Pricing and availability
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $86
Budget/Beginner
$100
$401+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "AKG Perception 170". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
When searching for a blend of precision and durability in a microphone, the AKG Perception 170 stands out as a reliable choice for both studio and live environments. This small-diaphragm condenser microphone is designed to capture the intricate nuances of your sound, making it ideal for everything from drum overheads to acoustic instruments. Its cardioid pickup pattern efficiently reduces off-axis noise, ensuring your recordings are clear and focused.
Crafted with a rugged die-cast chassis, the P170 is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use, whether in a professional studio or on the road. The switchable 20dB preattenuation pad offers flexibility, allowing you to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. This microphone is not just about durability and functionality; it delivers the celebrated AKG sound quality that professionals trust, all at an attractive price point.
Whether you're upgrading your mic locker or starting your collection, the AKG Perception 170 offers the perfect balance of performance and value, making it a must-have for any serious musician or audio engineer.
Key Features:
- Small-diaphragm, true condenser cardioid microphone
- Switchable 20dB preattenuation pad
- Durable die-cast metal construction
- Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
- Requires +48V phantom power
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Mono/Stereo | Mono |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Diaphragm Size | 0.5" (12.7mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 135dB (155dB w/Pad) |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 75dB (A weighted) |
| Self Noise | 19dB (A weighted) |
| Sensitivity | 15 mV/Pa |
| Pads | -20dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Power Source | 48V phantom power |
| Dimensions | 6.29" x 0.86" |
| Weight | 1.72 lbs. |
| Included Accessories | Stand Adapter |
FAQs
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What are the primary applications for the AKG Perception 170 microphone?
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The AKG Perception 170 is ideal for recording overheads, percussion, acoustic guitars, and other string instruments, thanks to its small-diaphragm condenser design which captures detailed transients.
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Does the AKG Perception 170 require phantom power?
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Yes, the AKG Perception 170 requires 48V phantom power to operate, as it is a condenser microphone.
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What is the polar pattern of the AKG Perception 170, and how does it affect recording?
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The AKG Perception 170 has a cardioid polar pattern, which minimizes the pickup of sound from the sides and rear, making it ideal for isolating the sound source and reducing room noise.
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How does the AKG Perception 170 handle high sound pressure levels?
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The AKG Perception 170 can handle sound pressure levels up to 155dB when using its -20dB preattenuation pad, making it suitable for recording loud instruments like drums.
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What is the frequency response of the AKG Perception 170?
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The AKG Perception 170 offers a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, providing a wide range of sound capture for various recording applications.
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent value for money with high performance at a low price
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Great for recording acoustic and nylon string guitars with live sound presence
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Tight cardioid pattern ideal for focused instrument pickup
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Effective for choirs and small groups, better than hanging mics
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Handy 20dB cut switch for handling higher sound pressure levels
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Solid construction, durable and robust
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Versatile use across various instruments, including flutes, violins, and saxophones
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Perfect for foley and sound effects in film production
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Comes with a mic stand clip and sleek design
CONS
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Requires phantom power, which may necessitate additional equipment
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Not ideal for vocals without additional equipment like a pop screen
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Some users report issues with hum, possibly indicating quality control issues
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Bass response is not excellent, may need EQ adjustments
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG Perception 170.
Software and compatibility
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The AKG P170 requires an audio interface with phantom power (48V); it’s incompatible with direct phone connections without additional equipment.
Source
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
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The AKG P170 is recommended for recording acoustic instruments, but it may pick up traffic noise in non-soundproofed environments.
Source -
Handheld recorders like the Zoom H6 can be used with the AKG P170 for field recordings without a computer.
Source -
Users report the AKG P170 works well for drum overheads, offering clear and articulate sound, particularly suited for acoustic guitar recording.
Source
Value and pricing
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The Behringer UCA202 is noted for its affordability at around $30, providing a cost-effective solution for connecting the AKG P170.
Source
Build quality
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The AKG P170 features excellent brass construction, providing a robust and durable build.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
228
versatile budget SDC
These mics are best had in stereo pair. They can do just about anything that you would want from a small-diaphragm condenser. Not the best for vocals, but really nice for foley in particular. I've not really done anything to test them durability-wise but they feel well-built.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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