AKG PZM10 - Security Microphone

AKG PZM10 - Security microphone (hemispherical boundary, microphone level, phantom power 12–48 V)

The AKG PZM10 is a discreet Pressure Zone Microphone (BPM) for indoor security, surveillance, and intercom use . Its low-profile, cylindrical design mounts flush to a wall, ceiling, or tabletop using a 25/32″ (≈ 19.8 mm) cutout, creating a virtually unobtrusive mounting surface. It employs PZM technology for crystal-clear hemispherical pickup around the microphone, with optimized vocal response (bass roll-off below the vocal range and a slight treble boost). It delivers balanced microphone-level output via a 3-pin XLR and is 12–48 V phantom powered. With low self-noise (26 dB-A) and SNR 68 dB(A) , and a steel housing and humbucking transformer , it is a rugged and reliable choice for long runs and fluorescent lighting environments.

Main features

• Hemispherical Pickup (PZM): Uniform clarity and intelligibility around the microphone in flush-mounted installations.
• Discreet installation: mounting tube for 25/32″ (≈ 19.8 mm) hole and Ø 1.53″ (≈ 3.89 cm) exposed plate; paintable off-white finish.
• Professional connection: balanced low impedance output via 3-pin XLR ; microphone level.
• Single power supply: 12–48 V DC phantom power ; typical consumption ~ 0.4 mA .
• Voice response: 80 Hz–20 kHz with bass cut and soft presence boost.
• Key features: sensitivity 2.5 mV/Pa (−52 dBV/Pa) , noise 26 dB-A , SNR 68 dB(A) , max SPL 120 dB .
• Robust construction: steel plate and body with humbucking transformer to minimize hum.

Product benefits

• Discretion and security: Built-in accessory-like appearance, ideal for surveillance and service at counters without exposing the microphone.
• More intelligible voice: adapted curve that reduces air conditioning/traffic noise and improves consonant articulation.
• Direct integration: Connect it like a standard microphone to any phantom-enabled preamp/mixer, maintaining long runs without loss.
• Quick installation: collar and Allen screw mounting, simple wiring and paintable finish to blend into the environment.

Use cases

• Surveillance and access control in banks, public buildings, and control rooms.
• Intercom at ticket windows, parking lots, ticket offices, and customer service.
• Meeting/conference rooms where recessed and discreet microphones are required.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it for outdoor use? The PZM10 is for indoor use . For outdoor use, there is the PZM11LLWR or PZM10LL (the latter offering line-level output, 12–24 V DC).
• Does it need a special preamp? No; it works like any condenser microphone with 12–48 V phantom power and a balanced input.
• Can it be painted? Yes, the off-white finish is paintable . Avoid covering the groove/acoustic tile.
• What's the difference with the PZM10LL? The PZM10 is microphone-level + XLR ; the PZM10LL is line-level (12–24 V DC) with connectorless cables.

Description for projects

AKG PZM10 Recessed Boundary Microphone; hemispherical pattern; electret condenser transducer; response 80 Hz–20 kHz ; sensitivity 2.5 mV/Pa (−52 dBV/Pa) ; noise 26 dB-A ; SNR 68 dB(A) at 94 dB SPL; max. SPL 120 dB (3 % THD); impedance 240 Ω (recommended load ≥ 1 kΩ); phantom power 12–48 V (~0.4 mA); balanced output via 3-pin XLR ; mounting hole 25/32″ (≈ 19.8 mm) ; visible plate diameter 1.53″ (≈ 3.89 cm) ; paintable off-white finish; weight ≈ 74 g .