Grammy-nominated engineer Ben Chang opts for AKG mics

Two-time Grammy nominee Ben Chang regularly relies on AKG D12 dynamic and C451 condenser microphones for tracking in New York’s KMA studio in the historic Brill Building.

Working alongside singer/songwriter Claude Kelly, Chang’s client list includes such artists as David Cook, Steve Jordan, Jessie J, Lil Jon, Mya, Ne-Yo, Trey Songs and Tiësto. Furthermore, his work with Fantasia and Ledisi has also earned him two Grammy nominations.

With a key focus on creating an “organic” sound with live drums and acoustic guitars, Chang always uses AKG in the studio, utilising the D12 dynamic instrument mic on every drum record he produces. The mic is clipped inside the bass drum, whilst Chang also drops a D12 into pianos directly above the strings. C451 condensers are utilised as room mics and are always put through their paces in Chang’s studio. “We use the C451 and crush the hell out of it through a distressor,” he said. “The C451’s on vocals and drums also adds more flavour to a track.”

Chang also keeps multiple C414 studio mics, a C12 VR and C1000 microphones in his collection for artists. 

“Some engineers and producers think hits are made in the mixing sessions after recording. For me, choosing the perfect mic is the most important part in the process of recording a hit,” stated Chang. “My clients crave perfection to their production, whether on guitars, drums, strings or vocals. I’ve even tracked a harmonica using the AKG D12 that was played by K’naan on one of a soon-to-be-released track. AKG mics are an important tool that helps capture that great tone, translating their vision into a complete project.“

As Grammy-nominated songwriter Kelly’s personal engineer, Chang is grateful to play such a key role in working with a high calibre of artists/producers that record in the studio. Chang is also managed by Make Moves Management, working as a team to provide opportunities to artists in the industry.

“I love the brightness AKG adds to the flow of my work – the flow that many other mics just can’t help but miss,” continued Chang.

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