description AKG P170 Overview
The AKG P170 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone with a fixed cardioid pickup pattern. It is designed for recording acoustic instruments, percussion, cymbals, and drum overheads, where a compact body and directional response make close or suspended placement practical. The microphone includes a switchable attenuation pad for louder sources, connects through XLR, and requires phantom power from a mixer or recording interface.
help AKG P170 FAQ
What is the AKG P170 designed to record?
The P170 is a small-diaphragm condenser aimed at acoustic guitars, percussion, cymbals, drum overheads, and other strings. Its compact body and transient response make it useful when a close or suspended instrument position is needed. [AKG's product page](https://www.akg.com/microphones/condenser-microphones/3101H00410.html) lists those applications.
What pickup pattern does the AKG P170 use?
It uses a fixed cardioid pickup pattern, so it favors sound from the front and rejects more from the rear. The official specification lists a 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range and a 1/2-inch true-condenser diaphragm. [AKG's specifications](https://www.akg.com/microphones/condenser-microphones/3101H00410.html) confirm those details.
Does the P170 need phantom power?
Yes, it requires phantom power from an audio interface or mixer, with the manual specifying 48 V plus or minus 4 V. It connects through a 3-pin XLR output, so it is not a USB microphone.
What does the -20 dB pad on the AKG P170 do?
The switchable -20 dB preattenuation pad reduces the signal before it reaches the microphone electronics. That helps with loud sources such as cymbals or percussion, and AKG lists the P170 at up to 155 dB SPL with the pad engaged.
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