The Austrian Audio OC16 Studio Set is a bundle comprising the microphone of the same name (a lower-priced alternative to the OC18) together with the OSC6 microphone spider and the OCH8 clip to allow it to be mounted on a stand. Also included is the MSC6 carrying case to ensure safe storage during transport. The Austrian Audio OC16 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that uses a ceramic-based CKR capsule. Together with its Open Acoustics technology, this microphone offers a transparent and natural sound, and its cardioid polar pattern ensures a precise sound capture. What is more, the integrated analogue high-pass filter removes impact noise to help keep the recording free from unwanted interference.
The CKR capsule of the Austrian Audio OC16 is manufactured by hand in Vienna and can process frequencies from 20Hz up to 20kHz. A maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 148dB allows dynamic recordings with both loud and quiet voices. Its sensitivity of 11mV/Pa also contributes to the recordings' precision, as significant amplification is not required at values this high. The analogue high-pass filter can be set at 40Hz or 160Hz in order to remove low frequencies from the mic signal directly – which is especially handy in live situations. In addition to that, the OC16 has an low equivalent noise level of 14dB, ensuring a high signal-to-noise ratio. These features all mean one thing: High-quality recordings.
The Austrian Audio OC16 was made for audio engineers and musicians on a budget who are still looking for a professional condenser microphone for their recordings. Ceramic is less prone to manufacturing errors, which results in a consistent sound for each microphone. Furthermore, all capsules manufactured by Austrian Audio are calibrated and tested before they leave the facility. Unwanted reflections and standing waves inside the microphone are reduced thanks to the Open Acoustics technology, specially developed by Austrian Audio. The sturdy die-cast housing ensures a long operating life, meaning this microphone will prove its worth even in the most challenging recording situations. Some users might fault the lack of a pad switch (to record loud sound sources) or automatic sensitivity calibration, but they will be well-served instead by the more expensive Austrian Audio OC18.
The Viennese manufacturer Austrian Audio was founded in 2017 by 22 former senior AKG employees, including engineers and managers - as the traditional Austrian manufacturer was closing its offices and factories in Vienna. The first product releases from Austrian Audio immediately put them on the map, confirming their pedigree. The company's product range, which so far consists of headphones and microphones, is characterised by elegant design and smart concepts with a modern twist. In addition, all products are manufactured in Austria, as during the golden age of AKG. It will be interesting to see what Austrian Audio will come up with next.
With all the accessories included in this package, the Austrian Audio OC16 is soon set up and ready to go. Together with the OSC6 microphone spider and the OCH8 clip, it is safely stored in the robust MSC6 transport case, which is zippered to allow all the set's components to be removed with ease. The microphone spider allows interferece – for example footfalls – to be kept to a minimum, and the clip can be used when recording instruments and amplifiers where the mic needs to be close to the sound source, so as to pick up even the finest nuances in a performace. The frequency response of the OC16 is deliberately as linear as possible, but there is a decrease in the frequency range between 6kHz and 7kHz, which reduces sibilant sounds when recording vocals. An over-emphasis on the low end due to the proximity effect can in turn be countered by setting the analogue high-pass filter to 160Hz.