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Description

The AKG D190 is a classic, reliable dynamic microphone that has been a staple in studios and live settings for decades. Known for its robust build and versatile performance, this mic is perfect for a variety of applications, from vocal recording to miking instruments. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures excellent off-axis rejection, minimizing unwanted noise and feedback during performances. The D190 is designed to deliver clear and detailed sound, making it a great choice for those seeking a no-nonsense microphone that gets the job done without fuss.

Engineered with a rugged metal body, the D190 withstands the rigors of frequent use whether on stage or in the studio. Its balanced frequency response captures the natural nuances of your sound, making it suitable for both professional and home studio environments. Whether you're capturing the subtle tones of an acoustic guitar or the powerful vocals of a lead singer, the D190 provides a consistent and reliable audio performance.

Key Features:

  • Dynamic microphone with cardioid polar pattern
  • Robust metal construction for durability
  • Excellent off-axis rejection for reduced feedback
  • Balanced frequency response for natural sound reproduction
  • Versatile application for vocals and instruments
Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Using the AKG D190 dynamic mic for a lo-fi drum sound #drums #recording #musicproduction

Video thumbnail for Using the AKG D190 dynamic mic for a lo-fi drum sound #drums #recording #musicproduction by Sound On Sound magazine

Using the AKG D190 dynamic mic for a lo-fi drum sound #drums #recording #musicproduction

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for Microphone Monday: AKG D190 by Make Believe Studios

Microphone Monday: AKG D190

Make Believe Studios

Make Believe Studios

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG D190.

Mods and upgrades

  • The cartridge mounting is a clamp from the headshell, making it tricky to find a replacement that fits.

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  • Most dynamic cardioid capsules are self-contained; ensure not to block side vents when replacing to maintain sound quality.

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User experience

  • Owners find the AKG D190e to be an infrequently used mic, often overshadowed by others in their collections.

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  • Buying vintage AKG mics online can be risky due to inconsistent quality, with replacement cartridges sometimes being a gamble.

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  • An owner of D190E mics, comparable to the D190CR, appreciates their sound quality and notes they paid under $100 for a pair years ago.

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  • Known for significant handling noise; best used on a stand to avoid interference.

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Features and functionality

  • The AKG D190CR includes a "reporter filter" with a 150Hz high-pass filter and uses a Cannon connector, differentiating it from other D190 variants.

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  • Some versions of the AKG D190 do not use standard XLR connectors, which may require additional adaptation.

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Comparisons

  • The D190CR is likened to the SM57 and SM58 in terms of its application for drums, highlighting subtle differences in sound quality.

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Value and pricing

  • D190E mics, similar to the D190CR, have seen a price increase but remain far more affordable than models like the D12 or D19.

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  • Historically used as a budget vocal mic in New Zealand radio stations, with many available second-hand in the late 80s.

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Use cases and applications

  • The D190CR is recognized as a classic studio mic, frequently employed for drum recording, similar to the SM57.

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  • Praised for its neutral midrange, suitable for both live and studio use, especially effective on brass instruments for body and softened highs.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 15 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
blondguru

This > SM57

I know these were meant to work like an SM57, but I prefer this much more. It's just a little bit darker, but that makes a world of difference. On vocals, it has a nice tone. Nothing too crisp, great for garage rock type sounds. I bought four of these a while back for $50 with cases, and I'm not disappointed.

conner

workhorse dynamic

(Mine is actually the D190 ES) Very uncommon and it has a very strange sound that works for pretty much anything you would want to record. Its weakpoint is probably vocals, though it handles sibilance really well.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin Parker uses AKG D190

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via Imgur

"The main drum mic that I used was an AKG D190," says Parker in this interview.

See how Paul McCartney uses AKG D190

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

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Verified via Hog Hill Mill Blog

Paul McCartney uses the AKG D190 microphone, as mentioned in the Hog Hill Mill Blog's "Consoles & Preamps" post.

See how Jules Crommelin uses AKG D190

Jules Crommelin

Singer, Guitarist

Parcels

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Jules Crommelin can be seen using the AKG D190 microphone. Also seen in this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5k8QI7whi4 at 3:02.

See how Glass Animals uses AKG D190

Glass Animals

Singer, Guitarist

Glass Animals

...
Verified via Mixonline

On the overheads we had a Neumann U 67 and AKG D190, both in the center above the snare. We then would choose one or get a blend that worked for each song. Occasionally I added a second pair of overheads, some Sony pencil condensers in x-y, just in front of the kit about two meters off the ground. These microphones sound very hard and in your face, so it worked out great.

See how Larry Mullen, Jr. uses AKG D190

Larry Mullen, Jr.

Drummer

U2

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Verified via Tripod

According to this transcription of a February 1982 issue of U2 Magazine, "Larry has a somewhat unusual drum set up. Not that the kit itself was unusual, but it was arranged in an unusual manner and had several unusual extras. The basic kit is a very impressive all black Tama Fiberstar - all single headed, and including a 24" kick drum, 16" and 18" floor toms, and a selection of rather deep rack toms. The snare was a Ludwig 14"x61 " steel shell and he also has a pair of Latin Percussion Timbale. The cymbals comprised Zildjian 18" thin ride; 18" thin crash; 18" medium crash; 18" pang and 21" ride, with Paiste 14" hi-hats on a Premier Trilock pedal. The rest of the stands are Tama. The kit is miked using Sennheiser 421's for the kick and the floor toms, Shure SM57's for rack toms and snare, Electro-voice RE10 on the hi-hat and AKG D190's on the rest. No overhead mikes."

See how Ryan Petersen uses AKG D190

Ryan Petersen

Drummer, Music Producer

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Verified via YouTube

In the video "EPIC HOME STUDIO Setup 2024 | Ryan Petersen (studio tour)" by Andrew Masters on YouTube, Ryan Petersen mentions at 48:27 that an AKG D190 microphone is kept inside the closet in his vocal room.

See how Toni Torres uses AKG D190

Toni Torres

Guitarist, Drummer

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Verified via Hctsound

Toni Torres uses the AKG D190 dynamic microphone for recordings and live performances, as documented by HCTSound in Barcelona.

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 D190, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for AKG D190, curated by the Equipboard community.

AKG D19

$150.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

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Community setups

Gear Guides

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    Gear IQ 5226