruments.
Can I use the C518M as a lavalier for a speaker or actor?
No. The C518M requires a clamp mount and has a cardioid pattern that rejects off-axis sound, making it unsuitable for body-worn talent who move around. The C417 is omnidirectional and comes with a tie clip for that purpose.
What is the main frequency response difference?
The C417 covers 20–20,000 Hz for smooth vocal reproduction. The C518M starts at 60 Hz, trading low-end extension for cleaner off-axis rejection and tighter instrument miking.
Why does the C417 come in a pack of 30 and the C518M in a pack of 12?
The C417 is a consumable lavalier for high-turnover theater and broadcast environments where many talents need miking simultaneously. The C518M is a durable instrument clamp that sees longer-term use, so fewer units are typically purchased at once.