AKG Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series User manual

Discreet
Acoustics
Modular PLUS
Series

2 Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series
Table of Contents
1Safety and Environment.............................................................................................3
Safety..........................................................................................................................3
Environment ................................................................................................................3
2Description.................................................................................................................4
Introduction .................................................................................................................4
3Microphone Applications ...........................................................................................5
4Installation and Connection .......................................................................................6
Capsule Modules .........................................................................................................6
5Modules falling into Place..........................................................................................7
CK49 ..........................................................................................................................7
CK43 ..........................................................................................................................8
CK41 ..........................................................................................................................9
GN15,30,50 M ..........................................................................................................10
GN155 M ..................................................................................................................11
HM1000 M................................................................................................................12
PAESP M...................................................................................................................13
PAE5 M.....................................................................................................................14
PAE M.......................................................................................................................15
6Mounting Material, Cables and Accessories............................................................16
Mounting Material ......................................................................................................16
MF M ..................................................................................................................16
H600...................................................................................................................16
H500...................................................................................................................17
ST45 (+SA60)......................................................................................................17
SA60...................................................................................................................17
Cables.......................................................................................................................18
MK150 M ............................................................................................................18
MK150 ML ..........................................................................................................18
Accessories ...............................................................................................................18
UWA9 M..............................................................................................................18
W40 M................................................................................................................18
7Application Examples ..............................................................................................19
8Dimensional Drawings.............................................................................................22
9Comparison Chart ....................................................................................................24
10Notes........................................................................................................................25
Table of Contents

Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series 3
Safety and Environment
Do not expose the equipment to direct sunlight, excessive dust, moisture, rain, mechanical
vibrations, or shock.
Do not spill any liquids on the equipment or allow objects to fall inside through the
ventilation slots.
The equipment must only be used in dry rooms.
The equipment must only be opened, serviced, and repaired by authorised personnel. The
equipment contains no user-serviceable parts.
If any solid object or liquid should get into the equipment, shut down the system
immediately.
Do not place the equipment near heat sources such as radiators, heating ducts, amplifiers,
etc. and do not expose it to direct sunlight, excessive dust, moisture, rain, mechanical
vibrations, or shock.
To avoid hum or interference, route all audio lines, particularly those connected to the
microphone inputs, away from power lines of any type. If you use cable ducts, be sure to
use separate ducts for the audio lines.
Clean the equipment with a moistened (not wet) cloth only. Be sure to disconnect the AC
adapter from the power outlet before cleaning the equipment. Never use caustic or
scouring cleaners or cleaning products containing alcohol or solvents since these may
damage the enamel and plastic parts.
Only use the equipment for the applications described in this manual. AKG cannot accept
any liability for damages resulting from improper handling or misuse.
Electrostatic charges may damage electronic circuits. Therefore, be sure to touch a bare,
grounded metal part to discharge any static charge that may have built up on your body,
before touching any electronic circuit board.
The packaging of the equipment is recyclable. To dispose of the packaging, make sure to
use a collection/recycling system provided for that purpose and observe local legislation
relating to waste disposal and recycling.
1Safety and Environment
Safety
Environment

4 Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series
Description
Gooseneck microphones are often overlooked, but they are high-performing electro-acoustic
devices which carry out difficult work discreetly and reliably. They have to function flawlessly
in demanding situations with very different, often inexperienced speakers. Yet at the same
time they have to deliver perfect speech clarity. AKG Discreet Acoustics Modular Series
microphones have been in continuous use at international meetings, conferences and
summits, in parliaments and in churches for decades and are recognized as an industry
standard.
Depending on the specific purpose, special requirements can often only be fulfilled by modular
systems. The Discreet Acoustics Modular Series is renowned worldwide for its durability,
reliability and flexibility.
Modularity: The AKG Discreet Acoustics Modular Series offers a choice of interchangeable
capsule modules with different polar patterns and frequency responses. A wide range of
goosenecks and installation modules is also available. In addition, there are special-purpose
modules for applications not covered by any other available products. They can be used in
conjunction with wireless systems as well as with AKG’s digital conference system CS5. Their
rapidly changeable capsules not only allow optimal adaptation to different rooms and speakers
but also enable quick microphone capsule exchange if, in exceptional circumstances, anything
should go wrong.
Reliability: A wide range of features minimizes the risk of operating errors, material fatigue,
or signal dropouts. The LED ring and self-cleaning gold-plated contacts for the threaded
connections are standard, as are anti-twist cables and a switchable bass roll-off filter.
Low profile: The extremely compact design and matte finish underscore the inconspicuous
appearance of the Discreet Acoustics Modular Series. The low-profile installation modules
ensure quick setup and takedown of all versions of the series. Excellent response and
extremely good intelligibility make the Discreet Acoustics Modular Series the first choice
whenever quality and reliability have top priority. Small wonder that decision makers all over
the world appreciate AKG as a professional partner. Targeting the premier league of the
installation market, the further development of the Discreet Acoustics Modular Plus Series
means that literally everything became even better. Its slimmer design and improved audio
quality are a perfect fit in the high-end market. An additional interface between gooseneck
module and phantom power adapter means added modularity and flexibility, resulting in
significant advantages throughout the distribution chain, where fewer variations need to be
stocked. Moreover, installers will receive the required products faster and the added
modularity and new accessories will enable solutions for applications never before dreamed
of. With just a few components on hand, the Discreet Acoustics Modular Series allows a
nearly unlimited number of combinations.
The Discreet Acoustics Modular Plus Series is the logical evolution of AKG’s Modular Series. It
brilliantly fulfills all essential requirements for professional sound system applications. It is
quick, reliable and available – and it works perfectly for you!
2Description
Introduction

Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series 5
Microphone Applications
Note that both the maximum working distance and the area covered by the microphone
depend on the pickup angle. The smaller the pickup angle (hypercardioid), the longer the
maximum distance between the talker and the microphone and the smaller the area covered
by the microphone.
Whether an omnidirectional, cardioid, or hypercardioid capsule will give the best results
therefore depends on the specific application situation.
NOTE
OMNIDIRECTIONAL CAPSULES
Omnidirectional capsules are primarily suited for recording use.
3Microphone Applications

6 Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series
Installation and Connection
All Discreet Acoustics Modular Capsule Modules are condenser microphones and therefore
require a power supply (phantom power). The Installation Modules have been designed for
connection to microphone inputs with 9 to 52 V phantom power.
1) Screw the Capsule Module onto the Installation Module. The screw thread is relatively
fine and therefore very smooth-running. Make sure not to tilt the capsule when placing it
on the Installation Module thread because this would damage the thread.
2) To lock the capsule, use a single drop of commercial minimum-tack screw locking
adhesive that allows you to unscrew the capsule later if needed.
3) For better visibility put the LED-Ring Expansion between the Installation Module and the
Microphone Capsule.
(The LED-Ring Expansion is enclosed to the Installation Module.)
NOTE
UNWANTED NOISE
Before replacing a Capsule Module, be sure to switch your sound system OFF in order to
prevent unwanted noise.
Choose the Phantom Power Adapter according to your application.
PAESP M (page 13), PAE5 M (page 14) or PAE M (page 15).
4Installation and Connection
Capsule Modules

Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series 7
Modules falling into Place
Reference Shotgun Condenser Capsule
Lectern and Ambo
Presentation
Theater
The CK49 is a reference condenser capsule with an 80° pickup angle and clean off-axis
response. It is an ideal tool for inexperienced speakers; when people talk into the microphone
from greater distances it focuses on the voice, and when they talk into it from very short
distances it reduces pop-noise. Its special capsule is a further development of the legendary
CK47 capsule. Like its predecessor, it is designed using AKG’s unique staple technology for
brilliant studio-quality audio performance.
The CK49 capsule is integrated into an extremely slim and rugged metal housing. It fits all
gooseneck modules of the Modular Plus Series as well as the HM1000 M hanging module. To
prevent contact problems the capsule is equipped with large-area, self-cleaning, gold-plated
contacts with deep threads to prevent misalignment and ensure extra-long life. The CK49
comes complete with a windscreen that efficiently reduces wind and pop noise.
Tight, hypercardioid polar pattern
eliminates noise from the sides
80° pickup angle
for unexperienced speakers and greater distances
Sophisticated staple capsule technology
for studio-quality audio performance
Highly reliable capsule contacts
prevent contact problems and ensure extra-long life
Highly efficient windscreen
reduces wind and pop noise
Included accessories: Windscreen
Item Number: CK49 3165Z00030
5Modules falling into Place
CK49

8 Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series
Modules falling into Place
Reference Condenser Capsule
Theater and onstage miking
Houses of worship
Parliaments
The CK43 is a reference supercardioid condenser capsule with studio-quality audio
performance. Due to the narrow 95° pickup angle, the supercardioid polar pattern is a good
choice for all situations when unwanted noise typically arrives from the sides (e.g. in places of
worship) and where people talk into the microphone from greater distances.
The CK43 capsule is integrated into an extremely slim and rugged metal housing. It fits any
mounting module of the Modular Plus Series. To prevent contact problems the capsule is
equipped with large-area, self-cleaning, gold-plated contacts with deep threads, which
prevent misalignment and ensure extra-long life. The CK43 comes complete with a highly
efficient windscreen.
Supercardioid polar pattern
eliminates noise from the sides
95° pickup angle
perfect when people talk from greater distances
Sophisticated staple capsule technology
for studio-quality audio performance
Highly reliable capsule contacts
prevent contact problems and ensure extra-long life
Wide frequency range
for a speech-optimized audio performance
Included accessories: Windscreen
Optional accessories: W40 M Wire-mesh windscreen
Item Number: CK43
3165Z00020
CK43

Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series 9
Modules falling into Place
Reference Condenser Capsule
Round table discussions
Press conference
Videoconference
The CK41 is a reference condenser capsule with a wide cardioid polar pattern and a speech
optimized frequency response. The cardioid is the most popular polar pattern, since it can be
used almost universally. The 125° pickup angle is especially suited for inexperienced or very
vivacious speakers as well as applications where more than one person uses the microphone
in turn.
The CK41 capsule is integrated into an extremely slim and rugged metal housing. It fits any
mounting module of the Modular Plus Series. To prevent contact problems, the capsule is
equipped with large-area, self-cleaning, gold-plated contacts with deep threads to prevent
misalignment and ensure extra-long life. The CK41 comes complete with a highly efficient
windscreen.
Cardioid polar pattern
eliminates noise from the rear side
125° pickup angle
for inexperienced or very vivacious speakers
Sophisticated staple capsule technology
for studio-quality audio performance
Highly reliable capsule contacts
prevent contact problems and ensure extra-long life
Wide frequency range
for a speech-optimized audio performance
Included accessories: Windscreen
Optional accessories:
W40 M Wire-mesh windscreen
Item Number: CK41 3165Z00010
CK41

10 Discreet Acoustics Modular PLUS Series
Modules falling into Place
Reference Gooseneck Module
Discussion systems
Lectern and Altars
Press conferences
The Modular Plus Series premium gooseneck modules for permanent and mobile installation
are available in three different lengths: 165 mm (6.5 in), 300 mm (11.8 in) or 500 mm
(19.7 in). The extremely slim and rugged gooseneck modules feature an LED ring which
indicates whether the phantom power is on or off. A special light-ring expander comes with
every Modular Plus gooseneck module to improve the visibility of the LED ring if necessary.
For quick setup and maximum flexibility all gooseneck modules come with a Modular Plus
Series system connector. This high quality connector with gold-plated contacts reliably fits all
available phantom power modules. The gooseneck module is compatible with all Modular Plus
Series capsules, CK41, CK43, CK49 via self-cleaning contacts. Their extremely deep thread
groove prevents misalignment and ensures a long useful life of all Modular Plus components.
Extremely rugged gooseneck construction
for an extra-long life of reliability and stability
Highly reliable contacts for capsule modules
prevent contact problems and ensure extra-long life
Integrated switchable LED ring
to show system status
Integrated system connector
helps saving costs in stock keeping
Broad assortment of mounting accessories available
for quick and hassle-free installation
Included accessories: LED ring expander
Item Number:
GN15 M 3165H00080 165 mm (6.5 in)
GN30 M 3165H00090 300 mm (11.8 in)
GN50 M 3165H00100 500 mm (19.7 in)
GN15, 30, 50 M