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AKG P420 Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£180
  • Avg. price in US: ~$210
  • Connection type: XLR
  • Transducer type: condenser
  • Max SPL: 155 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: N/A kHz
  • Output connector type: XLR

AKG P420 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

7.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

7.0

Technical Score

25.0%

9.6

User score

Very good
7.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.7

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.3

Recording

16.0%

8.6

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

7.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

4.5

Design

3.0%

6.2

Accessories

Very good
9.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(1163)
amazon
4.8
(78)
amazon
4.0
(20)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(1183)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(85)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(20)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 4.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    20.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 8.1
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    ?

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    ?

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 10
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 5.1
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

  • 5.6
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    10

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    8.7

    Height

    10.0%

    9.4

    Width

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The AKG P420 is a high-performance, dual-capsule true condenser microphone featuring a 1-inch large diaphragm and three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight. It offers a broad 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, high sensitivity of 28 mV/Pa, and a maximum sound pressure level of 155 dB with its switchable -20 dB attenuation pad. Main pros include its exceptional versatility for recording diverse sources—from grand pianos to loud drums—and its robust, all-metal construction that includes a 300 Hz low-cut filter. Some noted cons are its considerable weight, which may require a heavy-duty stand, its high sensitivity that can capture unwanted background noise in untreated rooms, and a potential lack of unique 'silky' character found in high-end studio models.

Technical Specifications of AKG P420

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.7

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.3

Recording

16.0%

8.6

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

7.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

4.5

Design

3.0%

6.2

Accessories

7.0
AKG P420 has a technical score of 6.97 points, which is higher than 53.8% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(1163)
amazon
4.8
(78)
amazon
4.0
(20)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(1183)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(85)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(20)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.6
AKG P420 has a user score of 9.57 points, which is higher than 97.5% of microphones.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
10
AKG P420 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 69.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

8.2
AKG P420 has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.2 points, which is higher than 63.3% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

25.4 inch / mm
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

dual
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-31.1 dBV/Pa
Show more
Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

XLR
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

XLR
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not include a headphone output. 63.5% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not include a 3.5 mm jack. 63.3% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
Show more
Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Show more
N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

3
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by AKG P420 is 3, which is higher than that of 82.9% of microphones and equal to that of 4.5% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG P420 supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG P420 supports an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 25.6% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG P420 supports a bidirectional pickup pattern. 16.6% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG P420 does not include a mute function. 68.3% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG P420 does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

0
AKG P420 offers volume output of 0 which is lower than that of 65.1% of microphones and equal to that of 34.9% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
AKG P420 offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
Show more
Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG P420 does not require phantom power. 9.1% of microphones also operate without phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

48 V
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG P420 does not support USB bus power. 86.4% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

165 mm
AKG P420 is 165 mm tall, which is shorter than 65.1% of microphones and equal in height to 2.1% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

54 mm
AKG P420 is 54 mm wide, which is narrower than 59.7% of microphones and equal in width to 2.6% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

54 mm
AKG P420 is 54 mm thick, which is thinner than 57.4% of microphones and equal in thickness to 2.6% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

1,710 g
AKG P420 weighs 1710 g, which is heavier than 99.4% of microphones.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal
Show more
Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

shock mount; mount adapter; carrying case
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG P420 includes a shock mount. 49.5% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not include a pop filter. 61.4% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 is not compatible with Android. 66.3% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG P420 is not compatible with iOS. 61.8% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG P420 is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
Requires audio interface.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG P420 is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Requires audio interface.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

?
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AKG P420 vs the average microphone

  • 2 more polar patterns
    AKG P420 has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.
    What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
    When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.3 vs 1
  • 33 dB SPL higher limit
    AKG P420 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (155 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    With 20 dB pad engaged.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (155 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.155 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • Supports omnidirectional pickup
    AKG P420 supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
    When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • 43.5 dB wider dynamic range
    AKG P420 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (140 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (140 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.140 dB vs 96.5 dB
  • Supports bidirectional pickup
    AKG P420 supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
    When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    AKG P420 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
    When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    AKG P420 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a pad switch for lowering input sensitivity.
    When it matters: When loud singers, drums, or guitar amps would otherwise overload the input stage.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports balanced output
    AKG P420 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
    When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 33 dB SPL higher limit
    AKG P420 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (155 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • 43.5 dB wider dynamic range
    AKG P420 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (140 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • 1 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    AKG P420 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (79 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
  • Supports balanced output
    AKG P420 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 2 more polar patterns
    AKG P420 has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.
  • Supports omnidirectional pickup
    AKG P420 supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports bidirectional pickup
    AKG P420 supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    AKG P420 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    AKG P420 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes shock mount
    AKG P420 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.

Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Connectivity
Pickup Patterns
Controls & Features
Accessories
  • No headphone output
    AKG P420 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    AKG P420 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    AKG P420 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    AKG P420 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    AKG P420 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    AKG P420 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • 2.98x heavier
    AKG P420 is heavier than the average microphone (1,710 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
  • 6 older release date
    AKG P420 is older than the average microphone (2,014 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • No pop filter
    AKG P420 does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
  • Not compatible with Android
    AKG P420 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    AKG P420 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • No gain control
    AKG P420 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
    When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    AKG P420 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
    When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    AKG P420 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    AKG P420 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
    When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG P420 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    AKG P420 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with Android
    AKG P420 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
    When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • 2.98x heavier
    AKG P420 is heavier than the average microphone (1,710 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
    What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
    When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 is heavier than the average microphone (1,710 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.1710 g vs 573 g
  • No headphone output
    AKG P420 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
    When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG P420 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
Total
Overall
Connectivity
Controls & Features
Power
Design
Accessories
Compatibility

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
1163 Reviews
amazon
4.8
78 Reviews
amazon
4.0
20 Reviews
United States
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4.7
1183 Reviews
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4.8
85 Reviews
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4.0
20 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about AKG P420?

  • High versatility with three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight
  • Excellent value for money, often described as a 'workhorse' for budget home and project studios
  • Sturdy and robust all-metal build quality that feels durable
  • Clean, neutral sound profile with a slight high-end presence that adds clarity to vocals and acoustic instruments
  • Includes high-quality accessories, such as a metal carrying case and a solid shock mount
  • High SPL handling (up to 155dB with -20dB pad), making it suitable for loud sources like drums and brass

What customers dislike about AKG P420?

  • Higher self-noise floor (approx. 15-16 dBA), which may be audible in professional voice-over or extremely quiet recordings
  • Can lean towards sibilance or airiness on certain vocal types due to its bright tonal character
  • Omnidirectional and figure-eight patterns may have slightly lower sensitivity than the cardioid setting
  • Shock mount connection system can be somewhat fiddly or difficult to attach compared to other brands
  • Lower frequencies can occasionally sound 'loose' or less defined on certain sources like electric guitar

Expert reviews

S
soundonsound.com
15/02/2009
AKG Perception 420 - Sound On Sound

The Sound On Sound review by Paul White evaluates AKG’s budget-friendly, Chinese-manufactured Perception series, specifically focusing on the 420, 120, and 170 condenser microphones. The Perception 420 (£279 / $579) is a multi-pattern studio workhorse featuring dual one-inch capsules, omni, cardioid, and figure-of-eight patterns, a 20dB pad, and a 300Hz low-cut filter. It delivers a...Read more

T
tapeop.com
01/07/2024
AKG P420 Review: Affordable Quality for Home Recording

The AKG P420 is a solidly constructed, multi-pattern condenser microphone tailored for budget-conscious hobbyists, home recordists, and podcasters. Priced at $199, it offers premium build quality with a hefty all-metal body, sturdy connections, and a refined windscreen grill that avoids the "sizzly," hyped top-end typical of other budget microphones. Its core strengths include...Read more

S
soundguys.com
15/11/2024
AKG P420 review - SoundGuys

The AKG P420 is a versatile, budget-friendly multi-pattern condenser microphone ($200) offering cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight patterns, making it a "Swiss Army knife" for studio recording. It features a robust all-metal build, a high-pass filter, a -20dB pad, and includes a shock mount and case, delivering a balanced, flat frequency response suitable for various sound...Read more

A
americansongwriter.com
23/05/2024
AKG P220 & P420 Review: Sturdy, Studio-Ready Condenser Mics

The AKG P220 is a sturdy, cardioid large-diaphragm true condenser microphone designed for home studios and stage recording. A major pro of the P220 is its solid, premium-feeling metal chassis, which comes with a durable carrying case and a useful shock mount. Reviewer Nick Stockton highly praised its clear, bright, and natural sound performance on acoustic rhythm/lead guitars and...Read more

B
beginnerguitarhq.com
17/02/2021
AKG P420 Condenser Microphone Review - Beginner Guitar HQ

The AKG P420 is reviewed as an outstanding, budget-friendly, mid-range XLR condenser microphone designed primarily for home studios and intermediate musicians. Engineered by AKG in Vienna and manufactured in China, this dual large-diaphragm model functions as a versatile "Swiss Army knife" for audio capture. Its standout pros include its exceptional versatility, offering three...Read more

G
gearspace.com
12/04/2016
AKG P420 - User review - Gearspace

The Gearspace review for the AKG P420 highlights the microphone as a versatile, professional-grade, large-diaphragm condenser featuring dual-capsule technology with switchable polar patterns (omni, cardioid, figure-of-eight). The reviewer notes a flat frequency response with a subtle 10kHz boost, making it suitable for high-SPL sources, including brass, kick drums, and guitar amps,...Read more

S
sweetwater.com
03/06/2010
AKG Perception 420 Review - InSync - Sweetwater

The AKG Perception 420 is a highly versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers professional, "big budget" sound quality at an economical price point. The reviewer notes that the microphone offers exceptional crispness, clarity, and precision that holds its own against competing studio microphones costing twice as much. It functions as an excellent all-rounder in...Read more

S
subhdeal.in
02/02/2022
AKG P420 Review - Full Review | Best condenser mic under 15k

The AKG P420 is a highly rated, multi-pattern large-diaphragm true condenser microphone designed in Austria and manufactured in China, engineered specifically for demanding project studio recordings. Priced competitively under ₹12,000 (roughly $150 USD), it offers an exceptional price-to-performance ratio that makes it a top recommendation for musicians on a budget. The microphone...Read more

B
bonedo.de
13/03/2015
AKG P220 and P420 Review

Balanced Value with Robust Build The AKG P220 and P420 are heavy-duty, large-diaphragm condenser microphones that offer excellent value for home studios and project environments. Both entry-level models feature an identical, robust zinc die-cast housing, and they ship with a shock mount ("spider") and a protective storage case rather than a cheap cardboard box. Functionally, both...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
paolobalestri.com
01/08/2017
AKG P420 super easy C12 mod and blind test", "AKG P420 incredibly easy C12 modification and blind test

The author reviews the AKG P420 condenser microphone, specifically testing a DIY modification to correct its sound profile. In its original form, the microphone is noted for having a very bright, sharp, and mid-heavy response that can sound overly harsh, strident, and lacking warmth when compared to high-end industry standards like the Neumann U87. To fix this frequency imbalance,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
paolobalestri.com
02/06/2018
U87AI vs AKG P420 - Paolo Balestri

The review highlights the AKG P420 as a compelling, budget-friendly alternative to the Neumann U87AI, largely due to a massive price drop from its original €300 down to around €120–150. Its primary pros include inheriting a very similar circuit layout, pattern switch controls, a 200 Hz high-pass filter, and an RK87 capsule configuration comparable to the much more expensive U87...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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