AKG P420 – Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm XLR Condenser Microphone
AKG P420 | Three-Pattern Studio Condenser
- 1-inch dual-diaphragm true condenser capsule
- Cardioid, omnidirectional and figure-of-eight patterns
- 20Hz–20kHz frequency response
- 15dB-A equivalent self-noise
- Switchable -20dB pad; up to 155dB SPL with pad
- Switchable 300Hz bass-cut filter, 12dB/octave
- Balanced 3-pin XLR output; 48V phantom power
- Spider shock mount and metal carrying case included
VOCALS | INSTRUMENTS | ROOM RECORDING
AKG P420: One Microphone, Three Pickup Patterns
The AKG P420 is a large-diaphragm true condenser microphone with cardioid, omnidirectional and figure-of-eight pickup patterns. It gives a project studio more recording choices for voices, acoustic instruments, ensembles and room ambience.
A switchable 20dB pad, bass-cut filter and included spider shock mount help adapt it to different sessions. Connect its balanced XLR output to a suitable interface or mixer supplying 48V phantom power.

Explore the Features
FEATURE 01
Dual-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule
The large capsule is designed for detailed studio capture. Use microphone placement to shape the result before relying on EQ, particularly when recording voices or acoustic instruments.
FEATURE 02
Cardioid for a Focused Source
Cardioid pickup favours sound from the front and reduces sensitivity behind the microphone. Point the rear towards unwanted sound and keep the intended source on the correct side-address face.
FEATURE 03
Omnidirectional for the Room
Omni captures sound around the microphone. It can be useful for ensembles and ambience, but it also makes the room’s acoustics part of the recording.
FEATURE 04
Figure-of-Eight for Two Sides
Figure-of-eight pickup captures front and back while rejecting more sound at the sides. It supports selected stereo techniques with another suitable microphone and carefully chosen placement.

FEATURE 05
Switchable 20dB Attenuation
Engage the pad when a loud source would overload the recording chain. The manufacturer rates maximum SPL up to 155dB with the pad engaged; input gain still needs to be set correctly.
FEATURE 06
Bass-Cut Filter for Low-Frequency Control
The switchable 300Hz filter rolls off lows at 12dB per octave. Use it deliberately to reduce unwanted rumble or excessive low-frequency energy, and leave it off when the source needs its full low end.
FEATURE 07
Low-Noise Electronics
The P420 is rated at 15dB-A self-noise. A quiet room, sensible microphone distance and appropriate preamp gain help preserve detail on softer sources.
FEATURE 08
Spider Shock Mount Included
The supplied suspension mount helps reduce mechanically transmitted vibration from the stand. It complements careful cable routing and a stable stand rather than replacing them.
FEATURE 09
XLR Studio Connection and Carrying Case
Use a balanced XLR cable and a phantom-powered microphone input. The included metal case keeps the microphone and mount together when the session is finished.
A Practical First Recording Setup
Mount the microphone securely, connect it to a compatible XLR input, then enable the required phantom power. Select a pickup pattern and start with conservative gain while watching the interface’s input meter.
For vocals, use a suitable pop filter and adjust distance to control breath noise and proximity effect. An interface such as Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen provides the microphone input and headphone monitoring path.
Choose Headphones for the Session
Use closed-back monitoring such as AKG K92 or AKG K72 while recording close to the microphone.
For evaluating the finished recording in a quiet space, compare AKG K612 PRO or AKG K712 PRO. These open-back headphones serve a different role from tracking isolation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the P420 connect directly by USB?
No. It uses a balanced XLR output and requires an audio interface or mixer to record into a computer.
Does it require phantom power?
Yes. It is specified for 44–52V, normally supplied by a 48V phantom-powered microphone input.
Which pickup patterns are available?
Cardioid, omnidirectional and figure-of-eight are selectable.
When should I use the pad?
Use the -20dB pad when a high-level source risks overloading the microphone or input chain. Adjust the interface gain as well.
What does the bass-cut switch do?
It applies a 300Hz high-pass response at 12dB per octave to reduce low-frequency energy.
Does it include a shock mount?
Yes. A spider shock mount and metal carrying case are included.
Is it a handheld live vocal microphone?
It is primarily a side-address studio condenser. A handheld stage dynamic microphone is generally a more practical choice for that different use.
Why Buy from AX Store Kuwait?
Build a compatible XLR recording setup at AX Store Kuwait. Compare the P420’s pickup patterns, powering requirements and monitoring options before choosing the rest of your studio gear.
Technical Specifications
| Microphone | |
|---|---|
| Brand | AKG |
| Model | P420 |
| Capsule | 1-inch dual-diaphragm true condenser |
| Polar Patterns | Cardioid; Omnidirectional; Figure-of-eight |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz–20kHz |
| Audio Performance | |
| Equivalent Self-Noise | 15dB-A |
| Sensitivity | 28mV/Pa |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 79dB-A |
| Pad | -20dB, switchable |
| Maximum SPL | 155dB with pad engaged |
| Bass-Cut Filter | 300Hz, 12dB/octave |
| Electrical and Physical | |
| Output | Balanced 3-pin male XLR |
| Output Impedance | 200 Ohm or less |
| Recommended Load | 1kOhm or greater |
| Phantom Power | 44–52V |
| Current Consumption | 3mA or less |
| Height | 165mm |
| Diameter | 54mm |
| Net Weight | 517g |
| Included Accessories | |
| In the Box | P420 microphone; Spider shock mount; Metal carrying case |
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