Nine is apparently the lucky number for AKG, who has launched its line of 99er microphones with nine different products -- including the CGN99, CHM99, CBL99, CK99, and the DGN99 -- that provide nine different applications for installed sound.

The 99er line of microphones incorporates components from other AKG products, such as the capsule of the C542 BL boundary layer microphone and the acoustical components of the discrete gooseneck range. The CGN99, CHM99, CBL99, CK99, and DGN99 microphones are equipped with RF shielding to meet the demands of electromagnetic compatibility in everyday installations, according to the manufacturer, and the series overall consists of nine microphones for conferencing, paging, surveillance, onstage use, and recording.

About the new mics, AKG product manager Mario Siokola says, "The 99er line is a unique range of high-class but affordable and easily specified microphones for the installed sound market. The mix of superior acoustics, RF shielding, and extraordinarily rugged mechanical design makes the 99ers easy to install and absolutely reliable in use." So there you go.

The condenser gooseneck range includes the CGN99 C/S, CGN99 C/L, CGN99 H/S, and CGN99 H/L, all of which provide both cardioid or hypercardioid polar patterns and can come on a short or long gooseneck stand. Also included in the 99er range is the CHM99 hanging microphone on a 10-meter, twist-free cable. Available in either black or white, the CHM99 is targeted for use with teleconferencing applications, theaters, or as a choir microphone in a house of worship.

The 99er line also includes the CBL99, a compact boundary layer microphone said to use technology from high-end studio mics. The CBL99 would be ideal for use as a low-profile desktop microphone in conference situations, or for choir or instrument applications.

Next, the CK99 is a small lavalier microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern, while the DGN99 is a microphone designed specifically for paging purposes, such as in a shopping mall or for transportation applications ("Clean Up on aisle 3.") The DGN99 is also available on a desk stand with a PTT switch.

To learn more about AKG's new 99er line of microphones, please visit akgusa.com.