What does the 'S' in AKG P5 S stand for?

The 'S' stands for 'Switch,' indicating that this specific model includes an integrated on/off slide switch located on the handle of the microphone.

What type of polar pattern does the AKG P5 S use?

The P5 S features a supercardioid polar pattern. This means it has a narrower pickup area than a standard cardioid mic, offering better isolation from surrounding stage noise.

Is the AKG P5 S suitable for loud stages?

Yes, it is specifically designed for 'raucous' stage environments. Its supercardioid pattern provides excellent feedback resistance and noise rejection.

Does this microphone require phantom power?

No, the AKG P5 S is a dynamic microphone. It does not require phantom power to operate and can be plugged directly into any standard XLR input.

How does it handle vocal 'pops' and wind noise?

The microphone includes an integrated windscreen. This internal mesh helps to reduce turbulent noises, clicks, and pops during close-range vocal performance.

What is the typical price for an AKG P5 S?

The typical price for an AKG P5 S is approximately £43 GBP, making it a highly accessible option for touring musicians and venues.

Can the AKG P5 S be used for recording instruments?

While primarily a vocal microphone, its high SPL handling and supercardioid pattern allow it to be used for instruments, though models like the Shure SM57 are specifically tailored for that purpose.

How does the P5 S compare to the Shure SM58?

The P5 S features a tighter supercardioid pattern compared to the SM58's wider cardioid pattern. The P5 S also includes an on/off switch, which is only available on specific SM58S variants.

Is the microphone body durable enough for touring?

Yes, AKG describes the P5 S as a heavy-duty microphone designed for uncompromising live performance. It features a robust construction intended to withstand regular stage use.

Does the P5 S come with any accessories?

Retail versions typically include a microphone stand adapter and a zip bag for transport, though the core package focuses on the microphone itself.

How does the supercardioid pattern help with monitor feedback?

Because the supercardioid pattern rejects sound from the sides more effectively than a cardioid pattern, it is less likely to pick up audio from floor monitors positioned to the sides of the singer.

Is the switch on the P5 S silent?

The switch is designed for live use to manage sound easily. It provides a mechanical way to mute the microphone without needing the sound engineer to intervene at the mixing console.

Gear article

AKG P5 S Dynamic Vocal Microphone with Switch

The AKG P5 S is a high-performance dynamic vocal microphone designed specifically for demanding live performance environments. Featuring a supercardioid polar pattern and an integrated on/off switch, it is engineered for lead and backing vocalists who require high feedback resistance and noise rejection at an accessible price point.

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Background and Design

The AKG P5 S is part of AKG's Perception range, designed to provide professional-standard audio capture for performers working on loud stages. Unlike standard cardioid microphones, the P5 S utilizes a tighter supercardioid pickup pattern. The design prioritises durability and practical utility, featuring a robust metal body and a 'Switch' (indicated by the 'S' suffix) that allows individual performers to mute their own signal when not in use.

Technical Features

The core of the AKG P5 S is its supercardioid capsule, which is specifically tuned to reject ambient noise from the sides and rear of the microphone. This design makes it particularly effective in 'raucous' environments where stage monitors and other instruments might otherwise cause feedback. For internal protection, the microphone includes an integrated windscreen, which serves to dampen turbulent noises and plosives (pops and clicks) without the need for an external shield.

Sound Character and Performance

In a live setting, the P5 S is characterised by its clean reproduction and high gain-before-feedback. The supercardioid pattern ensures that the singer's voice remains the dominant source, while the frequency response is tailored to help vocals cut through a busy mix. The internal windscreen ensures that even during high-energy performances, the signal remains clear of mechanical and wind-related interference.

Target Audience

This microphone is ideally suited for lead and backing vocalists who perform in live venues, ranging from small clubs to larger stages. Its feedback resistance makes it a reliable choice for singers who standing near loud monitors or high-volume instrumentation. Additionally, the inclusion of the on/off switch makes it a popular choice for public speakers, house-of-worship vocalists, and presenters who require manual control over their audio transmission.

Market Comparison

Within the live dynamic microphone market, the AKG P5 S competes with industry standards such as the Shure SM58 and the Sennheiser e935. While the Shure SM58 uses a cardioid pattern, the P5 S's supercardioid pattern offers tighter rejection, similar to the Shure Beta 58A or Sennheiser e945. At its typical price point of approximately £43, the P5 S positioned as a budget-friendly yet professional alternative to more expensive high-end vocal microphones like the Sennheiser MD 441-U.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the 'S' in AKG P5 S stand for?: The 'S' stands for 'Switch,' indicating that this specific model includes an integrated on/off slide switch located on the handle of the microphone.
What type of polar pattern does the AKG P5 S use?: The P5 S features a supercardioid polar pattern. This means it has a narrower pickup area than a standard cardioid mic, offering better isolation from surrounding stage noise.
Is the AKG P5 S suitable for loud stages?: Yes, it is specifically designed for 'raucous' stage environments. Its supercardioid pattern provides excellent feedback resistance and noise rejection.
Does this microphone require phantom power?: No, the AKG P5 S is a dynamic microphone. It does not require phantom power to operate and can be plugged directly into any standard XLR input.
How does it handle vocal 'pops' and wind noise?: The microphone includes an integrated windscreen. This internal mesh helps to reduce turbulent noises, clicks, and pops during close-range vocal performance.
What is the typical price for an AKG P5 S?: The typical price for an AKG P5 S is approximately £43 GBP, making it a highly accessible option for touring musicians and venues.
Can the AKG P5 S be used for recording instruments?: While primarily a vocal microphone, its high SPL handling and supercardioid pattern allow it to be used for instruments, though models like the Shure SM57 are specifically tailored for that purpose.
How does the P5 S compare to the Shure SM58?: The P5 S features a tighter supercardioid pattern compared to the SM58's wider cardioid pattern. The P5 S also includes an on/off switch, which is only available on specific SM58S variants.
Is the microphone body durable enough for touring?: Yes, AKG describes the P5 S as a heavy-duty microphone designed for uncompromising live performance. It features a robust construction intended to withstand regular stage use.
Does the P5 S come with any accessories?: Retail versions typically include a microphone stand adapter and a zip bag for transport, though the core package focuses on the microphone itself.
How does the supercardioid pattern help with monitor feedback?: Because the supercardioid pattern rejects sound from the sides more effectively than a cardioid pattern, it is less likely to pick up audio from floor monitors positioned to the sides of the singer.
Is the switch on the P5 S silent?: The switch is designed for live use to manage sound easily. It provides a mechanical way to mute the microphone without needing the sound engineer to intervene at the mixing console.