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Average Price: $105

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$75

$201+

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Description

The AKG D112 is your go-to solution for capturing those deep, thundering sounds that other microphones simply can’t handle. Engineered with a large-diaphragm cardioid dynamic design, this microphone excels in picking up lower frequencies, making it an exceptional choice for bass instruments and kick drums. Whether you're in the studio or out on the stage, the D112 promises to deliver robust sound without distortion, even under extreme sound pressure levels—up to 160dB SPL.

The D112 doesn’t just stop at handling high volumes; it also ensures your bass lines have a clear and defined presence in the mix. Thanks to its frequency response that plunges beneath 100Hz, combined with a presence boost at 4kHz, your kick drums will cut through the mix with a satisfying punch. Built to withstand the rigors of frequent use, this microphone features a rugged housing that can take a beating, making it as durable as it is sonically impressive.

Key Features:

  • Large-diaphragm cardioid dynamic microphone
  • Handles up to 160dB SPL
  • Frequency response tailored for low frequencies, great below 100Hz
  • Presence boost at 4kHz for added clarity
  • Rugged construction for durability

Product specs

Brand AKG
Model D112 Large-Diaphragm Dynamic Kick Drum Microphone
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Microphones
Electronics Passive
Microphone Type Dynamic
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the AKG D112 primarily used for?

The AKG D112 is primarily used for miking bass drums, but it is also highly effective for capturing the sound of electric bass cabinets and brass instruments like trombones.

Does the AKG D112 require phantom power?

No, the AKG D112 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate.

What is the polar pattern of the AKG D112 microphone?

The AKG D112 features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source and reduce background noise, making it ideal for live and studio settings.

Is the AKG D112 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the AKG D112 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, particularly from bass drums.

Can the AKG D112 be used for recording instruments other than drums?

Yes, while the AKG D112 is optimized for bass drums, it can also be effectively used to record electric bass cabinets and brass instruments, providing a clear and punchy sound.

Donal Bowens

Donal Bowens

Kick Drum Mic Shootout | AKG D112, Shure Beta 52a, Audix D6

Video thumbnail for Kick Drum Mic Shootout | AKG D112, Shure Beta 52a, Audix D6 by Donal Bowens

Kick Drum Mic Shootout | AKG D112, Shure Beta 52a, Audix D6

Donal Bowens

Donal Bowens

Video thumbnail for Shure Beta 52A vs AKG D112 Kick Drum Microphones by Overdrive Studios

Shure Beta 52A vs AKG D112 Kick Drum Microphones

Overdrive Studios

Overdrive Studios

Video thumbnail for AKG D112, Sennheiser E602 II, Shure Sm57 сравнение микрофонов на басс бочке. Test mic on bass drum. by Siarhey Key

AKG D112, Sennheiser E602 II, Shure Sm57 сравнение микрофонов на басс бочке. Test mic on bass drum.

Siarhey Key

Siarhey Key

Video thumbnail for t.bone BD-300 Custom vs AKG D112 by Benno Kaiser

t.bone BD-300 Custom vs AKG D112

Benno Kaiser

Benno Kaiser

Video thumbnail for review - AKG D112 @ ampsonair.com by AmpsOnAir

review - AKG D112 @ ampsonair.com

AmpsOnAir

AmpsOnAir

Video thumbnail for KICK DRUM MICS! - The Alien8, BETA 52A, AKG D112, Sennheiser e902 by Glenn Wilson

KICK DRUM MICS! - The Alien8, BETA 52A, AKG D112, Sennheiser e902

Glenn Wilson

Glenn Wilson

Video thumbnail for AKG D112 TEST [Bassdrum Mikrofon Klassiker] by Sonus Generator

AKG D112 TEST [Bassdrum Mikrofon Klassiker]

Sonus Generator

Sonus Generator

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG D112.

Use cases and applications

  • The AKG D112 is praised for its versatility, reportedly performing well on instruments beyond kick drums, such as bass and guitar cabs, tuba, baritone sax, and trombone.

    Source
  • The D112 is highlighted for its ability to capture clear upper transients on a tuba, providing a good edge without muddiness, especially when placed about a foot above the bell.

    Source
  • The D112 is praised for its performance on low-tuned rock and metal floor toms, offering a versatile sound.

    Source
  • The D112 is considered by some to offer a rounder sound and is recommended over the Beta 52A for achieving a dry, 70s kick drum tone.

    Source
  • Despite not being ideal for 70s sound, the D112 can achieve a punchy, dry kick sound when used with a dead, dry-sounding drum setup.

    Source
  • The D112 is suggested over the Beta 52A for its less peaky sound when aiming for a vintage-style recording setup.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that the D112 can sound unexpectedly good when placed a few inches from the beater inside the drum, avoiding the common placement mistake at the resonant head hole.

    Source
  • Some users report the D112 can sound "soft" and "boomy," requiring EQ adjustments to achieve desired punch and clarity.

    Source
  • Caution is advised when purchasing used RE-20s as the foam inside may suffer from dry rot, leading to expensive repairs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The D112 MK2 is noted to have improved mic stand attachment and cable management over the original model, though the sound difference is negligible.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users often compare the D112 to the Shure Beta 52A, with some preferring the D112 for its less "flabby" low end and more versatile midrange tones.

    Source
  • The D112 is often preferred for jazz and less aggressive genres due to its flatter, more natural response compared to the scooped mids of the Beta 52.

    Source
  • D112 can be overloaded by heavy hitters when placed closer than 6 inches to the kick, unlike the Beta 52 which may sound like "wet cardboard" under similar conditions.

    Source
  • The EV RE-20 is highlighted as a more period-correct mic than the D112 for achieving an authentic 70s kick drum sound.

    Source
  • Alternative microphones like the Beyerdynamic TG D70 and vintage AKG D12 are suggested for more accurate 70s tonal reproduction compared to the D112 and Beta 52A.

    Source

Critic Reviews

AKG D112 Dynamic Kick Drum Microphone Review | Microphone Geeks

microphonegeeks.com

AKG D112 earns its stripes as an industry staple for kick drums, boasting a versatile and well-balanced frequency response that defies typical dynamic mic limitations. Its crisp sound and robust construction make it a go-to for various drum sizes, although the plastic mounting clip might test your patience by loosening during performances. However, this minor hiccup doesn’t overshadow its overall value, especially at an affordable price point. If you're looking to upgrade from generic mics, the D112 promises a significant sonic improvement, delivering punchy and precise audio without breaking the bank.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bora Karaca uses AKG D112

Bora Karaca

Singer, Guitarist

Tally Hall

...
Verified via The Laboratory Audio

Bora Karaca uses the AKG D112 as listed on his LA studio's website, The Laboratory Audio.

D

David Peters

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Cozy LA HOME STUDIO Setup | DAVID PETERS 2026 Studio Tour," at the 41:51 mark, David Peters is shown presenting his AKG D112 dynamic bass-drum microphone, citing it as his oldest microphone.

See how Dave Jerden uses AKG D112

Dave Jerden

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Alice in Chains: Inside the Song with Dave Jerden - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro," Dave Jerden explicitly mentions using an AKG D112 microphone for recording the drums on the Alice in Chains' album songs at the 18:56 mark.

See how Steve Gallagher uses AKG D112

Steve Gallagher

Drummer

Tally Hall

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, an AKG D112 appears to be being utilized with Steve Gallagher's drumkit.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use AKG D112, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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