A Simple Polar Pattern Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Gary Brindley
Updated at August 13th, 2026
Table of Contents
Brand:
- AKG
Models:
- AKG Microphones
What is a Microphone Polar Pattern?
The term polar pattern describes how a microphone picks up sound. More specifically, it describes how sensitive the microphone is to sound waves coming in from different directions. A microphone's polar pattern is an important consideration when it comes to figuring out if a microphone is the right or wrong tool for a particular situation.
- Simple 2 dimensional drawings are printed on the microphones
- These drawings show the microphone's Active Area.
- These Active Areas are 3 Dimensional from the front of the microphone, represented here in blue:
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Omnidirectional |  |
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Wide Cardioid |  |
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Cardioid |  |
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Hyper Cardioid |  |
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Figure Eight |  |
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