Avantone CK40

An Avantone C Series Mic Designed to Become a Stereo Recording Standard

Following the lineage of Avantone's C Series microphones, the CK-40 carries the brand's DNA: a committed pro-studio approach, an iconic "Cabernet" aesthetic, and above all a pursuit of reliability and consistency in use. Where many stereo microphones require compromises (delicate positioning, tedious adjustments, tricky phase), the CK-40 aims for a more straightforward setup, with a capsule architecture that favors image precision and repeatability of results from session to session.

Who the Avantone CK-40 Is For and When to Use It

The CK-40 is intended for sound engineers, demanding home studio users, live sound recordists, and content creators seeking a versatile stereo microphone capable of covering a wide variety of sources. Thanks to its stereo configuration and switchable patterns, it excels on ensemble recordings and acoustic instruments: piano, acoustic guitar, drum overheads, percussions, choirs, string quartets, room ambiences, or event capture.

In the studio, it allows for quick construction of a wide and stable image while maintaining excellent mono compatibility when carefully set up. In live applications, its ability to handle high SPL and its control tools (pad and high-pass filter) help keep recordings clean and controlled, even in dynamic and noisy environments.

Key Features: "Ready-to-Produce" Stereo with Fine Capsule Control

Two pressure-gradient capsules for precise stereo imaging

The CK-40 relies on two closely stacked 35 mm center-terminated transducers to provide precise stereo imaging without generating the phase issues often associated with widely spaced configurations. Each capsule is built around a double diaphragm with an evaporated gold diaphragm, a design sought after for its capturing finesse and detailed response across the entire useful spectrum for acoustic recording.

Independent control, -10 dB pad, and high-pass filter

Each capsule offers completely independent control, a real asset for adapting the capture to the source and placement. The -10 dB pad provides headroom for powerful sources (percussions, close brass, aggressive overheads), and the high-pass filter helps reduce vibrations, handling noise, stage rumble, and bass buildup due to the proximity effect. The result: a clearer stereo image, easier to place in a mix, and more robust during recording.

Multi-pattern and XY, M-S, Blumlein techniques accessible without complication

With its multi-pattern switching and available polar patterns (cardioid, omni, figure-8), the CK-40 opens the door to several renowned stereo approaches. You can aim for a clean and centered XY stereo, a very flexible M-S configuration at mix (adjustable width), or an immersive Blumlein capture with figure-8 patterns, particularly interesting for capturing room and depth. This versatility allows quick adaptation of the recording to musical style, acoustics, and desired sound without multiplying microphones or stands.

Swivel head to adjust the axis without touching the shock mount

The capsule assembly and upper grille can pivot up to 90 degrees off-axis relative to the lower capsule. This articulation simplifies fine placement adjustments: you adapt orientation and stereo scene without dismantling or reconfiguring the setup. The CK-40 is thus designed to save time during stage changes, batch recordings, or quick adjustments in the home studio.

Connectivity and included accessories for immediate integration

The 5-pin XLR output is ideal for cleanly carrying both channels in a single cable while allowing stereo separation via the included splitter. The supplied package (shock mount, windscreen, splitter, adapter cable, case) aims for immediate usability, with secure mounting and a transport solution adapted to both studio and live performance constraints.

Technical specifications

Frequency response - start	20 Hz	Capsule	Large Diaphragm
Frequency response - end	20 kHz	Connection	XLR
Category	studio microphone	Color	Red
Directivity	omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional

Microphone type	stereo condenser	Sensitivity	-40 dB
Technology	FET	Filter	high-pass
Capsules	2, dual-diaphragm	Attenuation	-10 dB (per capsule, depending on configuration)
Diaphragm	35 mm, gold-sputtered	Power required	48V phantom power
Transducers	center-terminated pressure-gradient	Included accessories	shock mount, windscreen, 2x1 splitter, adapter cable, wooden and aluminum case
Polar patterns	cardioid, omni, 2x figure-8	Dimensions	276 x 49 mm
Max SPL	147 dB	Weight	0.95 kg
Equivalent noise level	17 dB