USB wired desktop microphone AKG Ara — 24-bit/96 kHz, 20–20,000 Hz, 120 dB sensitivity, rotary volume, headphone output, USB-C to A cable

The AKG Ara dual-mode USB microphone delivers professional-quality, high-resolution audio from a desktop setup. It records at up to 24-bit/96 kHz for clear speech, vocals and instrument tracks, and supports a maximum SPL of 120 dB for high-output sources. Ara offers two selectable capsule patterns — a directional Front (cardioid) and a Front + Back (omni) — and connects via USB-C for plug-and-play use with Mac, Windows and compatible consoles, or via OTG/Camera Adapter for mobile devices. The microphone includes a base stand and yoke, fits common boom arms and mic stands, and features on-board controls including pattern selection, mute with LED and a 3.5 mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring.

Advantages

Ara provides studio-grade resolution (24-bit/96 kHz) and a wide dynamic range with a 120 dB SPL limit, enabling accurate capture of both quiet speech and loud instruments. Dual capsule modes let you switch between focused cardioid capture and omnidirectional recording for group or ambient sources. USB-C connectivity with class-compliant drivers ensures simple plug-and-play setup on desktop platforms, while mobile compatibility via OTG or Apple Camera Adapter expands use beyond the desk. Built-in controls and a headphone output make monitoring and quick adjustments convenient during recording or streaming.

Suitable for

• Podcasting and voice-over recording
• Streaming and gaming commentary
• Home studio vocal and instrument tracking
• Group interviews and roundtable recordings
• Videoconferencing and remote meetings

Key specifications

• Resolution: up to 24-bit / 96 kHz
• Maximum SPL: 120 dB
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): 0.5%
• Interface: USB-C (class-compliant)
• Connectivity: wired USB (OTG support for Android, optional Apple Camera Adapter for iOS)
• Mounting: included yoke and base stand; compatible with boom arms and standard mic stands
• On-board: pattern selector, mute button with LED, 3.5 mm headphone jack
• Power: USB powered, typical consumption 75 mA
• Cable length: 2 m
• Colours: Blue, Silver

How to use

Place Ara on the included base stand or mount it on a boom arm or standard mic stand using the supplied adapter. Select the Front (cardioid) pattern for single-voice or instrument capture, or choose Front + Back (omni) to record multiple speakers or ambient sound. Connect the microphone to a computer or console via the USB-C cable for plug-and-play operation; use an OTG USB adapter for Android devices or an Apple Camera Adapter plus a powered USB hub for iOS devices. Use the mute button and pattern selector on the microphone as needed, and connect headphones to the 3.5 mm jack for latency-free monitoring while recording or streaming.

Usage recommendations

For best results, position the microphone 15–30 cm from the sound source when using the cardioid pattern for clear speech and vocal recording. Use the omni pattern for evenly capturing multiple speakers or room ambience. Ensure a stable USB connection and, when using iOS devices, a powered USB hub with the Apple Camera Adapter to provide sufficient power. Avoid placing the mic too close to loud instruments without attenuation to prevent clipping; if necessary, reduce input levels in your recording software.