C151 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The AKG C151 is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone built for natural, detailed capture of fast transients and acoustic sources. Its custom-engineered 16mm capsule is designed to reproduce quick attacks cleanly, making it well suited to acoustic guitar, strings, percussion, and other sources with sharp transient content that a larger diaphragm can smear.

A transformerless FET circuit keeps the signal path clean, and a 147dB max SPL rating gives the C151 enough headroom for loud sources like electric guitars without distortion. Self-noise is rated at 21dB(A) with a 73dB signal-to-noise ratio, and frequency response spans 20Hz to 20kHz for accurate, full-range reproduction.

Powered by standard 48V phantom power through a 3-pin XLR connector, the C151 works with common audio interfaces, mixers, and recorders. It measures 140mm long by 22mm in diameter and weighs 147g, making it easy to position on a stand or overhead mount using the included H82 microphone clip.

This microphone fits music recording sessions where clarity on transient sources matters, along with podcasting, video production, streaming, conferencing, and broadcast work. Its small form factor makes it a practical choice for tight overhead pairs, close-miking acoustic strings, or any setup where a compact, precise condenser capsule is needed alongside a matching large-diaphragm mic.