It's the same capsule but a different amp from the C12. The C12 a is a little nosier but to tell the truth I have never had a problem with that. It is a great mic for vocals (rappers seem to like it a lot) and I like it on snare drum and hi hats. It has also been real nice on acoustic instruments, like acoustic guitar and sax. As a pair they are great as drum overheads. Bobby Durham had a pair of them on his kit when he was taping with "The Oscar Petersen Trio" on a program that was produced for Canadian TV called "Oscar Petersen and Friends"..

hey kurt,
thanks for the reply. so from your description the c12a is sort of a golden wedge, having a number of strong points.
i can't imagine buying another one right now to use as overheads.
thanks again for your input.
best wishes, jules