What does the 'S' stand for in AKG D5 S?

The 'S' signifies that this specific model includes an on/off switch. This allows the user to manually mute the microphone when it is not in use.

Is the switch on the AKG D5 S silent?

Yes, the switch is designed to be noiseless. This ensures that no audible 'pop' or click is sent through the PA system when the microphone is toggled.

What is a Varimotion diaphragm?

Varimotion is a patented AKG technology where the diaphragm varies in thickness. The edge is thinner to allow for more flexibility, while the centre is thicker to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

How does the supercardioid pattern help on stage?

The supercardioid pattern is narrower than a standard cardioid pattern. It picks up sound primarily from the front and rejects sound from the sides, which helps prevent feedback from floor monitors and spill from other instruments.

Can the AKG D5 S be used for recording?

While it is optimised for live performance, its clear frequency response and high SPL handling make it a capable choice for recording vocals or loud instruments in a home studio setting.

What is the body of the D5 S made of?

The microphone features a durable die-cast metal body. This provides the necessary weight for a professional feel and the toughness to survive drops and knocks.

How does the D5 S handle stage noise?

It uses an integrated dual shock mount system. This internal suspension helps to decouple the capsule from the housing, significantly reducing the 'thumping' sounds caused by handling or movement.

Does the D5 S require phantom power?

No, the AKG D5 S is a dynamic microphone. It does not require phantom power to operate and can be plugged directly into any standard XLR microphone input.

What is the typical price for this microphone?

The AKG D5 S typically retails around the £84 mark. This makes it a competitive mid-range option for professional vocalists.

Is the grille replaceable?

The D5 S features a rugged spring-steel wire-mesh grille. While it is designed to be highly resistant to dents, it can generally be removed for cleaning or replacement if necessary.

How does it compare to the Shure Beta 58A?

Both microphones feature supercardioid patterns and are designed for lead vocals. The AKG D5 S utilizes the Varimotion diaphragm, whereas the Beta 58A is known for its specific neodymium magnet and frequency response curve.

Is this microphone suitable for high-volume stages?

Yes, the supercardioid pattern and high gain-before-feedback design make it specifically intended for use on loud stages where feedback management is crucial.

Gear article

AKG D5 S Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The AKG D5 S is a professional dynamic vocal microphone designed specifically for lead and backing vocals in live performance environments. It features a patented Varimotion diaphragm and a supercardioid polar pattern to provide high gain-before-feedback and a clear, focused sound.

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Overview

The AKG D5 S is a variation of the standard D5 model, distinguished by the inclusion of a noiseless on/off switch. It is engineered to handle the rigours of the stage while delivering studio-quality clarity. The microphone is built around AKG's Varimotion technology, which allows the diaphragm to be tuned without additional tuning resonators, resulting in a significant leap in acoustic performance.

Key Features and Design

The D5 S is constructed with a rugged die-cast body and a heavy-duty steel mesh grille, ensuring it can withstand the physical demands of touring and frequent live use. Inside, it features a dual shock mount designed to eliminate handling noise, making it suitable for performers who hold the microphone during their set. The supercardioid polar pattern is a critical design choice, offering high suppression of off-axis sound and excellent resistance to feedback even on loud stages.

Sonic Character

The microphone is voiced for lead vocals, focusing on a clean and clear reproduction of the human voice. The Varimotion diaphragm provides a consistent response that helps vocals cut through a dense mix without sounding harsh. By reducing unwanted ambient noise and spill from other instruments, the D5 S maintains a high level of signal integrity for the front-of-house engineer.

Suitability and Applications

The D5 S is primarily suited for vocalists who require a reliable, high-performance stage microphone. The 'S' version, featuring the on/off switch, is particularly useful for performers who wish to control their own signal, such as public speakers, singing drummers, or backing vocalists who are not constantly active. Its robust build makes it a staple for small clubs and large concert halls alike.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to industry standards like the Shure SM58 or the Sennheiser e935, the AKG D5 S offers a tighter supercardioid pick-up pattern than the cardioid SM58, providing better isolation in noisy environments. While the Sennheiser e945 also offers a supercardioid pattern, the D5 S is often cited for its specific Varimotion diaphragm technology which offers a unique alternative in the mid-price vocal microphone market.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the 'S' stand for in AKG D5 S?: The 'S' signifies that this specific model includes an on/off switch. This allows the user to manually mute the microphone when it is not in use.
Is the switch on the AKG D5 S silent?: Yes, the switch is designed to be noiseless. This ensures that no audible 'pop' or click is sent through the PA system when the microphone is toggled.
What is a Varimotion diaphragm?: Varimotion is a patented AKG technology where the diaphragm varies in thickness. The edge is thinner to allow for more flexibility, while the centre is thicker to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.
How does the supercardioid pattern help on stage?: The supercardioid pattern is narrower than a standard cardioid pattern. It picks up sound primarily from the front and rejects sound from the sides, which helps prevent feedback from floor monitors and spill from other instruments.
Can the AKG D5 S be used for recording?: While it is optimised for live performance, its clear frequency response and high SPL handling make it a capable choice for recording vocals or loud instruments in a home studio setting.
What is the body of the D5 S made of?: The microphone features a durable die-cast metal body. This provides the necessary weight for a professional feel and the toughness to survive drops and knocks.
How does the D5 S handle stage noise?: It uses an integrated dual shock mount system. This internal suspension helps to decouple the capsule from the housing, significantly reducing the 'thumping' sounds caused by handling or movement.
Does the D5 S require phantom power?: No, the AKG D5 S is a dynamic microphone. It does not require phantom power to operate and can be plugged directly into any standard XLR microphone input.
What is the typical price for this microphone?: The AKG D5 S typically retails around the £84 mark. This makes it a competitive mid-range option for professional vocalists.
Is the grille replaceable?: The D5 S features a rugged spring-steel wire-mesh grille. While it is designed to be highly resistant to dents, it can generally be removed for cleaning or replacement if necessary.
How does it compare to the Shure Beta 58A?: Both microphones feature supercardioid patterns and are designed for lead vocals. The AKG D5 S utilizes the Varimotion diaphragm, whereas the Beta 58A is known for its specific neodymium magnet and frequency response curve.
Is this microphone suitable for high-volume stages?: Yes, the supercardioid pattern and high gain-before-feedback design make it specifically intended for use on loud stages where feedback management is crucial.