For the discriminating vocalist, a condenser microphone offers a level of performance beyond that of a typical stage dynamic. The Austrian Audio OC707 takes condenser performance to the next level with a unique design approach.
Built on a robust, stylish structure, the OC707 easily captures the subtleties of the human voice while minimizing the pickup of unwanted noise. Street price is $479, but this is a serious, true condenser (non-electret) design.
Inspired by the legendary CK1, the OC707’s true condenser capsule employs a three-micron thick gold-coated polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) diaphragm, which Austrian Audio says is more robust than conventional Mylar offerings.
The OC707’s 35 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response is optimized for vocals. A slight rise around 3k adds presence and articulation letting the vocal cut through the mix. With a max SPL of 150 dB and low self-noise (19 dBA SPL), the capsule offers an impressive dynamic range. Even at high volumes, the OC707 has an open, natural sound with detailed mids and smooth highs that are not exaggerated.
The capsule’s cardioid pickup pattern offers excellent off-axis rejection even at lower frequencies helping to minimize pickup of unwanted sound. The output impedance is 275 ohms with a load impedance greater than 1k ohm.
The OC707 features Austrian Audio’s “Open Acoustics Technology” capsule support system. Reducing the number of contact points between the capsule and housing allows sound to enter from all sides. This helps to eliminate unwanted reflections and resonances caused by the housing without adding color to the sound. Additionally, the capsule is supported by a large rubber bushing for further mechanical isolation.
A switchable second order high-pass filter is provided to roll off low frequencies below 120 Hz to minimize the pickup of mechanical noise. Engaging the filter also helps reduce proximity effect when the microphone is used close up.
The microphone’s die-cast metal body has a satin silver finish with a red accent below the headcase and a small Austrian Audio logo badge. The OC707 is well-balanced and comfortable to hold. The low-cut switch is recessed, requiring a pointed tool to set it, while a standard XLR-M type connector provides a balanced audio output with pin 2 positive. The microphone ships with a rugged adjustable stand clamp, 5/8” x 27 to 3/8” thread adapter and a padded foam carry case.
In the Shop…
I set up a small P.A. in my studio for some talk-out testing. I compared the OC707 to another condenser handheld mic and just for fun — the Austrian Audio OD505 active dynamic. On my voice, the OC707 sounded clear and distinct without being overly sibilant. Compared to the other condenser (one I typically use for live sound work) the OC707 sounded fuller and richer. Finally compared to the active dynamic, I noticed more detail and my voice had more depth of volume, which is to be expected from a sensitive condenser.
One area often overlooked when choosing a condenser vocal mic is off-axis response. Ideally the mic should attenuate all frequencies evenly as you move from the on-axis front to the null point and microphones with inconsistent off-axis response are more susceptible to feedback. In all my testing, the OC707 exhibited excellent off-axis response, resulting in higher gain before feedback.
As the OC707 has the open area beneath the capsule, I wondered what would happen if I cupped the mic. Although the manual states not to cover the grille with your hand, I tried it.
I first cupped the open area below the capsule, holding the mic like a nervous TV show contestant. I noticed no perceptible change in the sound or level. Next, I completely cupped the capsule. In this case, the manual is correct, and I could get it to feedback… However, it took completely covering the grille with both hands to do it. So, kids… take the good advice written in the manual…
Handling noise was almost nonexistent even when sliding the mic into its stand clip. Austrian Audio bevels the front end of their clips which helps guide the mic into the clip. Regarding stand clips… this one has a thumbscrew knob to tighten the swivel, which I prefer. Saves me from having to find a coin at a gig to tighten a loose one.
It’s all About the Power…
Like any true condenser microphone, the OC707’s capsule backplate is externally biased and requires a full 48 VDC phantom power. Although most consoles and mic preamps offer 48 VDC, on some equipment “phantom power” is 12V – 24V DC, which could affect a microphone’s performance, especially with very long cables. I noticed the manual’s safety instructions said: “The length of the XLR cable must not exceed 30 m (98’).” So, being curious, I connected the OC707 to 100 meters (328’) of mic cable and noticed no perceptible change in performance.
Onstage
I used the OC707 with several vocalists. For a female R&B singer with a powerful voice, I left the filter out. We liked the fullness the OC707 offered, and yet she could still work the mic close without overloading it.
For a male vocalist with a very low voice, I engaged the filter to take out his low-end boom. He could still work the mic close without excessive proximity effect while still maintaining his rich low range. I also noticed engaging the filter made no loud noises in the system even with the OC707’s channel turned up.
Both vocalists said the OC707 felt balanced and comfortable to hold. I also received several positive comments regarding the cool looking vocal mics (I also had the OD505) on the gig.
Condenser microphones by their design are typically more fragile than their dynamic counterparts. But, accidents can and did happen. At one gig, the OC707 rolled off a table during setup and hit the floor. I cringed, but picked up the mic and plugged it in. The rugged case design and robust rubber shock mount protected the capsule and the grille survived with nary a scratch. A tip of the backstage beret to Austrian Audio’s mechanical designers.
The Final Word
Last fall I reviewed the Austrian Audio OD505 and said the company has raised the bar on dynamic vocal microphones. With the OC707 condenser, they now give serious vocalists a choice. Choose the OC707 true condenser to capture the dynamics and subtleties of the human voice with clear, detailed and natural sound. Choose the OD505 for a rock-solid dynamic with its open natural sound that highlights the vocalist’s strengths.
Offering wide dynamic range, excellent off-axis rejection, an integral low-cut filter, and Open Acoustics Technology, the OC707 is ideal for the serious performer looking for a true-condenser vocal mic. The microphone’s impressive linear frequency response offers studio sound quality for the discriminating vocalist while its rugged construction and contemporary styling look good on stage and on camera.
I have always said that a microphone is the vocalist’s instrument and should, like a familiar guitar, sound fantastic while being comfortable to play. Austrian Audio does it again with the OC707.
At a Glance:
Austrian Audio OC707
This European microphone company expands its offerings for the live vocal market with a high-precision, high-performance, Vienna-made condenser design.
PROS
- True condenser capsule
- Excellent off-axis rejection
- Minimal handling noise
- Rugged construction
CONS
- More sensitive than dynamic vocal mic
- Needs full 48 VDC phantom power
- I prefer zipper pouch over large case
STATS
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 35 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa
- Max. SPL: 150 dB SPL
- Low Cut Filter: 120 Hz (2nd order)
- Impedence: 275 ohms (symmetrical)
- Load Impedence: >1 k ohm
- Supply Voltage: 48 V (< 2.2 mA)
- Main Connector: 3-pin XLR-M
- Dimensions: 194 x 53 x 53 mm
- Weight: 340 grams
- Street Price: $479, with case and stand mount
- Manufacturer: Austrian Audio
- More Info: www.austrian.audio
Steve Savanyu operates Buford T. Hedgehog Productions in Hudson/Macedonia, OH.
