AKG Two-Way Microphones
Discover the revolutionary AKG Two-Way Microphone system, a significant advancement in audio engineering, offering superior performance for professional sound applications.
The Two-Way Microphone System Concept
The AKG Two-Way Microphone system is based on a revolutionary concept, subdividing the total response range between a high-frequency transducer (tweeter) and a low-frequency transducer (woofer), similar to a two-way speaker system. These transducers are combined with a crossover network, typically set at 500 Hz, to achieve a more accurate and consistent sound reproduction.
This innovative design addresses limitations found in conventional cardioid dynamic microphones, such as narrower frequency ranges, response irregularities, lower sensitivity, and frequency-dependent directional characteristics. AKG's research, aided by an analog computer simulator, led to this system which offers a flat frequency response, linear off-axis response, and uniform front-to-back discrimination.
Internally, the system features a high-frequency system mounted on the protective cap of the low-frequency system. The low-frequency system is connected to a mass tube with rear openings, designed to reduce wind sensitivity. The high-frequency system incorporates shock mounting to minimize handling noise and a compensating winding to counteract magnetic stray fields. The crossover network is integrated into the lower part of the microphone. Some models, like the D-202E and D-224E, include an electrical bass attenuator for reducing low frequencies.
Key performance advantages include:
- Flat Frequency Response: Optimal adjustment of both low and high-frequency systems ensures a flat response across the entire audible range, with an unnoticeable crossover point.
- Linear Off-Axis Response: Sound reaching the microphone at 90° off-axis is reproduced naturally, without the frequency discrimination common in other dynamic microphones.
- Uniform Front-to-Back Discrimination: Maintains at least 20 dB discrimination over the entire frequency range, significantly reducing feedback and improving microphone placement flexibility.
- Absence of Proximity Effect: Unlike other directional microphones, the two-way system eliminates the rise in low-frequency response when used in close-up applications.
These features provide significant advantages in recording applications for faithful sound pickup and in public address systems for feedback control and speaker placement freedom.
(Visual Description: A cross-section diagram illustrates the internal components of the two-way microphone system, showing the high-frequency and low-frequency transducers, crossover network, shock mount, and mass tube with rear openings.)
AKG D-200E Two-Way Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
The D-200E is characterized by its smooth, wide-range frequency response, linear off-axis response, and uniform front-to-back discrimination. It features a "floating" rubber suspension system that virtually eliminates handling and cable noise and protects the microphone from shocks. The housing is designed for maximum ruggedness and a modern aesthetic.
Technical Data:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 30-15,000 Hz ±3 dB |
| Sensitivity | -55 dB (re 1 mW/10 dynes/cm²), 0.16 mV/µbar |
| Impedance | 200 ohms ±15%-30% |
| Min. Actual Load Impedance | ≥500 ohms |
| Directional Characteristics | Frequency-independent cardioid |
| Max. Sound Pressure Level | 120 dB SPL (at 40 Hz, 0.5% distortion), 128 dB SPL (at 1,000 Hz & 5,000 Hz, 0.5% distortion) |
| Diaphragm | Non-metallic MAKROFOL |
| Connections | XLR-3 (1: Shield, 2: Positive, 3: Negative) |
| Dimensions | 7" long, 1" diameter |
| Weight | 8 ounces |
(Visual Description: A frequency response graph shows the D-200E's performance, and polar diagrams illustrate its cardioid pattern.)
Accessories for D-200E:
- SA-20: Stand adapter (quick disconnect)
- SA-10/3: Stand adapter (around connector)
- SA-18/6: Stand adapter with built-in suspension
- W-4: Windscreen (foam)
- ST-4: Table stand
- ST-305: Table stand
- ST-200: Floor stand
- MSH-58E: Flexible shaft
AKG D-202E Two-Way Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
The D-202E is the original deluxe cardioid dynamic microphone utilizing the two-way system. It offers a virtually flat response across the entire audible range, with off-axis response parallel to the on-axis response. It provides 20 dB front-to-back discrimination with approximately 2 dB tolerance for maximum feedback cancellation. The D-202E features a sintered bronze cap that acts as a windscreen and pop filter, is waterproof, and protects the microphone's magnets.
For applications where low-frequency environmental noise or room acoustics are a concern, the D-202E includes a selectable low-frequency attenuator providing -7 dB and -20 dB reduction at 50 Hz.
Technical Data:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 30-16,000 Hz ±2 dB |
| Sensitivity | -55 dB (re 1 mW/10 dynes/cm²), 0.16 mV/µbar |
| Impedance | 200 ohms ±20% |
| Min. Actual Load Impedance | ≥500 ohms |
| Directional Characteristics | Frequency-independent cardioid |
| Max. Sound Pressure Level | 124 dB SPL (at 40 Hz, 1,000 Hz, 5,000 Hz, 0.5% distortion) |
| Diaphragm | Non-metallic MAKROFOL |
| Connections | XLR-3 (1: Shield, 2: Positive, 3: Negative) |
| Dimensions | 8½" long, 2½" diameter at largest point |
| Weight | 10 ounces |
(Visual Description: A frequency response graph and polar diagrams illustrate the D-202E's performance characteristics. A note mentions a specially modified D-202E in an H-4 boom mount suspension for motion picture and TV.)
Accessories for D-202E:
- SA-16: Stand adapter (quick disconnect)
- SA-10/3: Stand adapter (around connector)
- SA-18/9: Stand adapter with built-in suspension
- W-10: Windscreen
- ST-4: Table stand
- ST-305: Table stand
- ST-200: Floor stand
AKG D-224E Two-Way Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
The D-224E is the studio version of the cardioid dynamic microphone, incorporating the two-way system principle. It features an exceptionally wide and smooth frequency response, comparable to condenser microphones. Its parallel off-axis response ensures no frequency discriminating characteristics when sound is introduced off-axis. Front-to-back discrimination is maintained across critical low and upper mid-range frequencies. The high-frequency system includes a compensating winding to eliminate magnetic stray field effects.
A two-position electrical bass roll-off switch (-7 dB and -12 dB at 50 Hz) is provided to attenuate low frequencies, useful for managing environmental noise or room acoustics.
Technical Data:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 20-18,000 Hz ±2 dB |
| Sensitivity | -55 dB (re 1 mW/10 dynes/cm²), 0.15 mV/µbar |
| Impedance | 200 ohms ±15% |
| Min. Actual Load Impedance | ≥500 ohms |
| Directional Characteristics | Frequency-independent cardioid |
| Max. Sound Pressure Level | 124 dB SPL (at 40 Hz, 1,000 Hz, 5,000 Hz, 0.5% distortion) |
| Diaphragm | Non-metallic MAKROFOL |
| Connections | XLR-3 (1: Shield, 2: Positive, 3: Negative) |
| Dimensions | 7½" long, 1⅝" diameter |
| Weight | 9½ ounces |
(Visual Description: A frequency response graph and polar diagrams illustrate the D-224E's performance characteristics.)
Accessories for D-224E:
- SA-18/3: Stand adapter with built-in suspension
- SA-10/3: Stand adapter (around connector)
- W-2: Windscreen (foam)
- ST-4: Table stand
- ST-305: Table stand
- ST-200: Floor stand
Ordering Information and Accessories
A range of accessories is available to complement the AKG Two-Way Microphones, including various stand adapters, windscreens, table stands, and floor stands. Specific cable assemblies with transformers and switches are also offered for different impedance requirements.
Ordering Specifications:
| Specification | Order (Low Impedance) | Order (High Impedance) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-MICROPHONE: Low impedance, 15' cable with mating connector, case and stand adapter | D-200E or D-202E or D-224E | |
| 2-MICROPHONE WITH SWITCH: Low impedance, 15' cable with connector-switch, case and stand adapter | D-200E or D-202E or D-224E (MK-7-S/5) | |
| 3-MICROPHONE, HI IMPEDANCE: 15' cable with transformer and phone jack, case and stand adapter | D-200E or D-202E or D-224E (MK-7-T/5) | |
| 4-MICROPHONE, HI IMPEDANCE WITH SWITCH: 15' cable with switch-connector, transformer and phone jack, case and stand adapter | D-200E or D-202E or D-224E (MK-7-TS/5) |
(Visual Description: Images display various accessories such as the U-212E Transformer, MK-7-S/5 Connector-Switch, W-10 Windscreen, T-119 Case, and different stand adapters like SA-16, SA-11, SA-18/9, SA-18/3, and cable assemblies. A table stand is also pictured.)
About AKG
AKG, located in Vienna, Austria, was founded over 20 years prior to this document's publication by qualified audio engineers dedicated to sound transmission. The company operates one of the largest research facilities exclusively for condenser and dynamic microphone development, staffed by 38 scientists and engineers. They utilize 19 anechoic chambers and advanced acoustical and mechanical measuring equipment, along with an analog computer.
Notable AKG developments include the cardioid dynamic microphone with rear sound cancellation, miniature condenser microphone capsules, the two-way system microphone, a 16mm miniature dynamic capsule, and headphone drivers. The name AKG is synonymous with high standards in quality and performance among professionals.
AKG microphones and headphones are distributed by North American Philips Company, Inc., located at 100 East 42nd Street, New York, New York 10017.
