The Austrian Audio OC818 is a multi-pattern large-diaphragm condenser handcrafted in Vienna around the CKR12 ceramic capsule. That capsule follows the critical dimensions of classic CK12 designs in a modern ceramic build, giving high sensitivity, low self-noise, and headroom from quiet sources through extreme SPLs. Onboard switches select polar pattern, -10/-20 dB pads, and 40/80/160 Hz low-cut filters entirely in the analog domain.

Dual Output and Post Control

A second Mini-XLR output carries the rear diaphragm separately from the front XLR. Record both capsules to dual tracks and use Austrian Audio's free PolarDesigner plug-in to shape custom polar patterns across frequency bands after the fact, or build stereo and Ambisonic images with StereoCreator and AmbiCreator. With the optional OCR8 Bluetooth adapter and PolarPilot app, you can change pattern, pad, and high-pass from the control room while the mic stays analog in the audio path.

Matching and Applications

Factory consistency means any OC818 matches any other OC818. In cardioid mode it also pairs with any OC18. Typical uses include lead vocals, acoustic instruments, drum overheads, guitar cabinets, piano, and room miking where you want one mic that can adapt in session or in the mix.

The Dual Set Plus is a matched pair of black OC818s with two spider mounts, clips, Mini-XLR cables, windscreens, stereo bar, and protective case. It is the complete stereo and dual-output kit for overheads, piano, ensembles, and spaced or coincident pairs.

Specifications

• Type: Multi-pattern large-diaphragm condenser
• Capsule: Handmade CKR12 ceramic
• Polar patterns: Cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8, hypercardioid, plus custom via PolarDesigner / OCR8
• Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 13 mV/Pa
• Equivalent noise: 9 dB SPL (A)
• Max SPL: 148 dB (158 dB with pad)
• Pads: -10 dB, -20 dB
• Low-cut filters: 40 Hz, 80 Hz, 160 Hz
• Impedance: 275 Ω (balanced)
• Power: 48 V phantom (< 4 mA, typical 2.1 mA)
• Connectors: XLR 3-pin (front), Mini-XLR 5-pin (rear diaphragm / OCR8)
• Dimensions: 157 x 63 x 35 mm (6.2" x 2.5" x 1.4")
• Weight: 360 g (12.7 oz / 0.79 lb)

In the Box

• 2 x OC818 microphones
• 2 x OCS8 spider shockmounts
• 2 x OCH8 mic clips
• 2 x OCC8 Mini-XLR cables
• 2 x OCW8 windscreens
• SB1 stereo bar
• Protective carry case