Austrian Audio OC18
Best large-diaphragm condenser for professional studio and broadcast recording.
This studio workhorse delivers pristine, ultra-low noise recordings that rival the industry's most storied vintage condensers. You sacrifice the multi-pattern flexibility of its more expensive siblings, but you gain a laser-focused, consistent cardioid performance that makes it the ultimate reliable choice for critical tracking.
$629.00
at
Music Store
Who it's for
- Engineers seeking transparent and highly detailed vocal or instrument captures
- Studio owners requiring durable gear built for daily professional use
- Producers recording loud sources like drums and aggressive guitar cabinets
Who should skip it
- Engineers needing flexible polar patterns for complex stereo miking setups
- Hobbyists or home recordists working with limited equipment budgets
- Artists preferring the distinct warmth and color of vintage microphones
Performance breakdown
SPL Handling
Easily manages loud sources without distortion or signal clipping.
Self-Noise Floor
Extremely quiet operation ensures pristine captures for delicate acoustic recordings.
Capsule Consistency
Ceramic design guarantees perfect matching for professional stereo imaging.
Build Quality
Precision Austrian engineering provides a robust, road-ready studio workhorse.
Transient Response
Captures fast, detailed audio transients with impressive clarity and speed.
Versatility
Adapts seamlessly from intimate vocal sessions to demanding live instrument miking.
Key Specs
Polar pattern
Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional, Figure-8, Hypercardioid
Frequency range
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity
13mV/Pa
Max SPL
148 dB SPL (158 dB SPL)
Impedance
275 Ohms
Supply voltage
48 V
Load impedance
> 1 kOhm
Connectivity technology
XLR
Microphone type
Condenser
Power source
Phantom Power
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