AKG C555 L High-Performance Head-Worn Condenser Microphone
The AKG C555 L is a lightweight, hands-free condenser microphone engineered for studio voice-over sessions, podcast recording, and intimate vocal tracking where freedom of movement matters. The behind-the-neck headband positions the capsule close to the mouth while remaining acoustically transparent, and the adjustable design accommodates left or right-side wear. At just 26 grams, it vanishes during extended takes, making it ideal for extended tracking, ADR work, and streaming applications where consistent mic-to-source distance drives recording quality.
Design & Build Quality
The C555 L features a behind-the-neck headband that can be attached to either the left or right side, giving engineers flexibility in positioning for optimal phase relationships and sightlines in tight booth spaces. The matte black finish maintains a professional studio aesthetic, while the transducer shock mount isolates the capsule from handling noise and headband vibration—critical for eliminating rumble during hands-free recording sessions. A moisture shield protects the diaphragm in humid recording environments, and the included W444 windscreen effectively reduces plosives and breath noise for intimate vocal and spoken-word capture.
Audio Performance
This condenser delivers a cardioid polar pattern that locks onto the speaker’s voice while rejecting room reflections and off-axis bleed, essential for clean tracking and overdubs. The 80–20,000 Hz frequency response captures natural vocal presence and articulation, while the 72 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio and 22 dB-A equivalent noise level ensure transparent audio without circuit noise coloration during quiet passages. Sensitivity of 35 mV/Pa provides sufficient output to drive preamps, audio interfaces, and wireless systems with standard 2–12 V phantom power, while 200 Ohm electrical impedance and recommended 2,000 Ohm load impedance ensure compatibility across mixing consoles and interface input stages.
Key Features
- Cardioid polar pattern for isolated voice pickup and rejection of ambient noise
- Frequency response: 80–20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 35 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 72 dB-A
- Equivalent noise level: 22 dB-A
- Behind-the-neck headband, attachable to left or right side
- Transducer shock mount reduces handling and headband vibration noise
- Moisture shield protects diaphragm in humid conditions
- 3-pin mini XLR female connector
- Power supply: 2–12 V phantom power at 2 mA
- Net weight: 26 g for extended comfort wear
- Includes W444 windscreen for wind and breath noise reduction
The AKG C555 L combines proven condenser technology with practical studio design, delivering consistent, articulate vocal capture in a package that frees performers and enables engineers to focus on the recording.
