Description

The Avantone CK1 is a compact small diaphragm FET condenser microphone with three interchangeable capsules, giving you cardioid, hypercardioid and omnidirectional pickup patterns in one affordable package. From drum overheads and hi-hats to acoustic guitar, piano and percussion, it delivers clean, transparent sound that comfortably punches above its price bracket. Part of Avantone’s Cabernet series, the CK1 combines a refined, studio-ready tone with a rugged, professional feel. With its wide 25 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, high SPL handling and included shockmount, it is a flexible workhorse that fits effortlessly into home, project and professional studio setups alike. Versatile Multi-Pattern Pencil Mic At the heart of the CK1 is its trio of screw-on capsules, letting you switch between cardioid, omni and hypercardioid patterns in seconds. This makes it easy to adapt the mic to the source and the room, whether you are capturing the natural ambience of a piano, focusing tightly on hi-hats, or setting up a spaced pair for drum overheads. Clean, Transparent Sound The CK1 is voiced to be clear and honest, giving you a detailed, open sound that flatters acoustic instruments without imposing a heavy tonal fingerprint. Its true condenser capsule and carefully tuned electronics provide a smooth top end and solid midrange, helping your recordings sit naturally in the mix with minimal EQ. Ideal for Acoustic Sources With its fast transient response and small diaphragm design, the CK1 excels on sources where detail and articulation are crucial. Acoustic guitar, strings, piano, percussion and cymbals all benefit from its precise capture, allowing you to hear the attack, nuance and dynamics of your performance with impressive accuracy. Studio-Ready Performance A wide 25 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, 138 dB max SPL handling and 15 mV/Pa sensitivity give the CK1 the technical performance needed for serious recording work. The onboard 80 Hz high-pass filter helps tame rumble and low-frequency build-up at the source, while the included shockmount reduces mechanical noise and vibrations.Key Features Three Interchangeable Capsules – Cardioid, omnidirectional and hypercardioid capsules are all included, so you can tailor the pickup pattern to each session. Swap capsules in seconds to go from focused close-miking to spacious room capture without changing microphones. Clean, Transparent Tonal Character – The CK1 delivers a neutral, detailed sound that captures the true character of your instruments. This makes it easier to shape your mix later, as you are starting from an honest, uncoloured recording. High SPL Handling and Wide Frequency Response – With a maximum SPL of 138 dB and a 25 Hz to 20 kHz response, the CK1 can handle everything from delicate acoustic passages to loud drum work. You get clarity and headroom without harshness or unwanted distortion. Integrated 80 Hz High-Pass Filter – An onboard 80 Hz, 6 dB per octave high-pass switch helps remove low-end rumble and handling noise at the recording stage. This keeps your tracks cleaner and reduces the need for corrective EQ later on. SpecificationsMicrophone Type: True condenser small diaphragm FET pencil microphone Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Omnidirectional (interchangeable capsules) Frequency Response: 25 Hz to 20,000 Hz (±3 dB) Maximum SPL: 138 dB (0.5% THD @ 1 kHz) Sensitivity: 15 mV/Pa High-Pass Filter: 80 Hz, 6 dB per octave switch Power Requirement: 48 V phantom power, 5 mA Physical Body Finish: Metallic Cabernet Red Trim: Polished Nickel Dimensions: 23 mm (width) x 153 mm (length) Included Accessories Capsules: Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Omnidirectional Mount: SSM shockmount