AKG

AKG P170 Pro Audio Instrument Condenser Microphone XLR

CondenserXLR

A rugged small-diaphragm condenser mic that captures instruments with detail and clarity from studio to stage.

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Overview

The AKG P170 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone built for capturing instruments with precision and clarity. Its cardioid polar pattern provides focused pickup of the sound source directly in front of the mic while rejecting unwanted ambient noise and bleed from the sides and rear — a critical quality when miking individual instruments in a multi-source environment like a drum kit or live stage. With a frequency response spanning 20 Hz to 20 kHz, the P170 faithfully reproduces the full harmonic range of acoustic guitars, cymbals, percussion, and stringed instruments with an emphasis on clean transient response.

One of the P170's most practical features is its switchable attenuation pad, which allows the microphone to handle extremely loud sound sources up to 155 dB SPL without clipping or distortion. This makes it versatile enough to close-mic a snare drum or a loud guitar cabinet without worrying about overloading the capsule. The rugged all-metal body is designed to withstand the demands of repeated setup and teardown in both studio and live environments. Connecting via standard XLR and requiring 48V phantom power, the P170 integrates easily into any professional or home studio signal chain. It ships with a stand adapter, keeping the package simple and the price accessible for recording enthusiasts and working engineers alike.

Key Features

Rugged all-metal body and robust design - Withstands tough day-to-day use

Switchable attenuation pad - For high SPL applications up to 155 db SPL

Small-diaphragm condenser microphone for recording of overheads, percussion, acoustic guitars and other strings

Delivers outstanding clarity and transient response

Lightweight 1/2 inch true condenser transducer diaphragm

Specifications

Brand
AKG
Model
P170
Type
Small-Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Range
20 Hz – 20 kHz
Sensitivity
75 dB
Maximum SPL
155 dB (with attenuation pad)
Connector
XLR
Construction
All-metal body
In The Box
P170 Microphone, Stand Adapter

Frequently Asked Questions

The P170 excels at recording acoustic guitars, drum overheads, percussion, hi-hats, and other string instruments where transient detail and clarity are important.
Yes, as a condenser microphone, the P170 requires 48V phantom power, which is supplied by most audio interfaces, mixers, and preamps with an XLR connection.
The attenuation pad reduces the mic's input sensitivity, allowing it to handle very loud sound sources up to 155 dB SPL without distortion — useful for close-miking snare drums, guitar amps, or brass instruments.
While it can capture vocals, the P170's small-diaphragm cardioid design is optimized for instrument recording. A large-diaphragm condenser would typically be a better choice for vocal applications.
No, the P170 includes a stand adapter but does not come with a shock mount. A compatible shock mount can be purchased separately if needed for vibration-sensitive setups.