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An introduction to Austrian Audio OC-B6, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
The world’s first purpose-built large-diaphragm condenser kick mic – a true game-changer.
— Austrian Audio official site
What is OC-B6?
The OC-B6 is a large-diaphragm condenser built for kick drum. The maker describes it as the first microphone of its kind, and it is handcrafted in Vienna.
It has a cardioid pattern and can be placed inside the shell, at the port or outside the drum. It has no built-in EQ shaping, so the sound can be shaped later in the mix.
The head swivels through 220 degrees for placement in tight setups, and an integrated stand thread removes the need for a clip.
Maximum SPL is a very high 170 dB, and a 25 Hz subsonic filter reduces rumble and infrasound.
Purpose-built for kick
Designed specifically for kick drum, it can be used inside the shell, at the port or outside, giving room to experiment with placement.
CKR6-B capsule
A 1-inch large-diaphragm capsule derived from the company's ceramic capsule technology and modified for higher SPL. The spacing between diaphragm and electrode is doubled and resonance lowered.
220-degree swivel head
The head rotates widely, easing aiming inside tight spaces or around stand constraints.
Integrated stand thread
A built-in thread lets it mount on a stand without a clip. The compact, rugged build suits stage and studio.
25 Hz subsonic filter
Reduces energy below 25 Hz, which may help keep kick weight while cutting unwanted rumble.
Discrete electronics
Discrete circuitry aims for fast transients and high headroom. Frequency range is 18 Hz-20 kHz and sensitivity 0.8 mV/Pa.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Large-diaphragm condenser (1 inch, CKR6-B) |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency range | 18 Hz-20 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 0.8 mV/Pa |
| Max SPL | 170 dB |
| Impedance | 108 ohms (2x) |
| Load impedance | >1 kohm |
| Power | 48 V phantom (<2.2 mA) |
| Connector | 3-pin XLR |
| Dimensions | 92 x 82 x 57 mm |
| Weight | 280 g |
How to use it
- Mount it directly on a stand using the integrated thread.
- Place it inside the drum, at the port or outside.
- Connect to an interface or mixer with an XLR cable.
- Turn on 48 V phantom power.
- Swivel the head toward the beater.
- Start with a low input gain and adjust.
- Use the 25 Hz filter if needed.
- Try different positions and shape the sound later in the mix.
Drum recording
It may be worth trying inside and outside the kick when recording it separately.
Live PA
The compact, rugged build may suit stage use.
Low-frequency instruments
The high maximum SPL may let you try it on loud low-end instruments.
Who it may suit
- People wanting a dedicated kick mic
- People who prefer to shape sound with EQ after recording
- People with tight drum setups
Good to know before you buy
- Phantom power is required.
Price
$599 (Austrian Audio official site, checked 2026-10-27). Prices can vary by region and promotion, so check the official page before buying.
Sources: austrian.audio (checked 2026-10-27)
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