Avantone Pro CV-12 Review

The Avantone Pro CV-12 Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone is designed for musicians and podcasters alike, who want to record warm, clear audio with minimal noise. It’s a good fit for anyone who wants to get the best sound possible out of their equipment—and it’s not just aimed at professional users. The CV-12 offers a frequency response that ranges from 15Hz to 20kHz, which means you’ll be able to capture every note with clarity and articulation. Its sensitivity rating is -40dB at 1kHz, which means that even low-level sounds will be captured with great detail.

The CV-12 also includes a large diaphragm capsule and an active electronics circuit that provide enhanced low-noise performance. Like the rest of the Avantone microphones, this one is built for durability—it can withstand high temperatures (up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) and dust of all kinds, so it won’t break or malfunction when you need it most.

The Avantone Pro CV-12 delivers a warm, vintage sound. It has a frequency response from 35Hz to 17kHz and an SPL of -38dB. It also features a low noise floor (+25dB), which means it’s easy to use in noisy environments without too much background noise being picked up. The CV-12 comes with many different accessories: a 1/4″ thread mount adapter ($20 value), a tripod stand ($50 value), and an XLR cable ($100 value).

• Type: Tube-type Condenser
• Polar Pattern: 9 patterns selectable at power supply
• Frequency Response: 25-20,000 Hz +/- 3dB
• Output Impedance: <=250 Ohms / transformer isolated
• Maximum SPL : 136dB (0.5% THD @1000Hz) 146dB with pad engaged
• Equivalent noise level : <17dB
• S/N Ratio: 78dB
• Sensitivity: -35dB
• Output Connector: Male XLR 7 pin w/ special power supply and cables
• Included Accessories: Padded Wooden Box, Shockmount , Metal road case
• High-Pass: 80 Hz 6dB/octave Switch
• Attenuation Switch: 10dB Switch
• Finish: Polished Nickel trim/Metallic Cabernet Red Body
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Dimensions: 9.5″ x 1.8″

What are people saying?

Victor says:

Man! My music sounds WAY better! What an upgrade! I had the Rode NT1-A which don’t get me wrong it’s pretty good. But this mic? From the unboxing to the sound quality of this is just CRAZY! Very well made, sturdy, heavy and that red color OMG. I’m very happy with this mic, the only downside that I can say is that it can be a little hissy with the S’s but there’s always DeEssers so it’s not a big problem. Overall, great mic! Definitely recommend it!

Mark says:

The increase in signal gain alone is worth the price of admission. On top of it, the microphone does real well for male vocals (like my own) with strong mids. I was particularly impressed with the level of detail that the mic picks up. Small intonations, softening of the voice, etc. is picked up by this microphone. Very happy; one of the best additions to my mic cabinet.

Jason says:

I found the extra gain and thinner highs is excellent for female vocals. Even more so than the U87 I think.

I have used this on vocals, bass amps and pianos with great results. One of my favorite microphones in this price range. I would highly recommend you add this to your collection.