Austrian Audio OC818 - Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Renaissance of a Studio Legend

The Austrian Audio OC818 is a premier, professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for those who demand uncompromising sonic transparency and modern flexibility. Handcrafted in Vienna by the world-class team of engineers who defined the classic Austrian sound, the OC818 serves as the ultimate workhorse for professional mixing engineers, broadcasters, and touring musicians. Combining a heritage-driven capsule design with groundbreaking software control, it is the most advanced microphone in its class for studio, live, and broadcast applications.

The Heart of Ceramic Precision
At the core of the OC818 is the handmade CKR12 ceramic capsule. By evolving the legendary CK12 design into a high-precision ceramic construction, Austrian Audio has eliminated the reliability issues associated with moisture and humidity while achieving exceptional unit-to-unit matching. This provides the sought-after "air" and nuanced high-end of vintage icons with the durability and consistency required for modern high-pressure environments.

Redefining Workflow with Dual Outputs
The OC818 features a unique Dual Output mode that allows you to record the front and rear diaphragms independently via a secondary mini-XLR connection. When used with the free PolarDesigner plugin, you can morph polar patterns in post-production across five frequency bands. This allows you to eliminate spill, manage proximity effect, and sculpt your sound at the source long after the session has ended.

Real-Time Wireless Management
Innovation extends to the control room via the optional OCR8 Bluetooth dongle and PolarPilot app. Engineers can remotely manage polar patterns, high-pass filters, and pad settings in real time from their seat without disturbing the performer. This digital integration governs only the analogue bias voltages, ensuring your signal path remains 100% pure analogue while your workflow becomes significantly more efficient.

Main features:

• Handmade CKR12 ceramic capsule for extreme detail and high-end clarity
• Five selectable polar patterns: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8, Hypercardioid, and programmable Preset
• Dual outputs for independent recording of front and back membranes
• Advanced microprocessor-controlled analogue bias voltages
• Three-stage analogue high-pass filters: 40 Hz, 80 Hz, and 160 Hz
• Two-stage analogue pad settings: -10 dB and -20 dB
• Single-piece body construction for superior RFI protection and aesthetics
• Full compatibility with the PolarDesigner plugin for frequency-dependent pattern control in post-production

Package Includes

1x Austrian Audio OC818 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
1x OCS8 Spider Mount Shockmount
1x OCH8 Mic Clip
1x OCC8 Mini XLR Cable
1x OCW8 Windscreen
1x Protective Carrying Case
1x Quick Start Guide

Tech Specs:

• Type: Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8, Hypercardioid, Custom
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 13 mV/Pa (all directions)
• Equivalent Noise Level: 9 dB SPL (A)
• Maximum SPL: 148 dB SPL (158 dB SPL with pad)
• High Pass Filter: 40 Hz, 80 Hz (2nd order), 160 Hz (1st order to 80 Hz)
• Switchable Pad: -10 dB, -20 dB
• Impedance: 275 Ω (symmetrical)
• Supply Voltage: 48 V (< 4mA)
• Main Connector: XLR 3-pin
• Second Connector: Mini XLR 5-pin (for back membrane)
• Colour: Silver
  
• Dimensions: 157 x 63 x 35 mm
• Weight: 360 g
• Discover Austrian Audio Premium Studio Microphones: https://austrian.audio/product/oc818/