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AKG C 451 B Condenser Microphone

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$319.00 to $749.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (11)

3 Critic Reviews

2 Reviews

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12 wishlisted

41 saved

Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.5 (13)

$749.00

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5.0 (2)

$749.00

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4.5 (76)

$543.68 New

$499.99 Used (Like New)

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5.0 (9)

$412.58 11 available New

$343.00 14 available Used

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5.0 (3)

$749.00

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4.8 (152)

$325.00 $319.00 $6.00 · All time low

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£317.50

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5.0 (1)

$749.00

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Average Price: $577

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, AKG C 451 B Condenser Microphone is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "AKG C 451 B Condenser Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the reincarnation of a classic – the AKG C 451 B Condenser Microphone. This studio legend, highly celebrated for its precision and accuracy, returns with improved specifications and the same sonic quality that made its predecessor an industry staple.

The AKG C 451 B is renowned for its excellent transient response - making it a favorite for drum overheads and capturing the brilliant crash of cymbals. Its sensitivity to percussive sounds and acoustic guitar makes it an incredibly versatile addition to any studio.

Built with an exceptionally light diaphragm, the C 451 B remains almost entirely insensitive to handling noise. It's also housed in an all-metal body, ensuring excellent protection from RF interference and high reliability under various conditions.

The C 451 B features a permanently fixed capsule to the preamp, increasing the mic's stability under mechanical stress. It also includes a switchable preattenuation pad to boost its SPL capability, along with a switchable highpass filter at 75Hz or 150Hz to prevent low-end distortion.

Key Features:

Cardioid condenser mic with outstanding transient response
Frequency range 20Hz-20kHz
Sensitivity 9 mV/Pa (-41dBV)
Max. SPL 135/145/155dB (0/-10/-20dB)
Equivalent noise level (CCIR 468-3) 29dB
Equivalent noise level 18dBA
Signal/noise ratio (A-weighted) 76dB
Preattenuation pad 0dB, -10dB, -20dB selectable
Bass filter flat, 12dB/octave at 75 or 150Hz, selectable
Impedance <200 ohms
Recommended load impedance >1000 ohms
Current consumption <2 mA
3-pin XLR connector
Satin nickel-plated finish
Requires +9-volt to +52-volt phantom power

Owner's manual

AKG C 451 B Condenser Microphone User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type	Condenser
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Frequency Response	20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL	135dB (155dB w/Pad)
Output Impedance	200 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio	76dB
Self Noise	18dB (A weighted)
Low Cut Filter	75Hz, 150Hz (-12dB/octave)
Pads	-10dB, -20dB
Connector	XLR
Weight	0.27 lbs.

FAQs

What is the primary application for the AKG C 451 B microphone?: The AKG C 451 B is ideal for recording hi-hats, cymbals, and shakers, as well as being used as drum overheads, particularly in stereo pairs, due to its detailed and precise sound capture.
How does the AKG C 451 B handle high sound pressure levels?: The AKG C 451 B can handle a maximum sound pressure level of 135dB, which can be extended to 155dB with its built-in pad, making it suitable for capturing loud sound sources without distortion.
What polar pattern does the AKG C 451 B use and why is it important?: The AKG C 451 B uses a cardioid polar pattern, which is important for focusing on the sound source directly in front of the microphone while reducing the pickup of ambient noise from the sides and rear.
Does the AKG C 451 B have any built-in filters?: Yes, the AKG C 451 B features a low cut filter with settings at 75Hz and 150Hz, allowing you to reduce low-frequency noise such as handling or room rumble.
Is the AKG C 451 B microphone suitable for studio recording?: Yes, the AKG C 451 B is well-suited for studio recording, offering a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz and a signal-to-noise ratio of 76dB, providing a clear and accurate audio capture for various instruments and vocals.

Videos

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Reviews

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PROS

Excels in recording acoustic instruments with an open and airy sound
Versatile applications: vocals, acoustic guitar, hi-hat, cymbals, and more
Built-in pads (10 or 20db) and low-cut filter enhance adaptability
Maintains clarity and detail in recordings without being harsh
High SPL handling makes it ideal for loud instruments like trumpets
Comes with a windscreen for better vocal recording quality
Good build quality and durable switches
Provides a classic sound reminiscent of iconic recordings
Suitable for both studio recording and live settings
Offers great performance to price ratio

CONS

Can be noisy with quiet sound sources
May require additional mics for those preferring a warmer sound on certain instruments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG C 451 B Condenser Microphone.

Comparisons

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The AKG C 451 B is brighter and more detailed than an SM57 or C414, often used for acoustic instruments and overheads.
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While the KM84 is known for a warmer sound, the C 451 B offers a brighter alternative for specific recording needs.
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The DPA 4011 is noted as less bright than the C451B but similarly open and detailed, making it a versatile alternative for various sources.
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The Austrian Audio CC8, designed by ex-AKG engineers, is inspired by the 451 but has a slightly darker raw output, offering affordable versatility with good EQ response.
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Use cases and applications

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Frequently used as snare mics paired with a dynamic mic like the SM57 for added detail.
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Ideal for darker sources like jazz cymbals or background acoustic strumming, providing a bright, shimmering high end.
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The Josephson C42 is recommended for overheads with darker cymbals, providing a bright yet not overly 'pingy' sound.
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The Shure SM81, although different from the C451B, is favored for its pleasant capture on overheads, suggesting its potential in similar bright applications.
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The ATM450 is suggested for its similar brilliance to the C451B without the harshness, making it suitable for those seeking a similar tonal character but smoother.
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The AKG C 451 B's high max SPL allows it to function effectively as a bottom snare mic, capturing additional snare snap without distortion in confined spaces.
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User experience

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Despite being bright, the C 451 B is not harsh, making it a reliable choice for detailed recording.
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Features and functionality

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Audio-Technica AT4051b is praised for its high SPL handling, pad, and low cut switches, offering a clean capture across diverse applications like bass cabs and acoustic guitar.
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The Sennheiser MKH20, a small diaphragm condenser, is highlighted for its quality, though it may be harder to find on the market now.
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The AKG C 451 B's sensitivity makes it a viable option for adding depth in drum recordings when combined with proper room treatment and mic placement.
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Setup and maintenance

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Effective drum recording often requires addressing room acoustics; low ceilings and bass wave issues may necessitate bass trapping for optimal mic performance.
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Ensuring drums are properly tuned is crucial in recording setups, particularly when using sensitive mics like the AKG C 451 B to capture detailed snare sounds.
Source

Critic Reviews

The Definitive AKG C451 B Review

soundref.com

The AKG C 451 B is a versatile, small-diaphragm condenser microphone celebrated for its bright, silky sound, making it an excellent choice for acoustic instruments and studio recordings. Its compact, durable design and integrated attenuation pads highlight its adaptability, though it can be prone to plosives on vocals. While slightly noisier than some competitors, the C 451 B's high sensitivity captures detailed nuances, ideal for various instruments and even vocals, offering a balance of clarity and warmth. However, its fixed cardioid pattern limits polar options, and it requires careful handling in untreated spaces due to its sensitivity. Overall, this mic is a superb tool for those seeking detailed, bright sound reproduction in professional settings.

positive

Full Review

AKG C451 B review: Great addition to any studio

higherhz.com

The AKG C451 B is a bright, sparkly performer, particularly excelling with drums and acoustic guitars. Its robust build ensures longevity, making it a staple for professional studios. However, its finicky nature and steep price might deter some users, as its performance can vary, and it doesn’t always suit every application. Despite these quirks, the C451 B remains a coveted tool for its unique sound signature, although alternatives like the Neumann KM 184 offer more warmth and consistency. Overall, it's a gem for those seeking its distinctive highs but less so for those on a budget.

positive

Full Review

AKG C-451 B

mixonline.com

The AKG C 451 B microphone is a worthy modern reinterpretation of a classic, boasting improved specs, better construction, and a transformerless output for enhanced low-frequency performance. Its rugged, one-piece design with integrated attenuation switches is a boon for live and studio settings alike, though the absence of the old model's capsule swivel adapters might disappoint some. With a pleasing warmth and clarity, especially on acoustic instruments and drum overheads, it's a reliable workhorse for capturing crisp, detailed sound. Overall, it's a solid investment for those seeking vintage charm with modern reliability.

positive

Full Review