AKG C-60 (1960–1969)

The AKG C-60 is a vacuum-tube condenser microphone made from 1960 through 1969. It is the tube predecessor to the popular C451 and the later C460. It was a cardioid design with an optional omnidirectional capsule, and it ran from the N 60A power supply rather than a built-in battery. Collector documentation lists a new price of about $400, which put it in serious professional territory for its day.

Known specifications:

Type: vacuum tube condenser, cardioid (omni capsule available)
Frequency response: 30–18,000 Hz ±2.5 dB; 20–20,000 Hz with omni capsule
Sensitivity: −62 dBV
Rated source impedance: 50 or 200 ohms via N 60A power supply
Tube: AC 701k, 4 V DC filament at 105 mA
Original price: approximately $400

Much of the surviving period record is AKG's own advertising rather than independent reviews. Audio (July 1961, p.37) carried the launch ad. It promised to reverse the trend toward higher prices while delivering premium condenser performance: response free of peaks from 20 Hz to 30 kHz, and a sturdy housing that accepted high sound levels cleanly in close-miking duty without internal padding. A follow-up campaign in 1963 - Audio (March 1963, p.53) - showed C-60s already in use by coast-to-coast TV and radio networks, recording stars and studios, Acoustic Research, consultants, knowledgeable amateurs, and ornithologists.