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AKG Acoustics D12 VR

Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

The D12 VR is a dynamic kick drum microphone from AKG. As part of the VR series, it is presented as a vintage reissue, although like the C12 VR, it combines vintage and contemporary elements into an altogether new result.

The D12 VR contains a unique phantom-powered pad/filter circuit. The mic can be used without phantom power, as a purely dynamic microphone. Alternatively, phantom power will enable the selection of three active EQ filters:

• The middle position, marked by a red LED, enables a midrange scoop. According to AKG, this is “recommended for use with open kick drums.”
• The left position, marked by a green LED, enables a low-frequency boost and a midrange scoop. “Recommended for achieving a vintage sound.”
• The right position, marked by a blue LED, enables a midrange scoop, a low-frequency boost, and a high-frequency boost. “Recommended for use with closed kick drums.”

All three active EQ modes also incorporate a 10dB pad.

The mic, in all modes, uses an output transformer. AKG describes this as the “original C414 transformer.”

The published frequency-response graph does not show the behavior of the active EQ circuits. Should more information become available, we will update this page.

The AKG Acoustics D12 VR is also known as: D12VR.

The mic was released in 2012.

Specifications

Pickup Patterns	Pads & Filters
CHART Cardioid (1.2 mV/Pa; 17 - 17,000 Hz)	Pad: -10dB automatic w/+48V (Via Switch) Filter: Low boost and Mid cut (Via Switch)

Coil Diameter	Impedance	SPL/Noise
n/a	200 Ohms (Low)	Max SPL: 164 dB

Weight	Length	Max Diameter	Interface(s)
500g (17.64oz)	101mm (3.98'')	66mm (2.60'')	3-pin XLR male (1)

Power Specifications
Requires phantom power Phantom voltage: 48v

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