AKG CK61 - CK-61 ULS Cardioid Capsule for C480-B CK61

AKG CK61 ULS - Cardioid capsule for C480 B with ultra-linear response (20–20,000 Hz)

The AKG CK61 ULS is a small-diaphragm condenser capsule with a cardioid pattern, designed for the AKG C480 B ULS modular preamplifier (also compatible with the C460 B generation). It stands out for its absolutely flat frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a very uniform cardioid polar pattern across the entire spectrum, qualities that make it a reference for critical miking in studio, broadcast and sound reinforcement. It offers low self-noise (11 dB-A) and high sensitivity (20 mV/Pa) , with an impedance of 150 Ω and a recommended load ≥ 2 kΩ.

AKG’s Ultra Linear Series (ULS) engineering prioritizes electrical and mechanical stability: self-cleaning, gold-plated contacts between the cartridge and preamp for maximum reliability, and an M19x0.75 mounting thread for a rock-solid fit. Combined with the C480 B, the system features a 100 Hz high-pass filter and –6/–10 dB pads , achieving high SPL capabilities with fully linear transformerless transfer. It is a popular choice for overheads , strings, piano, acoustic guitars, ensembles, choirs, and ambient pickups with off-axis spill control.

Main features

• Polar Pattern: Highly consistent off-axis cardioid for stable timbre across the spectrum.
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz with on-axis ruler-flat linearity.
• Equivalent noise: 11 dB-A; sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa; SNR: 81–83 dB-A (according to combo card).
• Impedance: 150Ω; Recommended load: ≥ 2 kΩ.
• Construction: Self-cleaning gold-plated contacts; M19×0.75 capsule thread.
• C480 B integration: 100 Hz filter and –6/–10 dB pads on the preamp; balanced XLR output.
• Capsule dimensions: approx. Ø 21 mm × 27 mm ; matte black finish.

Product benefits

• Faithful and natural capture: Spectral linearity facilitates minimal EQ and mixes that “translate”.
• Stable Image: Uniform cardioid reduces coloration when moving the source or with room spills.
• Very low noise: 11 dB-A of self-noise for delicate recordings and pianissimo passages.
• Professional modular system: combination with C480 B to handle high SPL, HPF and pads without adding distortion.
• Lifelong reliability: gold-plated contacts and precise threads for intensive studio and live use.

Use cases

• Drum and percussion overheads with controlled stage rejection.
• Strings and piano where natural timbre and microdynamic detail are required.
• Acoustic guitar and ensembles with sustained musical flow and minimal off-axis coloration.
• Ambiences and choirs when a coherent and stable sound field is prioritized.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does the capsule work without the C480 B? No. The CK61 ULS requires the C480 B (or C460 B) preamp for power and XLR output.
• What power does it require? 48V phantom power is supplied to the C480 B preamplifier; the cartridge is not powered directly.
• Does it include filters or pads? The controls (HPF 100 Hz and –6/–10 dB pads) are on the C480 B.

Description for projects

AKG CK61 ULS cardioid condenser capsule for C480 B ULS preamplifier (C460 B compatible); response 20–20,000 Hz ; sensitivity 20 mV/Pa ; equivalent noise floor 11 dB-A ; SNR 81–83 dB-A ; impedance 150 Ω ; recommended load ≥ 2 kΩ; thread M19×0.75 ; capsule dimensions approx. Ø 21 mm × 27 mm ; self-cleaning gold-plated contacts; use with C480 B offering HPF 100 Hz and –6/–10 dB pads.