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Average Price: $105
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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
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What is the AKG D112 primarily used for?
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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.
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Does the AKG D112 require phantom power?
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No, the AKG D112 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate.
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What is the polar pattern of the AKG D112 microphone?
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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.
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Is the AKG D112 suitable for live performances?
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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.
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Can the AKG D112 be used for recording instruments other than drums?
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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.
Videos
Donal Bowens
Kick Drum Mic Shootout | AKG D112, Shure Beta 52a, Audix D6
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
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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.
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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.
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The D112 is praised for its performance on low-tuned rock and metal floor toms, offering a versatile sound.
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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.
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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.
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The D112 is suggested over the Beta 52A for its less peaky sound when aiming for a vintage-style recording setup.
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User experience
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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.
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Some users report the D112 can sound "soft" and "boomy," requiring EQ adjustments to achieve desired punch and clarity.
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Caution is advised when purchasing used RE-20s as the foam inside may suffer from dry rot, leading to expensive repairs.
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Features and functionality
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The D112 MK2 is noted to have improved mic stand attachment and cable management over the original model, though the sound difference is negligible.
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Comparisons
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The EV RE-20 is highlighted as a more period-correct mic than the D112 for achieving an authentic 70s kick drum sound.
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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.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
Bora Karaca uses the AKG D112 as listed on his LA studio's website, The Laboratory Audio.
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.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use AKG D112, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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