AKG C-414 B-XLS AND C-414 B-XL II
May 2004—The next generation of AKG's industry-standard C 414 studio condenser are available in C-414 B-XLS (ultralinear) and C414 B-XL II (transformerless) versions, and have the same pricing as their predecessors but incorporate many new improvements, such as five polar patterns (wide-cardioid was added), 6dBA self-noise spec, internal elastic iso capsule-mount, three bass roll-off choices, three-position pad (-6/12/18 dB), +6 dB more sensitivity and a provision for future optional remote control of all functions.

AKG EMOTION TRIPOWER
October 2003—Emotion and TriPower Series mics incorporate AKG's wired and wireless technology that lets each model be used as a standard wired mic with an XLR output, an XLR output with a silent on/off switch, or as a wireless UHF transmitter by simply changing a module. These new dynamic and condenser microphones have mechanical and acoustic enhancements along with sleek, sophisticated cosmetics.

AKG M-SERIES HANDHELDS
April 2003—Shown at Musikmesse were new versions of AKG's popular handheld mics (the D3700, D880 and TEC Award-winning C900), which will be available later this year in versions with "M" suffixes, equipped with a removable, wired XLR module that's interchangeable with wireless TM40 transmitters, instantly converting the mics to wireless operation. By allowing wired mics to become wireless, the system permits rental houses, tours or musicians to maintain smaller inventories: If a big wireless job comes in, then existing mics are easily converted; likewise, musicians don't have to buy two mics when they go wireless. Brilliant! To read the review on the AKG C900, click here.

AKG C414 B-ULS/SE
November 2002—Another take on a vintage mic is the AKG C 414B-ULS/SE Special Stereo Set, which has a nickel finish like the original 1976 to 1986 C 414EB, but pairs the classic CK12 capsules with modern UltraLinear Series electronics. The two-mic set with case, shock-mounts, stereo bar and windscreens is $2,100.

AKG C 451B
August 2002—The C 451B ($549) from AKG is dedicated to the company's classic 1969 CMS Series mic with interchangeable capsules (namely, the C 451 EB, plus CK 1), the new mic boasts improved specs while faithfully reproducing the original's acoustical behavior. Features include a switchable highpass filter (75 or 150 Hz), switchable pre-attenuation pad, and a flat, on-axis frequency response from 20 to 20k Hz. The mic also provides excellent RF interference protection.

AKG C451B
January 2002—At the fall 2001 AES, AKG debuted the C 451B, a small-diaphragm condenser based on the transducer from its original C 451 EB + CK 1, but in a cardioid-only (noninterchangeable capsule) version with switchable 10/20dB pads, two-step highpass filtering, and new transformerless, low-noise electronics. Retail: $549.

AKG MICROMIC III
September 2001—AKG's MicroMic III Series of live sound mics feature improved signal/noise ratio (5 dB better than the MicroMic II Series). The new line includes the C 430 pencil-type cardioid condenser—specifically for cymbal and overhead miking—and the D 409 hypercardioid dynamic mic, which is designed to clip onto woodwinds, brass, drums and percussion instruments. Most MicroMic III Series models are available with connectors for use with wireless transmitters.

AKG C2000B
October 2000—The C2000B is a side-address, cardioid condenser microphone with a (patent applied for) 1/2-inch active diaphragm that features high sensitivity and low self-noise similar to the best large 1-inch diaphragm mics, but at a much lower cost. Features include switchable 10dB pad, switchable 6dB/octave low-frequency roll-off at 500 Hz. Frequency response: 30 to 20k Hz. Maximum SPL for 0.5% distortion: 150dB SPL. Equivalent noise level: 20 dB(A). Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa. To read the review, click here.

AKG D880 EMOTION SERIES II
October 2000—A dynamic handheld mic for stage use, the D880 has a supercardioid pattern that's frequency-independent for excellent sensitivity at the front of the mic, while rejecting side and rear sounds. Features include a shock-absorbing steel wire-mesh grille, integral wind and pop screen, and a gold-plated XLR connector. List: $142. Frequency response: 60 to 20k Hz. Sensitivity: 2.5 mV/Pa. Equivalent noise level: 18 dB(A). The Series II Emotion Series includes the models D880, D880S, D770 and D660S vocal microphones and the new D440 and D550 instrument microphones.