2895H00210 vs 3361H00250-B — Compare

AKG C451 B Reference Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Stereo Set vs AKG CS3 BU Conference Base Unit (Old Sku: 3361H00010) B-Stock

The AKG C451 B is a stereo pair of small-diaphragm condensers for capturing instruments and room ambience with detailed transients and high SPL handling; the CS3 BU is a conference system controller for managing large microphone arrays in meeting environments. Choose the C451 B for studio and live instrument recording, and the CS3 BU for professional conferencing installations.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

AKG C451 B Reference Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Stereo Set

$1,599.00
View AKG C451 B Reference Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Stereo Set

AKG CS3 BU Conference Base Unit (Old Sku: 3361H00010) B-Stock

$1,277.60
View AKG CS3 BU Conference Base Unit (Old Sku: 3361H00010) B-Stock

Specs side by side

AKG C451 B Reference Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Stereo SetAKG CS3 BU Conference Base Unit (Old Sku: 3361H00010) B-Stock
Price$1,599.00$1,277.60
BrandAKGAKG
ConditionNewRefurbished

Why choose AKG C451 B Reference Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Stereo Set

  • ✓ Matched stereo pair for coincident or spaced stereo miking of drums, strings, and acoustic instruments
  • ✓ 155 dB maximum SPL handles loud sources without distortion
  • ✓ Switchable pads and bass-cut filters for flexible tonal shaping and placement options
  • ✓ Compact 19 mm diameter body minimizes visual footprint on mic stands

Why choose AKG CS3 BU Conference Base Unit (Old Sku: 3361H00010) B-Stock

  • ✓ Manages up to 60 microphone stations in a single system
  • ✓ Four operating modes and selectable NOM limits control feedback and open microphone count
  • ✓ Integrated RS-232 interface for optional camera control and hybrid meeting coordination
  • ✓ Efficient SMPS power supply with low static draw keeps operational costs predictable
Bottom line: Purchase the C451 B if you record instruments, drums, or acoustic sources in studios or live settings. Purchase the CS3 BU if you deploy large-scale conference systems or require centralized microphone control across multiple stations.

Frequently asked questions

Can these products work together?

No. The C451 B is a microphone for capturing sound; the CS3 BU is a control unit for managing multiple microphones in conference systems. They serve entirely different purposes and are not designed to integrate.

Which is better for a home recording studio?

The AKG C451 B is appropriate for home studio instrument recording. The CS3 BU is not suitable for home use and is designed only for professional conferencing installations with many microphone stations.

What's the noise floor difference between these products?

The C451 B has an 18 dB-A equivalent noise floor, making it suitable for quiet studio recording. The CS3 BU is a control unit without a microphone noise specification; it manages audio from external microphones connected to its system.

What skill level do I need to operate each?

The C451 B requires intermediate to professional experience with microphone placement and technique. The CS3 BU requires professional system administration knowledge for conference setup and mode configuration.

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