Austrian Audio OC818 Review / Test (C414 XLII, XLS, TLM103, U87 Ai Comparison)

Today I review one of the best microphones I’ve ever used, the Austrian Audio OC818 which is the same as the OC18. This is a multi pattern / multi output microphone that has a detailed and balanced sound. It also allows you to adjust the polar pattern in post.
HQ Audio Of Review: podcastage.com/rev/oc818
Buy the Austrian Audio OC818
Amazon: geni.us/oc818
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/xMEnv
Buy the Austrian Audio OC18
Amazon: geni.us/oc18
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/j9A5P
Buy the Focusrite 2i2 (3rd Gen)- Same Performance as 18i20 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: geni.us/2i32rd
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/k6g4d
00:00 - Intro
00:09 - Price
00:27 - Setup
00:43 - What’s in the Box
01:34 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
02:14 - Specifications
02:43 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
04:21 - Plosive Test
04:31 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
04:53 - Background Noise Test (Keyboard Test)
05:11 - Untreated Room Test
05:45 - High Pass Filter Switch Demo
06:41 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
06:55 - Desk Bump & Boom Arm Bump Rejection Test
07:11 - Windscreen Demonstration
07:40 - Pad Switch Demo
08:58 - High End Preamp / Interface Comparison
10:04 - sE Electronics sE4400a Comparison
10:38 - AKG C414 XLII Comparison
11:02 - AKG C414 XLS Comparison
11:27 - Neumann TLM103 Comparison
11:55 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
12:27 - Music Test
13:39 - Reason For Mini XLR Output (Polar Pattern Designer)
16:28 - Bluetooth Control Demo
17:57 - Pros & Cons
19:52 - Overall Thoughts
21:28 - Recommendation
22:22 - Outro (5 Year Anniversary of Podcastage)
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My Favorite USB Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favusb
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[@phenix8514]

So as an Austrian, I gotta say I'm very proud of our Schnitzel and our Microphones.

[@lordha-ha4242]

But Neumann is my main man!

[@curly_]

@@lordha-ha4242 but neuman is german bra

[@gtugland]

Yes! Love your country, your mics and your schnitzels 👍👍👍

[@frubo_ssg]

@@curly_ Both have Schnitzel and Microphones (… and mountains) ;)

[@curly_]

@@frubo_ssg true but at least two of them are better in Jodel Country (looking at Schnitzel mit Tunke ^^)

[@thjalfi4606]

"I paid a lot of money for the Neumann and I need to put it in as many videos as possible" Justifiable

[@D.Bunker]

Paid not payed !!!

[@thjalfi4606]

@@D.Bunker thanks, forgot to check for autocorrect fuckery

[@mavao3875]

Coincidentally, I find that the 818 sounds more like the 87 than any of the other microphones he compared it to.

[@aruraru6644]

U87 is a classic microphone, so it may be a kind of reference.

[@Tysto]

This is the first expensive microphone that I've thought was really worth the money. Great sound; great off-axis rejection; low noise, amazing features; silent and smooth pad engagement; stereo output; clever app. Incredible. Imagine giving this a cardioid pattern for a performer but then remotely changing it to figure 8 when a second performer joins. Or recording from both sides for a presenter and only feeding the front to the speakers but in post-production on the recording using the audio from the back when there are questions or applause. Mind-blowing.

[@StevenSoto]

Very good microphone.

[@dunbarcustomsound]

@@StevenSoto dude, that last application (audience response) never crossed my mind. It's a perfect use of the figure 8 especially with the split on the second XLR

[@xHadesStamps]

It was actually kind of genius to make it take a few seconds to engage the pad. Notice the lack of a loud pop.

[@LiraeNoir]

Indeed. And if you're riding your levels, or are in an uncontrolled environment, it should allow to print (well, stream nowadays) without having to cut too much or riding the gain too much. Just engage and let it smoothly get you there.

[@xHadesStamps]

@The Tired Horizon That is also likely

[@xHadesStamps]

@@LiraeNoir That is also very true

[@PeterOBable]

I think it’s because they didn’t switch a resistor into the chain but lower the electrostatic preload at the capsule and that take a little time.

[@travsmac]

"Dignity intact!"- new tshirt for the show

[@user-du3tr2ve3b]

HILO

[@BoothJunkie]

Love the ability to control the polar pattern. Good stuff!

[@curly_]

would love to see and hear you working with it :)

[@martinbril1659]

I am so impatient to hear the smooth voice of Mike Delgaudio on it

[@walterwilliams1323]

@@martinbril1659 Me too, that would give me an even better indicator for my own voice, which is an Aussie version of Mikes.

[@r4x2]

Austrian Audio might be my new favorite manufacturer of mics. These seem like the new standard for condensers, their aesthetics are unique, and the sound is more pleasing to my ear than so many classics.

[@laviadellavoce]

Agree, so smooth !

[@theflyingsloth]

Try 3U Audio and Advanced Audio, better prices and they sound freaking brilliant.

[@StevenSoto]

Agree

[@wm1573]

@@theflyingslothnah

[@CenterThePendulum]

The Soyuz 017 FET is the best new Vocal mic in forever. Absolute future classic.

[@CrescentRollCarl]

The OC18 from Austrian Audio is my new mic for recording audiobooks. I've done 3 books with it now, and couldn't be happier, upgrading from the CAD e100s. No need to get the OC818 if you're just needing the cardioid pattern like I do. Such a great mic, that punches way above its weight. I bought this over the TLM 103 and couldn't be happier with the decision. It's a great choice for a high-end voiceover mic.

[@laviadellavoce]

It sounds so smooth and silky compared to the 103, congratz! I was thinking about the tlm 103 but this sounds so better in my ears , probably will take it when I can.

[@adamspeaking373]

Yeah, I was about to buy a TLM-103 for $650 (used), but I just caught this video and now I'm rethinking that decision. I might just get the OC18. Although I think the TLM-103 sounds a bit better. I also narrate Audiobooks, but also do a lot of other VO work besides.

[@adamspeaking373]

Nah, the more I listen to it the better I think the TLM-103 is. The OC18 sounds really muddy, even with the high pass filters on.

[@jackmanstudios]

Adam Speaking the TLM 103 is really bright. If you have a big rich voice it might be just the thing. I’ve used it on a few people and it was waaay to sibilant. Why not try both to see what sounds better on your voice?

[@ahfimiwonawun]

Would this sound good for voice over on a dark voice with some bass?

[@notmuch7701]

Thank you for this review! I've had my eyes on these looking for reviews - and your review is most helpful! Think I'll go hit the buy button.

[@candicefaithv]

Wow this is the first video I've seen from you and your reviews cover everything! I love your comparisons, and thank goodness for all your time-stamps. you're very clear and straight to the point instead of waffling on about unrelated things. I appreciate it so much!

[@oscarmorales-cn3hz]

The fact that you can record the two capsules at ones it's a fantastic feature for mixing a lot of things, I love this one, thanks Bandrew, another great and happy review!!!

[@harindavid]

Thanks for all you do! Finally purchased the OC18 based on the shootouts and reviews. My first “proper” mic. Cannot wait to make some music with it 🥳

[@srcultureshock]

Congrats Bandrew on your 5-year of videos on KZbin. Excellent review (as always) on the OC818!

[@beastfighter1]

Thank you for everything that you do, Bandrew! Here's to 5 more years!

[@matthewcolosus]

Congratulations for the 5 year anniversary and thank you for another great review!

[@ZachHouseknecht]

I have no interest in buying half or hell, 99% of these products, but I just love your style of presentation, the editing, the detail - you make it all fun and informational - and you were the first channel I saw the new chapters feature on - which gave me the idea to do it for my channel. Keep up the great work, and when I need (or more honestly, want to) upgrade my audio gear in the future, I'll make sure to look to your reviews and recommendations!

[@Podcastage]

Thanks so much Zach, that really means a lot. There's no reason the audio side of things can't be fun. =) Let me know if you've got any questions.

[@johnjackson7295]

You are absolutely awesome at reviewing these mics!

[@gabrielglenn1714]

Very thorough! I like that you kept your opinions until the end

[@carlosguillen2307]

Awesome review!! That polar pattern plug-in is freakin' INSANE. What an amazing mic!!

[@MrGiorgiSs]

So for the last couple of days I've been watching your microphone reviews and I ended up getting the Marantz Professional MPM-2000U ! The reason I'm posting the comment to this irrelevant to my purchase video, is to make sure you see my absolute THUMBS UP for your videos and thank you for all users out there who can actually rely on a KZbinr when browsing and comparing mics. You are doing and AMAZING work in your videos bro. Keep up the good spirits and quality reviews! Definitely Subscribing to support this channel.

[@VOByRobbins]

Sounds great on your voice, this may be my next mic to add to my locker!! I was waiting for this, it's not as bright as the TLM 103 -- This mic would be perfect for audiobook narration!! Thank youuuu!!!

[@curly_]

HELL YEA, sound so good, love to have Finaly a OC818 REview of you

[@stefanweilhartner4415]

after getting thrown under the bus from samsung the proud engineers that made decades of good tech at AKG, now finally have a new home with Austrian Audio and can be proud of their new products again. i have to try their over ear headphone.

[@muziky2k]

I love the sound of this mic on your voice. Nice job!

[@user-xw4tn7xi5v]

This is the best kind of gear review I have ever watched. Congratulations! Subscribed

[@Ladood]

dude I'm so glad you're still at it! I remember watching u at like 4k subscribers maybe not even man.. This is awesome

[@bradlii]

Thank you for these videos, man… you continue to be informative and very helpful when it comes to purchasing decisions.

[@coolcopetins]

Awesome microphone!!!! Happy 5 years!!!! Keep throwing boxes for many more!!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@EDXVA]

Damn that is one amazing microphone, thumbs up Austrian Audio! And also, thank you Bandrew for 5 years of amazing content creation! Keep it up:)

[@AngloSaxon1]

Sounds like a great microphone, I loved the review

[@tomsiegel9759]

I would love to see a review of the newer oc16. I am really interested to see how that compares to the oc818 as it is much more affordable. Thanks for your work! Always so helpful when making decisions.

[@bootlebeats6331]

Yeah, that mic is a game changer. The Neve Portico and OC818 pairing was stunning. I've learned a lot from your reviews. Thanks for being a gear geek like us!

[@amalgami]

this was a great review, infact the best for this mic i have come across. It touched on every aspect of what we needed to know. Thanks, yours is the best channel for microphone review.

[@motebike]

If I had to choose only one audio gear reviewer to spend my precious time listening to, you definitely take the golden crown.

[@BeigeBoy]

1st video i watch of urs in a while and you fall off ur chair, love it

[@Static_Age]

The commitment to the box toss bit is unparalleled in the mic review community. Bravo good sir!

[@michaelkonkel4394]

Fantastic review! Thank you so much!

[@PawFromTheBroons]

HBD Podcastage 🍾🥂

[@AdamBA380]

Thanks, good sir, for all the outstanding videos!

[@justheathers]

Really interesting mic & awesome indepth review! It's also been amazing seeing your journey unfold, Happy 5th YT Anniversary 💖☀️

[@Podcastage]

Thank you so much Heather for all that you do! You're awesome!

[@edclevel402]

You're really upping your box throwing game lately. Your efforts do not go unnoticed! 👍

[@artysanmobile]

Some really impressive behaviors here. Polar pattern is really outstanding, and the shock mount is world class. Any mic with Omni pattern is instantly worth twice as much to me so that’s a big plus. It also seems to have been designed physically for very easy use in MS pairs. It’s a little overly present for my taste, making your voice crispier than I would like, but that’s not a dealbreaker for singing use. The separate capsule outs is a fantastic and very uncommon feature. I have a Calrec microphone with direct capsule outs and have used that to great effect when recording without physical access to the mic. This thing is a hit and a great value as well.

[@sapelesteve]

Without a doubt Bandrew that's the best Mic that I have ever heard you review! "Instant Classic" for sure. Love the fall down off the chair after throwing that stand in box! LOL 👍👍🎤🎤🎤🎤👍👍

[@bniwa]

nice job. new to the channel, but have yet to see such an extensive review of a mic.

[@simonkienesberger7575]

Epic Review! You thought of almost everything!

[@WorldOfNada]

Thank you so much for THIS review !! Now I know that I will definitly go for the AA OC818 and not the AGK 414 XLII ❤️👍

[@demantim]

Bought an OC18 based on your review and could get one for 480€! Thanks for your comprehensive review and especially the comparisons. Love the mic on my slightly twangy voice, ditto accordion and whistle. It rounds stuff like that out beautifully without losing detail. I hardly spend any time on EQ now :O. Will have a video up using this mic for all kinds of stuff in a few days. Mixing with this is such a joy. :)

[@envisiotube]

Great comparision, as always. The mic sounds great. Your U87 is much brighter, but does also sound better and more neutral than other sound samples I know from other U87. Perhaps it's a potential "problem" that your voice is really easy to record, especially concerning sibilants. Oh, and I really appreciate your perfectionism, that you do these comparisions in always a very similar manner.

[@LB-pp7pu]

Fantastic review, really amazing microphone

[@alanshewitt]

That dual output would be incredibly useful in a blumlein array. Best sounding mic I’ve heard in a very long time. I really wasn’t trying to spend $1k on a mic this week. Oof.

[@Quillsongs]

First word spoken had me sold! You sound amazing it... sounds amazing. Before you mentioned the "other" microphone... I was sold too! In the look for a new microphone... This one sounds promising! ❤U and your reviews! So enjoyable! Your're AWESOME!

[@Traumglanz]

And now I know that I need a new pair of headphones … hey, at least Austrian audio has a nice, reasonable priced pair in form of their HI-X55.

[@Sunlight89113]

(Sorry for this bad translation but I'm French and I really wanted to thank you in this comment) One word ... wow I wanted to know more about this microphone because there is not enough information on the subject compared to a 414 and I have just been amazed by the richness of this test. Thank you really for this work! I will now buy this mic thanks to your test. Thank you !

[@curtisjudd]

I must confess that none of the tested microphones sounded bad - that's good news for those who invest in any of these. The PolarDesigner feature is really cool - probably most useful for music and instrument recordings?

[@Podcastage]

None of them sounded bad, that's absolutely certain, and yeah I think that feature is most valuable for music and instrument recording and live applications. For voice over only I think the OC18 would be the route to go since you'd most likely only need a cardioid pattern, and you're saving yourself $300.

[@scrummasterinblack]

@Curtis Judd and @Podcastage thanks for your thoughts. Do you think the multipolar pattern be useful for broadcasters who like to move their head around a lot?

[@shotsi673]

@@Podcastage Are you saying that the OC18 is limited in its use? For voice only?

[@mavao3875]

@@shotsi673 I don't know how you got that. It's limited in the sense that it's cardioid only, but it has the same capsule, sounds the same in cardioid as the 818 so can be used wherever you require cardioid.

[@shotsi673]

@@mavao3875 I bought it and it's very good.Thanks

[@SaschaB82]

Halfway through this review I was already doing the mental math on what I'd get for a few of my mics if I sold them in order to grab me one of these. Great review mate, this mic ticks a hell of a lot of boxes!

[@FrankHerr]

Congratulations on your 5 year milestone!

[@Podcastage]

Thank you so much Frank!

[@paulsvenson7585]

This was an excellent overview of the OC818. Thanks! I own a Townsend Sphere - since the OC818 has dual outputs I'm going to play with the Sphere modeling software on it - just for fun. I own or have recently owned original examples of all the "holy grail" mics. I ordered an OC818 today. It will get a lot of use.

[@Podcastage]

You’re going to love it. The mic is so incredible.

[@skyace888]

Too cool. This seems like a great mic. Seriously considering it for voiceover work (and maybe other applications as needed too).

[@DtKnize]

I'm blown away by this microphone! Your voice sounds so clear and natural! Not a hint of mud or shrillness. The mids sound amazing! I'm a voice over actor and I love, love my Sennheiser MKH 416, but I need a mic that's a bit warmer and less directional for long form narration that is also very portable. I'm sold!

[@michaelwarker5159]

Hey, I know it’s been while, but this is my exact scenario! Did you got the 818? If you did, what do you think?

[@DtKnize]

@@michaelwarker5159 Yes, the OC18 is still in the studio sounding great.

[@michaelwarker5159]

@@DtKnize awesome! I have one on the way from guitar center at the moment to try out. Thanks for the response!

[@xHadesStamps]

Congrats on 5 years, and happy YouTubiversary!

[@AeronZJones]

I love your reviews - so thorough! I would LOVE to see you do a video on how the Austrian Audio OC818 performs when used with the plug-in for the Townsend Labs Sphere Plug-In. I was on the verge of buying the Austrian Audio - and then someone showed me the Townsend Sphere. Maybe they’re almost the same thing?!

[@xHadesStamps]

Thank goodness for the stand-in box!

[@stevelangenkamp4513]

I'm so glad you fell on your face using a Stellar X2 box as your stand-in!

[@senzayyzone]

I think this has the best sound ever heard in your channel is pretty awesome sounding

[@kesamek8537]

All of these are very impressive. Good to have more flavor choices.

[@MikeBroderick33]

I'm sitting here thinking of you squeezed into a room surrounded by hundreds of beds trying to throw a mattress. Thanks for all the great content and information over the years Bandrew. I appree ya. P.S. I think the Austrian Audio 818 sounds the best of all your mics on your voice.

[@vlad2838]

Vienna has an incredible heritage of music and sounds, and this mic lives up to that lofty level. Great review and happy anniversary! (How about a best-of collection of your box tosses?)

[@Podcastage]

I am doing that for 2020. =)

[@alaricedwards7600]

Its nice to compare any mic to one that is well known like the Neumann U87. Keep doing it.

[@monsour1900]

On my ATH-M50 headphones, this mic sounds absolutely rich and full-bodied. It's giving your voice a wide body that equals the Neumanns. Thank you for the review.

[@ArtVandelay592]

Listening on my DT 770s and I agree. I can tell this mic and Austrian Audio as a company are going to cause some big waves in the industry, and hopefully make some of the bigger companies like Neumann take some notes and up their game.

[@techknowbabble]

Added to my wishlist!

[@Mexgadget]

Awesome review! I'd like to start saving to purchase one :)

[@Tim_ArtistName_Tallent]

Awesome thorough review. I actually think it’s increasingly necessary to shootout verse the u87. Neumann’s name sells but without a doubt the product is top notch. But if you’re on a budget like me and THINK a Neumann is the end all be all mic, these new mics are worth comparing! And I’m gonna go ahead and say it, let’s get you a hired talent to sing on these mics and add a female voice to the review! Game over ! Much success to you sir

[@theclaverman]

I think U87ai is extremely overated. It is great as a voice-over mic, but for most other tasks i think there is better options IMHO.

[@Tim_ArtistName_Tallent]

@@theclaverman I agree with most of your statement, fantastic voice over mic, hence why we see it many voice over studios in Hollywood, (takes EQ well which helps) def are better options like you said. I think that’s an important point, OPTIONS, many many options out there, for many voices, use cases, instruments etc. I don’t think it is overrated however, it deserves 5 stars imo …balance detail versatility build quality etc..but it may be over HYPED. It certainly doesn’t need to be a studio staple and we shouldn’t assume we’ve arrived or that our record will sound like a Grammy just because we reach for a u87.

[@easyvocalharmony5680]

Ok Mr. Podcastage Bandrew, I've been binging your videos for the last week (And other mic youtubers too). Your reviews are the best. Last Wednesday I ordered a pair of KM 184s, partially based on the review you had just posted. (Rick Beato used them in an acoustic guitar mic'ing demo, and Paul Davids also uses a KM 184, good enough for those two dudes, good enough for me!) . The mics arrive tomorrow and I'm STOKED. And I literally just ordered the Austrian Audio OC18 through YOUR affiliate Amazon link as a way to thank you for all your awesome videos. This OC818 really flatters and thickens up your voice. I expect the OC18 will be good for my voice too. I was already using solid mics (AT4040 and a Shure SM81), but this is the next level up and I feel like I'm going to be set for many years to come. Thanks again for your thorough and entertaining reviews.

[@Ozwel]

Hey! Happy with your OC18?

[@GeorgeKhouriofc]

Literally just ordered this mic from Sweetwater because of your video 💯

[@bootlebeats6331]

Because of this review I bought a OC18. The multipat OC818 is more than I needed. Just wanted to say thanks for these educational reviews.

[@senzayyzone]

I'm planning on buying it too .. is it so good for vocals ???

[@bootlebeats6331]

I've been just recording acoustic t guitar tracks for a songwriter. Works for me. I've writing some new vocal tunes so I'll let you know my feelings about the mic after I record them. It's hard to be objective hearing my own vocals. Great mics don't lie. Hearing the comparisons of that group of mics (in the review) sold me on the OC818 because I could be objective because I wasn't listening to myself. @@senzayyzone

[@davewestner]

Dude, I hope this mic manufacturers appreciate your efforts.....I certainly do. You do a great job, and not gonna lie, I liked your mic song

[@jonroxy7960]

I’m in love to your new Mic. Anyway Best review sir.

[@VOByRobbins]

Ok, your review was so impressive, I bought one of these, it will be here Tuesday (Sweetwater)-- Thanks bandrew!

[@HughMc74]

How did you like the mic?!!

[@VOByRobbins]

@@HughMc74 love it! sounds more natural than thr tlm103...

[@HughMc74]

@@VOByRobbins thanks for your reply- hadn’t looked at these before- but it looks like a great all round mic. I have an AT3035 I think 🤔, and that’s quite nice, but as my room is untreated I’d like an upgrade. I think this is the one for me. How is this on weaker voices?

[@VOByRobbins]

@@HughMc74 its very sensitive, so make sure you treat your room more, a dynamic mic like the sure sm7b or ev mic would be much more forgiving for an untreated room. definitely get some moving blankets and treat your space with those or build a blanket fort. clap your ands in the room like bandrew does to guage the reverb in the space, that will make the most difference in the space you have is to treat it... moving blankets are awesome for that

[@ThisIsTechToday]

Now I want one, lol.

[@StevenSoto]

Me too. = /

[@sbroadbentphoto]

I just bought one and have only had a couple of plays with it. This is an excellent review. I am surprised at how close it and the u87 sounded. I haven't played with the polar pattern plugin yet, but it looks interesting.

[@HungryForTastyFoodAndComicArt]

Bandrew deserves every subscriber he's got, and more! Triple, even! 👏

[@sasuke671]

This would have never been on my radar if you hadn't reviewed this microphone! Thank you!! Have you heard of the Earthworks SV33? I am interested in this mic but can't find any reviews that gives me a good idea of this mic (your reviews are the gold standard for mic reviews).

[@CCXYZ0123]

He did it 👍😀 This is one of the best microphones on the market today and you are absolutely right. I love it.

[@LiraeNoir]

I agree, with everything. It sound absolutely amazing, the price is very reasonable for that and all the accessories, and the dual output and plugin allow for a lot of things. Again agreed, it should be an instant classic in many pro recording studios. It's not the first mic with the capability to adjust polar pattern in post, but for the life of me I can't remember where I've seen that too. And, not quite sure, but I think the plugin to edit that in post wasn't as good as this one seems to be.

[@qkhuve]

Sounds fantastic!

[@NickyShowtime]

Been looking forward to this review! I like how you didn’t put the price as a con (as you sometimes do with $1,000+ mics.) For what you’re getting, I could see this mic being much more expensive. Great video.

[@Podcastage]

Yeah. I’m starting to stop listing price as a con. I understand that the mic is expensive, but unless I think it’s a rip off, I don’t think it’s a fair con to include.

[@vincenteoppolo9025]

Love it ... picked it up today and my jaw dropped I give it an 11 out of 10

[@askjaytv3675]

Hello Bandrew. Thanks for your videos. I am watching everyday to figure out choices.

[@SenorToucan]

Congrats on 5 years! I have no interest in this sort of equipment but your content is always enjoyable

[@guthreleonard4164]

Also happy Podcastage birthday!

[@datarecoverysweden]

Well done for the 5 yrs. Congrats.

[@ritxi9760]

I do love this mic and you are fucking awesome. Thanks a lot for your work.

[@douglasascencio9140]

Oh thank goodness for the stand in box.

[@curseleisure5507]

I keep coming back to this mic. I think it’s really special, and two of them will probably be my next LDC purchase. I was going to buy a second Townsend/UAD Sphere but think I’ll get two of these instead and try using the Sphere plugins with them.

[@Brenhere08]

That sounds like a lovely mic right across the frequency range. It sounds as good as the TLM103 but different. It sounds the same until you hit the higher frequencies then the Neumann sounds brighter. But really amazing. One of the nicest I have ever heard... Tim! P.S I heard that they are sending you a packet of stickers ;-)

[@Podcastage]

Oh no. Please no. No stickers please!

[@losangerouge4927]

Superb review and mic! One question! What is up with the Manley reference behind you???

[@sirnigelcogs]

It sounds nice. My only issue with unusually shaped microphones like that is it makes it more difficult to get another shockmount for it if you want one.

[@kornbacon1079]

Man i LOVE your reviews, hail from Brazil I have an indication for you, the Takstar PC K200, a relative cheap condenser microphone that showed some potential, but there aren't too much reviews of it sadly, could you do it?

[@gerardpatrick8028]

I am living in Newfoundland Canada. Because of our small population and location it can sometimes be a bit of a chore to audition high end equipment. I really loved this Austrian Audio OC818 review and will be buying a set based on your review. I can't think of anything you missed in your assessment and the sound quality of your presentation was more than helpful. I have what I would consider to be an adequate professional level songwriting/demo system (Apogee/Manley/RND/Brauner). Have you tried Tegeler audio? I am curious about their Variety Tube Compressor.

[@maxlarsen]

I love that u say, exactly what mics and stuff u speak though so that i can lay in bed with closted eyes listening to this!!

[@walterwilliams1323]

Wow this is one sweet microphone. IMHO it sounds better than the 103 and it's own AKG cousins and just as good as the U87i without the brilliance (which is not a bad thing for spoken word). Great shoot out. I would love to hear that Austrian on my Bass/Baritone voice. It's added to my mic locker list now, might even give my Neumann TLM 49 a run for its money. The OC18 is so warm and real.