The AKG D12 VR marks a significant milestone in AKG’s illustrious history, blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary innovations. Released to celebrate the company’s 65th anniversary, this modern dynamic cardioid microphone pays homage to the iconic D12, a classic staple of studios worldwide. But how does it compare to its predecessors, and is it a worthy successor? Let’s dive in.
The Legacy of the AKG D12
In 1953, AKG introduced the world to the D12, the first-ever dynamic cardioid microphone. Renowned for its rich, fat, and punchy sound, the D12 became a favorite for recording vocals, drums, guitars, and bass.
In 1986, AKG launched the D112, designed for a more modern kick-drum sound with an emphasis on attack and a 4kHz presence peak.
While the D112 remains popular, the original D12 still commands attention among audio engineers seeking its unique tonal characteristics.
Enter the AKG D12 VR, a reimagined take on this classic mic, promising modern features without abandoning its vintage roots.
Design and Build Quality: Vintage Meets Modernity
The D12 VR retains the distinctive two-tone grille of the original D12 but introduces a more streamlined, rectangular body for better placement inside kick drums. The D12 VR features a robust black and silver metal surround, ensuring durability for studio and live settings.
An integrated hinge and thread adapter replace the older mic’s bottom-mounted XLR socket, allowing for flexible positioning with reduced profile—a thoughtful improvement for tight drum setups. Additionally, the three-way sliding switch on top activates the mic’s active filter settings, complete with LED indicators.
Phantom Power and Active Filters
A standout feature of the D12 VR is its active filter circuit, which operates when 48V phantom power is supplied.
This three-position filter adjusts the microphone’s response to suit various kick-drum styles:
- Red (Vintage Sound): A mid-range dip that creates space for other instruments in the mix.
- Green (Open Kick Drums): Combines a mid-range dip with a low-end boost.
- Blue (Closed Kick Drums): Adds low and high-frequency boosts alongside the mid-range dip for enhanced presence.
When operating passively (without phantom power), the D12 VR mimics traditional dynamic mic behavior. Note, however, that engaging the active filters reduces the output level by 10dB, requiring gain adjustments on your preamp.
Performance: Testing the D12 VR
To evaluate the D12 VR’s sound, comparisons were made against various other kick drum microphones. Recordings were conducted at various placements—inside the kick drum, at the front head hole, and outside the drum.
Sound Applications
- The D12 VR offers a bright, scooped tonal quality, ideal for modern rock and metal. Its active filters deliver versatility, with noticeable weight and clarity adjustments depending on the setting.
When tested with other instruments like electric guitar, bass, piano, and vocals in passive mode, the D12 VR excelled with sources that benefited from its less mid-forward character. While it’s tailored for kick drums, the mic’s adaptability makes it a solid choice for a variety of applications.
Conclusion: Is the AKG D12 VR Worth It?
The AKG D12 VR is a modern microphone that successfully blends vintage-inspired design with innovative features like an active EQ circuit. While it doesn’t replicate the exact sound of the original D12, it offers a refined and versatile alternative, particularly for modern kick-drum recording.
If you’re seeking the vintage mid-range punch of a classic D12, you may need to hunt down an original. However, for those looking for a reliable, flexible, and high-performing mic that suits a wide range of applications, the D12 VR is a worthy contender.
Explore More
For sound samples and a detailed comparison of the D12 VR with vintage models, visit AKG’s official site.
