The D12 VR is a large-diaphragm, cardioid, dynamic microphone. It has been designed with an optimised bass chamber and an original C414 transformer. The microphone has a thin diaphragm to enhance the low frequency performance when recording kick-drum.

D12 VR can be used with or without phantom power, the former providing three switchable active-filter presets. The filter setting can be controlled using a switch on the microphone body, which automatically reduces the output mode by 10 dB. Its frequency response ranges from 17Hz – 17kHz (±2 dB) with a Max. SPL 164 dB SPL (for 0.5 % THD).