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Average Price: $70

Budget/Beginner

$100

$401+

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High-end

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Description

The AKG Perception 120 USB is your gateway to professional-grade recordings, right from the comfort of your home studio. Tailored for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who demand crystal-clear audio, this small diaphragm electret condenser microphone ensures every nuance of your sound is captured with precision. Equipped with USB connectivity, it seamlessly integrates with your computer, eliminating the need for additional interfaces and making it an ideal choice for both seasoned professionals and budding enthusiasts.

Whether you're laying down vocal tracks or capturing acoustic instruments, the Perception 120 USB offers a robust frequency response and low self-noise, providing a clean and natural sound. Its solid build and sleek design make it a durable addition to any setup, and its compatibility with popular recording software ensures you can focus on what you do best—creating. Experience the perfect blend of convenience and quality without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

  • Small diaphragm electret condenser microphone
  • USB connectivity for easy setup and use
  • Crisp and clear audio capture with a broad frequency response
  • Low self-noise for enhanced sound quality
  • Durable construction suitable for home studios and on-the-go recording
  • Compatible with major recording software and platforms

Product specs

Brand AKG
Model Perception 120 USB
Year 2010s
Categories Microphones
Electronics Digital, Solid State
Microphone Type Digital/USB
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary use of the AKG Perception 120 USB microphone?

The AKG Perception 120 USB is designed for home studio recording, offering clear sound for vocals, speech, and instrument recording thanks to its digital USB connectivity and cardioid polar pattern.

Is the AKG Perception 120 USB suitable for podcasting?

Yes, the AKG Perception 120 USB is well-suited for podcasting due to its plug-and-play USB functionality and cardioid pattern, which helps reduce background noise and focus on the speaker's voice.

Does the AKG Perception 120 USB require an external power supply?

No, the AKG Perception 120 USB does not require an external power supply as it is powered directly through the USB connection to your computer.

How does the AKG Perception 120 USB connect to a computer?

The AKG Perception 120 USB connects to a computer via a standard USB cable, making it easy to integrate into any digital audio workstation setup without needing additional interfaces.

What is the polar pattern of the AKG Perception 120 USB, and why is it important?

The AKG Perception 120 USB features a cardioid polar pattern, which is important for focusing on sound from the front while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear, ideal for studio recording environments.

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AKG Perception 120 USB

Video thumbnail for AKG Perception 120 USB by session

AKG Perception 120 USB

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Video thumbnail for AKG perception 120 usb microphone review by TheIDBand

AKG perception 120 usb microphone review

TheIDBand

TheIDBand

Video thumbnail for AKG Perception 120 USB Microphone UNBOXING (HD) by Delon Km

AKG Perception 120 USB Microphone UNBOXING (HD)

Delon Km

Delon Km

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG Perception 120 USB.

Comparisons

  • The AKG Perception 220 is noted as superior to the AT2020, with a true large-diaphragm condenser capsule, unlike the P120's small-diameter electret.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the AT2035 over the AT2020, citing a noticeable improvement in sound quality for just $50 more, making it a strong contender under $200.

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Use cases and applications

  • The AT2020 was described as having too much low-mid frequency, making it less ideal for certain applications like vocals or horns, but potentially suitable for drum room mics.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • MXL 990 is recommended as a top choice under $100 for voice-over work, and it's compared favorably to much more expensive models for this purpose.

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User experience

  • Owners of the AKG P120 report it as durable and versatile, with a consistent performance across various recording needs.

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Software and compatibility

  • Universal Audio's "Volt" line offers superior plugins and a vintage feature with built-in compression, which some users find more appealing than Focusrite's offerings.

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Features and functionality

  • Aston Element mic is praised for its rounded sound, which can be particularly flattering for operatic voices, avoiding excessive brightness.

    Source

Critic Reviews

AKG Perception 120 USB Microphone (Review) | Skatter

skatter.com

The AKG Perception 120 USB microphone stands out as an excellent entry-level option for budding audio professionals. It wins points for its easy setup, comprehensive packaging, and superior sound isolation, offering clear and noise-free recordings. While it lacks a built-in monitor, which some users may miss, its overall performance surpasses competitors like the Blue Snowball. This mic isn’t for casual users, but it's a solid choice for those serious about VoIP calls or stepping into professional audio without needing additional gear. With a street price much lower than its MSRP, it offers great value.

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AKG Perception 120 USB

soundonsound.com

AKG's Perception 120 USB mic strikes a balance between quality and affordability for home-studio users. With plug-and-play compatibility across multiple OS platforms, it caters to podcasters and musicians on the go. The 24-bit converters outperform typical 16-bit USB mics, offering a lower noise floor and wider dynamic range. However, the lack of in-built line or headphone output is a downside. Despite this, the mic's sound capture is commendable, with low background noise and resistance to popping. For those seeking quality audio input without extra gear, it’s a solid choice.

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Genre Usage

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