Akg D12 Vs D112

When it first appeared in 1953 the AKG D12 was presented as a high quality, general purpose musician's microphone. Suitable for instruments and vocals. As such, it very rapidly gained popularity. (A bit like a Shure 55, but without the chrome and the stylish good looks!)

AKG Advert from the late 50's

The AKG D112 is a fantastic microphone for various applications both on stage and in the studio. It's price point is very attractive to budding producers and sound engineers of all levels. If you're just getting your first studio or live sound rig together, or if you are working at a professional level, this is a microphone that you can.

• They're totally different. To my ears, the d112 doesn't have a whole lot of low lows, has a scooped midrange, and has a nasty peak for that clicky sound. If you need the modern kick drum sound, it's got it in spades, and occasionally I'll wish I had it around. The d12 on the other hand, I use all the time.
• AKG D12/D112 In 1953, AKG introduced its famed D12 large-diaphragm dynamic microphone, its low sensitivity and high wind resistance making it a leading choice for recording upright bass or bass drum; its successor is the D112, nicknamed 'the egg.' 'The D112 is a good, serviceable microphone,' says Matt Wallace, producer for Maroon 5.

With the growth of multi-track recording in the 1960's the D12's particular ability to handle low frequencies at high SPLs was soon acknowledged and increasingly it gravitated to bass drum duties. By the time I started recording in the mid-70's it was the bass drum microphone of choice for most recording studios. (Certainly on this side of the Atlantic.) Apart from the D12 itself, there were a number of similar (theme and variations) microphones from AKG including the D20, D25, D30 etc. Slightly different frequency responses, shock mountings and filters.

In 1978 the AKG D12 was reissued as the AKG D12E and now came with an XLR socket.

Akg D12 Vs D112 Nikon

A couple of weeks ago I sat down to write this blog post on the AKG D12 and had intended, as usual, to illustrate with some suitable recorded examples……. Now here's the problem.

If I am commissioned to record a fabulous Stradivarius violin, or a superb Steinway piano, my intention (as you might expect), would be to reproduce the sound of that instrument as faithfully as possible along with the acoustics of the studio or concert hall. The same might be true for a great saxophone, a terrific trumpet or a classic guitar through a vintage amp.

However, in the world of rock'n'roll drumming things are very different!! It would appear that pretty much the last thing anyone wants to hear is the actual sound of the bass drum!

After some preliminary research I soon discovered that all the drummers I know ‘treat' their bass drums in some way or another, ranging from bits of tape, damping rings, Moon Gel, special heads, cushions, pillows and even a duvet! Many of these bass drums also require considerable amounts of EQ whatever mic you choose …… and then it depends what sort of music you are recording. A great heavy metal bass drum sound doesn't really work for jazz! Consequently I haven't recorded any examples as it seemed completely pointless, and would probably demonstrate more about the drummer's taste in soft furnishings than about the qualities of the microphone. I think that all I can say is that the AKG D12, and its close relatives, will put up with any amount of SPL and respond well to whatever EQ you throw at them!

Conclusion.

Whether or not the D12 is / was the greatest bass drum mic in the world, who knows? Maybe? It has appeared in front of more famous bass drums than most!

Ready to record that perfect kick drum sound for your latest home recording masterpiece? Hold on – there is a huge probability that a normal microphone will not capture that rich bass sound you produce. But worry no more! AKG D112 MKII is here to help you out.

In this review, we will focus on this amazing studio microphone – its specs and features. Let's start!

AKG Advert from the late 50's

The AKG D112 is a fantastic microphone for various applications both on stage and in the studio. It's price point is very attractive to budding producers and sound engineers of all levels. If you're just getting your first studio or live sound rig together, or if you are working at a professional level, this is a microphone that you can.

• They're totally different. To my ears, the d112 doesn't have a whole lot of low lows, has a scooped midrange, and has a nasty peak for that clicky sound. If you need the modern kick drum sound, it's got it in spades, and occasionally I'll wish I had it around. The d12 on the other hand, I use all the time.
• AKG D12/D112 In 1953, AKG introduced its famed D12 large-diaphragm dynamic microphone, its low sensitivity and high wind resistance making it a leading choice for recording upright bass or bass drum; its successor is the D112, nicknamed 'the egg.' 'The D112 is a good, serviceable microphone,' says Matt Wallace, producer for Maroon 5.

With the growth of multi-track recording in the 1960's the D12's particular ability to handle low frequencies at high SPLs was soon acknowledged and increasingly it gravitated to bass drum duties. By the time I started recording in the mid-70's it was the bass drum microphone of choice for most recording studios. (Certainly on this side of the Atlantic.) Apart from the D12 itself, there were a number of similar (theme and variations) microphones from AKG including the D20, D25, D30 etc. Slightly different frequency responses, shock mountings and filters.

In 1978 the AKG D12 was reissued as the AKG D12E and now came with an XLR socket.

Akg D12 Vs D112 Nikon

A couple of weeks ago I sat down to write this blog post on the AKG D12 and had intended, as usual, to illustrate with some suitable recorded examples……. Now here's the problem.

If I am commissioned to record a fabulous Stradivarius violin, or a superb Steinway piano, my intention (as you might expect), would be to reproduce the sound of that instrument as faithfully as possible along with the acoustics of the studio or concert hall. The same might be true for a great saxophone, a terrific trumpet or a classic guitar through a vintage amp.

However, in the world of rock'n'roll drumming things are very different!! It would appear that pretty much the last thing anyone wants to hear is the actual sound of the bass drum!

After some preliminary research I soon discovered that all the drummers I know ‘treat' their bass drums in some way or another, ranging from bits of tape, damping rings, Moon Gel, special heads, cushions, pillows and even a duvet! Many of these bass drums also require considerable amounts of EQ whatever mic you choose …… and then it depends what sort of music you are recording. A great heavy metal bass drum sound doesn't really work for jazz! Consequently I haven't recorded any examples as it seemed completely pointless, and would probably demonstrate more about the drummer's taste in soft furnishings than about the qualities of the microphone. I think that all I can say is that the AKG D12, and its close relatives, will put up with any amount of SPL and respond well to whatever EQ you throw at them!

Conclusion.

Whether or not the D12 is / was the greatest bass drum mic in the world, who knows? Maybe? It has appeared in front of more famous bass drums than most!

Ready to record that perfect kick drum sound for your latest home recording masterpiece? Hold on – there is a huge probability that a normal microphone will not capture that rich bass sound you produce. But worry no more! AKG D112 MKII is here to help you out.

In this review, we will focus on this amazing studio microphone – its specs and features. Let's start!

Specs

AKG D112 MKII Features

AKG D112 MKII is a dynamic microphone. Which can handle extremely high sound levels. Perfect for recording vocals and instruments. Dynamic mics are almost unaffected by extreme changes of temperature and even humidity.

This microphone is also a Cardioid mic. Meaning they have the most sensitivity at the front and the least at the back. These types of microphones are really great for loud stages.

When it comes to frequency response, D112 MKII is pretty broad. It is specifically created for kick drums. But the D112 has a wider frequency range that makes it perfect for other low-end instruments like bass guitars.

MKII has a standard screw thread allowing it to be connected directly to the mic stand, avoiding the need for a clip. Its XLR connector projects from the side and front of its shaft. While the stand mount locks in the vertical position allowing it to swivel back, up to 90º, and at various angles. Its joint is stiff, making it easy for recording itself.

AKG D112 MKII is considered as one of the lightest studio microphones. One of the major selling points of this mic, you will be happy to know that this one doesn't cause your full-sized boom stand to tip over! Also, it might not seem a major thing but some people might think it is important. AKG D112 MKII has an integrated standard screw thread which is connected directly to the mic stand, eliminating the need for a clip. Again, it is not something major.

AKG D112 vs AKG D112 MKII

AKG D112 MKII preserved the classic silver grill and egg-shaped with a green line from the original.

The most significant difference between the original and MKII is the stand mount. This is a great improvement because the original mic has a very narrow stand mount compared to most common microphones. This means you have to use a narrow AKG mic clip to mount the original correctly. This is a very specialist gear that is easy to go missing, wear out, and even break. Which can be problematic for most people.

There are even some instances that people will wrap tape on it a couple of times so it will fit on a standard mic clip. Making it tricky to mount the original D112.

As we all know and learned from our guide for recording at your home, mic placement is one of the keys to getting the sound of your vocals and instrument you want.

There is a saying, 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'. And this is something that AKG lives by. MKII has almost identical specs to the original.

How to Set Up AKG D112 MKII

Based on our guide on how to record vocals at home we include mic placement as one of the key components to getting the best recording. And the placement of SKG D112 MKII is not an exception.

To be honest, there is no perfect mic placement, it all depends on your space. It is imperative to try various stuff and experiment. We made a few pointers to get the best sound using AKG D112 MKII, we call it 4Ps.

• Pull out the front head of your bass drum when miking it.
• Place your AKG D112 MKII just outside your drum to get the full drum sound. Reminder, if you place your mic inside you won't get the full punchy bass sound and only get a lower version.
• Point your microphone towards the beater to make a louder and fuller sound to emphasize the click of the beater when hitting the drum. If you point your mic away, you will be able to get a mellower sound. Which will defeat the purpose of getting and using AKG D112 MKII – a dedicated mic for kick drums and bass instruments.
• Put your AKG D112 MKII approximately 4″ to 8″ away from the bridge. By doing this, you will increase the warmth and fullness of your bass sound.

These are just simple tips for beginners and if you need more in-depth instructions, you can use their manual for clarifications. But with all mic placements of various microphones like D112 MKII, a bit trial and error can help you learn which position works for you. Basically, experimentation is the key.

Conclusion

AKG D112 MKII works great with kick drums and bass guitar amps, making it a very versatile mic for all your low-end bass needs.

MKII gives a more modern sound compared to other bass microphones. Bengoo g9000 stereo gaming headset drivers. But remember, there might be a lot of factors that will affect the sound quality of your recordings, like mic placement. The only indicator that you can use is your ears to help you choose the right microphone for you. It might be best to get yourself studio headphones or monitors to help you hear your recordings clearly.

Many people will go for D112 because it has lower coloration and it is easier to tweak the tone after recording. This is something to consider as well.

If you are looking for less EQed and more boxy – the sound is like recorded in a small closet, AKG D112 MKII might be the one for you.

Akg D12 Vs D112 Mercedes

Akg D12 Vs D112 Mini

• This mic is perfect for all kinds of bass.
• Flexible integrated mic mount.
• Retaining sonic strength from its predecessors.
• High SPL capability, punchy EQ, and bulletproof construction.
• A little thin resonant quality, but with a fair amount of punch.
• XLR location is a bit problematic.
• Large-diaphragm for accurate low frequencies.
• Integrated hum-compensation coil.

Akg D112 Specs

Akg D12 Vs D112 Sl

Akg D112 Ebay