AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone User Instructions

AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone

Safety and the Environment

Risk of damage

Please make sure that the piece of equipment your microphone will be connected to fulfills the safety regulations in force in your country and is fitted with a ground lead.

• Do not spill any liquids on the equipment and do not drop any objects through the ventilation slots in the equipment.
• Use the equipment in dry rooms only. Do not expose the equipment to rain or splash water. Never place objects containing liquids (e.g., vases) on or near the equipment.
• There are no user-serviceable parts inside the equipment. Do not attempt to service the equipment yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void the manufacturer’s warranty.
• Before connecting the equipment to power, check that the AC mains voltage stated on the power supply included with the equipment is identical to the AC mains voltage available where you will use the equipment. Also, check that the power outlet is a standard type with a protective ground connection. Disconnecting the protective ground lead or using non-standard power plugs or non-standard power outlets is illegal.
• Operate the equipment with the power supply included with the equipment only. Using a different power supply may cause serious damage to the unit.
• If any solid object or liquid penetrates into the equipment, shut down the sound system immediately. Disconnect the equipment from power immediately and have the equipment checked by AKG service personnel.
• If you do not use the equipment for a long period of time, disconnect the equipment from power. Please note that the equipment will not be fully isolated from power when you set the power switch to OFF.
• Disconnect the equipment from power during storms to prevent damage.
• Make sure to route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the equipment.
• To avoid hum or interference, route all audio lines, particularly those connected to microphone inputs, away from power lines of any type. If you use cable ducts, be sure to use separate ducts for the audio lines.
• Make sure to replace the built-in fuse with a standard fuse of the same type and rating only. Using any other type of fuse may cause excessive heating and/or a risk of fire.
• Do not place the equipment near heat sources such as radiators, heating ducts, amplifiers, etc., and do not expose it to direct sunlight, excessive dust, moisture, rain, mechanical vibrations, or shock.
• Clean the equipment with a moistened (not wet) cloth only. Be sure to disconnect the equipment from power before cleaning the equipment! Never use caustic or scouring cleaners or cleaning agents containing alcohol or solvents since these may damage the enamel and plastic parts.
• Use the equipment for the applications described in this manual only. AKG cannot accept any liability for damage resulting from improper handling or misuse.

Environment

• At the end of the lifetime of the product, disconnect the housing, electronics, and cable from each other and discard all components according to applicable disposal regulations.
• The packaging is recyclable. Dispose of the packaging via an appropriate collection system provided for this purpose.

Description

Introduction

Thank you for your decision to buy an AKG product. Please read the user instructions carefully before using the unit and keep them in a safe place so that you can refer to them in the future at any time. We wish you a lot of fun and success!

Contents

• P820 TUBE microphone
• Remote Control Unit
• Audio/control cable
• Spider-type shock mount
• US-type power cord
• UK-type power cord
• European-type power cord

Check that the packaging contains all of the items listed for your system. If anything is missing, please contact your AKG dealer.

Optional accessories

Optional accessories can be found in the current AKG catalog at www.akg.com. Your dealer will be happy to advise you.

Microphone

The P820 TUBE is a high-quality, true condenser microphone with a 1″ dual large-diaphragm transducer. What sets it apart from other condenser microphones is that it uses a vacuum-tube preamplifier. Unlike conventional solid-state electronics, a tube preamplifier adds even-order harmonics to the signal. Although these are low in level, they create a rich, warm, three- dimensional sound. This characteristic in conjunction with the typical response of the large-diaphragm transducer will give your recordings a degree of warmth and “musicality” that is difficult to achieve with solid-state microphones. The microphone incorporates a carefully selected ECC 83 tube. If the tube needs replacing, you may alternatively use a 12AX7 tube. This type is similar to the ECC 83.

Other features of the P820 TUBE include:

• Selectable polar patterns: The microphone’s transducer uses a dual diaphragm. This sophisticated technology allows you to select the optimum polar pattern (cardioid, omnidirectional, figure eight, and six intermediate patterns) for every application.
• Gold-sputtered diaphragm: The diaphragm is made of a plastic foil that is gold-sputtered on one side only to prevent shorting to the back electrode even at extremely high sound pressure levels.
• All-metal body: The all-metal body adds to the rejection of RF interference so you can use the microphone near transmitter stations and along with wireless microphones or other communications equipment. The extremely rugged, heavy body and sturdy front grill protect the microphone from damage from tough handling on stage.
• High headroom: Capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 155 dB and built to resist high temperatures and humidity, the microphone will give excellent results in a wide range of applications.

Remote Control Unit

The Remote Control Unit delivered with your microphone

• provides the filament and plate voltages for the vacuum tube,
• supplies the polarization voltage for the transducer,
• lets you select one of nine different polar patterns,
• provides a 20-dB pre-attenuation pad, and
• allows you to switch in a bass-cut filter.

Front Panel

Figure 1: Controls on the Remote Control Unit front panel

• A POWER LED: This blue LED is lit to indicate that power to the Remote Control Unit is ON.
• B Polar pattern selector: This rotary switch lets you select the microphone’s polar pattern from omnidirectional (fully CCW) to cardioid (center) to figure eight (fully CW). Between these settings, there are six intermediate patterns. All switch positions are detented, so all settings are easily and unambiguously reproducible.
• C Preattenuation switch: This toggle switch lets you increase the microphone’s headroom by 20 dB for close-in recording with extremely low distortion. The attenuation pad prevents the microphone’s output level, particularly at low frequencies, from overloading the miniature transformers used in many mixer input stages, etc.
• D Bass cut switch: This toggle switch lets you reduce low-end distortion caused by footfall or wind noise, etc. The bass cut filter also minimizes the proximity effect that close-in miking from less than 4 inches causes in any unidirectional microphone. The filter rolls off at 12 dB/octave from 80 Hz downward.

Rear Panel

Figure 2: Controls, inputs, and outputs on the Remote Control Unit rear panel

• E POWER switch: Turns power to the unit ON (position “I”) and OFF (position “0”). The front panel POWER LED is lit while power is ON and goes out when you turn power to the unit OFF.

• F AC input: Standard IEC power receptacle with integrated fuse holder.
  NOTE To avoid damage, use replacement fuses of the same type and rating (125 mA/250 V, slow-blow) only.

• G Power voltage selector: Sets the input power voltage to 210 – 240 VAC (“210-240V” position) or 110 – 120 VAC (“110-120V” position).
  NOTE To avoid damage, always make sure that the power voltage selector is set to the same voltage as the power voltage available where you are going to use the unit.

• H INPUT: 7-pin female XLR connector for connecting the dedicated audio/control cable for the microphone.

• I OUTPUT: This balanced 3-pin XLR connector provides the microphone output signal.

• J GROUND LIFT: This pushbutton switch allows you to remove hum caused by ground loops.

  • To open the chassis ground connection, press the GROUND LIFT button OUT (“LIFT” position).
  • To restore the chassis ground connection, press the GROUND LIFT button IN (“GROUND” position).

Connecting to Audio Equipment

ATTENTION To avoid damage or electric shock, mount the microphone on a suitable stand and make all audio connections before connecting the Remote Control Unit to power.

Connecting the Microphone

Figure 3: Connecting the microphone to the Remote Control Unit and mixer

1. Use the supplied audio/control cable (A) to connect the microphone output to the INPUT connector(B) on the Remote Control Unit rear panel.
2. Use a standard balanced XLR cable (C) (optional) to connect the OUTPUT connector (D) on the Remote Control Unit rear panel to the desired microphone input on your mixer.

Connecting the Remote Control Unit to the Power

1. Prior to connecting the Remote Control Unit to power, check what power voltage is available where you are going to use the microphone.
2. Set the power voltage selector (G) on the rear panel to the correct position as shown in the Table below.
3. Referring to the Table below, use the correct power cord to connect the Remote Control Unit to a grounded power outlet.

NOTE

When on tour, you may encounter power outlets that do not match the power plug on any of the supplied power cords.

• Purchase a suitable power cord locally that complies with IEC and local safety standards and has a power plug with a chassis ground pin.
• To avoid damage or electric shock, connect the Remote Control Unit to a  grounded power outlet only.
• If in doubt about the power connection, consult a local electrician.

Powering Up

• Set the power switch on the Remote Control Unit rear panel to “I”. After about ten seconds, the heating voltage will have reached the specified level and the front panel POWER LED will be lit. About twenty seconds later, the microphone will be ready to operate.

NOTE You may not get the full splendor of the tube sound before the electrodes have reached the required operating temperature. Therefore, we recommend powering up at least five minutes before starting to record. This will allow the tube inside the microphone to heat up properly.

Powering Down

1. Set the power switch on the Remote Control Unit rear panel to “0”. The front panel POWER LED will go out.
2. Wait for five minutes to allow the tube to cool down to room temperature before moving the microphone. A hot tube will be more susceptible to mechanical damage than a cold one.

Operation

General Hints

Using vacuum-tube electronics and a large-diaphragm transducer, the P820 TUBE is suited for a wide range of applications. It will add the typical warmth and richness tube microphones are famous for to female and male voices as well as many instruments.

The following sections contain general hints on using the microphone and suggestions on how to place the microphone for voices and various instruments.

NOTE Please remember that vacuum tubes with their heater filaments are more delicate than solid-state components. Even a drop from a moderate height may cause the filament to break and the microphone to fail. So always handle the microphone with extreme care.

• Whichever polar pattern you select, it may be good to know which way the transducer axis is facing: the front of the microphone is the side of the body with the AKG logo on it.
• When recording wind instruments or vocals, make sure not to blow or sing directly into the microphone. To get professional-sounding results with no unwanted wind and pop noise (exaggerated “p” and “t” sounds), place an optional PF80 pop screen from AKG between the microphone and vocalist/instrument.
• Keep the microphone dry. Moisture from blowing or singing directly at the capsule from a short distance, or extremely high humidity may cause the microphone to start crackling or go very quiet due to partial short circuits in the polarization voltage.
• If you use the microphone in the open, use an optional AKG W4000 windscreen to protect the microphone from moisture and reduce wind noise.
• Loud instruments: You can use this microphone for close-in recording of very loud instruments (brass instruments, kick drum, etc.). Just switch the pre-attenuation pad in to increase the microphone’s capability of handling sound pressure levels to 155 dB.
  • To switch the pre-attenuation pad in, set the pre-attenuation switch on the Remote Control Unit front panel to “-20 dB”.
  • To switch the pre-attenuation pad out of the circuit, set the attenuation to switch to “0”.
• Low-frequency noise: The supplied spider-type shock mount reduces footfall or other mechanical noise to a minimum. The switchable bass cut filter at 80 Hz will effectively suppress any remaining low-frequency noise such as fan noise from air conditioning systems, etc., floor vibrations, or handling noise, etc. without affecting the sound of the recorded voice or instrument on tape.
  • To switch the filter in, set the bass cut filter switch on the Remote Control Unit front panel to the ” ” position.
  • To switch the filter out of the circuit, set the bass cut filter switch on the Remote Control Unit front panel to the “ ” position.

Selecting Polar Patterns

Each of the P820 TUBE’s selectable polar patterns is virtually frequency- independent so that reflected sound, too will be reproduced accurately and uncolored.

• Cardioid (center setting): This is a standard setting for recording and gives excellent results on all kinds of voices and a wide range of instruments. Remember to aim the microphone front at the sound source.
• Figure eight (right-hand setting): The microphone will pick up sounds arriving from the front and rear with equal sensitivity. Use this mode to mic up the side signal in M/S stereo recording or to record two sound sources (talkers, instruments) facing each other. It is also a good choice for cymbal overhead miking.
• Omnidirectional (left-hand setting): This is the preferred setting for “all around the mic” recording, high-quality ambiance (audience sound) miking, or far-field recording in exceptionally good-sounding large or small recording rooms, etc.

Cleaning

ATTENTION To avoid electric shock, make sure to disconnect the Remote Control Unit from power before cleaning the microphone or the Remote Control Unit.

1. Disconnect the power cord from the Remote control Unit.
2. To clean the surfaces of the microphone body and Remote Control Unit, use a soft cloth moistened with water.

Troubleshooting

power to the mixer and/or recording device.
The channel or master fader on the mixer or recording device is at zero.| Set the channel or master fader on the mixer or recording device to the desired level.
The microphone is not connected to a mixer or recording device.| Connect a microphone to a mixer or recording device.
Cable connectors are seated loosely.| Check cable connectors for secure seat.
The audio cable or audio/control cable is defective.| Check cables and replace damaged cable(s).
No supply voltage| Check POWER LED. Switch the power to the Remote Control Unit.

Check the audio/control cable and replace it if necessary.

The vacuum tube inside the microphone is defective| Contact your nearest AKG Service Center
Fuse blown| Check POWER LED. Refer to “ Replacing Fuses Page 31″ or

contact your nearest AKG Service Center.

Distortion| Channel gain control on mixer set

too high.

| Turn gain control down CCW.
The microphone is too close to the sound source.| Move the microphone further away from the sound source.
Microphone sensitivity is too high.| Switch the pre-attenuation pad in.
Crackling noises or low output| Partial short circuits due to excessive humidity.| Place the microphone in a warm, dry room and allow it to dry.

Replacing Fuses

ATTENTION Dangerous voltages may be present inside the Remote Control Unit. To avoid electric shock, injury, and fire, UNDER ALL CIRCUMSTANCES disconnect the power cord from the Remote Control Unit before replacing a fuse. To avoid damage, replace blown fuses with new fuses of the same type and rating only.

The fuse protecting the primary circuit is located in the marked fuse compartment below the AC input connector on the Remote Control Unit’s rear panel.

Figure 4: Opening the fuse compartment

To replace the fuse,

1. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to open the fuse compartment lid.
2. Remove the blown fuse.
3. Insert a new fuse of the same type and rating (125 mA/250 V slow-blow).
4. Close the fuse compartment lid.

Technical data

Microphone

• Type: 1″ dual-diaphragm, tube microphone
• Polar pattern: 9 selectable polar patterns (selectable on remote control unit)
• Sensitivity: (cardioid) 20 mV/Pa (-34 DVB)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz (see frequency response trace)
• Electrical impedance: ≤ 200 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: ≥ 1000 ohms Equivalent noise level to IEC 60268-4:  16 dB(A)
• Signal to noise:  78 dB(A) re 1 Pa
• Max. SPL for 0.5% THD: 135 / 155 dB SPL (0 / -20 dB)
• Temperature range: -10 °C to +60 °C (14 °F – 140 °F)
• Phantom powering: via Remote Control Unit only
• Connector: dedicated 7-pin male XLR
• Diameter:  54 mm (2.13 in.)
• Length: 212 mm (8.3 in.)
• Net weight:  765 g (27 oz.)
• Bass cut pad: 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave (switchable on Remote Control Unit)
• Preattenuation pad: -20 dB (switchable on Remote Control Unit)

Remote Control Unit

• Audio &control input connector: dedicated 7-pin female XLR
• Audio output connector: standard 3-pin male XLR (balanced, pin 2 hot)
• Polar pattern selector: 9-position detented rotary switch
• Bass cut filter switch: 2-position toggle switch
• Preattenuation switch: 2-position toggle switch
• Power voltage: 210-240 VAC or 110-120 VAC, selectable
• Primary fuse: 125 mA / 250 V slow-blow

Frequency Response

This product corresponds to the standards stated in the Declaration of Conformity. You can request the Declaration of Conformity by e-mail from sales@akg.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone?

The AKG P820 Tube is a condenser microphone known for its high-quality sound capture capabilities, featuring a tube preamp for warm and rich audio recordings, suitable for studio and professional audio applications.

What are the key features of the AKG P820 Tube microphone?

The AKG P820 Tube microphone features a dual-diaphragm design, selectable polar patterns, tube preamp, high-pass filter, and pad switch, making it versatile for various recording scenarios, including vocals and instruments.

Is the AKG P820 Tube suitable for recording vocals?

Yes, the AKG P820 Tube is an excellent choice for recording vocals, providing warm and detailed sound reproduction, making it ideal for singers and voice- over artists.

Can I use it for instrument recording?

Certainly, the AKG P820 Tube is versatile for instrument recording, capturing acoustic instruments, guitar amps, pianos, and more with precision.

Does the AKG P820 Tube microphone require phantom power?

Yes, the AKG P820 Tube requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard in most audio interfaces and mixers.

Does it come with a shock mount or stand?

The AKG P820 Tube microphone package typically includes a shock mount for reduced vibrations and a carrying case for storage and protection.

What is the frequency response of the AKG P820 Tube microphone?

The microphone typically offers a frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz, capturing a wide range of audio frequencies.

Is there an on/off switch on the microphone?

The AKG P820 Tube microphone typically does not have an on/off switch; it is active when connected to your audio interface or mixer.

What is the weight and dimensions of the AKG P820 Tube microphone?

The AKG P820 Tube microphone typically weighs around 1.7 Pounds and has dimensions of approximately 8.3 x 2.13 x 2.13 inches.

Is it suitable for live performances?

While primarily designed for studio use, some artists may use the AKG P820 Tube for live performances in controlled sound environments.

Can I use it with recording software and DAWs?

Yes, the AKG P820 Tube is compatible with various recording software and digital audio workstations (DAWs) on both Windows and Mac platforms.

Is there a carrying case included for transport and storage?

The AKG P820 Tube microphone package typically includes a carrying case for convenient transport and safe storage.

What type of connector does the AKG P820 Tube microphone have?

The microphone typically features an XLR connector, which is a standard connection for professional audio equipment.

Is there a warranty for the AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone?

AKG often provides a limited warranty for the AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone; warranties often range from 6 months tu 1 year or more.

Where can I purchase the AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone?

You can typically purchase the AKG P820 Tube Condenser Microphone from authorized AKG dealers, music stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive a genuine product.

Does it offer headphone monitoring?

The AKG P820 Tube microphone typically does not include a headphone monitoring feature.

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