Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $293
Standard/Professional
$100
$401+
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Description
The Oktava MK 012-01 is a versatile small-diaphragm condenser microphone that has become a staple in both home studios and professional recording environments. Renowned for its interchangeable capsule system, this microphone offers exceptional flexibility, allowing musicians and engineers to capture a wide range of sound sources with precision. Whether you're recording acoustic instruments, vocals, or ambient sounds, the MK 012-01 delivers clear and natural audio reproduction.
Crafted in Russia, the Oktava MK 012-01 embodies robust engineering and meticulous attention to detail. Its low self-noise and high SPL handling ensure that even the most delicate nuances of your performance are captured with clarity. The microphone's cardioid capsule provides excellent off-axis rejection, making it an ideal choice for isolating your desired sound source in a live room or crowded setting.
The MK 012-01's compact and durable design makes it highly portable, perfect for on-the-go recording sessions or studio setups with limited space. Its versatility is further enhanced by optional accessory capsules that include hypercardioid and omni-directional patterns, allowing you to tailor the microphone's response to specific recording scenarios.
For those seeking a reliable and adaptable microphone that excels in capturing detailed and authentic sound, the Oktava MK 012-01 is a worthy addition to any recording arsenal.
Key Features:
- Small-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Interchangeable capsule system
- Cardioid capsule included
- Low self-noise
- High SPL handling
- Excellent off-axis rejection
- Optional accessory capsules available (hypercardioid, omni-directional)
- Suitable for a wide range of sound sources
Product specs
| Brand | Oktava |
| Model | MK-012-01 Cardioid Condenser Microphone |
| Finish | Silver |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Microphones |
FAQs
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What applications is the Oktava MK-012-01 suitable for?
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The Oktava MK-012-01 is ideal for recording classical, choral, and acoustic music due to its neutral sound. It's also suitable for broadcast, sound-for-picture, and theater applications thanks to its small size and cardioid pattern.
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Does the Oktava MK-012-01 require phantom power?
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Yes, the Oktava MK-012-01 requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for condenser microphones.
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What is the frequency response of the Oktava MK-012-01?
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The Oktava MK-012-01 offers a frequency response range from 20Hz to 20kHz, making it capable of capturing a wide spectrum of sounds accurately.
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Is the Oktava MK-012-01 suitable for high sound pressure levels?
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Yes, the Oktava MK-012-01 comes with a -10dB pad, making it suitable for recording high sound pressure levels, such as loud guitar amplifiers.
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What is the polar pattern of the Oktava MK-012-01?
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The Oktava MK-012-01 features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source and reduce background noise, making it ideal for focused recordings.
Videos
Curtis Judd
Indoor Boom Microphones: Oktava MK-012, RODE NT5, Audio Technica AT4053b
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound quality for live acoustic and vocal performances
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Excellent noise elimination and full frequency response
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Small size, perfect for portable recording setups
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Smooth and rich sound, especially for acoustic guitar
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Low off-axis coloration for a natural sound capture
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Comparable to top small diaphragm condensers in self-noise and response
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Flattering capture with various capsules, versatile for different recording needs
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Punches above its price range, offering great value
CONS
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Slightly dark sound may not suit all preferences
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Not a direct substitute for high-end models like Neumann km84
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Oktava MK 012-01.
Use cases and applications
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The Oktava MK-012-01 is recommended for indoor dialogue, especially with the hypercardioid capsule, ideal for close-miking in echo-prone environments.
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The Oktava MK-012 is suitable as a secondary or backup microphone, not recommended as a primary choice for high-end audio work.
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The hypercardioid capsule is preferred for indoor booming to minimize reflections in reverberant spaces.
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Mods and upgrades
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A "Bill Sitler upgrade" is recommended for the Oktava MK-012 to enhance its performance, praised for excellent customer service.
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Comparisons
Setup and maintenance
Features and functionality
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The Oktava MK 012-01 suffers from poor EMI rejection, requiring careful placement to avoid interference.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Oktava MK 012-01, it is most commonly used with the following gear.