AKG Professional C104 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

AKG C104 — Professional Instrument Condenser Microphone, Precision Capture for Every Source

The AKG C104 is engineered for musicians, engineers, and live sound professionals who need a dedicated instrument condenser microphone that captures the true character of acoustic sources — from the delicate resonance of a violin to the percussive attack of a snare drum.

Built for the Demands of Instrument Miking

Vocal microphones and instrument microphones serve fundamentally different acoustic purposes. Instrument microphones must handle high sound pressure levels from close-miking positions, maintain accuracy across a broad dynamic range, and resist the mechanical handling and environmental conditions of live performance. AKG’s C104 was developed specifically for these demands — a compact condenser with the precision and robustness that instrument applications require.

What It Is

The AKG C104 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone optimised for instrument capture, featuring a cardioid polar pattern and high-SPL handling capability. Its compact form factor allows precise placement on or near instruments where larger microphones cannot be positioned, and its extended frequency response captures the harmonic complexity of acoustic instruments with natural accuracy. Phantom power required.

Key Features

• Small-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule — Small-diaphragm condensers offer superior transient response compared to large-diaphragm alternatives, capturing the fast attack and decay of percussive and acoustic instruments with greater accuracy — critical for instruments like piano, acoustic guitar, and drum overheads.
• Extended Frequency Response — Wide, flat frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz ensures the microphone captures the full tonal character of acoustic instruments without colour or exaggeration — what the instrument sounds like, reproduced faithfully.
• High SPL Handling — Capable of capturing loud instruments at close range without distortion, making it suitable for snare drums, brass, and guitar amplifiers as well as quieter acoustic sources.
• Compact Body Design — The small physical profile allows placement in tight miking positions on drum kits, piano lids, and instrument rigs where a larger microphone body would be impractical or interfere with the performer.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern — Focused directional response rejects off-axis sounds and stage bleed, allowing precise isolation of the target instrument in live and recording environments with multiple simultaneous sources.
• Robust Construction — Built to AKG’s professional durability standards for reliable performance across the demanding conditions of live touring and repeated studio use.

Why the AKG C104 Stands Out

AKG’s professional microphone heritage spans over 75 years of acoustic engineering. The C104 is the product of that experience applied to a specific problem: how do you capture an instrument with the fidelity and accuracy that professionals demand, in a form factor small enough to work in any miking scenario? The answer is a microphone that prioritises transient accuracy, SPL headroom, and physical practicality in equal measure — qualities that distinguish a purpose-designed instrument microphone from a general-purpose condenser pressed into service.

Perfect For

• Recording engineers — Precise instrument capture for studio sessions requiring the natural character of acoustic instruments, percussion, and amplified sources.
• Live sound professionals — Compact design and cardioid pattern make the C104 effective for live miking of instruments where stage real estate is limited and isolation is critical.
• Home studio producers — A professional-grade instrument microphone that elevates the acoustic instrument recordings in any home studio setup.

Best Suited For

Ideal for engineers and musicians who record acoustic instruments regularly and want a dedicated instrument condenser that delivers professional accuracy without the size constraints of large-diaphragm microphones.

Our Promise

Every AKG C104 sold through our store is a genuine AKG product covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Our audio team is available to advise on phantom power requirements, preamp compatibility, and placement techniques for specific instrument applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the C104 require phantom power?
A: Yes — the C104 requires 48V phantom power, standard on all professional audio interfaces, mixing consoles, and preamps. Verify your interface provides phantom power before use.

Q: Is it suitable for drum overhead use?
A: Yes — the extended high-frequency response and transient accuracy of the C104 make it well-suited for drum overhead miking, capturing the full cymbal detail and overhead ambience.

Q: Can it be used for vocals in addition to instruments?
A: While optimised for instruments, the C104 can be used for vocals. Its flat response and cardioid pattern are suitable for vocal capture, though large-diaphragm condensers are typically preferred for lead vocals.

Technical Specifications