AKG P420 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The AKG P420 is a highly-versatile large dual-diaphragm condenser microphone that belongs in AKG’s Professional Projects line of mics that vary in features, but are all excellent choices for demanding singers and project studio engineers. This particular model shines for it longer list of features that make it a true home studio multi-tool, excelling on far more than just vocals while being competitively priced.

This large diaphragm condenser microphone offers a a choice in cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure 8 polar patterns with an impressive frequency response of 20Hz – 20kHz, making it perfectly suited in a variety of miking applications for ensembles, pianos, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and—of course, vocals.

A switchable 20dB attenuation pad for high SPL recordings of up to 155 dB means that there’s not much that can challenge the P420 in terms of volume. This means you can track audio of wide dynamic range—perfect for screamers and opera singers.

A low‑cut filter rolls off at 12 dB/octave from 300Hz downward, reducing low-end distortion and noise while additionally minimizing proximity effect from close-up miking.

Constructed in a rugged all-metal body, the AKG P420 rejects RF interference from wireless or communication devices making use of smartphones for reading lyrics no issue. It feels heavy and durable and built to resist high temperatures and humidity—well fit for life on the road. And to further deliver value it includes is a very well-constructed shock mount and aluminum carrying case.

In terms of sound, the AKG P420 has an impressively flat frequency response and fairly neutral overall sound. This is what makes it such a workhorse and fit for so many miking applications. The general tonal character remains sensibly consistent between the three polar patterns, with a slight presence boost in the omnidirectional and figure 8 settings. It’s capable of handling high-end detail quite smoothly with no over-hyping.

When looking at price to performance, the AKG P420 is an extremely safe bet. The selectable polar patterns give a vocalist room to play—recording group vocals, capturing a sense of space and room ambience… It is well constructed, full of features and is fully capable of capturing all the details of a great performance.

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