I recently received a couple of AKG C151s from Harman Pro for testing.
They’re part of a new range of condenser mics.
The C151 is very simple – there’s no pad switch (not much need – max input is 143dB), there’s no bass roll-off switch (it has a permanent bass roll-off that will suit many uses) and it has no ability to take a battery (so you need an input with phantom power – which is most devices that are worth owning).
All you get in the box (apart from a little bit of paperwork) is a decent clip to mount the mic on a stand.
It’s a solid, chunky-feeling thing. The build is really nice. I like it. And it’s very affordable at around £120.
The only thing to watch for – and it’s no shame at this price – is the slightly higher noise floor compared to other (more expensive) mics. On a live stage this will be a non-issue in most cases.
On a quick voice test it’s not susceptible to breath pops, but outside I’d expect to be adding a foam windshield (not supplied). The high frequency emphasis can make it a little sibilant, dependent on the voice, correctable with EQ or a de-esser.
Watch the video below:
AKG C151 Microphone Initial Test and Specs Review
I’ll do more tests when I can get it out into the field on my live sound engineering gigs. I’ll be testing on voice, wind instruments, guitars, and as a drum overhead.