Large-diaphragm Condenser Mic with Multiple Polar Patterns and Dual Output
The OC818 – our original Holy Grail. Handcrafted in Vienna with the CKR12 capsule for extreme detail and high SPL handling. Dual outputs and optional wireless control via OCR8 give you full flexibility. Shape polar patterns, stereo, or Ambisonics in post – one mic, total control, legendary sound.
Austrian Audio OC818 | First. Finest. Fearless.
From intimate performances to powerhouse vocals, the OC818 captures every nuance with rich, smooth detail. Its handcrafted CKR12 capsule delivers depth, balance, and silky highs, while 139 dB of dynamic range leaves room for everything from whispered lines to full-force performances without compromise.
From the deepest double bass to delicate strings, the OC818 captures acoustic instruments with rich, natural depth. Its handcrafted CKR12 capsule reveals fine detail and effortless tonal balance, while multiple polar patterns let you shape the relationship between instrument, room, and microphone naturally.
Fast transients. Huge dynamics. The OC818 captures cymbals, shells, and the full energy of the kit with rich, open detail. With 139 dB dynamic range and switchable pads, it handles serious impact, while multiple polar patterns give you control over kit and room.
From clean tones to driven cabinets, the OC818 captures every layer of an amp with depth and definition. Up to 158 dB SPL handles serious level, while switchable pads and multiple polar patterns give you the control to shape attack, body, and room.
Stereo without limits. Every OC818 is factory-calibrated for seamless matching, while dual outputs capture both diaphragms independently. Record in XY, then take control in post – reshape polar behavior, adjust the stereo image, or turn two OC818s into a first-order Ambisonics setup afterwards.
At the heart of the OC818 is the CKR12 – Austrian Audio’s handcrafted 1” dual-diaphragm true condenser capsule, featuring an edge-contacted design, built on the legacy of the legendary CK12 and pushed far beyond it. Engineered with a ceramic isolator and individually measured during production, the CKR12 delivers exceptional consistency, ultra-low distortion, and a level of detail that reveals every nuance of a performance. Fast transients, open highs, controlled lows – all captured with absolute precision and zero artificial coloration.
No vintage myths. No artificial character. Just the full truth of your sound.
Nothing added. Nothing held back.
Inside a microphone, every surface can get in the way. Reflections hit the diaphragm milliseconds late, creating comb filtering that colors the signal. Our Open Acoustics Technology takes those obstacles out. The capsule sits as freely as possible, with reflective surfaces and contact points reduced to a minimum and carefully selected absorber materials controlling what remains. Sound reaches the capsule openly from every side, preserving natural detail, cleaner polar patterns, and reliable rear rejection for improved feedback resistance on stage.
Less reflection. Less coloration. More of the source, exactly as it should sound.
Open by design. Naturally true.
Great recordings start with consistency. That’s why every OC818 is individually measured and factory-calibrated to ±0.5 dB across the full polar pattern range. The result: predictable performance from one microphone to the next – and any two OC818s are ready to work together without hand-matching. Build a stereo setup today, add another mic tomorrow, or expand into more complex recording setups later. The same precise standard is built into every OC818.
No searching for the perfect pair. No guesswork. Just consistency you can rely on.
Matched by precision. Not by chance.
Four classic polar patterns plus one programmable preset put directivity at your fingertips. Go from omni to cardioid, hypercardioid, or figure-eight, then save your own setting for instant recall. From focused vocals to open rooms and stereo setups, the OC818 adapts before you record.
Three switchable high-pass filters let you shape the low end before it reaches the mix. Cut rumble at 40 Hz, tighten things up at 80 Hz, or control proximity and unwanted lows at 160 Hz. Less cleanup later. More control while recording.
Quiet detail or serious impact – the OC818 is ready for both. With 139 dB dynamic range, switchable -10 dB and -20 dB pads, and up to 158 dB SPL, it captures everything from delicate performances to massive transients without holding your recording back.
Two diaphragms. Two independent signals. Total freedom. Dual Output captures the CKR12’s front and rear diaphragms separately, keeping critical decisions open after recording. Shape polar patterns, control proximity, create stereo images, or unlock immersive workflows later – without committing during the original recording take.
Go wireless without touching the audio. The optional OCR8 Bluetooth dongle connects your OC818 to PolarPilot while the signal path stays fully analog. Change settings from the console, across the room, or on stage – without disturbing the carefully placed microphone, placement, or performance.
Your OC818, under complete control. PolarPilot lets you remotely adjust polar patterns in 255 fine steps, switch filters and pads, monitor overload, and save settings for instant recall. Fine-tune the microphone from your mobile device before or during the take without touching it.
