The AKG's P170 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone with a cardioid pattern that may be used in project studios, home recordings, and live scenarios to capture the sound of various acoustic and amplified instruments. The 0.5" gold-sputtered diaphragm produces a clean sound with quick transients and can withstand sound pressure levels of up to 155 dB without introducing audible distortion. A switchable 20 dB pad allows for distortion-free recording of extremely powerful sound sources, which is common in proximity miking. The all-metal casing reduces RF interference, allowing user to use the microphone in close proximity to transmitter stations and with wireless microphones.