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An introduction to Austrian Audio OD505, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Its dual-capsule design keeps vocals upfront and fearless, no matter the volume.
— Austrian Audio official site
What is OD505?
The OD505 is a handheld active dynamic vocal microphone from Austrian Audio. Its front capsule has active circuitry intended to give condenser-like sensitivity. It is aimed mainly at live stages.
A second, passive capsule sits at the bottom with reversed polarity to reduce low-frequency handling noise. The maker calls this the dual-capsule design.
The hand-made ODC50-SC capsule gains 6-8 dB of output through active circuitry, and the supercardioid pattern focuses on the intended source and rejects off-axis sound.
It has a built-in 3D Pop Noise Diffuser and runs on 48 V phantom power. An optional OD505 WL1 wireless head is available for compatible Shure wireless transmitters.
Active dynamic capsule
The ODC50-SC capsule with active circuitry adds 6-8 dB of output according to the maker. This may suit situations where a dynamic mic's lower output is a concern.
Dual capsule for handling noise
A passive lower capsule with reversed polarity reduces low-frequency handling noise. This may matter to singers who hold the mic on stage.
3D Pop Noise Diffuser
A proprietary structure built in to reduce plosives. It may help singers who work close to the microphone.
Supercardioid pattern
The supercardioid pattern focuses on the front and rejects off-axis sound, a design suited to stages with monitors and other instruments nearby.
Output independent of preamp impedance
The maker states the output stays consistent regardless of preamp input impedance or cable length.
Low-cut and phantom power
It has a 120 Hz (2nd order) low-cut filter and runs on 48 V phantom power (under 1 mA), so you need a mic input that supplies phantom power.
Active circuit helps on long cable runs
The active circuitry adds 6 to 8 dB of output, which the maker says helps with long cable runs. Sensitivity is 4.4 mV/Pa.
Pattern aimed at reducing bleed
The supercardioid pattern is designed to focus on the target sound and reduce bleed and feedback, according to the maker.
WL1 head for Shure wireless
The separately sold OD505 WL1 wireless head lets you fit the ODC50 capsule on a Shure wireless transmitter.
Accessories sold separately
The OCP8 pop filter (59 US dollars), OCH1 mic clip (35 US dollars) and MZP3 mic pouch (25 US dollars) are sold separately.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Capsule | ODC50-SC dynamic (active front) with passive lower capsule |
| Polar pattern | Supercardioid |
| Frequency range | 35 Hz – 16 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 4.4 mV/Pa |
| Max SPL | 154 dB SPL |
| Connector | 3-pin XLR |
| Phantom power | 48 V (< 1 mA) |
| Low-cut | 120 Hz (2nd order) |
| Output impedance | 275 ohm (balanced) |
| Load impedance | > 1 kohm |
| Weight | 340 g |
| Dimensions | 194 x 53 x 53 mm |
| Price (official store) | $329 |
| Warranty | Up to 3 years (as shown on the official store) |
What is included and system requirements
- Optional: OD505 WL1 wireless head for compatible Shure wireless mics
How to use it
- Prepare the mic on a stand or by hand.
- Connect it to a mic input with an XLR cable.
- Turn on 48 V phantom power.
- Lower the gain before connecting.
- Raise the gain gradually while singing.
- Change distance or angle if breath noise is a concern.
- Try the low-cut if low frequencies are a problem.
- For stage use, check its position relative to monitors.
- Connect with an XLR cable to a mic input that supplies 48 V phantom power.
Live vocals
It may suit loud stages where handling noise and bleed are concerns.
Rehearsals
It could be used handheld in rehearsals and band sound checks.
Home recording
As a dynamic mic, it may be an option in rooms with noticeable reverberation, though phantom power is required.
Band live vocals
It may suit singers performing next to loud drums and guitar amps.
Harmony vocals
For harmony singing, where several people stand close together, it may suit those who want to limit bleed.
Who it may suit
- Singers who hold the mic on stage
- People looking for a sensitive dynamic mic
- People with gear that supplies phantom power
Good to know before you buy
- 48 V phantom power is required
- The wireless head is sold separately
- The pop filter and clip are sold separately.
- The warranty is shown as up to 3 years.
Price
$329 (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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